Explore
/
United States
/
California
/
Pardee Reservoir Recreation Area

The best camping in Pardee Reservoir Recreation Area, CA

Discover Pardee Reservoir, a haven for anglers and campers alike.

Popular ways to camp

Camper favorites near Pardee Reservoir Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Snag sold-out campsites.

Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.

See the best spots in one place.

Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.

Book with confidence.

Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Cara

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Walden Ranch

This is our second time visiting Walden farm. We were snug in our truck camper and our doggies in the back seat. If Emilia the pit belly pig invades your campsite you can leader away just by calling or give her a gentle bump on her rear-end.

Danielle

November 2025

Weekend Trip to The Foxes Family Farm

Foxes farm had a cute cabin with everything we needed! It was warm and cozy on a cool autumn night. Kat was kind and accommodating. Loved the turnovers! So good.

RV/Van Site with full hookups at Camp Electra

Jhonathan

November 2025

24 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Camp Electra in Mokelumne Hill

Ryan was a great host and very gracious. We purchased firewood from him and he brought us kindling twice when we were having trouble, teaching us about making fires along the way. We have an RV, but there is an outhouse with toilet and hot shower, and a sink to do dishes on the other side. Great view of the stars with minimal light pollution. Would recommend.

Lindsay

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Walden Ranch

Alan's land is peaceful and a sight to behold. The camp layout gives you plenty of privacy, yet you're just a short walk from flush toilets, a food-prep area, a fire ring, a big table, and even a sink — everything you need close by without feeling crowded. Alan himself has a sweet, laid-back nature, and we really enjoyed chatting with him about his animals. There are so many sweet creatures to wake up with in the morning (and we really fell in love with the brown and white ranch dog who is a cuddle bug). The whole place has a calm, welcoming energy. We absolutely can’t wait to come back. And for birders — this was a paradise. We spotted at least 20 different species right from the property. Highly recommend!

Sara

November 2025

24 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to The Foxes Family Farm

We had a perfect stay! East to locate, great commutation from the hosts, and loved having the option for laundry.

Jessica

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Cosumnes River Ranch

Wow what an absolutely beautiful property. Rachel and Jon are very kind and helpful. We enjoyed a few hours of hiking around the property. Loved seeing so much wild life and the sweet cows that graze around the property. I can see why summer would be a more enjoyable time to visit. We stayed in cabin # 2 and although a very beautiful spot and cabin, For the $480 for 2 nights price I was surprised there wasn’t sheets/blankets or a propane stove or bbq or some way to cook food. so make sure you bring anything necessary to cook food and linens and blankets for the bed. There is a fire pit outside but no grill or way to cook food. It does have a wood stove inside as a heat source so make sure you also bring firewood especially in the colder months.

Zachary

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sage

Everything was excellent! It was exactly what we needed! Definitely still a work in progress but what has been completed is very cool!

Tim

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cosumnes River Ranch

Lovely site great hiking and swimming, cabin was great, bed comfy. One addition I'd like to see would be some hooks/pegs to hang up towels, clothes etc. thank you, we had a wonderful weekend!

Denise

November 2025

13 ft travel trailer

5 nights at The Foxes Family Farm

Lovely hosts and beautiful land. They were very friendly and helpful.

Aaron

November 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Walden Ranch

This place is special. If you’re looking to get up close with herds of cattle, alpaca, horses, mules, farm dogs, geese and a massive pig this is the spot. Be prepared for lots of night noises- the animals talked all night long. We had great weather and the place to ourselves which was a treat but this farm would be great for groups. Our dog was off leash running with the farm dogs most of the time- and you could smell it on her. Alan’s dogs were very gentle, but they have free range. There was also a comically large pig wandering about. If Alan asks if you want to feed the herd, say yes! We witnessed a minutes-old calf getting up on her feet, while we slinging hay. It was a very cool experience. We would definitely come back for a visit.

Vanessa

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Foxes Family Farm

What an amazing place to stay! We did a spontaneous honeymoon getaway trip right after our wedding (no plans just spontaneous decision making) so we decided on staying at the foxes getaway and it did not disappoint. The apple turnovers are to DIE for and the house was adorable. We did have our two little doxies with us and they loved being able to graze the yard. The cute little town of galt was nearby and we explored the area (great ice cream). Otherwise, it was a beautiful place to stay and the couple who lives there was welcoming as well as kind. I couldn’t have been happier with the decision. Tips for those who want to visit: fridge space is small so be considerate of that and it’s a tiny home so don’t bring too much luggage.

Samuel

November 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Murray Creek Homestead

Absolutely amazing place to stay. Scott was very nice and accommodating pack light because almost everything you need is there already. My wife and I enjoyed a wonderful stay there away from everybody and everything. It truly is a hidden gem!

Rachel

November 2025

21 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bella Branch at SE Ranch

Very gracious and kind hosts! The animals were such a cool touch and we had a great weekend!

Sunny

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Foxes Family Farm

We loved our stay at Kat’s little house. It’s such a cozy and relaxing getaway for our family. Kat is a great host — very responsive and easy to communicate with. The home is well-equipped with everything we needed, including comfy beds, cookware, dishes and a BBQ grill. The apple turnovers are yummy!

Felicia

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hirst Horse Ranch

What an incredible camping experience for our Girl Scout troop! The hosts help create memories with our girls, feeding animals, getting to know the farm cats and dogs, "racing" horses, jumping on the trampoline and swinging on the swings, with on tents set up on soft grass and the hosts incredibly responsive to our communications via the app (quick to respond and act).

Sarah

October 2025

12 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Private, Covered, and Cozy

Delightful hosts and thoughtful set up , a great place to stay while exploring the gold countryside.

Andy

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Foxes Family Farm

Great location! My stay at the Foxes Farm was exactly what I was looking for. It was calm and quiet and allowed me a chance to relax and recharge. Kat and Steve were wonderful hosts, warm and welcoming and super friendly. I highly recommend getting the apple turnovers! They were amazing and reason enough to stay here again.

rosemarie

October 2025

With pets

2 nights at Sage

Bobby's skills and his creativeness shine through with he has accomplished thus far. Sage Camp is a true piece of art as well as a comfortable atmosphere. Bobby's vision for Sage Camp is amazing. I had a fabulous stay.

jeff

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

1 night at Private Reservoir

We had a great time. They had nice chairs perfect for relaxing on the dock. Lots of wildlife to enjoy the sounds of nature. 10/10 recommend.

Sharon

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Walden Ranch

As a solo female camper, I couldn’t have asked for a more welcoming or unforgettable experience. The ranch itself stretches across 300 acres of pure peace and wide-open beauty—complete with cows, donkeys, and even a sweet little calf that stole my heart (and got its bottle from me!). The mornings—or, more accurately, the very early mornings—were accompanied by peacocks and roosters who seem to think 3:30 AM is sunrise. Instead of being annoyed, I laughed every time. It’s part of the ranch’s charm: nature doing whatever nature wants. The highlight of my stay was joining the host to feed the cattle. I never realized how vocal cows could be until I was surrounded by a chorus of them, each with their own personality and voice. It was grounding, beautiful, and completely mesmerizing. If you’re craving solitude, connection with animals, and a slice of real country life, this place is a must. It’s safe, peaceful, and full of small, magical moments that remind you how good it feels to slow down and just be.

Top-rated campgrounds near Pardee Reservoir Recreation Area

Private Reservoir

96%

(47)

6mi from Pardee Reservoir Recreation Area · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Private property on a private reservoir. Enjoy some quiet time on the water, swimming, fishing, camping or just sitting and enjoying this hidden gem. Conveniently located a couple minutes from town to get some groceries or even fast food and gas. Also minutes from the large lake of New Hogan if your brining a jet ski or boat. Come relax on this 10 acres of private water access. Fish till your heart is content. Please catch and release. We have a variety of fish: Bass, Blue Gill, Cat fish and even some big Carp. Use our canoe or paddle boat or bring your own kayak, SUP, canoe etc. Newly added large floating dock, sand beach and large swing set/ hammock polls. Come play and have fun and listen to the sounds of frogs at night and the birds in the morning.

Camp Electra in Mokelumne Hill

95%

(22)

8.2mi from Pardee Reservoir Recreation Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Meander through Historic Mokelumne Hill also known as Moke Hill to locals. Listen to music and have a drink on weekends at the Renegade Winery. Explore the Mokelumne river up Electra road. Plenty to see and experience all within walking distance. Mokelumne Hill is a quant town with lots of charm in the heart of the Gold Country. Bring your own tent or your small RV and campout at our rig site or "glamp" in our vintage VW "Choncho".

Private, Covered, and Cozy

100%

(18)

12mi from Pardee Reservoir Recreation Area · 1 site · RV

Learn more about this land:Our space is completely covered and feels like a secluded room on our 5 acres. The site is a good fit for trailers up to 28 feet or class A or C motor home. Space requires backing in. Hook ups include 30 amp electrical, fresh water, and direct grey water dump into septic system.  The RV pad and area next to it are covered, so it is always a great place to relax, rain or shine. Features picnic table and outdoor lighting. Our Wifi is strong, perfect for working remotely or for staying in touch with family and friends!

Murray Creek Homestead

100%

(30)

14mi from Pardee Reservoir Recreation Area · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Learn more about this land Very remote off grid barn with an outhouse, vegetable garden, fruit trees, and small vineyard that I make wine from. There's a creek that runs through the property with Indian grinding holes. We also have volleyball, horseshoes, hiking trails, and much more! You will be in gold country where you can still find gold in the creek to this day! If you're lucky, you might find a nugget, but there's mostly pickers and fines. The nights are absolutely stunning for viewing the stars with no light pollution.  You will have almost complete privacy, with the exception of an occasional over head aircraft. I have only one group at a time.

Cosumnes River Ranch

99%

(1896)

15mi from Pardee Reservoir Recreation Area · 27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

We are a family owned/operated ranch, located along the Cosumnes River, one of the last un-dammed rivers in California. As one of the last rivers flowing from the west slope of the Sierra without a major dam, the Cosumnes is a vital example of a healthy watershed. Our goal is to offer a unique outdoor experience for anyone looking for a place to spend time in the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a single campsite, or a place for a larger gathering, we're excited to have you visit! Take your pick of activities available on site: swimming , gold panning, fishing, camp fires, wildlife watching, floating, hiking, and mountain biking to name a few. There are 3 miles of river to explore. *Please note: We don't allow wood campfires during the summer months (generally the last week of May through September)*

Unplug for nature, dogs, and kids

98%

(26)

16mi from Pardee Reservoir Recreation Area · 3 sites · Lodging

Do you love nature and need a peaceful getaway? Love hanging out with family and friends, watching the kids run around and being free? Or how about letting your fur babies sniff their hearts out in a private but still close-to-everything setting? Group camping or Solo glamping Retreat property … Located in Calaveras County, just outside Mokelumne Hill and Mountain Ranch, gold country, our Cozy Cabin offers 5.5 acres of outdoor escape. Enjoy your drink of choice next to a warm campfire or inside next to the wood-burning stove. Private cabin: Inside there is one comfy queen bed, a full kitchen, wrap wrap-around table, bench seat, TV cabinet and wood burning stove. There is also a blowup mattress for small kids, or one adult inside. Others can tent camp outside. Maximum of 6 people per booking per insurance requirements. Unplug from the screen and enjoy family time over a board game or a hand in cards. Cell towers provide internet access, but there is No WIFI (on purpose). The property has multiple sitting areas to just hang out and listen to nature. There is a treehouse platform to sit and hang out or pitch a tent on. There is also an 80 ft zip line and multiple hammocks depending on the season to enjoy. Close by River Day use at Vox Beach on Electra Rd. or in Clements on N Mcintire Rd. Both provide bathrooms, parking, picnic options, and access to the Mokelumne River for lounging, kayaking, rafting, and water play. GoCalaveras . com will give you more info on local events, hiking trails, outdoor recreation, wineries, shopping, festivals, events, and attractions to do while visiting. Add-on options: $15 per night: extra supplies chair, tent and air mattress $25 per night Summer Only Creekside tent with full-size air mattress and single-person cot, with bedding. $48 per night for Van sleeping quarters, queen-size bed, large deck with sitting area. Needs advance notice for setup Bring your own firewood or gather up fallen sticks.

Palala Ranch

99%

(35)

16mi from Pardee Reservoir Recreation Area · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

Palala Ranch is 20 acres of forested and inclined terrain. Located midway between the Bay Area and Lake Tahoe, it's a great stop off point on your way to the snow and the mountains. Being in the middle of gold country, there's several small historic gold mining towns that are really fun to visit. The Shenandoah Valley wine country is only 25 minutes away. This property is the beginning of a dream that we want all of our guests to be apart of. Using feedback and suggestions mingled with our vision, we want guests to contribute to the growth of this dream. Everytime guests return there will be new features and improvements for them to enjoy and to provide the best experience we can work the current resources. We look forward to hosting you and can't wait to meet you!

Rocksteady Adventures

93%

(192)

17mi from Pardee Reservoir Recreation Area · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

Off-grid campground adjacent to 1000 acre private reservoir perfect for fishing, kayaking & paddle boarding. 70 acres in Sierra Nevada Foothills with Valley Oaks, Gray Pines & Manzanita. Best birding in Calaveras County with over 188 species including Bald Eagles, Golden Eagles, Osprey & waterfowl. Reservoir is a no-wake waterbody created for irrigation of the surrounding private rangeland. Jet Skiing and WaterSkiing is not allowed. Boats of all sizes are welcome for the purposes of fishing. Ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding and canoeing with all of those available for rent on site. Please note we host events throughout the year. Upcoming we have: June 22-23 - APBA Boat Racing - no boats or swimming on water July 4-6th - Rocksteady Campout for Celebrate Americana so expect full campground with a laser show on the 4th and live music on Friday and Saturday nights. Sept 20-21 - Rocksteady Campout with Goonies & Pirates so expect full campground with live music on Friday and Saturday night Oct 4-5 - Rocksteady Campout TBD so expect full campground with live music on Friday and Saturday night.

Pine Ridge Campground with lodge

96%

(13)

19mi from Pardee Reservoir Recreation Area · 2 sites · Lodging

Nestled in California's Gold Country, Pine Ridge Ranch is the perfect destination for private group retreats, family reunions, lodge getaways, or group camping experiences. We provide a cozy 3-bedroom guest lodge and you can also bring your own RV or tent for camping under the stars. We have a limit of 40 RVs per group and 70 guests maximum. It is $35 for wifi, PLEASE add this as an extra at checkout if you would like wifi during your stay. We charge a pet fee and it is $50 per pet per night, 5 dogs maximum. PLEASE add this as an extra at checkout. For example, if you are bringing 5 pets for 5 nights, please select 25 as the quantity. Embrace the exclusivity of our private 25-acre resort, featuring scenic trails for hiking and exploration, a refreshing swimming pool accompanied by an outdoor bar and kitchen, and a charming private saloon equipped with a pool table. At Pine Ridge Ranch, your group will be the sole guests, ensuring a truly intimate and personalized retreat experience.

Camp Treefeathers

97%

(86)

19mi from Pardee Reservoir Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV

Welcome to Camp Treefeathers!  We offer a year round private campground and event venue for weddings, reunions, company gatherings, youth programs, and more. Located on the historic Alto Tree Farm in West Point, CA. Amenities include a full kitchen, outdoor shower, multi-purpose pavilion, fire pits, walking trails and other recreational activities. FAQ Are day campers included in the total guest count, or does it only apply to overnight guests? All campers, whether they are staying overnight or not, must be included in the reservation. Can additional guests be added after the initial booking? Yes, you can modify your trip to add more guests through the Hipcamp app, but you cannot exceed the maximum capacity. Offering a full kitchen with a sink, stove/oven, microwave and fridge. There are multiple picnic tables and a BBQ area. Serene outdoor shower with instant hot water.  800 sq ft multi-purpose pavilion with a big screen TV, lots of DVDs and games.  Huge, lush meadow and fish pond, towering redwoods and cedars, walking trails, star gazing and fresh mountain air. All available in this secluded mountain getaway for you and your family to enjoy.   Centrally located to many of the sight's California has to offer. We're within 30 minutes of the Jackson Rancheria Casino, Harrah's Casino, Chaw-Se Grinding Rocks Historic Park, Calaveras Big Trees and many many different lakes and caverns to tour. Plus Lake Tahoe is an hour and 30 minutes over the mountain! -------------------------------PLEASE READ THIS---------------------------------------                             THIS IS A FAMILY ORIENTED CAMP GROUND Respect the area, no carving on or defacing trees. Fires in designated areas ONLY. No dumping your charcoal.  Fishing in ponds is catch and release ONLY. Pack it in/pack it out. Leave things as you found them or better and you'll always be welcome back. ALL children over the age of 3 year's old will be counted as a guest and effect your guest count. DO NOT DRIVE OR PARK IN THE MEADOW! DRIVE ON DESIGNATED ROADS ONLY! DO NOT DRIVE THROUGH THE POND! NO OUTSIDE FIREWOOD PLEASE! (Due to our working Christmas Tree Farm on the property, we can't afford to bring in disease. We will have firewood available for you to purchase.) This is not a Club, Rave, Burning Man, Vegas, or a Disco. Pets are to be leashed AT ALL TIMES. Please pick up after your pet.  QUIET TIME IS 10 PM! THANK YOU! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Make sure to check out our local and hand made, high quality shirts with our camp logo. A great souvenir!  Peace~Love~Camp The Solsbery Bros

Strange Ranch - River and Gold

100%

(112)

20mi from Pardee Reservoir Recreation Area · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Secluded private river camping in a forest and oak woodland on the South Fork Mokelumne River. The site boasts incredible views with a pristine private gold-bearing trout stream with mining history and wildlife preserve located in the gold country of the Sierra Nevada foothills of northern Calaveras County. This unique property is adjacent to over 900 acres of public land and 2 miles of private stream for exploring. With a total of only 4 campsites, it is a great location for a group to reserve the entire campground. All campsites have potable well water spigots and access to a cool water shower. Guests will enjoy the privacy while swimming, stream exploring, hiking, spelunking, forest immersion, fishing for wild trout, gold panning, or simply relaxing in a breathtaking environment – come fall in love with this special private ranch. After one stay, you will be a repeat guest. PLEASE NOTE: An All-Wheel Drive or 4-Wheel Drive vehicle is MANDATORY to access campsites 1 through 3 due to the road incline and rock and gravel road surface. PLEASE PREPARE ACCORDINGLY! Campsite 4 is accessible with a 2-wd vehicle, and has potable well water and 20 amps of power. All sites have beautiful open views of the property and river canyon with natural shade in the morning and late afternoon. Sounds of the river will lull you to sleep. Although partially shaded, please plan to provide your own portable shade structure(s) during late morning and afternoon as the direct sun can be an inconvenience. The Stranges are professional fish and wildlife biologists and have decided to share this special place for others to enjoy. The property hosts a diversity of plant and wildlife species that might be observed during your stay. Prehistoric and historic resources can be observed along the river corridor. Please be aware that some wildlife species including rattlesnakes, bears, and mountain lions have been observed on the 117-acre property and could potentially be observed near the campsites. The Ranch's northern portion of the property supports a leased farming operation. Farming operations should not interfere with camping activities. Day trips are possible to Tahoe, Yosemite National Park, Calaveras Big Trees State Park, local caverns and wine tasting, and historic gold towns.

Walden Ranch

99%

(922)

20mi from Pardee Reservoir Recreation Area · 2 sites · Tents

Walden Ranch began with the purchase of a neighboring 20 acres. Couple that with the inspiration of Thoreau's lines and life at the real Walden Pond, the ranch has grown to nearly 300 acres and the small ranch pond has grown to a 5-acre lake with a 3-acre forest and home. Scouts, family and church groups use the site for gatherings. Available are canoes, bonfire, and exploring the ranch's 300-head cattle, llamas, poultry and wildlife. Fires always allowed at fire ring. You are welcome to bring your own wood. Pitch your tent in a forest setting alongside a lake on a working cattle ranch. Watch wildlife or hike to smaller lakes on the ranch. Other animals include dogs, llamas, geese, chickens, and horses. The ranch is within a 20 minute drive to either Stockton or Lodi, CA and is surrounded by vineyards, orchards and pastures. Outdoor flush toilets, sink, tables and fire ring available. Forested area is set amidst grazing lands. This "Walden" even has willow trees slipped from a tree near Thoreau's cabin near Walden Pond, MA. Owner looks forward to sharing this peaceful, special spot!

The best camping in Pardee Reservoir Recreation Area, CA guide

Overview

About

Nestled in the picturesque Sierra Nevada Mountain Range to the east of Stockton, Pardee Reservoir is best known for its fast-paced fishing. While direct human-to-water contact isn't allowed in this large source of our drinking water, the fish residing in the lake can still be safely plucked from the water into your boat. While most anglers on the water are looking for trout it is common to find, salmon, bass, and several species of catfish. For the impatient angler, the crappie, bluegill, and sunfish will practically jump into your boat as you search for the giants resting in the depths of Pardee Reservoir.

Notable campgrounds

Oak Campground: Shaded by majestic oaks, this campground offers a classic outdoor experience with picnic tables and fire rings at each site.
Pine Campground: Pine Campground provides a tranquil setting with easy access to running water and flush restrooms.
RV Park: The renovated RV Park features modern connections and a group gathering area, perfect for road warriors.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early, especially for peak season stays, to ensure your spot amid the natural beauty of Pardee Reservoir.
Consider mid-week visits for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
Keep an eye on cancellation policies; sometimes last-minute openings can be your golden ticket.
Explore nearby camping options if Pardee Reservoir campgrounds are fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Pardee Reservoir Recreation Area is from mid-February to early September, when the park is open and fully operational. Avoid planning trips outside this window, as the park closes for the season and to protect migratory birds.

Know before you go

All visitors must comply with state laws prohibiting body-water contact; enjoy the on-site swimming pools instead.
Boat inspections are mandatory to prevent invasive species; some out-of-state vessels may require decontamination.
Dogs are welcome in developed areas, but they must remain leashed at all times.
For any inquiries or additional information, contact the Mokelumne Watershed & Recreation Department.

Be the first to review

Share your experience here to help other campers.