Codorniz Campground
4.5043 reviews/RAYMOND, CA 93653-0067
Codorniz Campground
$20.00 - $100.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$30.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$100.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $20 for tent-only non-electric sites to $100 for group sites with electric hookups. Equestrian and group non-electric sites are also available at $20 and $60 respectively.
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Recreation.gov
Provider559-689-3255
About this campground
Nestled in the golden foothills of the Sierra Nevada, Codorniz Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of modern comfort and natural beauty. Whether you prefer the convenience of electric hookups or the simplicity of traditional tent camping, you'll find your ideal spot among our thoughtfully designed sites. Just moments from the sparkling waters of Eastman Lake, days here unfold with endless possibilities – cast a line for bass at sunrise, explore winding trails through oak-studded hills, or settle in with binoculars to spot the diverse birdlife that calls this region home. Families especially love our well-maintained facilities, including hot showers after dusty adventures, a playground where kids can burn off energy, and fully accessible sites that ensure everyone can experience the magic of camping under California stars.
Codorniz Campground offers a variety of camping options, including tent sites, RV sites, and group camping facilities. Equestrian camping is also available, with dedicated facilities for horses.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of California's Mediterranean climate year-round at Codorniz. Summer days bring that quintessential golden warmth that makes afternoon siestas under shady oaks particularly appealing, while cool mornings offer perfect conditions for early hikes or peaceful coffee by the campfire. As autumn arrives, temperatures mellow into ideal camping weather, and winter's gentle touch means you can escape to nature even when other mountain campgrounds are buried in snow. Spring transforms the hills into a verdant paradise, making every season a new adventure waiting to unfold.
ElevationPerched in the transitional zone where Central Valley meets mountain country, Codorniz Campground enjoys the sweet spot of Sierra foothill elevation. Here, you'll discover nature's own air conditioning – as the sun sets behind distant peaks, cool mountain breezes sweep down through the valleys, transforming warm afternoons into refreshingly crisp evenings perfect for stargazing and campfire stories.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to a landscape that captures the essence of California's untamed beauty. Rolling hills clothed in golden grasses stretch toward the horizon, punctuated by majestic valley oaks that provide welcome shade and frame stunning vistas. From your campsite, watch as morning light paints the nearby mountains in shades of purple and gold, while Eastman Lake glimmers like a sapphire jewel in the distance. This is the California that inspired countless artists and adventurers – a place where every sunset feels like nature's masterpiece and every dawn brings renewed wonder.
Geological RegionThe Sierra Nevada foothills tell an ancient story written in stone and soil. This dramatic landscape of undulating hills and scattered granite outcroppings was sculpted over millions of years, creating the perfect canvas for today's iconic California scenery. Magnificent valley oaks dot the terrain, their gnarled branches reaching skyward from seas of native grasses that turn from emerald green in spring to burnished gold in summer. It's a geological wonderland where every ridge and valley reveals the powerful forces that shaped this remarkable corner of California.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible features include flush toilets, parking, picnic shelters, showers, campsites, grills, and picnic areas.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, with enough room to spread out.
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer a decent amount of privacy, with some users mentioning that they felt secluded even with other campers nearby.
Total Campsites112 campsites
Recommended CampsitesConsider sites with shade from oak trees to avoid the high heat during summer months. Some users recommend staying close to the check-in station for better Wi-Fi.
Best CampsitesSites at the top of the hill are highly recommended for their views and access to electric hookups.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum per stay.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 people per site.
Groups
Group sites accommodate larger groups, with specific sites offering electricity. Rates vary from $80 to $100 per night.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features spacious, well-separated sites offering privacy. It includes loops and areas for group camping.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from January 1 to December 31 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are managed on Recreation.gov. However, the campground is mostly first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates primarily on a first-come, first-served basis due to no advanced reservations being available.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled with a $10 fee. Late cancellations (post midnight the day before check-in) also forfeit the first night's fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
WiFi
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Codorniz Campground offers a range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and boating. On-site activities include disc golf, volleyball, and horseshoe pits, making it a versatile spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking
Hiking at Codorniz Campground includes scenic trails with views of the surrounding Sierra Nevada foothills. Wildlife sightings are common, including deer and birds of prey like hawks.Fishing
Fishing at Eastman Lake, adjacent to the campground, is highly regarded. The lake is a designated Trophy Bass Fishery. Anglers also have access to fish cleaning stations near each boat ramp.Swimming
Swimming is an option, although the lake's water quality has raised some concerns. One user noted, 'Really dry though, and water is really dirty, but if you don’t mind that then it’s great for swimming.'Biking
Biking opportunities exist, with trails suited for various skill levels, including beginner-friendly paths.Boating
Boating is a popular activity, supported by lake access and rental equipment. Kayaking is specifically mentioned by one user as an enjoyable experience.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings are abundant and include species such as rattlesnakes, hawks, golden eagles, bobcats, and mountain lions. One user shared, 'There’s been a lot of beautiful wildlife, some wild turkeys, cottontails, lots of hawks, and lizards.'Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive programs are mentioned, though no specific details about the topics or schedules are provided.Winter Activities
The campground is open year-round, and rangers have suggested visiting during the winter for a unique experience. However, no specific winter activities are detailed.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are notably popular water sports at Eastman Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted but must be contained within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are enforced starting at 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsRattlesnakes are a known hazard at the campground, as noted in several user reviews. Caution is advised, particularly with children and pets.
Active alertsThe water level in Eastman Lake has been reported as extremely low (as low as 6% capacity), affecting water-based activities.
Weather forecast
100
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 18%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are accessible in Madera or Chowchilla, which are 30 miles and 25 miles away respectively.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 through December 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling services are not provided at individual campsites, but general collection points are available.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near Eastman Lake, but the water levels are often reported as low. Access to the lake can be challenging from certain areas due to muddy conditions.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include the poor condition of the access road, low water levels in Eastman Lake, and occasional issues with cleanliness in bathrooms.
HostCampground hosts are often praised for their helpfulness and friendliness. They assist with check-ins and can provide local information.
Campground Map
/RAYMOND, CA 93653-0067
Driving directionsFrom Highway 99, travel east on Avenue 26 then north on Road 29. Follow signs into the campground.
The road leading to the campground (Ave 26) has been described as "horribly potholed" by multiple reviewers. Slow driving is advised. After passing the orchards and farms, the road improves.Nearby places
30 miles northeast of Madera, 25 miles east of Chowchilla, 50 miles north of Fresno.
Nearby supplies
Groceries and other supplies can be found in Chowchilla (25 miles) or Madera (30 miles). Raymond has minimal services.
Camper Reviews
4.5
43 reviews
Codorniz Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users generally appreciate the campground's spacious sites, friendly staff, and variety of recreational opportunities. However, challenges such as rattlesnakes, inconsistent shower functionality, and pothole-ridden access roads are recurring themes.
Review Summaries
Based on 43 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive mentions include the cleanliness of the facilities, beautiful views, and spacious campsites. Reviews like, 'Our favorite campground! The sites are spacious with a decent amount of privacy,'...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include rattlesnake sightings, poorly maintained access roads, and inconsistent cleanliness of shower and bathroom facilities.
Based on 43 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring all necessary supplies, as the nearest stores are about 20 miles away. Be cautious of wildlife, especially rattlesnakes. A Wi-Fi booster is recommended for internet access near the check-in...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Many users noted the heat during summer months, recommending early morning or late evening activities. Winter visits are suggested for milder weather and unique scenery.
Based on 43 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Easily 5 stars for the campground. Spacious sites, quiet, very well maintained, and an excellent staff of rangers.' - Paul Rey
2. 'Beautiful view, clean, nice camp host! There’s water!' - Lindsey...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Some of the best-rated sites include those with water and electric hookups at the top of the hill. These sites are described as having beautiful views and being quieter.
Based on 43 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible features are well-regarded, with users appreciating the accessible toilets and campsites.
Based on 43 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and the campground is described as dog-friendly. However, some users mentioned issues with unmanaged pets from other campers.
Based on 43 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025