Fort Miller and Dumna Strands Campground
4.3611 reviews2894+FPP Friant, California
Fort Miller and Dumna Strands Campground
$30.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$40.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$150.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campsite fees range from $30 for standard sites to $40 for full hookup sites. Group campsite fees vary ($150-$200 per night). Seniors aged 62+ receive a $2 discount. Additional vehicle fees apply.
About this campground
Discover two distinct camping experiences along Millerton Lake's pristine North Shore. Fort Miller welcomes RV adventurers and trailer enthusiasts with well-appointed standard sites, while Dumna Strands beckons tent campers seeking a more primitive, back-to-nature experience. Whether you choose modern convenience or rustic simplicity, both campgrounds serve as your gateway to Millerton Lake's sparkling waters and endless recreational possibilities.
Fort Miller and Dumna Strands cater to varied camping experiences, from standard camping to primitive tent setups.
Historical SignificanceCamp where history was made. These lands once witnessed the signing of pivotal Native American treaties at Camp Barbour in 1851. The Fort Miller area remains deeply connected to its Yokuts heritage, with ancient paths and gathering places woven throughout the landscape. Every sunset here connects you to thousands of years of human stories along these shores.
Weather and SeasonsExperience California's Central Valley climate at its finest, where April transforms the landscape into a wildflower wonderland. Summer brings intense heat with temperatures soaring above 100°F—perfect for lake swimming and water sports. As autumn arrives, the weather mellows into comfortable warmth, while winter offers crisp mornings around 38°F and pleasant afternoons ideal for hiking and wildlife watching.
ElevationNestled between 471 and 578 feet above sea level, the campgrounds offer a perfect lowland escape where the Central Valley meets the Sierra foothills. This gentle elevation creates an ideal microclimate—high enough to catch cooling breezes off the lake, yet low enough to enjoy extended camping seasons throughout the year.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the sight of majestic bald eagles soaring overhead and fall asleep to coyotes' distant songs. The landscape unfolds in layers of golden oak woodlands and aromatic chaparral, punctuated by granite outcroppings that glow amber at sunset. Deer wander through camp at dawn, while the ever-changing lake reflects Sierra foothill vistas that shift from emerald green in spring to burnished gold in summer.
Geological RegionPerched where California's vast Central Valley rises to meet the Sierra Nevada foothills, this remarkable landscape tells the story of the Mother Lode gold region. Rolling grasslands give way to ancient oak groves and hardy chaparral, creating a diverse ecosystem shaped by centuries of geological drama. This transitional zone offers campers a unique blend of valley accessibility and mountain majesty.
Campsite details
AccessibilityFort Miller provides one ADA campsite while Rocky Point offers four newly completed ADA sites. Meadows Loop also has four ADA sites equipped with full hook-ups.
Sites SizeFort Miller sites accommodate standard camping setups and trailers. Dumna Strands offer primitive tent camping.
Sites PrivacyNot explicitly mentioned in the data.
Total Campsites148 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose Fort Miller sites if accessibility and restrooms are priorities; Dumna Strands for a quieter, primitive camping experience.
Best CampsitesSpecific site numbers are unavailable, but Dumna Strands is praised for solitude, and Fort Miller for accessibility.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 days is allowed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Campsites are limited to eight persons and three vehicles. One vehicle is included per reservation
- additional vehicles incur extra fees.
Groups
Large group site accommodates up to 75 persons and 25 vehicles for $200 per night, while small group sites handle up to 40 persons and 15 vehicles at $150 per night.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutLoops and sections include Fort Miller and Dumna Strands for varied camping preferences. Fort Miller accommodates trailers; Dumna Strands is tent-only.
Open and Closed SeasonMeadows Loop and Group Camps are open year-round. All other campgrounds operate seasonally from April to September.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at www.ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling (800)444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-ins are welcome year-round, subject to availability. During off-season (October-March), check-in with the camp host; during summer (April-September), check-in at the kiosk.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled through ReserveCalifornia.com. Specific deadlines and penalties are not mentioned.
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
Fire rings
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
This campground offers a serene nature setting suitable for primitive campers looking to connect with the outdoors. Activities include hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing, with opportunities to experience the rich biodiversity of the region.
Hiking
Trails range from easy interpretative trails at Fort Miller Campground to challenging routes like Buzzard’s Roost Trail, offering expansive views of the lake.Fishing
The lake supports bass, catfish, and carp fishing. Carp fishing is spring-specific and requires bow-and-arrow fishing from a vessel. Users must adhere to California Fishing laws.Swimming
Swimming areas are provided in the recreation area but require life jackets for children under 12 years of age.Biking
Trails accommodate mountain biking, particularly challenging routes with scenic views.Boating
Boating is popular, with six launch ramps and a marina offering rentals. Boat camping is available at Temperance Flat with chemical toilets and campfire rings.Wildlife viewing
Wintering bald eagles are a major attraction, along with golden eagles, deer, bobcats, and mountain lions. Guided eagle tours are offered January through mid-March.Beach activities
Limited details available about specific beach activities, but the area offers picnic spots and access to the lake.Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive programs include Junior Ranger activities and summer campfire sessions. The historical Millerton County Courthouse serves as an educational exhibit center.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities include boat tours and Bald Eagle viewing programs.Water Sports
Paddle sports programs include kayaking and standup paddleboarding with safety training and equipment provided.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Allowed only in provided rings. Gathering firewood is prohibited; campers should bring their own.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM – 8:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsBe cautious of rattlesnakes, poison oak, and wildlife such as mountain lions. Lifeguards are only available during summer.
Weather forecast
101
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 19%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.5 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
Closest emergency services include Community Regional Medical Center in Fresno, approximately 20 miles away. Fresno County Sheriff’s Office is accessible within a similar distance. Ranger stations for immediate assistance are located within Millerton Lake SRA.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril through September.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details provided, although firewood gathering is prohibited, emphasizing environmental conservation.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly along Millerton Lake shoreline; Dumna Strands offers proximity to secluded coves.
Common complaintsPrimitive sites at Dumna Strands lack flushing toilets and showers. Camper reviews often cite overcrowding during peak season.
HostCamp hosts are present during both peak and off-season. Check-in procedures differ seasonally.
Campground Map
2894+FPP Friant, California
Driving directionsFor navigation to the North Shore use Plus code as a physical address: 2894+FPP Friant, California. Directions from Fresno: Travel on CA-41 North Turn Right on CA-145 North Continue for 4.7 miles Turn Right to stay on CA-145 N Continue for 2.6 miles Arrive at North Shore Kiosk. Directions From Madera: Travel on CA-145 N Continue on CA-145 N after intersection at CA-41 N for 4.7 miles Turn Right to stay on CA-145 N Continue for 2.6 miles Arrive at North Shore Kiosk.
Accessible from major highways like CA-41 and CA-145. Road conditions are paved and maintained year-round. Seasonal closures do not apply; however, general caution for steep terrain is advised.Nearby places
Fresno (20 miles, approximately 30 minutes), Madera (15 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Clovis (25 miles, approximately 35 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Friant (approximately 5 miles away). Larger stores and amenities can be found in Fresno or Madera within 20 miles.
Camper Reviews
4.4
11 reviews
Fort Miller and Dumna Strands Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the peaceful atmosphere at Fort Miller and Dumna Strands, with Dumna favored for a rustic experience. Access to trails, wildlife viewing, and fishing are noted strengths.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the variety of trails and proximity to the lake for water-related activities. The primitive setup at Dumna Strands is praised for its back-to-nature feel.
Based on 11 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some reviewers noted the chemical toilets at Dumna Strands could be improved. Quarters are necessary for showers, which may inconvenience some.
Based on 11 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing firewood and quarters for showers. Campers should prepare for primitive conditions at Dumna Strands.
Based on 11 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter months are popular for bald eagle viewing, while spring is ideal for carp fishing. Summers are bustling but require precautions due to high temperatures.
Based on 11 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Bring plenty of quarters for the showers! They’re convenient but come at a cost." "Eagle viewing in winter was absolutely magical!" "Dumna Strands is perfect for those who want to get away from it...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
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Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
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Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed and are restricted to paved roads or campsites. Users appreciate this policy for its clarity.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025