Meadows Campground
4.4544 reviews5290 Millerton Road, Friant, CA 93626
Meadows Campground
$15.00 - $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$15.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees range from $15 per night for boat campsites to $40 per night for full-hookup RV sites. Standard campsites are priced at $30 per night.
About this campground
Escape to Meadows Campground, where the shimmering waters of Millerton Lake create a year-round paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. This lakeside sanctuary welcomes you with 92 thoughtfully designed campsites, from full-hookup RV spots to secluded tent sites and unique boat-in camping experiences. Whether you're a family seeking weekend adventures, an RV traveler exploring California's hidden gems, or a tent camper craving starlit nights by the water, Meadows Campground serves as your gateway to unforgettable memories along the lake's pristine shores.
Meadows Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including RV sites with full hook-ups, tent camping, and group camping. Primitive camping is not mentioned.
Historical SignificanceStep onto sacred ground where the Dumna people, part of the greater Yokuts Nation, have called home for countless generations. This ancestral landscape holds deep ceremonial and traditional significance, with every oak tree and rocky outcrop telling stories of those who came before. As you explore the campground and surrounding areas, you're walking paths traveled for millennia, experiencing a living connection to California's indigenous heritage that continues to shape and enrich this special place.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of California's changing seasons at Meadows Campground. Summer transforms the landscape into a sun-drenched playground, with temperatures soaring to an invigorating 100°F—perfect for refreshing lake swims and water sports. As autumn arrives, the heat mellows into comfortable camping weather, painting the surrounding hills in golden hues. Winter brings crisp mornings around 38°F, ideal for cozy campfires and peaceful solitude. Spring emerges as nature's grand reopening, with wildflowers dotting the hillsides and perfect temperatures beckoning outdoor adventurers to explore every trail and cove.
ElevationNestled at the perfect elevation where valley meets foothills, the campground offers a unique vantage point for experiencing California's diverse ecosystems and comfortable camping conditions throughout the year.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a landscape where ancient oak trees twist skyward with gnarled branches that frame spectacular lake views, creating natural sculptures against the California sky. The campground's setting blends rolling grasslands with dramatic rocky outcroppings, offering diverse terrain for exploration and photography. Keep your eyes peeled for the area's charismatic wildlife—playful squirrels darting between campsites, clever raccoons emerging at dusk, and the haunting calls of owls echoing through the night. Lucky visitors might spot majestic eagles soaring overhead, riding thermals above the sparkling lake waters.
Geological RegionPerched in the spectacular Sierra Nevada foothills, Meadows Campground showcases the region's distinctive character where golden grasslands meet ancient oak woodlands. This transitional zone between valley and mountain creates a unique ecosystem of weathered granite formations, rolling hills carpeted in native grasses, and stands of centuries-old oak trees that provide welcome shade and stunning photographic opportunities. The rocky terrain tells a geological story millions of years in the making, offering endless exploration for curious minds and adventurous spirits.
Campsite details
AccessibilityADA-beach wheelchairs are available upon request, and ADA-compliant campsites are provided. Accessibility features extend to the showers and comfort stations.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with options for RV hookups as well as tent camping. Specific dimensions like pad lengths (36 feet) are available for certain sites.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is somewhat limited as some users note that sites can be close together: "Although the sites are too close together in my opinion."
Total Campsites92 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and quiet, choose sites away from the lakefront. Sites near the boat ramp offer convenience for water activities.
Best CampsitesCampsites near the lake and boat ramp are highly rated for their views and proximity to water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Reservations are limited to 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each campsite accommodates up to 8 guests.
Groups
Group campsites are available, though specific details about guest capacities or pricing beyond general campsite limits are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are organized in loops, offering a mix of waterfront and wooded settings.
Open and Closed SeasonMeadows Campground is open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReserveCalifornia.com or by calling (800) 444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability year-round; campers are encouraged to check with the camp host for availability upon arrival.
Cancellation PolicyReservations must be canceled via ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling (800) 444-7275. Penalties or fees may apply based on timing of cancellation.
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
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Meadows Campground offers various activities that cater to outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. The campsite is near Millerton Lake, providing opportunities for swimming, boating, birdwatching, and fishing. "Great fishing, nice campground," says one review. Hiking trails are accessible, with routes ranging in difficulty and length. Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with campers reporting encounters with squirrels, owls, and various bird species.
Hiking
Multiple trails are available near the campground, including moderate options like the North Shore Trail. "Buzzard’s Roost Trail provides an elevation gain of more than 500 feet in less than a mile," offering stunning views of the lake.Fishing
Fishing is permitted, with reports of bass, sunfish, catfish, and shad. "Great fishing" is a recurring comment in user reviews.Swimming
Swimming areas are designated within Millerton Lake, although lifeguards are only present during summer months. Swimming beyond 200 feet from the shoreline is prohibited.Biking
Biking is allowed on multiuse trails and roads. Helmets are required for minors, and Class 1 e-bikes are permitted.Boating
Boating is a popular activity at Millerton Lake. Life jackets are required for paddlers outside swim zones, and two-stroke engine restrictions apply. There are docking facilities available.Wildlife viewing
Birdwatching and wildlife viewing are frequently mentioned as enjoyable activities. Campers have noted seeing squirrels, owls, and other wildlife species.Cultural and Educational Programs
Cultural programs like Junior Rangers and Campfire Programs occur every Saturday from Memorial Day to Labor Day. "Annual Bald Eagle Tours" are hosted from January to mid-March.Winter Activities
There is no specific mention of winter activities, although Bald Eagle Tours are held during winter months.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing are available. "Traverse the remote shorelines of the lake by stand-up paddleboard or kayak," suggests the park webpage.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire rings only. Gathering firewood is prohibited.
- Quiet hours from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPresence of raccoons; campers should store food securely. Water levels fluctuate in the lake, creating hidden boating hazards.
Active alertsNo current alerts reported.
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
Nearest hospital is Community Regional Medical Center in Fresno (25 miles). Police services available in Friant, and park rangers are on-site daily.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril to September
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling containers are provided throughout the campground; users appreciate the level of cleanliness maintained in these areas.
Proximity to water featuresWalking distance to Millerton Lake, with boat ramps and fishing spots nearby.
Common complaintsReviews frequently mention the need for cleaner bathrooms and showers. Some complaints about noisy campers and trash on the lakefront.
HostCamp hosts are available to assist with reservations and maintenance. Mixed feedback on their demeanor, ranging from helpful to rude.
Campground Map
5290 Millerton Road, Friant, CA 93626
Driving directionsFrom Fresno, take CA-41 north towards Friant Road. Turn right onto Friant Road and drive approximately 12 miles to Millerton Road. Continue on Millerton Road for about 3 miles to the park entrance. Meadows Campground is located on the North Shore area of Millerton Lake SRA.
Accessible via paved roads year-round. No seasonal closures reported. Driveway surfaces are paved with slight grades.Nearby places
Fresno (20 miles, 30 minutes), Clovis (18 miles, 25 minutes), Madera (30 miles, 40 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest gas stations and grocery stores are located in Friant (3 miles). Camping supplies can be purchased in Fresno (20 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.5
44 reviews
Meadows Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Meadows Campground are mixed, highlighting both positive features and some concerns. Many appreciate the cleanliness, scenic views, and accessibility, although issues such as rude hosts, site proximity, and noise on weekends are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 44 reviews
What Campers Love
"Very clean bathrooms and showers," "Nice views of the lake," "Great camp hosts on-site," "Accessible for RVs with full hook-ups."
Based on 44 reviewsCommon Concerns
"Camp host was rude," "Bathrooms need a tiny bit of cleaning," "Sites are too close together," "Noise from generators and loud music."
Based on 44 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring quarters for the showers, ensure a reservation is made in advance, and bring firewood as gathering on-site is prohibited.
Based on 44 reviewsSeasonal Insights
During summer, users note the convenience of having power for air conditioning in RVs and fewer bugs, while winter reviews highlight the quieter atmosphere and fewer campers. Fall provides pleasant...
Based on 44 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Stayed here for a night on the way to Yosemite. Quiet and a clean place with nice views of the lake." "Very clean bathrooms and showers rangers were there every morning." "Great fishing, nice...
Based on 44 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific sites near the lake and boat ramps are preferred for their scenic views and level setups, as noted by Craig Philpott: "We were assigned a space near the lake and boat ramp with hook-ups."
Based on 44 reviewsAccessibility Features
ADA-compliant facilities are praised, including accessible showers and campsites. "ADA beach wheelchairs are available for fun down by the shoreline."
Based on 44 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must remain leashed at all times. "Great space for dogs to run and play," says one reviewer.
Based on 44 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025