Island Park
4.19186 reviewsPO BOX 117, PIEDRA, CA, 93649-0117, USA
Island Park
$10.00 - $135.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$135.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary by site type and amenities. Additional fees include reservation service fees ($8 online, $9 contact center, $3 in-person) and late cancellation penalties. Discounts may apply for holders of specific Interagency Passes.
About this campground
Nestled within the stunning Pine Flat Recreation Area, Island Park Campground beckons adventurers with 20 miles of shimmering lake views that stretch as far as the eye can see. This waterfront paradise serves as your gateway to endless boating adventures, scenic hiking trails, and wildlife encounters that make every visit memorable. Whether you're casting a line at dawn or watching eagles soar overhead, Island Park transforms ordinary camping into extraordinary experiences.
Island Park offers diverse camping options, including tent, RV, and group camping. Some sites have water and electric hookups, while others are primitive.
Historical SignificanceBorn from the visionary construction of Pine Flat Dam in 1954, this recreational wonderland emerged from a massive engineering feat that forever changed the landscape. What began as a crucial project for flood control and irrigation has blossomed into a beloved destination where generations of families create lasting memories against the backdrop of this human-made marvel that harmoniously blends with nature.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of California's foothill climate, where golden summers paint the landscape in warm hues, with temperatures that can soar to an impressive 115°F - perfect for those who love to dive into cool lake waters. As autumn arrives, the heat gently retreats, giving way to crisp winter mornings and refreshing spring days punctuated by occasional rain showers. Seasoned visitors often choose the shoulder seasons for their ideal blend of comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.
ElevationPerched in the gentle embrace of the Sierra Nevada foothills, Island Park offers the perfect middle ground between valley floor and mountain peak. This moderate elevation provides comfortable camping conditions year-round while still delivering those crisp mountain mornings and star-filled nights that make Sierra camping so special, all without the altitude challenges of higher mountain destinations.
Natural Features and SceneryPicture yourself waking to panoramic views of Pine Flat Lake, its surface reflecting the surrounding tapestry of oak and pine-covered hills. This scenic wonderland serves as your launching point to the legendary Kings Canyon, where thrilling whitewater rafting adventures await the bold and winding scenic drives reward the contemplative. The diverse ecosystem creates a natural amphitheater where majestic oaks mingle with towering pines, creating dappled shade and endless photographic opportunities.
Geological RegionDiscover the magical transition zone where the central Sierra Nevada Mountains begin their majestic ascent from California's Central Valley. Here, at the western threshold of Kings Canyon, ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape where hardy oaks give way to stately pines, creating a unique ecosystem that tells the story of elevation change through its very vegetation. This remarkable meeting point of ecosystems offers campers a front-row seat to one of nature's most elegant transitions.
Campsite details
AccessibilityOne site meets accessibility standards and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Vault toilets were described as more accessible for users with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with some accommodating large RVs, while others were described as cramped or poorly designed for leveling.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies across campsites. Some reviewers noted tightly packed sites with little separation, while others appreciated secluded or quieter spots, particularly during the off-season.
Total Campsites50 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose shaded sites for hot summer visits, and avoid spots near restrooms due to odor complaints. Sites 41 and overflow areas are recommended for RVs.
Best CampsitesSites 21, 27-31, and 33 are noted for their views and proximity to the lake.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is anytime after 8 AM.
Check-out
Check-out before 10 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 consecutive nights during any stay.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 people per individual campsite. Double sites can accommodate up to 16 people.
Groups
Group sites include amenities like a horseshoe pit and volleyball court. They can accommodate larger groups with spacious setups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features loops and sections with varying elevation and accessibility.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round with reservations available starting January 1, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov and the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityOne accessible site available on first-come-first-served basis; other sites may also be available depending on recent cancellations or unreserved status.
Cancellation PolicyIf a reservation is canceled more than 14 days before the arrival, visitors are charged a $10 fee, and late cancellations (less than 1 day before for individual sites; less than 14 days for group sites) forfeit the first night's recreation use 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
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of activities, particularly water-based recreation at Pine Flat Lake. Popular activities include fishing, boating, jet skiing, and hiking trails like the Blue Oak Trail.
Hiking
Families enjoy strolling on the Blue Oak Trail, a quarter-mile interpretive trail accessible from the campground.Fishing
Fishing is a major draw, with anglers targeting species like small and large-mouthed bass, spotted bass, and rainbow trout.Boating
Boating and jet skiing are popular activities, with a boat ramp accessible for day-use visitors. Some reviewers noted challenges with lake access due to water levels.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include bobcats and red-tailed hawks, with occasional sightings of other species.Cultural and Educational Programs
Occasional cultural programs like bird shows have been noted by reviewers, emphasizing family-friendly activities.Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited but include camping and enjoying the quiet off-season environment.Water Sports
Water sports are prominent, including jet skiing, boating, and fishing.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed in designated rings only. Firewood must be sourced locally to prevent pest spread.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsRattlesnakes are frequently spotted in the area, particularly during warmer months. User reviews also mention steep roads and challenging site access.
Active alertsMid-summer heat warnings; lake access may be limited during periods of low water.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 20%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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 emergency services include facilities in Fresno, located approximately 30 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to December 31, 2025 (Peak Season Pricing)
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available but not consistently maintained, with reports of trash lingering near campsites and insufficient clean-up efforts.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Pine Flat Lake, accessible for boating and fishing.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight issues such as noisy campers, inadequate restroom cleanliness, and shade limitations during hot weather.
HostHost availability varies; some reviews reported no visible host presence, leading to noise issues.
Campground Map
PO BOX 117, PIEDRA, CA, 93649-0117, USA
Driving directionsFrom Fresno, California, travel east on Highway 180/Kings Canyon Highway to Academy Avenue. Turn left onto Academy Avenue, and then turn right on Belmont Avenue. Continue traveling for approximately 20 miles; the entrance to Island Park Recreation Area is on the right. NOTE: Belmont Avenue becomes East Trimmer Springs Road approximately 6 miles east of the Academy Avenue intersection.
The road access includes steep grades, sharp turns, and narrow roadway conditions, particularly challenging for large RVs. User reviews emphasize caution when navigating these roads with large rigs or trailers.Nearby places
Piedra (approx. 3 miles), Fresno (approx. 30 miles)
Nearby supplies
A small convenience store ('The I Forgot Store') is located approximately 3 miles away
groceries, fuel, and other essentials may require a drive to Fresno, about 30 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.2
186 reviews
Island Park is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are polarized, with some campers praising the beautiful lake views, friendly park rangers, and clean facilities, while others criticize poor campsite designs, lack of shade, and unclean restrooms.
Review Summaries
Based on 186 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlighted positives include clean sites, scenic views of Pine Flat Lake, and friendly park rangers. Some users appreciated the availability of showers and family-oriented activities.
Based on 186 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints focus on unclean restrooms, inadequate trash maintenance, noisy neighboring campers, and poorly leveled campsites. Limited shade and extreme heat during summer months were also...
Based on 186 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include choosing shaded sites during summer, bringing mosquito repellent and sunscreen, and avoiding sites near restrooms due to odors. RV campers should be cautious of sharp turns leading into...
Based on 186 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Visitors noted that summer camping is challenging due to high temperatures and lack of shade, while spring and fall are preferred for milder weather and better lake activities.
Based on 186 reviewsCamper Quotes
Direct quotes include: 'Beautiful location for camping right next to the lake,' 'Bathroom facilities are simple but clean,' and 'Some sites are pretty unlevel.'
Based on 186 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback includes: Site #41 praised for its lake views but criticized for its small gravel tent pad; Site #37 noted for its stairs, making it unsuitable for families with small children.
Based on 186 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features received mixed reviews. Vault toilets were praised for accessibility, while flush toilets were criticized for inadequate maintenance. Highly uneven campsites posed challenges...
Based on 186 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are generally welcomed, but some reviewers warned about rattlesnakes, which could pose risks to pets. Campsites had limited grassy areas for pets to roam.
Based on 186 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025