Utica Reservoir Campgrounds
4.6710 reviewsUtica Reservoir campgrounds, Stanislaus National Forest, California
Utica Reservoir Campgrounds
$25.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The Forest Service operates the Rocky Point and Sandy Flat Campgrounds. Fees are $25 per night for 2024 and 2025, increasing to $30 per night in 2026. America the Beautiful Senior and Access passes, as well as Golden Age and Golden Access passes, are accepted, providing a 50% discount per night for the single site occupied by the pass holder.
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About this campground
Nestled in the heart of a pristine granite basin, Utica Reservoir offers two distinct camping experiences through its Sandy Flat and Rocky Point campgrounds. This alpine gem captivates visitors with its crystal-clear waters dotted with mysterious islands and dramatic granite slabs that cascade into the reservoir like nature's own stepping stones. Towering red firs and lodgepole pines create a natural amphitheater around this mountain sanctuary, where each campsite promises both adventure and tranquility.
The campgrounds at Utica Reservoir cater to a mix of camping preferences, including tent camping, smaller RV setups, and possibly group camping. There is no reservation system, and all sites are first-come, first-serve.
Weather and SeasonsAt nearly 7,000 feet, Utica Reservoir transforms with the seasons like a living canvas. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, creating a wonderland for the hardy few. As summer arrives, the high-altitude climate offers perfect camping conditions with crisp mornings giving way to sun-warmed afternoons. Seasoned visitors whisper a secret: weekday summer visits reveal the reservoir at its most serene, when you can claim your own slice of mountain paradise away from weekend crowds.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 6,800 feet above sea level, this high-altitude retreat offers that rare combination of accessibility and alpine atmosphere. The elevation brings cooler temperatures, clearer skies, and that distinctive mountain air that makes every breath feel like a gift.
Natural Features and SceneryNature has sculpted an extraordinary outdoor gallery here, where ancient granite slabs create natural patios that slide gracefully into the water's edge. The surrounding forest of red fir and lodgepole pine stands like cathedral columns, their evergreen canopy filtering sunlight into dancing patterns. Visitors consistently describe this haven as 'a peaceful place surrounded by wilderness,' where the only sounds are wind through pine needles and water lapping against stone.
Geological RegionThis remarkable granite basin tells a story millions of years in the making. Carved by ancient glaciers and polished by time, the exposed granite formations create a stunning geological showcase. The basin cradles the reservoir like a natural bowl, its walls clothed in the deep greens of red fir and lodgepole pine forests that have claimed this rocky terrain as home.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not detailed in the provided information.
Sites SizeUser reviews mention that most sites are optimized for tents, with a handful accommodating RVs under 25 feet.
Sites PrivacyOne user review highlights that campsites are 'farther apart than many other campgrounds,' indicating a degree of privacy.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early in the week to secure better campsites closer to water features. Reviews suggest weekdays may offer quieter camping experiences.
Best CampsitesUser review mentions staying at spot 14, close to the clear lake.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Stay limits are dictated by Forest Service policies.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Based on user reviews, 6 guests are allowed per site.
Groups
No specific information about group sites is provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutTwo campgrounds adjacent to each other: Sandy Flat and Rocky Point.
Open and Closed SeasonDates not specified; campground is currently listed as open.
Reservation PlatformsNo online reservation platforms; sites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. User reviews suggest arriving before Thursday to secure a site for the weekend.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are dictated by Forest Service regulations; specific details not provided.
Amenities available
Potable water
Food storage lockers
Activities you can enjoy
Utica Reservoir is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering non-motorized boating and picnicking. The reservoir, surrounded by red fir and lodgepole pines, provides opportunities for kayaking and wildlife observation. Some campers mention hiking trips to nearby lakes.
Swimming
Swimming is possible, as one reviewer mentions enjoying the challenge of swimming in the clear lake.Boating
Utica Reservoir supports non-motorized boating activities. Reviews highlight kayaking as a popular activity.Wildlife viewing
The natural setting with red fir and lodgepole pine forest offers wildlife viewing opportunities.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are detailed.Water Sports
Kayaking and other non-motorized water sports are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted but limited to designated fire pits. Collectable firewood available around the area (restrictions on cutting living trees).
- Quiet hours are Silent nights reported in user reviews, but official quiet hours not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsLimited water availability (potable water provided at intersection of 7N75 & 7N17 via spigot from a well).
Active alertsNone
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Moderate drizzle
Precipitation: 0.8%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 55%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 18.9 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Very Light Rain - (0.80% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Moderate drizzle
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
Calaveras Ranger Station located in Hathaway Pines, approximately 27 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly stated.
Trash and recyclingNo details on trash or recycling facilities are provided.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly adjacent to Utica Reservoir, with access for non-motorized boating and swimming.
Common complaintsLimited water availability noted in reviews, as well as difficulty securing campsites if arriving after Thursday during peak times.
HostUser reviews highlight a helpful campground host named Bruce.
Campground Map
Utica Reservoir campgrounds, Stanislaus National Forest, California
Driving directionsFrom Highway 4, turn onto Spicer Reservoir Road (paved) and go 8 miles. Turn left onto 7N75; from there the roads are gravel. Continue 0.7 miles to a T-intersection. Turn left and continue one mile.
The campground is accessible via Spicer Reservoir Road, which is paved for the first 8 miles. After turning onto 7N75, the roads are gravel, which may require caution for lower-clearance vehicles. Seasonal road conditions and closures are possible.Nearby places
Hathaway Pines, California - 27 miles east
approximate travel time varies based on road conditions.
Nearby supplies
Available in nearby towns, such as Hathaway Pines, approximately 27 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.7
10 reviews
Utica Reservoir Campgrounds is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Utica Reservoir campgrounds are overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing the area's natural beauty, peacefulness, and suitability for outdoor activities. The first-come, first-serve system is appreciated for its spontaneity, though it can be challenging to secure a spot during peak times.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers frequently praise the natural surroundings, including the reservoir's granite basin and clear waters. Activities like kayaking and hiking are well-loved, as are the quiet, private campsites....
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some reviewers note the difficulty of securing a spot, especially on weekends, with one advising campers to arrive by Thursday. Others mention the need to bring water as there is no running supply at...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a spot, ideally by Thursday. Bring your own water and prepare for the lack of running water and basic amenities. Midweek camping is recommended for a quieter experience.
Based on 10 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is highlighted as the best time for camping due to the open sites and pleasant weather, though weekends can be crowded. Winter conditions and weather data are not explicitly tied to user...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Heaven on earth with first come first serve camping no reservations.' (Kimberly Croddy)
2. 'Beautiful reservoir. Awesome camping spots and day use areas.' (Shorty)
3. 'What a peaceful place! We...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 14 is appreciated for its proximity to the lake. The campgrounds are noted for their privacy and spacing between sites.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility are available.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must be leashed. Reviews highlight the pet-friendly environment, with one camper noting, 'Dog-friendly, great walks around the reservoir.'
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025