Tule
4.14263 reviewsBOX 1072, PORTERVILLE, CA 93258-1072, USA
Tule
$20.00 - $30.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees for Tule Campground range from $20 for non-electric sites to $30 for sites with electric hookups. Additional reservation fees may apply (e.g., $8 if made online).
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine northeastern shores of Success Lake, Tule Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 103 thoughtfully designed campsites, including convenient electric hookup options for modern camping comfort. This well-appointed destination seamlessly blends nature's tranquility with essential amenities, featuring clean flush toilets, refreshing hot showers, reliable drinking water, and a convenient dump station. Whether you're casting a line into the shimmering waters at dawn, paddling through peaceful coves in your kayak, launching your boat for a day of water adventures, or exploring scenic hiking trails that wind through the surrounding foothills, Tule offers the perfect basecamp for your Sierra Nevada foothills escape.
Tule Campground accommodates various camping preferences, including sites for RVs, tents, and group camping. Electrical hookups are available at some sites, and primitive camping is an option.
Historical SignificanceWhile Tule Campground's greatest stories are written daily by the families and adventurers who gather here, the campground serves as a modern gateway to the timeless beauty of California's Sierra Nevada foothills, where generations of outdoor enthusiasts have come to reconnect with nature and create lasting memories.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the Sierra Nevada foothills' delightful seasonal tapestry at Tule Campground, where each season paints a unique portrait of natural beauty. Winter brings crisp, clear days perfect for peaceful camping under star-filled skies, while spring transforms the landscape into a vibrant canvas of wildflower blooms beneath pleasantly mild temperatures. As summer arrives, the warm, sun-drenched days invite endless water activities and evening gatherings around the campfire, making every season an ideal time to explore this captivating destination.
ElevationPositioned at a comfortable elevation in the Sierra Nevada foothills, Tule Campground offers the perfect climate balance, avoiding the extreme heights of mountain camping while still providing refreshing breezes and spectacular views across Success Lake's sparkling waters.
Natural Features and SceneryPerched on Success Lake's scenic northeastern shore, Tule Campground offers a front-row seat to nature's ever-changing show. The landscape unfolds in layers of beauty, from the immediate waterfront views across the lake's glassy surface to the gently rolling hills dotted with graceful stands of native trees. Come spring, the campground transforms into a photographer's paradise as carpets of vibrant wildflowers paint the hillsides in brilliant yellows, purples, and oranges, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your outdoor adventures.
Geological RegionTule Campground rests in the heart of the Sierra Nevada foothills, a fascinating geological transition zone where California's great Central Valley rises to meet the mighty Sierra Nevada mountains. This unique location showcases the region's characteristic rolling topography, carved over millennia by ancient waterways and tectonic forces. The surrounding landscape features scattered groves of hardy foothill vegetation that have adapted to the Mediterranean climate, while Success Lake itself fills a natural basin, creating a stunning reservoir that serves as both a recreational paradise and a testament to the region's dynamic geological history.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites, drinking water, flush toilets, parking, picnic areas, and showers are available. Users report friendly staff assisting with accessibility needs.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with many described as spacious and accommodating larger RVs and tents.
Sites PrivacySites are spaced out, offering a sense of privacy. Some users appreciated this feature, while others noted noise from neighbors and crowded conditions during peak times.
Total Campsites103 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites closer to restrooms for convenience, and avoid areas with excessive goathead thorns.
Best CampsitesSite 76 is noted for its excellent lake views and distance from other sites.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is allowed starting at 2 p.m.
Check-out
Check-out is required by noon.
Stay Limit
The campground enforces a stay limit of 14 consecutive nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 guests per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has both pull-through and back-in sites, with electric and non-electric options. Sites are organized in loops.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; reservations for individual sites operate on a rolling 6-month basis.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites may be available but are subject to occupancy during peak times. No specific data is noted on the number of sites available for walk-ups.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made prior to midnight the day before check-in incur a $10 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. Late cancellations after check-in are subject to stricter penalties.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Tule Campground provides a variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The lake is especially popular for bass fishing and kayaking in quiet coves. Other activities include hiking, star gazing, and picnicking. Seasonal campfire programs are held at the amphitheater.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available within the campground's surroundings. Trails are not explicitly described, but the area offers scenic views of the Sierra Nevada foothills.Fishing
Fishing is a major attraction, with anglers targeting bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill, and trout. The lake conditions vary by season, affecting fishing success.Swimming
Swimming is accessible at the lake's shoreline. Users recommend arriving early to secure a good swimming spot, as the area can get crowded during summer.Biking
Biking opportunities exist, though specific trails or paths are not described in detail.Boating
Boating is popular, with users mentioning houseboats and a marina offering boat rentals.Wildlife viewing
Bird watching and viewing ground squirrels are popular among visitors. Seasonal wildflowers add to the natural attractions.Beach activities
Beach-related activities are centered around the lake. Users enjoyed walking along the shore and picnicking.Cultural and Educational Programs
Campfire programs at the amphitheater are held on Saturdays between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekend, offering opportunities for learning and engagement.Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited; visitors often find the campground peaceful during colder months.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddle boating are popular water sports, especially in quieter coves.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings. Firewood should be sourced locally to prevent spreading pests.
- Quiet hours from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsPoisonous insects like black widow spiders and snake sightings have been reported. Sharp goathead thorns can be a nuisance in camping areas.
Active alertsNone noted in official sources; some user reviews highlight maintenance issues and pests.
Weather forecast
102
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 22%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.2 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
Emergency services are located in Porterville, 8 miles away, including hospitals, fire departments, and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to December 31 (Peak Season)
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are located at the entrance, and reviews mention limited trash disposal options at individual campsites. Recycling options are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located within walking distance to Success Lake's shore, although some sites may be 300 yards away from the water.
Common complaintsRecurring issues in user reviews include unclean bathrooms, lack of maintenance, pests (cockroaches, spiders), lack of shade, and noise during quiet hours.
HostCampground hosts are available but mixed user reviews suggest varying levels of helpfulness.
Campground Map
BOX 1072, PORTERVILLE, CA 93258-1072, USA
Driving directionsTake state highway 99, to east on Hwy 190 for 25 miles until you arrive at the campground entrance. Please follow the signs.
The campground is accessible year-round and is located off Highway 190, approximately 25 miles east of Highway 99. Roads are paved and suitable for regular vehicles.Nearby places
Porterville: 8 miles (approximately 15 minutes), Tulare: 30 miles (approximately 40 minutes), Visalia: 45 miles (approximately 50 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as firewood and provisions can be sourced from Porterville, 8 miles away. Eagle Feather store, approximately 5 minutes away, also offers basic camping staples.
Camper Reviews
4.1
263 reviews
Tule is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight mixed experiences. Positive feedback includes spacious sites, friendly staff, and scenic lake views. Complaints often focus on cleanliness, maintenance issues, and safety concerns. Reviews reflect varied sentiments depending on the season and individual expectations.
Review Summaries
Based on 263 reviews
What Campers Love
Spacious campsites, clean showers, scenic views, helpful staff, proximity to Sequoia National Park, and family-friendly ambiance.
Based on 263 reviewsCommon Concerns
Issues include lack of shade, poor restroom and shower maintenance, presence of black widows and roaches, overcrowding, and safety concerns involving homeless individuals and noise.
Based on 263 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring shade structures, insect repellent, firewood, and extra toilet paper. Arrive early for swimming spots. Carry hand soap for restrooms and wear sturdy footwear to avoid thorns.
Based on 263 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter visits are quieter and less crowded, with clean facilities. Spring and summer bring more visitors and activities but also maintenance and overcrowding issues. Fall is noted for being peaceful...
Based on 263 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
Direct quotes include: "Definitely won't camp here again until management is fixed," "Unmind and hear nothing but my thoughts," and "Loved this campground! The campsites are spaced out so well."
Based on 263 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site highlights include #76 for the best lake view, #18 for spaciousness, and complaints about uneven ground at #29. Reviews also note issues with noise and maintenance at specific sites.
Based on 263 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible facilities are praised, with staff assisting individuals with disabilities. Some reviews mention well-maintained paths and proximity to restrooms.
Based on 263 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but require leashes. Users warn about thorns and goatheads that can harm pets' paws.
Based on 263 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025