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Oak Knoll Campground sits along New Hogan Lake in the brush-covered foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Boating is a popular pastime, with boat ramps conveniently located around the lake. The large surface area allows for plenty of water skiing, wake boarding, jet skiing and more.
Year-round fishing for stripers, bass, crappie, bluegill and catfish is perfect for experts and beginners alike. Some of the largest fish are found in less than 25 feet of water.
The "River of Skulls" hiking trail is located below the dam at the Monte Vista Recreation Area. There is also a staging area for an eight mile equestrian trail on a scenic loop that winds along the lake and through the foothill chaparral. Trail guides are available at the park office.
Bicycle trails suitable for the beginner as well as the advanced rider are found on the west side of the lake and next to the group camping area. An easy 3-mile trail connects the park office with Acorn Campground.
Hunting with bow or shotgun during the open season is permitted in certain areas of the lake. Upland game such as turkey, quail and dove is available and waterfowl includes a variety of duck and geese.
Oak Knoll Campground offers a relatively primitive camping experience, but does provide plenty of space at its 49 campsites.
The 4,400 surface-acre lake was created in 1964 with the completion of New Hogan Dam. When full, the lake has 50 miles of shoreline and extends nearly eight miles upstream to the confluence of the north and south forks of the Calaveras River.
The dam was built to provide flood protection to the city of Stockton and water for irrigation, drinking and hydroelectric power, and it now offers recreation opportunities for thousands of visitors each year.
The New Hogan area supports a wide variety of wildlife. The foothills location is home to grey fox, mule deer, coyote, turkey, mountain lion, bobcat and rattlesnakes. New Hogan is also a wintering home for bald eagles. The south shore of the lake has been designated as a wildlife viewing area.
A number of historic sites are located nearby, including Carson Hill, the discovery site of the largest gold nugget ever found, and The Black Bart Inn, located in San Andreas, where the famous outlaw Black Bart was captured.
Groceries, gas, camping supplies and more can be found in the nearby town of Valley Springs, California.
From Stockton California, take Highway 26 east for 30 miles. Turn right on Hogan Dam Road and continue for a mile, then follow signs to the campground.
Park Headquarters:
2713 Hogan Dam Road
Valley Springs, CA 95252
Oak Knoll Campground:
2321 South Petersburg Road
Valley Springs, CA 95252
Beautifully rustic and Nice Camp Manager
The campground is beautiful with trees and well spaced locations. While the overall camp is on a hill, the sites seem fairly level. I have a class C and could get to my spot just fine.
It is quiet and peaceful. I prefer rustic to cement. So I like Oak Knoll.
The stars are visible at night. The sunsets are fantastic. I could see through the trees.
The camp manager/hostess was very nice and helpful. 5+ stars for her.
We had went and reserved a spot. Let me tell you pictures do no justice. There was no one to greet. I called the number numerous times. I had no idea what camp spot I reserved because when you reserve it implies they will tell you the day of. It was a creep scary vibe. Have chickens and cars looked abandoned there. Like hills have eyes vibe. Long story short I called and didn’t receive a call till hours later. She text me saying what my eta was and she will be leaving soon. I implied I would not be staying there due to the customer service and communication. My kids were hot and aggravated. She said she would refund me but I still yet to revive it. I wonder if it was a scam. This place is not what it seems. Please go to the reservations or anywhere but here.
The site we got was small, and lacked the camping atmosphere. We where surrounded by 3 walls and didn't even have a fire pit. For 60$ I was expecting a bit more.
Just a note in response to the owner. The wind was not over 10mph. And yes this was the correct place.
This was a nice little spot we stayed at this weekend. The took us last minute which was nice. We were looking for a dog friendly spot last second for a quick get away and we found it. Staff was really friendly and helpful, they even upgraded us for free since they had many opening.
The downside to this campground is there really isn’t much besides the pool. I was looking forward to going on some hikes with my dog but their nearest hike was 3 miles down the road. The roosters were a nice touch but sucked as they crowed at 4am. Just hit the snooze in my head and fell back asleep.
Other than that it’s a beautiful little camp site with clean bathrooms. I would highly recommend this spot for a last second spot.
A slice of Heaven! A real gem...peaceful and serene. Very relaxing and inviting. Friendly and professional staff and management.
Grounds are much improved since my first visit 5 years ago. Plan to explore the area or do nothing at all.
