Expert: Ernest Tufft - 5/30/2009

Question
My and my family want to go camping but we are about 14
people. Do you know a good camping location where we can
swim and its in California.

Answer
Hi Claudia,

Many people ask about picniking and camping facilities for large groups.  Although I have organized such group activities as part of the wine appreciation courses that I have taught, I still don't consider myself an expert on large group organizing, especially with regards to camping.

However, the California State Parks and Recreation website provides considerable details for all parks in the state, including whether or not group facilities are available.  In general, these facilites are often better maintained than private counterparts at various lakes and reservoirs around the state, but often private facilities can include swimming pools and other such amenities.  National parks also often have separate facilities for large groups.  Search the websites for the National and State parks.

The Bureau of Reclamation website also provides a list and detailed information for many reservoirs in the state.  Not all reservoirs are run by this federal government agency, but many of the best ski boat and house boat lakes are.  Several such reservoirs are managed by counties, so consider the county or city you would like to camp near, and then find a tourist website for more information on what recreation is there.

I would recommend looking at the possibility of renting a houseboat on the New Melones, Lake Oroville, or Shasta Lake.  Daily rental rates are surprisingly low.  The main advice is to not power away too far because the fuel required to return to port can easily make up for this low rental rate.

I hope this helps...