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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

TULE

Camp Nelson, California · Tulare County · Campground

Overview Tule Campground is located at Success Lake in the Sierra Nevada foothills just 8 miles east of Porterville, California. A variety of outdoor recreational activities abound, including boating, kayaking and fishing. During the summer, join Park Rangers for Campfire Programs, fun activities, and giveaways every S…

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About TULE

Overview Tule Campground is located at Success Lake in the Sierra Nevada foothills just 8 miles east of Porterville, California. A variety of outdoor recreational activities abound, including boating, kayaking and fishing. During the summer, join Park Rangers for Campfire Programs, fun activities, and giveaways every Saturday evening at the campground registration building.Recreation The lake provides great opportunities for boating and swimming. Kayaking the lake's quiet, unpopulated coves is a favorite activity. Anglers fish for bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill and the occasional trout. Facilities The campground is open year round and offers 103 sites, several of which have electric hookups. Flush toilets, showers, drinking water and a dump station are provided. Playgrounds and boat ramps are located on-site. Campfire programs are presented at the amphitheater on Saturdays from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. Campground gates are closed from 10p.m. to 6 a.m. Natural Features Success Lake, when full, covers 82,500 acre-feet of water with a surface area of 2,450 acres. One acre-foot is equal to 325,872 gallons of water! The campground sits on the northeastern shore of the lake, in an area dotted with sparse stands of trees. Shade is limited, but springtime wildflowers bloom on the surrounding foothills, creating a beautiful display of color.

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to TULE

Heading to TULE? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for TULE?

No central reservation system listed for TULE. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233655) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to TULE?

Take state highway 99, to east on Hwy 190 for 25 miles until you arrive to campground enterance. Please follow the signs.

How do I contact TULE?

You can reach the park at phone: 559-784-0215.