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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

ACORN CAMPGROUND

Valley Springs, California · Calaveras County · Campground

Overview Acorn Campground is a sunny campground in the brush-covered hills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The area is generally characterized by a warm, dry climate with summer temperatures regularly soaring above 90 degrees.With sites just a short walk from the shores of the popular New Hogan Lake, visitors will have…

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38.17626, -120.79972
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5-Day Forecast

Weather at ACORN CAMPGROUND

Live forecast for the park. Plan your visit accordingly.

Avg High87°F
Avg Low57°F
Peak Rain Chance1%
Humidity43%
UV (avg)8
Air Quality43 · Good
Today
☁️
Overcast
78°/52°
🌬 10mph
5:42 AM8:19 PM
Sun
☀️
Clear
85°/54°
🌬 8mph
5:42 AM8:19 PM
Mon
☁️
Overcast
90°/59°
💧 1%🌬 7mph
5:41 AM8:20 PM
Tue
☁️
Overcast
92°/60°
🌬 10mph
5:41 AM8:21 PM
Wed
☁️
Overcast
89°/59°
🌬 8mph
5:41 AM8:22 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About ACORN CAMPGROUND

Overview Acorn Campground is a sunny campground in the brush-covered hills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The area is generally characterized by a warm, dry climate with summer temperatures regularly soaring above 90 degrees.With sites just a short walk from the shores of the popular New Hogan Lake, visitors will have no problem finding relief in the comfortable clear waters.Recreation 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.Facilities Acorn Campground offers 128 spacious campsites with modern amenities such showers and accessible flush toilets, as well as drinking water, an important part of staying hydrated in the summer sun.Natural Features 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 i

How to Get There

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 Acorn Campground: 3027 South Petersburg Road Valley Springs, CA 95252

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    UPF sun shirt (long sleeve)
    Cooler than direct sun on bare skin.
  • 🩳
    Light shorts/skirt
    Loose-fit, breathable.
  • 🧢
    Wide-brimmed sun hat
    Plus a buff/bandana you can wet for cooling.
  • 🕶
    Polarized sunglasses
    Critical for glare from sun + sand/water.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection (UV 8)
    SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun 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 ACORN CAMPGROUND

Heading to ACORN CAMPGROUND? 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 ACORN CAMPGROUND?

No central reservation system listed for ACORN CAMPGROUND. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233683) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to ACORN CAMPGROUND?

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 Acorn Campground: 3027 South Petersburg Road Valley Springs, CA 95252

How do I contact ACORN CAMPGROUND?

You can reach the park at phone: 209-772-1343.