Ironhorse- Glory Hole Area - New Melones Lake

Campers arrive at this Bureau of Reclamation campground via multiple access options, including drive-in, walk-in, and boat-in approaches along New Melones Lake. The facility provides full hookups with electric, water, and sewer connections for RVs, plus amenities like showers and a dump station. Sites spread across open terrain with limited tree cover, as one visitor notes the lack of shade for hammocks or privacy.

Lake access varies significantly depending on water levels and specific camping areas within the facility. Tabitha found "there is no lake access from the campground" during her August visit, while another camper described their site as "right on the lake." Bathrooms receive mixed feedback, described as both "clean" and "basic" by different visitors. The campground tends to stay busy during peak season, though site spacing helps reduce noise levels even for tent campers.

Staff assistance gets positive mentions from guests, and a gas station with firewood and ice sits about eight minutes away. Summer temperatures run high in this exposed location. For those seeking nearby alternatives, Chamise - Tuttletown Area - New Melones Lake offers another lakeside option just over a mile east.

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Location

Public Campground

Ironhorse- Glory Hole Area - New Melones Lake is located in California

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

37.98500045 N
120.53500028 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Market
  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Showers
  • Drinking Water
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Sewer Hookups
  • Water Hookups

Contact

General Info

Drive Time


Reviews

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4.0

out of 5

4 Reviews

Many visitors highlighted helpful staff and clean facilities at this lakefront location. Some feedback indicated challenges with heat exposure and limited tree coverage affecting privacy and comfort.

Reviewed Aug. 17, 2022

Hot, but okay

It was quite hot there and there is no lake access from the campground. And there was not a lot of water left. Drinking water might be quite far away, bathrooms are basic.

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed May. 6, 2022

Beautiful weather & views!

Stayed for a few nights for an anniversary. The ranger was exceptionally nice & there was a gas station 8 minutes from the grounds with firewood & ice!

Month of VisitApril
Reviewed Jul. 23, 2019

Great view

This site is right on the lake, the bathrooms were clean. It was pretty busy but the spaces are far enough apart that it wasn’t super loud even in a tent. There aren’t a lot of trees so no hammock and no privacy but still a really great park. The staff was also so helpful!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Iron Horse Campground located at New Melones Lake?

Ironhorse Campground is located at the Glory Hole Recreation Area of New Melones Lake in California. The campground sits near the lake but doesn't offer direct lake access from the camping area itself. There's a gas station approximately 8 minutes away where campers can purchase supplies like firewood and ice. The area experiences warm temperatures, especially during summer months, so preparing for heat is advisable when planning your visit.

Does Iron Horse Campground at New Melones Lake accept walk-in campers?

Yes, Ironhorse Campground at New Melones Lake does accept walk-in campers, though the campground can get quite busy during peak seasons. Having a reservation is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. The campground has staff on-site who can assist with walk-in camping inquiries. For the most current walk-in availability, it's best to contact the campground directly or check with the Glory Hole Recreation Area management.

What do visitors say in reviews about Glory Hole Recreation Area at New Melones Lake?

Visitors to Glory Hole Recreation Area describe it as a pleasant camping destination with spacious sites that offer good separation between campers, making it relatively quiet even during busy periods. The lakeside location is appreciated, though many note there's no direct lake access from the campground itself. Campers mention the bathrooms are clean but basic. The lack of trees results in limited shade and privacy. The helpfulness of the staff is frequently highlighted as a positive aspect. Some visitors mention the heat can be challenging, particularly in summer months, and that water levels in the lake can vary.

What amenities are available at Glory Hole Recreation Area campground?

Glory Hole Recreation Area campground offers clean bathrooms with basic facilities. Drinking water is available, though some water sources may be located at a distance from certain campsites. The campsites are generously spaced, providing adequate separation between neighbors. There are limited trees in the camping area, which means minimal natural shade and fewer options for hammock hanging. The campground has helpful staff on site, and nearby amenities include a gas station where campers can purchase firewood and ice.