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Success Lake - COE/Tule
Overview
Tule Campground at Success Lake offers a peaceful retreat located in the scenic foothills of the Sierra Nevada. As a Corps of Engineers facility, it provides a unique balance of natural beauty and essential comforts for RV travelers. The park is situated on the shores of Lake Success, serving as a primary gateway for those exploring the San Joaquin Valley and the southern reaches of California's high country. It is known for its expansive views and relaxed pace of life.
Location & Surroundings
Located just outside of Porterville, CA, the park is defined by its sweeping views of the rolling hills and the vast waters of the Tule River reservoir. The surrounding landscape transitions from golden valley floors to the rugged peaks of the Sierras, creating a dramatic backdrop for evening sunsets. Travelers will appreciate the unobstructed horizons and the quiet, rural atmosphere that feels secluded while remaining accessible from major travel corridors.
Amenities & Park Features
The Tule Campground features over 100 campsites, many of which provide 30 or 50-amp electric hookups for modern RVs. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, allowing for traditional campfire evenings under the stars. Visitors have access to several park features:
- Clean flush toilets and hot showers for guest convenience.
- A centrally located dump station and potable water access.
- Large, gravel-padded sites designed to accommodate big rigs and trailers.
The layout is spacious, ensuring that guests do not feel crowded during their stay.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Water recreation is the primary draw here, with incredible opportunities for boating and fishing right at your doorstep. Anglers often visit for the healthy populations of largemouth bass and crappie. Beyond the lake, the park is a short drive from the Sequoia National Forest, where giant ancient trees and alpine hiking trails offer a cool escape. Visitors can also explore the Tule River or head into Porterville for local culture, shopping, and dining experiences.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for nature enthusiasts and boaters who prefer a quieter, government-run facility over a commercial resort. It is a perfect fit for families looking for an affordable lakeside vacation or road-trippers seeking a reliable basecamp for exploring the southern Sierra Nevada mountains. If you value wide-open spaces, star-filled nights, and direct access to outdoor recreation, this park provides a serene environment to unhook, relax, and enjoy the California landscape.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Discounts
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Zoe Littmann
Not the worst place I’ve camped but certainly not the best. You’re right by the main road so there is road noise, although we couldn’t hear inside our trailer. Bathrooms were available but no warm water in showers. Some people “camping” here looked like long term squatters but they did not bother us. Biggest pain was all the stickers/thorns all over the ground that kept getting my dog’s feet and all in our shoes. Very annoying. Location to town is good. Would stay again if needed but certainly wouldn’t be a “must return”.
tori o
rude messy campers. most of them seem like long term squatters. tons of flies, stickers that hurt the dog’s toes, and masses of gophers burrowing everywhere. the lake is very low and there is construction work going on that just ads to the ambience. pit toilets and industrial showers and park hosts are nowhere to be found. this place is awful. never again
Ruben Mendoza
Let me start by saying it’s HOT!!! During the summer months. Lucky there is a lake to jump in to. Boats to rent including pontoons with slides to rent. Great fishing lake and decent bathrooms and showers. Playground for the little ones and dog friendly. Love camping here.
Anthony Howard
The sites were very roomy and had water every 2 spaces. The ground was nice and level and has decent grass (end of April). All sites had a table and fire ring, and most have a few large trees. Restrooms and showers are spread out across the site, but several buildings had showers closed. We didn't find out until the next day that they were open way across at the other end of the campground. So, they are there, just keep looking if yours are locked. Showers are a 6/10, they work but the design is poor and your stuff will probably get wet if it's not outside the door. There is a huge playground which is great. Lake access is easy and it's a beautiful location. The main downer is that road traffic is horribly loud. If you get a site and are tenting or open air, get it as far away from the road as possible, and definitely avoid the south end. As cars come across the bridge there is a horrid "thump... thump... thump... thump" that sounds like a giant basketball. The intermittent sound woke me up several times. Otherwise, this is a great spot, especially if you are touring the national parks of the Sierra Nevadas, like we were. This is a perfect spot to start a day of going through Sequoia.
Angelique Granados
First time camping with just my wife and I and Tule was perfect! Quiet & safe with water and bathrooms available. Great for beginner campers! Will be returning. This was spot 26