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Tuttletown Rec Area/Manzanita
Overview
Overview
Tuttletown Recreation Area, located along the scenic shores of New Melones Lake, offers a quintessential outdoor experience for those seeking a tranquil getaway. Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, this park provides a rustic, nature-focused retreat rather than a highly developed resort atmosphere. Visitors will find spacious, multi-use campsites nestled among oak trees, making it a favorite destination for RVers who enjoy being surrounded by the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada foothills.
Location & Surroundings
Situated just outside of Sonora, CA, Tuttletown is perfectly positioned for explorers of Gold Country. The park is set within a gently rolling landscape, offering stunning vistas of the expansive New Melones Lake. The surroundings are characterized by golden grasses and native oaks, providing a serene backdrop for sunrises over the water. Its proximity to Highway 49 makes it an accessible jumping-off point for those touring historic California mining towns.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground is designed to accommodate a range of RV sizes, though guests should note that it offers no utility hookups, making it ideal for those comfortable with boondocking or dry camping. Essential facilities such as vault toilets, water spigots, and a convenient dump station are available on-site. Visitors can enjoy paved boat ramps and picnic areas, which are perfect for spending long, relaxing days by the water with friends and family.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Water enthusiasts will appreciate easy access to boating, fishing, and swimming directly from the recreation area. Beyond the water, the historic town of Sonora provides a unique look into California's past with its charming downtown, local museums, and dining options. For hikers, the area features various trails that wind through the oak woodlands, providing opportunities to spot local wildlife and take in the panoramic views of the reservoir throughout the day.
Who This Park Is Best For
Tuttletown is best suited for self-sufficient RVers and outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize scenic beauty and tranquility over full-service resort amenities. It is a fantastic choice for those who enjoy off-grid living and want to spend their time on the lake or exploring the nearby Gold Country historic sites. If you prefer a quiet, low-key environment where nature is the primary entertainment, this park will provide a memorable stay.
Features & Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
Reviews
2 4 dinner
Had the boat decontamination done and boat banded. The girl who preformed it was quick, effective and extremely cordial. Launch was quick and easy. The rangers at the ramp were helpful and very quick in checking bands before departure. Fishing was tough but we managed to get a decent limit. Boats are required to out of the water by 4:00 pm at the latest if they want to get rebanded so they can return another day without an inspection. For that reason we quit fishing at 3:30.
Ryan Miller
Rode one easy trail and walked another easy trail. At 66 and out of practiceon my mountainbike, easy wasn't exactly easy. But with a few more rides, the trails would be enjoyable. Large disc golf course available. Only one or two cars here this time of year. Most, if not all campgrounds are unavailable.
Jennifer Heinrich
Was in need of some exercise after Christmas and headed here for the trails. All the trails connect so you can make your hike as long or short as you need. However, I imagine hiking around in summer would be dreadful 🥵 the blue heron trail specifically has a section in direct sunlight and we were roasting. Acorn Campground didn't seem to have enough shade either, although I didn't drive through all the sites to check. The entrance fee for day use was $8 at kiosk. I don't see a future where I would come back here but that's because I would rather camp and hike other places.
What a Word
It’s beautiful this time of year. The lake is, of course, quite low. But there are still plenty of trails to hike. And it has been super quiet every time I’ve been out there this year.
Ken Valenta
We sound like any big government agencies at The Tunnel Town recreation area managed by the Bureau of Reclamation the local management and the local security we're just a little bit on the roadside or more in a little bit on the roadside handicap accessibility is near non-existent they didn't want to hear what we had to say and we had to take it to higher levels it was an ongoing 6-month battle which really didn't result in much except for making them become compliant that they should have been in the first place and it's still not really compliant difficult camping way up on the hill away from the lake water levels dropping but I think they could do better to find better people in the management position thank you here's a follow-up a couple years later I get harassed every time I go down to the lake by a government agency and there is zero handicap ability and I'm tired of it