Codorniz Recreation Area Campground
88
Total Campsites
Campground
86
Reservable Sites
Mixed (reservable + first-come)
2
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About Codorniz Recreation Area Campground
Overview Codorniz Campground on Eastman Lake is a perfect launchpad for activities like canoeing, birding and hiking. Tucked in the Sierra Nevada foothills, the area attracts abundant wildlife like bobcats, golden eagles, mountain lions, hawks and wood ducks. Recreation Eastman Lake is the first designated Trophy Bass Fishery, by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Both young and old anglers will find fishing on Eastman lake a satisfying challenge. At the campground, visitors can try their hand at disc golf or challenge a group of friends to a game of volleyball. Horseshoe pits are also available for a little friendly competition. Facilities Eastman Lake is the first designated Trophy Bass Fishery, by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Both young and old anglers will find fishing on Eastman lake a satisfying challenge. At the campground, visitors can try their hand at disc golf or challenge a group of friends to a game of volleyball. Horseshoe pits are also available for a little friendly competition. Natural Features The rolling hills around Eastman Lake are surrounded by tall grasses and scattered oak trees, giving way to stunning mountain views. The lake features 1,780 surface acres, fed by the cool waters of the Chowchilla River. Nearby Attractions The Sierra National Forest is a short drive to the east of the campground.
- 88 total campsites listed.
- 86 reservable sites plus first-come options.
- 2 accessible campsites listed.
- Most common site type: standard nonelectric (41).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.
Our Take
What makes Codorniz Recreation Area Campground special
Codorniz Recreation Area Campground occupies a sun-drenched stretch of the Sierra Nevada foothills above Eastman Lake, near the small community of Raymond, California. This is foothill country at its most honest — golden grasslands rolling into blue oak woodlands, with the jagged Sierra crest rising in the distance like a promise of wilder things. The lake itself is a reservoir managed by the Army Corps of Engineers, and its quiet, less-trafficked shores make Codorniz feel like a well-kept secret. What truly sets this campground apart is the wildlife. The area is recognized as exceptional birding habitat, and patient visitors are regularly rewarded with sightings of golden eagles soaring on thermals above the hills. Bobcats, coyotes, and mule deer move through the landscape, especially during the cooler hours of dawn and dusk. Birdwatchers should bring binoculars and a field guide — the diversity here is remarkable. Spring is the prime season, when the hills are green, wildflowers carpet the meadows, and the lake level is at its most inviting for boating, fishing, and swimming. Fall and winter bring milder temperatures and excellent raptor viewing. Summer can be hot, so early mornings and evenings become the most active times. Codorniz is a wonderful fit for nature photographers, birders, and families who enjoy a quieter, wilder style of lakeside camping away from the usual crowds.
Campsite Inventory
88 sites to choose from
STANDARD NONELECTRIC
41
Reservable
0
Accessible
STANDARD ELECTRIC
29
Reservable
2
Accessible
RV ELECTRIC
5
Reservable
0
Accessible
TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC
4
Reservable
0
Accessible
EQUESTRIAN NONELECTRIC
3
Reservable
0
Accessible
MANAGEMENT
0
Reservable
0
Accessible
GROUP EQUESTRIAN
1
Reservable
0
Accessible
GROUP SHELTER NONELECTRIC
1
Reservable
0
Accessible
GROUP STANDARD AREA NONELECTRIC
1
Reservable
0
Accessible
GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC
1
Reservable
0
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
ACCESSIBLE CAMPSITES
Accessible Campsites
ACCESSIBLE FLUSH TOILETS
Accessible Flush Toilets
ACCESSIBLE GRILLS
Accessible Grills
ACCESSIBLE PARKING
Accessible Parking
ACCESSIBLE PICNIC AREA
Accessible Picnic Area
ACCESSIBLE PICNIC SHELTERS
Accessible Picnic Shelters
ACCESSIBLE SHOWERS
Accessible Showers
Accessibility
Yes
BBQ
Yes
CAMPFIRE CIRCLES
Campfire Circles
Campfire Allowed
Yes
Site capacity
Group, Single
Check-in time
2:00 PM, 3:00 PM
Check-out time
2:00 PM
DRINKING WATER
Drinking Water
DUMP STATION
Dump Station
Driveway entry
Back-In, Pull-Through
Driveway length (ft)
22
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
559-689-3255
Getting There
Eastman Lake is 30 miles northeast of Madera, 25 miles east of Chowchilla, and 50 miles north of Fresno. From Highway 99, travel east on Avenue 26 then north on Rd 29. Follow signs into the campground.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to Codorniz Recreation Area Campground.
How do reservations work for Codorniz Recreation Area Campground?
Reservation availability for Codorniz Recreation Area Campground can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at Codorniz Recreation Area Campground?
Codorniz Recreation Area Campground currently lists STANDARD NONELECTRIC (41), STANDARD ELECTRIC (29), RV ELECTRIC (5), TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC (4).
Where is Codorniz Recreation Area Campground located?
Codorniz Recreation Area Campground is in California near RAYMOND. Coordinates: 37.2158, -119.9686.
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