FamCamp

For eligible members of the military community, including active duty, retirees, and DoD civilians, FamCamp at Beale Air Force Base offers a remarkably convenient and affordable camping experience in the heart of Northern California. Nestled on rolling foothills overlooking grasslands, this campground provides a tranquil oasis, making it an ideal base for exploring the region's natural beauty and attractions. Unlike typical public campgrounds, FamCamp combines a peaceful outdoor setting with easy access to a wealth of on-base amenities, creating a unique and highly practical option for those with military affiliation.

FamCamp is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a gateway to a network of recreational opportunities right on the base. It boasts a well-maintained environment with both full hookup and dry camping options, catering to various preferences. The layout, featuring several "spokes in a compact circle" for RVs, can require some creative backing, but the overall design prioritizes a functional and welcoming space. Visitors frequently highlight the responsive and helpful campground hosts and management, contributing to a positive and supportive atmosphere. Given its affordable rates, especially considering California's general cost of living, FamCamp serves as an excellent value proposition, particularly for active duty personnel and long-term guests. Its unique setting, with views of grasslands and the potential to spot U2 reconnaissance aircraft, adds a distinct flavor to the camping experience that aviation enthusiasts will particularly appreciate.

FamCamp is strategically located at 220 Cedar Lane, Beale AFB, CA 95903, USA. Beale Air Force Base itself is situated in Yuba County, California, positioned in the Sacramento Valley approximately 10 miles east of Marysville. This places it within a reasonable driving distance of major Northern California cities and attractions. For those traveling by RV or with trailers, understanding the base's gate access is crucial for a smooth arrival. The Schneider gate is often the main 24-hour gate and is generally suitable for RVs, while the Vassar Lake gate, though also 24-hour, may not be large enough for larger rigs. The Wheatland gate, recommended for commercial vehicles, has limited daytime work-week hours.

Despite being "a bit of a haul from the interstate," as noted by some, the drive leads to a tranquil space surrounded by natural beauty. The base's location offers a sense of escape from urban sprawl while still providing convenient access to essential services both on and off base. The commissary and exchange are approximately a mile from FamCamp, providing easy access to groceries and supplies. This blend of natural serenity and convenient proximity to necessary facilities makes FamCamp a highly practical and desirable location for military families and individuals seeking a California camping adventure.

Services Offered:

• Full Hookup RV Sites: 44 sites equipped with 20, 30, and 50 AMP electrical hookups, water, and sewer connections.
• Dry Camping Areas: Outlying areas are available for dry camping, suitable for those who prefer a more primitive experience or temporary overflow.
• Separate RV Dump Station: Located a few blocks away from the main FamCamp area for convenient waste disposal.
• Free Laundry Facilities: Two large washers and dryers are available for complimentary use in the main office/lounge building.
• Showers and Restrooms: Clean shower and restroom facilities are located in the main office building (Note: Men's shower may be temporarily closed due to construction).
• Free Wi-Fi: Available in the lounge area of the office building, with some reports of good connectivity directly from RVs.
• Lounge Area: Includes a TV, internet hook-up, game closet, and lending library for guest use.
• Full Kitchen: Available for guests in the main office building.
• Picnic Tables: Provided at each campsite.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally allowed, with a maximum of two pets per home and certain breed restrictions (check with office).
• Handicap Accessible Sites: Available for guests with disabilities.
• Easy Reservation Requests: Online reservation requests are facilitated, with walk-ins accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis for stays less than seven days.

Features / Highlights:

• Affordable Rates: At approximately $30-$40 per night for full hookups (depending on military status), it's considered an excellent deal for camping in California.
• Access to Base Amenities: Campers have access to a wide array of Beale AFB facilities, including:
  • Commissary and Exchange (about 1 mile away)
  • Two indoor gyms and an outdoor track with lights for night use.
  • A 6-mile roundtrip paved path through scenic cattle pastures, ideal for walking, running, or biking.
  • Underused Community Center offering free movies.
  • Popular bowling alley (Beale Lanes Bowling Center).
  • Active Outdoor Recreation program with scheduled day trips.
  • Information, Tickets & Travel office offering tours to attractions like San Francisco, Lake Tahoe, and local wine tastings.
  • Lower Blackwelder Lake nearby for fishing.
  • Coyote Run Golf Course.
• Responsive Management: Campground hosts and management are highly praised for being very helpful and responsive to camper needs.
• Tranquil Setting with Views: Offers a peaceful environment with beautiful sunrises overlooking grasslands and rolling hills, as depicted in the website's header image.
• Aviation Enthusiast Heaven: Opportunities to watch U2 reconnaissance aircraft fly pattern work, a unique sight for those interested in aviation.
• Well-Maintained Park: Generally appears well-maintained, although it can be quite full with permanent party and long-term guests.
• Paved and Fairly Level Sites: Most sites are paved and relatively level, making setup easier for RVs.

Contact Information:

Address: 220 Cedar Ln, Beale AFB, CA 95903, USA

Phone: (530) 634-3382

Mobile Phone: +1 530-634-3382

DSN: 312-368-3382

Email: bealefamcamp@gmail.com

Official Website for more information: bealefss.com/famcamp/ (under Beale Air Force Base Force Support Squadron)

FamCamp at Beale AFB stands as an exceptional choice for local Californians who are part of the military community. Its strategic location offers a serene rural escape combined with unparalleled access to a wide array of amenities and services typically found only on a military installation. For families, the sheer volume of recreational opportunities on base, from gyms and outdoor tracks to bowling and community events, provides endless entertainment beyond just the campsite. The presence of a commissary and exchange within a mile is a significant convenience for longer stays, reducing the need for frequent off-base trips.

Despite the occasional need for patience due to laundry machine availability during peak times, or the specific gate access requirements for RVs, the value proposition is undeniable. The affordability, especially in California's market, makes it a highly attractive option for extended stays or for active duty personnel needing temporary housing. The unique setting, offering views of rolling hills and the sight of U2 aircraft, adds a memorable dimension to the camping experience. For military families and individuals seeking a comfortable, activity-rich, and budget-friendly camping destination in Northern California, FamCamp at Beale AFB is a premier choice that truly caters to their needs.

FamCamp

220 Cedar Ln, Beale AFB, CA 95903, USA