New Melones Lake (Stanislaus River) — Ripon Recreation Area

Ripon Recreation Area is a US Army Corps of Engineers recreation area within New Melones Lake (Stanislaus River). The Corps manages 400+ lake and river projects nationwide, making it one of the largest federal providers of outdoor recreation. It sits on USACE-administered land but day-to-day management is by Local Government Agency under a lease with the Corps. Camping rules, fees, and seasonal closures vary by site — verify current operations with the managing district before any visit.