Ya-Gub-Weh-Tuh Campground

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2 reviews
Bureau of Land Management, San Joaquin River Gorge Visitor Center, 40060 Smalley Road, Auberry, CA, USA, 93602
Ya-Gub-Weh-Tuh Campground
$5.00 - $300.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees include $5 for day use per vehicle, $25 for an annual pass, $10 for an individual campsite, $15 for a double campsite, $25 for equestrian...
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Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$15.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$175.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$200.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
661-391-6000BLM_CA_Web_BK@blm.gov

About this campground

Discover the tranquility of Ya-Gub-Weh-Tuh Campground, where six thoughtfully positioned campsites await your arrival. Each site comes equipped with a picnic table for memorable outdoor meals and a fire pit for evening gatherings under the stars. A well-maintained hardened path leads from the convenient paved parking area to your campsite, making access easy for all visitors. Fresh drinking water stations and clean vault toilets ensure comfort during your stay, while the absence of electricity invites you to truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature's rhythms.
Ya-Gub-Weh-tuh Campground caters to tent camping with a first-come, first-served policy. It includes single and double table sites suitable for up to 8 people and offers an accessible camping experience.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape rich with indigenous heritage, where the Dumna and Kechayi peoples have called this gorge home for countless generations. Their enduring presence continues today as they maintain their cultural traditions in these sacred lands. As you explore the surrounding trails, you'll notice their names echo the native language, serving as a living tribute to the area's first inhabitants and their deep connection to this remarkable landscape.
Weather and SeasonsBlessed with California's signature dry climate, Ya-Gub-Weh-Tuh enjoys moderate temperatures and crystal-clear skies throughout most of the year. The reliable sunshine makes this an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking predictable weather conditions. Winter visitors can witness spectacular sunrises at 8:06 AM and golden sunsets at 6:14 PM, creating perfect bookends to shorter but no less beautiful days.
ElevationNestled within the dramatic topography of the San Joaquin River Gorge, the campground sits at a comfortable elevation that offers the best of California's foothill environment.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where the majestic Table Mountains frame your view and the San Joaquin River Gorge creates a natural amphitheater of beauty. Ancient oak woodlands provide cooling shade while stately foothill pines reach skyward, their branches whispering stories in the breeze. The surrounding chaparral ecosystem bursts into a painter's palette of wildflowers each spring, transforming the hillsides into a vibrant tapestry of colors that photographers and nature lovers treasure.
Geological RegionYa-Gub-Weh-Tuh Campground sits within the spectacular San Joaquin River Gorge, a geological masterpiece where nature has carved dramatic landscapes over millennia. The diverse ecosystem showcases California's foothill biodiversity at its finest, from sprawling oak woodlands to sun-drenched chaparral uplands. Mountain mahogany and manzanita thrive on the hillsides, while seasonal wildflowers paint the understory with delicate blooms. The nearby Table Mountains stand as ancient sentinels, their weathered faces telling the geological story of this remarkable region.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityCampsites are accessible via primitive hardened paths. Restrooms and campsites are fully accessible according to the official description.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as accommodating up to 8 people per site, with double sites available for larger groups.
Sites PrivacyNo details about the privacy levels of campsites are provided.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 1 and 2 are single-table sites, better for smaller groups and individuals.
Best CampsitesSites 3, 4, and 5 are double sites ideal for larger groups (up to 16 people).

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
6:00 AM (day use begins)
Check-out
Sunset (day use ends)
Stay Limit
14 day camping limit. Day use 6am to sunset.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 people per single site and 16 people for double sites.
Groups
Agroup campground is available for large gatherings at a cost of $175 per night. Reservations are required.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground includes six sites, accessed via a short hardened path from the parking area. Sites are equipped with fire pits and picnic tables.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations for the Group Campground and Nuckahee Learning Center can be made by contacting the Bakersfield Field Office.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites are first-come, first-served. Reservations are not accepted for individual or double campsites.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are only required for the Group Campground and Nuckahee Learning Center. General cancellation policies and associated fees are not applicable as individual sites do not require reservations.

Accomodation available

GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The Ya-Gub-Weh-tuh Campground offers a mix of recreational activities that highlight the natural and cultural heritage of the area. Visitors can explore over 20 miles of multi-use trails shared by hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrian users. Fishing, swimming, and boating are not explicitly mentioned as activities, but the San Joaquin River and surrounding trails provide scenic opportunities for nature exploration.
Hiking
Several trails are accessible from the campground: - Foot Bridge Trail: 2-mile round trip from parking, gradual downhill slope leading to the bridge. - Pa'san Ridge Trail: 8-mile round trip, a 6-mile loop through chaparral uplands. - Wuh-ki'o Trail: 11-mile round trip, connects to Millerton Lake State Recreation Area. - San Joaquin River Trail: 4-mile round trip to the BLM boundary. - River Access Trail: 1-mile round trip, leads to San Joaquin River’s edge.
Biking
All trails within the San Joaquin River Gorge Management Area are shared by mountain bikers along with hikers and equestrian users.
Wildlife viewing
The trails offer opportunities to observe diverse flora and fauna, including oak woodlands, foothill pines, and wildflowers.
Cultural and Educational Programs
The area hosts interpretive programs available for $10. The Dumna and Kechayi Native Americans practice cultural traditions, including ceremonies on-site, enriching the educational experience.
Winter Activities
No specific winter recreational activities are mentioned.
Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not explicitly mentioned.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Campfires are allowed in designated fire pits at each campsite. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own firewood.

Hazards

General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife such as snakes and insects, and steep trails that require caution. There is no mention of specific dangerous terrain or water hazards.

Weather forecast

49
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Humidity: 98%

High humidity, may feel muggy

Wind: 5 mph

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Overcast

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

The nearest medical facility is located in the town of Clovis, approximately one hour south of the San Joaquin River Gorge.

Good to know

Trash and recyclingGarbage receptacles are available at the campground. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near the San Joaquin River. The River Access Trail, a half-mile path, leads to the river's edge.

Campground Map

Bureau of Land Management, San Joaquin River Gorge Visitor Center, 40060 Smalley Road, Auberry, CA, USA, 93602
Driving directionsThe San Joaquin River Gorge is located approximately five miles northwest of the town of Auberry. From Fresno, take CA-168 north. One mile after the town of Prather, turn left onto Auberry Road. Follow Auberry Road 2.9 miles through the town of Auberry and turn left at the Y onto Powerhouse Road. After 1.8 miles, turn left onto Smalley Road and follow it into the recreation area.
The campground is accessible via paved roads until the parking area. Campsites are reached via a primitive hardened path. Seasonal closures or weather-related challenges are not explicitly noted.
Nearby places
Auberry: 5 miles northwest
Fresno: 30 miles south (approximately 40-45 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
Food and supplies are available in the town of Auberry, approximately five miles away. Drinking water is available at the campsite, but visitors are advised to bring their own firewood.

Camper Reviews

0.0
2 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Ya-Gub-Weh-Tuh Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users rate this campground highly for its scenic views, opportunities for stargazing, and the variety of hiking trails. It is described as a peaceful and less populated location.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciate the expansive views of Table Mountains, the stargazing opportunities, and accessible trails. One reviewer highlighted it as 'a great place to set up telescope and stargaze.'
Based on 2 reviews

Common Concerns

No significant complaints are recorded in user reviews, though amenities such as showers and cell phone service are not mentioned.
Based on 2 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend bringing plenty of water for hikes, as some trails have uphill returns. Firewood should also be brought since it’s not sold on-site.
Based on 2 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The location is described as ideal for stargazing at night and hiking during the day. Seasonal specifics are not heavily detailed, though weather can play a role in trail accessibility.
Based on 2 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The show was awesome. Great place to set up telescope and stargaze.' 2. 'Great night hike!'
Based on 2 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No specific site number reviews are provided, but general feedback praises the peaceful atmosphere and accessibility of the campsites.
Based on 2 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is highlighted in the official description, but user reviews do not specifically address the experience of disabled visitors.
Based on 2 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No information about pet policies or reviews specifically addressing pets is provided.
Based on 2 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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