Caswell Memorial State Park Campground
01 review28000 South Austin Road, Ripon, CA 95366
Caswell Memorial State Park Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The standard campsite fee is $30 per night. An additional reservation fee of $8.25 applies. One vehicle is included in the registration fee, with extra charges for additional vehicles.
About this campground
Escape to a hidden sanctuary where 64 family-friendly campsites nestle beneath the protective canopy of ancient oaks at Caswell Memorial State Park. Here, along the winding Stanislaus River, you'll discover one of California's last remaining riparian woodlands—a lush oasis in the heart of the Central Valley. Each thoughtfully positioned site comes complete with a picnic table, camp stove, and secure food locker, welcoming trailers up to 21 feet and motorhomes up to 24 feet. Wake to the gentle murmur of the river and the melodic calls of woodland birds in this increasingly rare ecosystem that feels worlds away from civilization.
Caswell Memorial State Park Campground offers family camping sites, a group campground, and accessible camping options amidst a mature oak forest. RVs and tents are permitted, but no hookups are available.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living piece of California history where the Yokuts people once thrived among these very oaks, and Spanish explorers first glimpsed the valley's natural abundance. This precious woodland sanctuary exists today thanks to the vision and generosity of Thomas Caswell's descendants, who donated the land in the 1950s with a singular purpose: to preserve this vanishing ecosystem for future generations. Every towering oak and meandering river bend tells the story of California's natural heritage and the foresight of those who fought to protect it.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythms of Central Valley seasons, where mild winters hover between 45-50°F—perfect for cozy campfire evenings and peaceful riverside walks. Summer transforms the landscape into a sun-drenched paradise, with temperatures climbing to a warm 85-100°F. During peak summer months from June through September, the mercury can soar above 100°F for several consecutive days, making the river's cool embrace especially inviting. Plan accordingly for mosquitoes during the warmer months—they're part of the thriving ecosystem that makes this place so special.
ElevationNestled in the heart of California's Central Valley, the campground rests at valley floor elevation, creating the perfect conditions for the magnificent riparian forest that defines this special place.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a cathedral of towering valley oaks intertwined with graceful willows, majestic sycamores, and whispering cottonwoods. The Stanislaus River weaves through this verdant landscape like a liquid lifeline, creating secluded beaches, refreshing swimming holes, and productive fishing spots along its journey. Beneath the towering canopy, a magical understory unfolds—wild roses perfume the air while blackberry vines create natural barriers, all providing crucial habitat for the abundant wildlife that calls this riparian paradise home. This is nature's own enchanted forest, where every path reveals new wonders.
Geological RegionDiscover a remarkable survivor in California's transformed Central Valley—Caswell Memorial State Park protects one of the region's last intact riparian oak woodlands along the life-giving Stanislaus River. This extraordinary ecosystem represents what much of the valley looked like before agricultural development, when vast forests lined every waterway. Today, this rare geological and ecological treasure offers visitors a glimpse into California's wild past, where rich alluvial soils deposited by centuries of river flow created the perfect conditions for one of North America's most diverse and threatened forest types.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites include site numbers 29, 41, 44, and 56. Restrooms and showers are accessible, with paved routes to these facilities. The Oak Grove picnic area includes accessible picnic tables and BBQ grills. The Loop Nature Trail (0.71 miles) offers a compacted soil surface and gentle slopes for wheelchair accessibility. Accessible parking is available throughout the park.
Sites SizeSites accommodate trailers up to 21 feet and motor homes up to 24 feet. Tent pads measure 10x10 feet in most campsites.
Sites PrivacySites are located amidst a mature oak forest, providing a reasonable level of privacy between campsites.
Total Campsites64 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsite locations based on proximity to the Stanislaus River or shaded areas for a more scenic and comfortable experience. Avoid setting up tents directly under mature tree canopies due to the risk of summer branch drop.
Best CampsitesSites 11, 13, 20, 35, 36, 42, and 45 are highlighted as best campsites.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Each campsite has a limit of 8 people and 2 vehicles. Additional vehicle fees apply.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each campsite can host up to 8 people.
Groups
The group campground accommodates tent camping for up to 50 people and is located beside the Stanislaus River. However, it is prone to flooding during the spring.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 64 family campsites arranged near the river and surrounding oak woodland.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at www.parks.ca.gov or by calling (800) 444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly detailed, though reservations are highly recommended to secure a spot.
Cancellation PolicySpecific details about the cancellation policy are not provided.
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
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Caswell Memorial State Park Campground offers an array of activities including hiking, fishing, bird watching, swimming, and seasonal tubing from the campground to the day-use area. Wildlife viewing is popular due to the park's diverse habitat along the Stanislaus River, which supports endangered species such as the riparian brush rabbit and riparian woodrat.
Hiking
An extensive network of nature trails offers a glimpse of the valley's riparian ecosystem. The Loop Nature Trail (0.71 miles) and Day-Use to Beach Trail (0.20 miles) are accessible and provide views of oak woodlands and the Stanislaus River. Other trails meander through the majestic oak forest and along the river.Fishing
Fishing is popular in the slow-moving, muddy-bottomed river. Species include largemouth and smallmouth bass, catfish, bullhead, bluegill, crappie, and pikeminnow. Striped bass and Chinook salmon migrate through the area annually. A valid California fishing license is required for individuals aged 16 and over.Swimming
Swimming areas are located near the campground, but no lifeguard is provided. Visitors are encouraged to exercise caution and wear life jackets while in or near the river.Biking
Biking is permitted only on paved roads and fire roads within the park. Helmets are mandatory for cyclists under age 18, and bikes must have headlights and reflectors when ridden after dark.Boating
Hand-launch boating is permitted, suitable for canoes and kayaks. Docking facilities are not explicitly mentioned.Wildlife viewing
The park supports endangered species such as the riparian brush rabbit and woodrat, along with deer, foxes, and numerous bird species including hawks and owls.Beach activities
Beach activities include swimming and tubing along the sandy banks of the Stanislaus River, located near the campground and day-use areas.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park offers interpretive walks and talks for school, service, and social groups. Brochures and exhibits highlight the park's unique history and habitat.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specified, although the park remains open year-round.Water Sports
The park supports non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and tubing along the Stanislaus River.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but firewood must be purchased on-site or brought externally. Gathering natural wood is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsVisitors should exercise caution due to a natural phenomenon known as 'summer branch drop,' where healthy tree limbs fall without warning during hot windless days. Mosquitoes are prevalent, especially in summer months.
Active alertsParts of the park are closed due to flood damage and debris. Visitors should confirm the operational status before arriving.
Weather forecast
94
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 32%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are likely available in Ripon, CA, which is approximately 6 miles away. Specific details about hospitals or police stations near the campground are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak seasons are spring and fall weekends, most days from May through September.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned, though visitors are encouraged to clean up after themselves and secure valuables to prevent theft.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located beside the Stanislaus River, offering access to beaches and swimming areas.
Common complaintsSome visitors express concerns about theft at campsites and the unpredictability of summer branch drop.
HostCamp hosts offer seasonal firewood sales and are available for inquiries.
Campground Map
28000 South Austin Road, Ripon, CA 95366
Driving directionsFrom Highway 99, take the Austin Road exit and drive south. Follow Austin Road until you reach Caswell Memorial State Park at the end of the road.
The park is accessible via paved roads from Highway 99. There are no seasonal closures mentioned, and the road conditions appear straightforward without challenging terrain.Nearby places
Ripon (6 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Manteca (approximately 15 miles, 20 minutes)
Modesto (approximately 25 miles, 30 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained in nearby Ripon (6 miles), Manteca (15 miles), and Modesto (25 miles). Specific stores for groceries, camping supplies, or fuel are not listed.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Caswell Memorial State Park Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the natural beauty of the oak forest and proximity to the Stanislaus River as key attractions for weekend camping. Visitors appreciate the peaceful environment but caution about wildlife and seasonal river conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive comments include praise for the 'beautiful oak trees by the river,' the accessibility of trails and facilities, and the opportunities for peaceful nature views and bird watching.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common concerns involve mosquitoes, summer branch drop under large trees, and occasional flooding near the group campground. Theft is also a noted issue, with visitors advised to secure valuables.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include bringing mosquito repellant, avoiding shaded areas under mature trees during hot summer days due to summer branch drop, and wearing life jackets while swimming or fishing.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Users note that summer temperatures often exceed 100°F and recommend preparing for extreme weather. Mosquito activity is especially high during warmer months.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
'Beautiful oak trees by the river, just wonderful place to do weekend camping!' (Teresa Baron, 2023)
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Best sites for camping include numbers 11, 13, 20, 35, 36, 42, and 45, praised for their location and proximity to amenities.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible campsites are well-reviewed for their paved routes and proximity to accessible showers and restrooms. Accessible trails are also appreciated for their manageable slopes and compact...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed and confined in tents or vehicles at night. Dogs are not permitted on trails or beaches, limiting their movement within the park.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025