Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area
02 reviews17968 COVERED BRIDGE RD., OAKDALE, CA 95361
Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area
$20.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$20.00
Group Site Fee$60.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Individual boat-in sites are $20/night. Group sites are $60/night. Additional reservation fees apply, ranging from $3 to $9 depending on booking method.
About this campground
Escape to McHenry Avenue Campground, where the gentle murmur of the lower Stanislaus River sets the soundtrack for your wilderness retreat. Tucked within the serene Stanislaus River Parks system, this hidden gem beckons tent campers seeking tranquility away from the crowds. Here, adventure flows as freely as the river itself—spend your days rafting pristine waters, exploring scenic hiking trails, or simply savoring a riverside picnic while watching for local wildlife. The walk-in campsites preserve the campground's peaceful atmosphere, while modern conveniences like flush toilets and potable water ensure comfort without compromising the natural experience. Each site comes thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern holders, creating the perfect basecamp for your river valley adventures.
McHenry Avenue Recreation Area primarily caters to tent campers, with options for group camping. The campground does not accommodate RVs or provide glamping options.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time with a short journey to nearby Knights Ferry, where California's gold rush heritage comes alive before your eyes. Marvel at the engineering wonder of the West's longest covered bridge spanning the Mississippi River—a testament to the determination of fortune seekers who once flooded these hills. The local museum preserves the stories of prospectors, pioneers, and dreamers who transformed this river valley from wilderness to settlement, offering fascinating insights into the region's transformation from gold country to recreational paradise.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's perfect balance at McHenry Avenue, where mild temperatures create ideal camping conditions throughout the peak season. Expect comfortable days with temperatures hovering in the inviting 60s to 70s range—perfect for both active adventures and lazy afternoons by the river. While rainfall remains refreshingly rare, occasional showers add drama to the landscape and freshen the air. Autumn transforms the campground into something truly special, as the river swells with purpose during the spectacular Chinook salmon spawning runs, offering visitors a front-row seat to one of nature's most remarkable journeys.
ElevationNestled at a comfortable elevation that provides easy access while maintaining the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada foothills region.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living gallery where majestic Fremont cottonwoods tower overhead, their leaves whispering ancient stories in the breeze. Stately Valley Oaks spread their gnarled branches wide, creating natural umbrellas over your campsite, while elderberry bushes perfume the air with their delicate blooms. The understory bursts with native grasses and shrubs, punctuated by seasonal wildflower displays that paint the landscape in vibrant hues. This diverse ecosystem attracts an enchanting cast of wildlife—watch for graceful mule deer browsing at dawn, listen for the distinctive tap-tap-tap of acorn woodpeckers at work, and delight in the antics of clever scrub jays. Alert campers might spot a fox slipping through the shadows or playful squirrels performing acrobatic feats among the branches.
Geological RegionDiscover the magic where the Sierra Nevada foothills meet the flowing waters of the lower Stanislaus River, creating a unique ecosystem that bridges mountain and valley. This geological crossroads nurtures a remarkable tapestry of life, from the towering Fremont cottonwoods that mark the river's course to the hardy Valley Oaks that have witnessed centuries of change. The fertile river corridor supports lush growths of elderberry, while native grasses and shrubs carpet the ground between seasonal wildflower exhibitions. This diverse habitat, shaped by millennia of river flow and seasonal flooding, creates the perfect sanctuary for both wildlife and weary travelers seeking connection with California's natural heritage.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible paved pathways, drinking water spigots, and flush toilets. The parking area is located approximately a quarter mile from campsites, which may pose a challenge for some campers with mobility concerns.
Sites SizeThe campsites are environmentally designed for tent camping and are relatively small, accommodating up to two tents per individual site.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are situated close to each other, with limited privacy due to the layout and natural features.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near water spigots (e.g., Sites 3 and 4) are convenient for access to drinking water. Users recommend wagons due to walk-in site design.
Best CampsitesGroup site 3 is highly rated for having a communal fire ring.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Earliest check-in time is 1:00 p.m.
Check-out
Latest check-out time is 12:00 p.m.
Stay Limit
- Maximum 14 nights per visit
- maximum 14 nights total within 30-day rolling period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 6 people per individual site and 25 people per group site.
Groups
Group sites can accommodate up to 25 people and 5 tents. These sites include amenities such as fire pits.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutWalk-in campsites are scattered along the river, approximately 0.15 miles from the parking area. Group and individual sites are available.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23, 2025, to September 30, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability for parking is first-come, first-served, but campsites are reservable only.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations for individual campsites forfeit the first night's fee. Group site cancellations within 14 days forfeit the first night's fee.
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
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
McHenry Avenue Recreation Area offers a variety of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, kayaking, rafting, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. The river provides opportunities for water-based activities, and the natural environment encourages exploration.
Hiking
Walking and hiking trails are available. The trails are considered suitable for all skill levels and enhance the recreational appeal of the area.Fishing
The Stanislaus River offers fishing opportunities for campers. No specific details on fish species or fishing conditions were provided.Swimming
Swimming is possible in the river. Stacey W. mentioned, 'Water is clear and great for swimming,' but emphasized the need for life vests due to the strong currents.Biking
Biking is listed as a recreational activity, though no specifics on designated trails or difficulty levels are provided.Boating
The park allows boating activities, including kayaking, canoeing, and rafting. Tina M. highlighted a 2-hour rafting experience down the Stanislaus River.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to wildlife such as mule deer, acorn woodpeckers, scrub jays, foxes, and squirrels. Seasonal Chinook salmon spawning can be observed in the fall.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and rafting are popular water sports at the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire ban from May 1 to November 1 allows propane gas fires only; no wood or charcoal fires. Campfire rings available at group sites.
- Quiet hours are 10 p.m. - 6 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsHigh river flows may flood campsites; campers are advised to check river flow reports before arrival. Wildlife such as mule deer and foxes, as well as insects, are present.
Active alertsFire ban in effect from May 1 to November 1. High river flows may flood campsites.
Weather forecast
98
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 24%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.3 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
Nearest hospital: Oak Valley Hospital in Oakdale, CA. Police and ranger services are available within the recreation area.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 01, 2025
Trash and recyclingThe campground provides recycling facilities. Campers are required to pack out their trash to maintain cleanliness.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located adjacent to the Stanislaus River, with access for fishing, swimming, and rafting.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention lack of showers and need to hike gear into campsites. Limited fire rings at individual sites were noted.
HostHosts are helpful and maintain facilities well, including regularly refilling toilet paper.
Campground Map
17968 COVERED BRIDGE RD., OAKDALE, CA 95361
Driving directionsFrom Modesto, California, take McHenry Avenue north. Turn left on East River Road and continue for approximately 1 mile, then turn left into McHenry Avenue Recreation Area. Proceed past the park entrance station and stop sign at the intersection until you reach the parking lot. From Escalon, California, take McHenry Avenue south. Turn right on East River Road and continue for approximately 1 mile, then turn left into McHenry Avenue Recreation Area. Proceed past the park entrance station and stop sign at the intersection until you reach the parking lot.
The campground can be accessed from McHenry Avenue via paved roads, but vehicles are not allowed directly at campsites. Campers must park approximately 0.15 miles away and use wagons or hike to move gear.Nearby places
Modesto (approximately 10 miles, about 15 minutes), Escalon (approximately 5 miles, about 10 minutes), Knights Ferry (approximately 35 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies are available in Oakdale, CA, approximately 10 minutes away. Fuel stations are also accessible in Oakdale.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews indicate a generally positive experience with an average sentiment of 3.67 out of 5. Campers appreciate the peaceful environment, clean facilities, and recreational opportunities. However, some note the lack of vehicle access to campsites as a logistical challenge.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include the clean and well-maintained facilities, the scenic and peaceful river environment, and the affordable camping fees. Visitors also commend the helpfulness of the campground staff.
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of vehicle access to campsites, necessitating campers to carry gear over a quarter-mile distance. Some users also mentioned limited water access points.
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing wagons to transport gear due to the parking distance. Wearing life vests while swimming is also strongly advised due to river currents. Visitors are encouraged to bring...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Fall is particularly noted for its natural beauty, including Chinook salmon spawning. Summer sees higher river flows, making it ideal for rafting and other water activities.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. Stacey W.: 'It's beautiful there and so peaceful. Water is clear and great for swimming.' 2. Tina M.: 'Only 2 community water spigots are located in Site 3 and Site 4 so you need to make friends...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific feedback highlights Group Site 3 for having a fire ring, unlike individual sites.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is somewhat limited due to the distance between parking and campsites. Paved pathways and accessible facilities are available.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically address pet-related experiences.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025