Dardanelle Campground
4.597 reviewsDardanelle Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Recreation use fees vary by activity and location, additional fees may include reservation service fees and cancellation fees.
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About this campground
Escape to the tranquil embrace of Dardanelle Campground, where 28 thoughtfully designed campsites await beneath a canopy of towering conifers. This riverside retreat offers something for every camping style, from spacious double sites perfect for family gatherings to secluded walk-in sites for those seeking a more intimate connection with nature. The gentle sounds of the Stanislaus River provide a natural soundtrack to your stay, while modern conveniences like vault toilets and fresh piped water ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience. Two scenic trails wind their way from the campground down to the river's edge, inviting exploration and offering prime spots for fishing, swimming, or simply soaking in the serene mountain atmosphere.
Dardanelle Campground caters to a mix of campers with its variety of site options, including standard, walk-in, and double sites.
Weather and SeasonsDardanelle Campground enjoys a pleasant climate characterized by warm, sun-drenched days and refreshingly cool nights. The moderate temperatures throughout the camping season create ideal conditions for outdoor adventures, while the predominantly dry weather means you can count on clear skies for stargazing and uninterrupted hiking. Pack layers to adapt to the mountain's daily temperature swings, and you'll find comfort from dawn patrol fishing trips to evening campfire gatherings.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of California's mixed conifer forest, where majestic pines, firs, and cedars create a living cathedral overhead. The campground's prime location along the pristine Stanislaus River offers a front-row seat to nature's theater – watch osprey dive for trout, spot deer coming to drink at twilight, and fall asleep to the river's timeless melody. Morning mist rises from the water, filtering through the forest to create magical moments, while afternoon sun dapples the forest floor with golden light. This remarkable ecosystem provides both shelter and inspiration, making every campsite feel like a private woodland sanctuary.
Geological RegionSituated in the heart of California's Sierra Nevada foothills, Dardanelle Campground occupies a remarkable position where ancient geological forces have carved out the Stanislaus River canyon through millennia of patient erosion. The surrounding mixed conifer forest thrives in this unique ecosystem, where volcanic soils and granite bedrock create the perfect growing conditions for diverse tree species. This dynamic landscape tells the story of fire and ice, of volcanic eruptions and glacial sculpting that have shaped the dramatic terrain visitors enjoy today.
Campsite details
Sites Size28 sites are available, including two double sites and four walk-in sites.
Sites PrivacyAccording to reviews, privacy varies; some sites are close to others, while sites 23-24 are noted for being secluded.
Total Campsites28 campsites
Recommended CampsitesConsider campsites 23-24 for privacy and better views.
Best CampsitesCamp sites 23-24 are described as being among the best, offering seclusion and amazing views.
Reserving a campsite
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes paved roads and parking pads, with 28 sites in total, including double and walk-in options.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 fee may apply for cancellations, and late cancellations result in a forfeiture of the first night’s fees.
Amenities available
Potable water
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors at Dardanelle Campground can enjoy proximity to the Stanislaus River with two trails leading directly to it. The area also offers scenic views and peaceful surroundings, though there may be limited hiking opportunities due to nearby fire scars.
Hiking
Two trails directly connect the campground to the Stanislaus River. However, one review mentioned limited hiking opportunities immediately outside the campground due to nearby fire scars.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Dense drizzle
Precipitation: 1.2%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 12.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Very Light Rain - (1.20% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Dense drizzle
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
Good to know
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located along the Stanislaus River, providing easy access to water.
Campground Map
Driving directions23 miles east of Pinecrest on Highway 108 across from Dardanelles Resort.
The campground is situated off Highway 108, with paved access to the sites and parking pads.Camper Reviews
4.6
7 reviews
Dardanelle Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight a well-maintained and peaceful campground, with some secluded sites offering scenic views. Most comments are positive, though some note the impact of fire scars on the area's scenery.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the 'peaceful' atmosphere, 'well-maintained' vault toilets, and the helpfulness of staff or hosts. Sites 23-24 received specific praise for their seclusion and amazing views.
Based on 7 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users noted that the scenery has been affected by fire scars and that there is no camp store currently available at the nearby Dardanelle Resort.
Based on 7 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring all essentials, as the store across the street is closed. Consider sites 23-24 for more privacy and better views.
Based on 7 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer appears to be the preferred season for visiting, with activities such as a 4th of July horse shoe tournament and live music mentioned in a user review. Fire scars are more noticeable during...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Spots are nice, some are pretty close to others. Well-maintained out toilets. Running water in multiple spots. Clean clear creek.' - Ben Falter. 2. 'Camp sites 23-24 are the best. Kind of...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 23-24 are highlighted for their seclusion and views. Some sites are noted as being relatively close together.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025