Stanislaus River Campground
4.3711 reviews,,,CA,,,USA
Stanislaus River Campground
$12.00 - $12.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
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
Camping is offered at $12 per night according to user feedback. There is mention of various fees for modification, cancellation, and reservation service fees across different platforms like Recreation.gov, but specific details for this campground are unclear.
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About this campground
Nestled within a towering conifer forest, Stanislaus River Campground offers an authentic Sierra Nevada camping experience along the pristine North Fork of the Stanislaus River. This intimate 25-site campground provides a perfect basecamp for exploring the nearby Spicer Reservoir area, with each site thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables and access to hand-pumped water and vault toilets. While the campground embraces a rustic charm, visitors should note that some facilities may show signs of wear, adding to the authentic wilderness experience.
Stanislaus River Campground caters to traditional camping styles, including tent and RV camping. It does not offer cabins or glamping options.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this specific campground remains unwritten, the surrounding Stanislaus National Forest holds countless untold stories of the Sierra Nevada's past, waiting to be discovered by curious campers.
Weather and SeasonsThe high Sierra climate here brings dramatic seasonal changes that shape each camping experience. Winter delivers heavy snowfall and bone-chilling temperatures that challenge even seasoned adventurers, while summer unveils the campground's true splendor with warm days perfect for river activities. Early July visitors might discover lingering snow patches—nature's reminder of the powerful winters at this elevation. The shoulder seasons bring crisp air and moderate winds that whisper through the conifers, creating an ever-changing mountain soundtrack.
ElevationPerched at 6,300 feet in the Sierra Nevada, this high-altitude retreat offers the crisp, pine-scented air that mountain enthusiasts crave. The elevation creates a natural air conditioning system during summer months, though early-season campers should pack warm layers as snow can linger into July. This elevated position provides not just cooler temperatures, but also stunning vantage points of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground's setting reads like a love letter to the Sierra Nevada wilderness. Ancient conifers create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The North Fork Stanislaus River serves as the campground's liquid lifeline, offering natural granite water slides that have been polished smooth by centuries of flowing water. Hidden swimming holes provide refreshing escapes on warm afternoons, while nearby meadows burst with wildflowers in season. Hiking trails lead adventurous souls to breathtaking viewpoints where rolling hills stretch to the horizon.
Geological RegionThis rugged corner of the Sierra Nevada showcases nature's architectural prowess through dramatic granite formations and dense conifer forests. The North Fork Stanislaus River has carved its path through this ancient landscape over millennia, creating the diverse terrain that makes this area so captivating. The nearby Spicer Reservoir adds another dimension to the geological tapestry, its waters reflecting the surrounding peaks and providing a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome bathrooms are wheelchair accessible, based on a user review: 'It has wheelchair-accessible bathrooms.'
Sites SizeVaried campsites, including spacious options like Spot 1, which is described as 'very spacious' and suitable for car camping.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary. Some sites are 'fairly private,' but others feel 'cramped' when the campground is full. Trees provide shade and some level of privacy, but spacing between sites is not ideal for solitude.
Total Campsites25 campsites
Recommended CampsitesWhile Site #1 is recommended for ample space, users have expressed caution about sites that are closely spaced and may lack privacy during peak periods.
Best CampsitesSite #1 is described as spacious and suitable for car camping. It has been positively reviewed for privacy and quiet ambiance.
Reserving a campsite
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum guests per site not identified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground comprises 25 individual campsites located on the right-hand side of the road as you enter, with the North Fork Stanislaus River running along the left-hand side.
Open and Closed SeasonNo explicit seasonality mentioned for the campground.
Reservation PlatformsThis campground does not facilitate reservations.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis exclusively. User reviews indicate that availability is better during weekdays and mid-week periods.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are not available, hence cancellation rules are moot.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities focus on nature-oriented experiences such as fishing, hiking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The campground is also near Spicer Reservoir, which offers additional recreational opportunities.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include trails with 'gorgeous views' for photography. Reviews highlight features like a 'granite water slide' and 'pools to swim or fish in' a short distance from the river.Fishing
Fishing is popular, with users noting 'plenty of fishing' opportunities. Specific types of fish are not detailed.Swimming
The river offers 'a wonderful swimming hole near the entrance,' and the water is described as a 'perfect temperature.' Depths vary from shallow to waist-deep (approximately 5'6").Wildlife viewing
Reviewers recount encounters with wildlife, including bears. One user warns, 'Never leave your food out; they will break your ice chest looking for food.'Winter Activities
Snow may be present early in the season. One reviewer mentions 'some leftover snow... good for the ice chest.'Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but food safety is critical due to bear activity reported in the area.
- Quiet hours begin around 10 PM according to user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife hazards include bears, as reported by one user who encountered them nightly for three consecutive nights in 2019. Aggressive mosquitos are prevalent during summer.
Active alertsAs of July 2023, one water pump and a pit toilet were out of service. Temporary facilities like port-a-potties were provided.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 14 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Partly cloudy
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
Closest emergency services not specified.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo specific peak season dates provided.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are insufficiently maintained, as noted in reviews stating that 'garbage was left everywhere along the river.'
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to the Stanislaus River offers swimming holes, fishing spots, and water slides. Spicer Reservoir is nearby but not directly integrated into the campground features.
Common complaintsComplaints include crowded sites during peak capacities, aggressive mosquitos, and damaged water pumps/toilets. Trash left behind by visitors along the river has been cited in user reviews.
HostThe camp host has received positive reviews for keeping bathrooms stocked and clean, and even providing air freshener.
Campground Map
,,,CA,,,USA
Driving directionsThree miles east of Highway 4 on Spicer Reservoir Road.
The campground is accessible via paved roads from Highway 4, located three miles east of Spicer Reservoir Road. However, as of July 2023, the entrance road to the campground was noted to be "a little rough," but the dirt road within the campground was in good condition.Nearby places
Arnold, CA — approximately 22 miles and about 30-35 minutes drive.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies not detailed.
Camper Reviews
4.4
11 reviews
Stanislaus River Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users generally appreciate the natural beauty and recreational opportunities but note issues with maintenance and overcrowding during peak times. Sentiment trends towards positive, with an average rating of 4.37 for the area and 3.91 specific to the campground.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include 'great camping sites close to the river,' 'large sites,' 'clean and stocked bathrooms,' and friendly neighbors. The river is a focal point, offering 'perfect temperature' water for...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints focus on overcrowding, poorly maintained facilities, and inadequate waste management. One user described the campground as 'people on top of people,' while another expressed disappointment...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing bug spray due to 'very aggressive mosquitos,' a pen to fill out forms at the entrance, and keeping food locked away to avoid attracting bears.
Based on 11 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busiest on weekends and holidays. Maintenance issues, including non-functional toilets and water pumps, were noted in mid-summer 2023. Weather extremes, such as heat in open sites...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The campground has a lot to offer. There's a wonderful swimming hole near the entrance, and the river babbles along just loud enough to be soothing.'
2. 'The trees give a lot of privacy, but it...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific sites mentioned include Spot 1, noted for being 'very spacious' and suitable for car camping. Reviews also caution about issues with certain sites, such as a broken table and caution tape.
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-accessible bathrooms are available, but no further accessibility details were provided.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted. No issues or specific facilities for pets were noted.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025