How much does camping cost at Caswell Memorial State Park Campground?

Camping fees at Caswell Memorial State Park Campground range from $30/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Caswell Memorial State Park Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Caswell Memorial State Park Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Caswell Memorial State Park Campground before I book?

Yes! Caswell Memorial State Park Campground has 32 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Caswell Memorial State Park Campground?

Caswell Memorial State Park Campground is open Peak seasons are spring and fall weekends, most days from May through September.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Caswell Memorial State Park Campground?

Yes, Caswell Memorial State Park Campground has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Caswell Memorial State Park Campground have?

Caswell Memorial State Park Campground has 64 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Caswell Memorial State Park Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Caswell Memorial State Park Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Caswell Memorial State Park Campground?

Caswell Memorial State Park Campground offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Caswell Memorial State Park Campground?

Popular activities at Caswell Memorial State Park Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Caswell Memorial State Park Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Caswell Memorial State Park Campground?

Fire policies at Caswell Memorial State Park Campground: Campfires are allowed, but firewood must be purchased on-site or brought externally. Gathering natural wood is prohibited.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.01

35 reviews

28000 South Austin Road, Ripon, CA 95366

Top 11% in CAFall

SwimmingSummer Destination

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

69 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

64 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

69 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

64 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Caswell Memorial State Park Campground

$30.00 - $30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

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...

Standard Site Fee$30.00

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Reserve California

Provider

209-599-3810interp@parks.ca.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

28000 South Austin Road, Ripon, CA 95366

Caswell Memorial State Park Campground

28000 South Austin Road, Ripon, CA 95366

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.

Weather at Caswell Memorial State Park Campground

Current alert: Parts of the park are closed due to flood damage and debris. Visitors should confirm the operational status before arriving.

Best Time to Camp at Caswell Memorial State Park Campground

Fall delivers the most comfortable camping from September through October, with temperatures between 60–85°F, fewer crowds, and stable river levels. Winter stays mild at 45–50°F. Summer heats up fast: expect 85–100°F regularly, with stretches above 100°F from June through September. The river offers relief during hot months, but you'll need mosquito repellant. Reviews warn about summer branch drop from mature oaks during hot spells. Avoid pitching directly under large branches in peak heat.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 11% in CA

Fall (Sep–Oct) noted as most comfortable: 60–85°F, fewer crowds, stable river levels.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak seasons are spring and fall weekends, most days from May through September.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground is open year-round.

About Caswell Memorial State Park Campground

Caswell Memorial State Park Campground protects one of the Central Valley's last intact riparian oak woodlands along the Stanislaus River. The park's 64 campsites sit beneath valley oaks, willows, sycamores, and cottonwoods at 69 feet elevation near Ripon. Sites accommodate RVs up to 24 feet and trailers up to 21 feet, with 10x10 tent pads. Fees run $30/night year-round.

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 Significance

The Yokuts people lived among these oaks before Spanish explorers arrived in the valley. The Caswell family descendants donated the land in the 1950s specifically to preserve this vanishing riparian ecosystem.

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the most comfortable camping from September through October, with temperatures between 60–85°F, fewer crowds, and stable river levels. Winter stays mild at 45–50°F. Summer heats up fast: expect 85–100°F regularly, with stretches above 100°F from June through September. The river offers relief during hot months, but you'll need mosquito repellant. Reviews warn about summer branch drop from mature oaks during hot spells. Avoid pitching directly under large branches in peak heat.

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 SceneryThe campground sits within a mature oak forest along the Stanislaus River, where valley oaks mix with willows, sycamores, and cottonwoods. The river creates swimming holes, beaches, and fishing access throughout the park. Wild roses and blackberry vines grow in the understory beneath the canopy. This riparian woodland represents what much of the Central Valley looked like before agriculture transformed the region. The forest provides habitat for abundant birdlife and wildlife, though reviews note that wildlife encounters can include unwanted visitors at campsites.

Geological RegionStanislaus River

Scenic ViewsCampers can enjoy vistas of the majestic oak forest and glimpses of the Stanislaus River.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available within Caswell Memorial State Park Campground.

Programs & ActivitiesThe park offers interpretive walks and talks for school, service, and social groups. Brochures and exhibits highlight the park's unique history and habitat.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in begins at 2 PM.

Check-out

Check-out is at 12 PM.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 7 consecutive nights.

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 camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe 64 sites spread through the oak woodland near the river. The mature forest provides reasonable privacy between spots, though spacing varies.

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.

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.

Site SizeSites accommodate trailers up to 21 feet and motor homes up to 24 feet. Tent pads measure 10x10 feet in most campsites.

PrivacySites are located amidst a mature oak forest, providing a reasonable level of privacy between campsites.

Total Campsites64 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose 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 get mentioned as standouts, though specific reasons aren't detailed in the source data.

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Amenities available

Caswell Memorial State Park Campground offers a variety of amenities suitable for family camping. Each of the 64 campsites includes a picnic table, food locker, and camp stove. Flush toilets are available, and showers are accessible though they require payment. Drinking water is provided at the campground, and restrooms and showers have accessible features. The sites do not provide electrical, water, or sewer hookups, and Wi-Fi is not available. Firewood may be purchased seasonally from the camp host, but gathering natural materials is prohibited. Cell phone service quality is not mentioned directly. Accessible features, such as paved routes and accessible parking spaces, make this campground suitable for visitors with disabilities.

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

RV details

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

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsVisitors 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.

Food Storage RequiredEach campsite includes a food storage locker to protect against wildlife interference.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed, but firewood must be purchased on-site or brought externally. Gathering natural wood is prohibited.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency 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.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned, though visitors are encouraged to clean up after themselves and secure valuables to prevent theft.

Water FeaturesThe campground is located beside the Stanislaus River, offering access to beaches and swimming areas.

Camp HostCamp hosts offer seasonal firewood sales and are available for inquiries.

Cell CoverageCell phone service quality is not directly mentioned in the source materials.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.0

35 reviews

Satisfactory

Caswell Memorial State Park Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% 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 35 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 35 reviews

Common 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 35 reviews

Site-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 35 reviews

Pro 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 35 reviews

Seasonal 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 35 reviews

Camper Quotes

'Beautiful oak trees by the river, just wonderful place to do weekend camping!' (Teresa Baron, 2023)

Based on 35 reviews

Accessibility 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 35 reviews

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 35 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Birders, anglers, and families who want a river-access forest camp near Modesto. Sites 11, 13, and 35 get good reviews for location. Fall weekends at 60-85°F are the sweet spot, and striped bass and Chinook salmon migrate through in season.

Skip if

Summer visits are rough: 100°F heat, heavy mosquitoes, and real risk of branch drop from the mature oaks overhead. RVs over 24 feet won't fit, there are no hookups, and theft has been flagged enough that reviewers say lock everything up. Confirm flood closures before booking.

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Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area

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McHenry Avenue Recreation Area sits along the Stanislaus River near Oakdale, California, operated by Recreation.gov as part of Stanislaus River Parks. This small riverside campground offers tent and primitive sites with flush toilets, potable water, and shaded cottonwood groves. Campers fish, boat, bike, and watch wildlife along the river corridor during the seasonal operating window.