How much does camping cost at Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area?

Camping fees at Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area are $20 - $60/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area first-come first-served or reservation?

Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area 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 Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area before I book?

Yes! Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area has 7 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 Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area?

Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area is open April 01 to September 30. 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 Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area?

Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area have?

Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area has 3 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area?

Pets are not allowed at Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area?

Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area offers: Restrooms, Potable Water. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area?

Popular activities at Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area include Fishing, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area

Q: Can I have a campfire at Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area?

Fire policies at Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area: Check-In/Check-Out: Check-In: 1:00 PM Latest Check-In: 6:00 PM in April and 7:00 PM May-September Check-Out: 12:00 PM Cancellation and Refund Policies: Contact Recreation.gov for changes or cancellations. General: 1. Use of all project and recreation facilities is at your own risk, and pursuant to your agreement to abide by all rules and regulations listed under the Code of Federal Regulations - Title 36 . 2. USACE reserves the right to evict any person(s) who does not comply with the rules and . Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

3.78

19 reviews

17968 COVERED BRIDGE RD., OAKDALE, CA 95361

SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

89 ft

Price

$20 - $60/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Open from May 23, 20...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Recreation.gov Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

89 ft

Price

$20 - $60/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Open from May 23, 20...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Recreation.gov Official Website

Get Directions

Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area

$20.00 - $60.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Group Walk To Site: $60.00; Walk-In Site: $20.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

Hike and Bike Site Fee$20.00

Group Site Fee$60.00

Get Notified When Available

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Provider

209-881-3517

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Campground Map

17968 COVERED BRIDGE RD., OAKDALE, CA 95361

Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area

17968 COVERED BRIDGE RD., OAKDALE, CA 95361

Nearby places

Modesto (approximately 10 miles, about 15 minutes), Escalon (approximately 5 miles, about 10 minutes), Knights Ferry (approximately 35 minutes)

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.

Weather at Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area

Current alerts(1)

Due to safety-focused hazard tree removal, shade at the campground will be limited. It is highly recommended that visitors bring their own shade structures (e.g., awnings, tents, umbrellas) to ensure comfort.

Best Time to Camp at Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area

Best season: summer. Summer is the best time to visit McHenry Avenue because the campground is fully open (May 23–Sept 30) and the Stanislaus River is at its warm, navigable best for swimming, floating/rafting, and boating. Expect daytime highs typically in the mid-70s to low-90s°F and cooler evenings in the 50s–60s, with plenty of shady riverside campsites under Fremont cottonwoods. River activities, fishing, and wildlife viewing are at their peak, though summer weekends draw the largest crowds so reserve early for Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall highlighted for natural beauty and Chinook salmon spawning.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 01 to September 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from May 23, 2025, to September 30, 2025.

About Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area

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.

McHenry Avenue Recreation Area primarily caters to tent campers, with options for group camping. The campground does not accommodate RVs or provide glamping options.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer is the best time to visit McHenry Avenue because the campground is fully open (May 23–Sept 30) and the Stanislaus River is at its warm, navigable best for swimming, floating/rafting, and boating. Expect daytime highs typically in the mid-70s to low-90s°F and cooler evenings in the 50s–60s, with plenty of shady riverside campsites under Fremont cottonwoods. River activities, fishing, and wildlife viewing are at their peak, though summer weekends draw the largest crowds so reserve early for Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation89 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryFremont cottonwoods shade the river corridor, with Valley Oaks spreading between the campsites. Elderberry, native grasses, and seasonal wildflowers fill the understory. The lower Stanislaus flows past at 89 feet elevation, creating habitat for mule deer, acorn woodpeckers, scrub jays, foxes, and squirrels. The setting is lush for foothills terrain, a transition zone where Sierra Nevada runoff meets valley heat.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style accommodations or cabins are available at the campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned for this specific campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

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 camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

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.

Site SizeThe campsites are environmentally designed for tent camping and are relatively small, accommodating up to two tents per individual site.

PrivacyCampsites are situated close to each other, with limited privacy due to the layout and natural features.

Total Campsites3 campsites

Recommended SitesSites 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 has a communal fire ring and gets positive mentions in reviews. Individual sites have limited fire rings, so check what's provided at your specific site before arrival.

Need help booking Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

McHenry Avenue Recreation Area offers a range of essential amenities to enhance the camping experience. Campsites feature picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern holders. Flush toilets and potable water are available near the campsites, contributing to a convenient camping environment. The campground requires campers to park in a designated lot and walk approximately a quarter mile to the campsites. Accessibility features include paved pathways, accessible flush toilets, and accessible drinking water spigots located near specific sites (e.g., Sites 3 and 4). Fire pits are only available at group sites, and fire bans are in effect from May 1 to November 1, allowing only propane gas fires in certified containers. Campers must bring certified firewood as on-site collection is prohibited.

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Group Sites

I manage this campground

Things to do at Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area

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.

Boating4.0/5

Kayaking, canoeing and rafting allowed; summer flows make river navigable.

Water Sports4.0/5

Wildlife viewing3.5/5

Habitat for mule deer, acorn woodpeckers, scrub jays, foxes and squirrels.

Fishing3.0/5

Stanislaus River offers fishing but no species/condition details provided.

Biking3.0/5

Biking listed as activity but no designated trails or difficulty details.

Signature experiences

Photography3.5/5River vistas, wildlife, wildflowers and fall salmon spawning offer photo opportunities.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

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 PolicyCheck-In/Check-Out: Check-In: 1:00 PM Latest Check-In: 6:00 PM in April and 7:00 PM May-September Check-Out: 12:00 PM Cancellation and Refund Policies: Contact Recreation.gov for changes or cancellations. General: 1. Use of all project and recreation facilities is at your own risk, and pursuant to your agreement to abide by all rules and regulations listed under the Code of Federal Regulations - Title 36 . 2. USACE reserves the right to evict any person(s) who does not comply with the rules and

Trash & RecyclingThe campground provides recycling facilities. Campers are required to pack out their trash to maintain cleanliness.

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

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.8

19 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% 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 19 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 19 reviews

Common 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 19 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific feedback highlights Group Site 3 for having a fire ring, unlike individual sites.

Based on 19 reviews

Pro 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 19 reviews

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 19 reviews

Camper 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 19 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is somewhat limited due to the distance between parking and campsites. Paved pathways and accessible facilities are available.

Based on 19 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews specifically address pet-related experiences.

Based on 19 reviews

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Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area

$20.00 - $60.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Group Walk To Site: $60.00; Walk-In Site: $20.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

Hike and Bike Site Fee$20.00

Group Site Fee$60.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

209-881-3517

Go if

You want affordable river access for fishing and boating with clean facilities and don't mind carrying gear to your site.

Skip if

You need showers, drive-up tent sites, or 24-hour gate access for late arrivals.

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