How much does camping cost at Valley Oak Recreation Area?

Camping fees at Valley Oak Recreation Area are $20 - $50/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Valley Oak Recreation Area first-come first-served or reservation?

Valley Oak 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 Valley Oak Recreation Area before I book?

Yes! Valley Oak Recreation Area has 9 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 Valley Oak Recreation Area?

Valley Oak 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 Valley Oak Recreation Area?

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

Are dogs allowed at Valley Oak Recreation Area?

Yes, pets are allowed at Valley Oak Recreation Area. 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 Valley Oak Recreation Area?

Valley Oak Recreation Area offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Valley Oak Recreation Area?

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

Valley Oak Recreation Area

Q: Can I have a campfire at Valley Oak Recreation Area?

Fire policies at Valley Oak 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.

4.65

11 reviews

17968 COVERED BRIDGE RD, OAKDALE, CA, 95361

Featured in:Group Camping California

Quick Facts

Price

$20 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

May 23 to September ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Stanislaus River Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

Price

$20 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

May 23 to September ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Stanislaus River Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Valley Oak Recreation Area

$20.00 - $50.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Boat In Site: $20.00; Group Walk To Site: $50.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Group Site Fee$50.00

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Provider

209-881-3517

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Campground Map

17968 COVERED BRIDGE RD, OAKDALE, CA, 95361

Valley Oak Recreation Area

17968 COVERED BRIDGE RD, OAKDALE, CA, 95361

Nearby places

Oakdale: 6 miles, approximately 15 minutes

Sonora: 30 miles, approximately 45 minutes.

Driving directionsFrom Oakdale, California, take CA-120 W/N Yosemite Avenue northwest. In 1.3 miles, Turn right on Rodden Road and continue for approximately 5.4 miles, then turn right into Valley Oak Recreation Area. Proceed past the park entrance until you reach the parking lot. From Sonora, California, take CA-108 West. In approximately 30 miles turn right on Landcaster Road. In 1.7 miles, turn right on to Orange Blossom Road. In 0.6 Miles turn left onto Rodden Road. Continue on Rodden Road for 2.5 Miles and then turn left into Valley Oak Recreation Area.

Weather at Valley Oak Recreation Area

Current alert: Fire Restrictions - June 1st - September 30th White Gas ONLY No Wood Burning or Charcoal permitted.

Best Time to Camp at Valley Oak Recreation Area

Best season: summer. Summer offers the fullest access to the Stanislaus River and the campground (open May 23–Sept 30), with long daylight hours and reliably warm, dry weather ideal for boating, fishing, and riverside tent camping. Expect daytime temperatures typically ranging from the mid-60s in late spring/early summer to the 70s–90s°F in peak July–August, with crisp nights in the mid-40s to mid-50s°F. Water activities (paddling, bank fishing) and family-friendly camping are at their peak, though weekends can be a Peak months: July, June, September, August Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall is highlighted for the Chinook salmon run and advanced white-water opportunities.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 01 to September 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: May 23 to September 30 (reservable dates).

About Valley Oak Recreation Area

Valley Oak Recreation Area sits along the Stanislaus River near Oakdale, California, operated by Stanislaus River Parks with a May through September season. The campground offers tent sites, primitive options, and group camping with vault and flush toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Visitors fish, bike, and boat on the river, and campground hosts maintain a quiet, secluded atmosphere despite occasional noise from across the water.

Valley Oak Recreation Area caters to primitive campers with a focus on tents. It has options for both individual and group camping.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the fullest access to the Stanislaus River and the campground (open May 23–Sept 30), with long daylight hours and reliably warm, dry weather ideal for boating, fishing, and riverside tent camping. Expect daytime temperatures typically ranging from the mid-60s in late spring/early summer to the 70s–90s°F in peak July–August, with crisp nights in the mid-40s to mid-50s°F. Water activities (paddling, bank fishing) and family-friendly camping are at their peak, though weekends can be a Peak months: July, June, September, August Avoid: October, November, December, January

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a riparian corridor where valley oaks, Fremont cottonwoods, and elderberry bushes line the Stanislaus River. Open grassy areas with seasonal wildflowers break up the tree cover. Wildlife is common: mule deer browse at dawn, acorn woodpeckers drum overhead, and scrub jays flash blue through the canopy. Foxes and squirrels move through camp. The river provides year-round scenery, though water levels drop as summer progresses. Shade is present but scattered, so site selection matters if you want full cover.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no lodging accommodations available; this is a primitive camping area.

Programs & ActivitiesCultural or educational programs are not mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit or within rolling 30 days.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 6 people for individual sites and 25 people for group sites.

Groups

The group site accommodates up to 5 tents and 25 people. Parking is limited to 5 passes per group reservation.

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 through Recreation.gov using their website, app, or contact center.

AccessibilityWalk-in access to sites (park in front lot and walk ~1/4 mile); no vehicle access to individual sites stated

Site SizePrimitive tent sites (walk-in: campers park in front lot and walk approximately 1/4 mile to sites). Each site has a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern holder. Vault toilets and non-potable water available.

PrivacyThe campground offers a quiet and peaceful setting with scattered shade from trees. Privacy details specific to campsite layout are not discussed.

Recommended SitesSites closer to the river may offer better views and access to water activities.

Need help booking Valley Oak 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

Valley Oak Recreation Area offers primitive camping facilities with key amenities such as vault toilets and non-potable water. Each campsite is equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern holders. The campground is situated along the lower Stanislaus River, providing easy access to hiking trails, fishing, and boating opportunities. Campers must park in a designated lot and walk approximately a quarter mile to their campsites. The campground is known for its peaceful environment and abundant wildlife.

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

I manage this campground

Things to do at Valley Oak Recreation Area

Valley Oak Recreation Area offers activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, bird watching, and picnicking. The Stanislaus River provides unique opportunities for rafting during summer and advanced white-water challenges in the fall. Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with species like mule deer, acorn woodpeckers, and foxes commonly sighted.

Fishing4.0/5

Fishing access along the Stanislaus River is described as a key feature of the site.

Boating4.0/5

Boating permitted with easy river access; guided and self-guided rafting trips noted.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Mule deer, acorn woodpeckers, foxes and common riparian wildlife are regularly observed.

Water Sports3.5/5

Easy river access and rafting/white-water mentions imply good paddling opportunities.

Biking3.0/5

Biking is listed as an activity but trail/terrain details and dedicated routes are not specified.

Winter Activities

Signature experiences

Photography4.0/5Good photo subjects: river, valley oaks, wildflowers and wildlife sightings.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

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 & RecyclingTrash facilities are maintained by park staff. Recycling details are not provided.

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

4.7

11 reviews

Top-Rated

Valley Oak Recreation Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Users commonly highlight the campground's peaceful environment, friendly staff, and excellent access to the Stanislaus River.

Review Summaries

Based on 11 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive mentions include friendly and helpful campground hosts, well-maintained vault toilets, and the quiet, secluded nature of the area.

Based on 11 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users noted noise from nearby areas across the river and a lack of clear signage for the group camp.

Based on 11 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing earplugs due to occasional noise and wagons to transport gear from the parking lot to campsites.

Based on 11 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Fall is noted as a special time to visit due to the Chinook salmon run, while summer is popular for rafting activities. Noise issues seem less frequent in off-peak seasons.

Based on 11 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Camp hosts were very nice. Had the whole place to myself, which was wonderful." "Nice quiet campground. Easy river access and the park rangers were great!" "Débora kept everything in order with the...

Based on 11 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible vault toilets and trails are appreciated, though detailed feedback from users with disabilities is not provided.

Based on 11 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but no specific feedback about pet experiences is included in the reviews.

Based on 11 reviews

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Valley Oak Recreation Area

$20.00 - $50.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Boat In Site: $20.00; Group Walk To Site: $50.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Group Site Fee$50.00

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

256,000+ 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 a secluded Stanislaus River base for fishing and boating with attentive hosts and primitive options.

Skip if

You need open gate access after hours or want to avoid occasional noise from neighboring properties.

Nearby Campgrounds

Less Visited

4.0

(15)

Horseshoe Road Recreation Area

17968 COVERED BRIDGE RD

Horseshoe Road Recreation Area sits along the Stanislaus River near Oakdale, managed by Stanislaus River Parks. This very small, primitive campground offers walk-in tent sites and group camping with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Visitors come for fishing, rafting, and biking along the river corridor, with shaded spots under valley oaks and cottonwoods.

Valley Oak Recreation Area

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Valley Oak Recreation Area

Campground Map

Weather at Valley Oak Recreation Area

Best Time to Camp at Valley Oak Recreation Area

Planning Tips

About Valley Oak Recreation Area

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Valley Oak Recreation Area?

Amenities available

Things to do at Valley Oak Recreation Area

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Get Notified When Available

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Skip if

Directions

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Ask Camp Sage about Valley Oak Recreation Area

Best Time to Camp at Valley Oak Recreation Area

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Valley Oak Recreation Area?

Amenities available

Things to do at Valley Oak Recreation Area

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns