Deadman Campground
4.8311 reviewsQuick Facts
Price
$3 - $8/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
17 campsites
Season
Deadman Campground d...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$3 - $8/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
17 campsites
Season
Deadman Campground d...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsDeadman Campground
$3.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees include recreation use fees which vary based on reservation method: $8 online, $9 through contact center, $3 for in-person payments. Extra fees...
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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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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ProviderWhat Campers Say
4.83
Top-Rated
Based on 11 reviews
33 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanlocationhikingfriendly
"Deadman Campground is widely praised for its scenic location along the Stanislaus River, cleanliness, and proximity to outdoor activities. However, some users note the unpredictability of the weather and the close proximity of campsites."
Fees & Passes at Deadman Campground
$3 - $8/night
Campsite fees
Cancellation: For individual campsites, cancellations on the day before arrival incur a $10 cancellation fee and f...
Prices verified December 7, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official US Forest Service website.
Best Time to Camp at Deadman Campground
Mountain weather here keeps you on your toes, with dramatic temperature swings that can plunge from pleasant afternoons to crisp, star-filled nights. Seasoned campers know to pack layers and cozy sleeping bags rated for cold weather, as temperatures can dip unexpectedly even in summer months. Storm systems occasionally sweep through, bringing refreshing rain and reminding visitors why waterproof gear belongs in every pack. These dynamic conditions create an ever-changing canvas of mountain moods.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Off-season, limited services. Check for closures before visiting.
Planning Tips
- Operating Season: Deadman Campground does not feature advanced reservations and appears to operate on a first-come-first-served basis.
About Deadman Campground
Nestled along the pristine banks of the Stanislaus River, Deadman Campground offers an intimate escape with 17 thoughtfully placed campsites, including two secluded walk-in sites perfect for those seeking extra solitude. A smooth paved road guides you into this riverside retreat, where dirt-surfaced parking pads blend naturally with the forest floor. Modern conveniences meet rustic charm with well-maintained vault toilets and fresh water available from piped hydrants throughout the grounds.
Deadman Campground accommodates both tent and RV camping, with a mix of standard and walk-in sites.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather here keeps you on your toes, with dramatic temperature swings that can plunge from pleasant afternoons to crisp, star-filled nights. Seasoned campers know to pack layers and cozy sleeping bags rated for cold weather, as temperatures can dip unexpectedly even in summer months. Storm systems occasionally sweep through, bringing refreshing rain and reminding visitors why waterproof gear belongs in every pack. These dynamic conditions create an ever-changing canvas of mountain moods.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details remain a mystery, the campground's mountain setting provides that perfect high-country feel without the extreme altitude challenges.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering conifers create a natural cathedral above your campsite, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The Stanislaus River serves as the campground's liquid heartbeat, its gentle murmur providing a constant soundtrack to your stay. Wildlife enthusiasts regularly spot deer browsing at dawn, while countless hiking trails beckon from your tent flap, promising discoveries around every bend. This serene sanctuary offers the kind of profound quiet that city dwellers dream about.
Geological RegionSet within the majestic Stanislaus National Forest, this riverside haven showcases classic Sierra Nevada terrain where ancient granite meets verdant forest. The Stanislaus River has carved its course through these mountains over millennia, creating a dramatic landscape of rushing water, weathered stone, and dense coniferous forests that exemplify California's stunning mountain wilderness.
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Campsite details
Sites PrivacyReviews suggest that the sites are relatively close together, with one reviewer mentioning, 'This place was clean and well kept but busy and not much space between camp spots.'
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReviews recommend arriving early to secure sites such as #2, which is right by the river.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Guests Allowed Per Site
It is not specified how many guests are allowed per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 17 sites, including two walk-in sites, with paved main roads and dirt-surfaced parking pads.
Open and Closed SeasonDeadman Campground does not feature advanced reservations and appears to operate on a first-come-first-served basis.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not applicable as the sites are first-come-first-serve.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 17 sites, including two walk-in sites, are first-come, first-served.
Cancellation PolicyFor individual campsites, cancellations on the day before arrival incur a $10 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night’s fees.
Amenities available
Potable water
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Deadman Campground provides a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Its proximity to Kennedy Meadows Resort offers additional amenities such as horseback riding.
Hiking
The area around the campground features several hiking trails. One reviewer noted enjoying day hikes and a guided half-day horse ride.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with reviews describing it as a great spot for anglers. 'Definitely recommend for fishing and a beautiful place to camp right on the Stanislaus River,' one user mentioned.Wildlife viewing
Campers frequently observe wildlife in the area. One review highlights the vivid night sky, stating, 'So vivid, like you were in outer space!'Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Rules regarding campfires are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsCold nights, unpredictable storms, and proximity to a river may pose hazards.
Weather at Deadman Campground
55
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
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Reveal forecast
Good to know
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is directly adjacent to the Stanislaus River, providing easy access for fishing, swimming, and scenic views.
Common complaintsUser complaints include unpredictable weather and limited spacing between sites.
HostMultiple reviews praise the campground hosts (John and his wife, Kenny) for their professionalism, friendliness, and diligence in keeping the site clean.
Campground Map
Driving directions29 miles east of Pinecrest off Highway 108 on Kennedy Meadow Road, near Baker Campground and Kennedy Meadow Trailhead.
The main road is paved, while parking pads are dirt-surfaced, which could pose challenges under certain weather conditions.Nearby places
Pinecrest (29 miles)
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.8
11 reviews
Deadman Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Deadman Campground is widely praised for its scenic location along the Stanislaus River, cleanliness, and proximity to outdoor activities. However, some users note the unpredictability of the weather and the close proximity of campsites.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and well-maintained facilities, friendly and professional camp hosts, scenic location by the river, and excellent opportunities for fishing and hiking.
Based on 11 reviewsCommon Concerns
Unpredictable and cold weather, closely spaced campsites, and occasional crowding.
Based on 11 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring warm sleeping bags and waterproof gear due to unpredictable weather. Arrive early to secure a spot, especially during peak times, as the campground is first-come, first-served. Consider...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is popular in the warmer months for its fishing and hiking opportunities. However, cold weather and unpredictable storms can impact the camping experience, especially at night.
Based on 11 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'John and his wife keep this campground super clean! Outhouses so clean you can't believe they're outhouses!!!' - Dawna Smylie.
- 'Beautiful and relaxing, and if you don’t feel like cooking when...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #2 is highlighted as a prime spot right on the river. 'We were fortunate to get campsite right on the river, #2. Beautiful and relaxing,' a reviewer noted.
Based on 11 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated December 7, 2025
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