Eureka Valley Campground

4.48

36 reviews

Quick Facts

6,073 ft

Price

$3 - $8/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

28 campsites

Season

Open season unspecif...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens booking site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

6,073 ft

Price

$3 - $8/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

28 campsites

Season

Open season unspecif...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens booking site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Eureka Valley Campground

$3.00 - $8.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees vary by reservation method: $8 if made online or through the app; $9 if made through the contact center; $3 if made in person.

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

Get Notified When Available

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

Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes

150,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

Help improve this page

See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

4.48

Recommended

Based on 36 reviews

37 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietpeacefulshadehiking

"Eureka Valley Campground is praised for its serene environment, proximity to the Stanislaus River, and large campsites. Visitors appreciate the natural setting and recreational opportunities, though some note limited amenities."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Eureka Valley Campground

38.3387, -119.7811

Driving directions26 miles east of Pinecrest on Highway 108.

The campground is accessible via Highway 108, located 26 miles east of Pinecrest. Roads to the campground and parking pads are dirt-surfaced.

Nearby places

Pinecrest, 26 miles

Nearby supplies

Shops at Dardanelle and Kennedy Meadows are a few miles away offering groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.

Best Time to Camp at Eureka Valley Campground

The campground truly comes alive during the warm embrace of summer and the golden days of fall, when the forest canopy filters dappled sunlight and the river runs at its most inviting temperatures. As September arrives, crisp mountain evenings remind campers to pack extra layers, with nighttime temperatures dropping enough to make campfires especially welcoming. Winter transforms this riverside retreat into a snow-covered wonderland, with weekly snowfalls often reaching 8 inches and temperatures plummeting to create a dramatically different, though equally beautiful, landscape that's best left to the most adventurous cold-weather campers.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Campground 'comes alive' in summer; warm weather and river activities favored by reviewers.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Golden days of fall praised; pleasant temperatures though nights can get cold in September.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

No specific spring info; elevation suggests variable conditions and possible snow.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Operational in summer/early fall per reviews; winter accessibility not indicated.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: No explicit peak season dates; likely summer based on user reviews.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season unspecified; however, user reviews indicate that the campground is operational in summer and early fall.

About Eureka Valley Campground

Nestled along the pristine banks of the Stanislaus River, Eureka Valley Campground offers an intimate escape into nature with 28 thoughtfully spaced campsites carved from the forest floor. This hidden gem features dirt-surfaced sites that blend seamlessly with the natural landscape, including two spacious double sites perfect for families traveling together and four secluded walk-in sites for those seeking a more immersive wilderness experience. The campground maintains a rustic charm with vault toilet facilities and three hand-pump wells that provide fresh mountain water, allowing visitors to disconnect from modern life while staying comfortably equipped for their outdoor adventure.

Eureka Valley Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including spaces for RVs, trailers, and tents.

Weather and SeasonsThe campground truly comes alive during the warm embrace of summer and the golden days of fall, when the forest canopy filters dappled sunlight and the river runs at its most inviting temperatures. As September arrives, crisp mountain evenings remind campers to pack extra layers, with nighttime temperatures dropping enough to make campfires especially welcoming. Winter transforms this riverside retreat into a snow-covered wonderland, with weekly snowfalls often reaching 8 inches and temperatures plummeting to create a dramatically different, though equally beautiful, landscape that's best left to the most adventurous cold-weather campers.

ElevationTucked within the majestic mountainous terrain of Stanislaus National Forest, Eureka Valley Campground sits at an elevation that perfectly balances accessibility with that authentic high-country feel. The surrounding peaks and valleys create a natural amphitheater that captures both morning mists and evening alpenglow, offering campers a front-row seat to the Sierra Nevada's daily theatrical performance.

Natural Features and SceneryTowering conifers create a living cathedral above the campground, their branches forming a natural canopy that provides welcome shade during warm afternoons and frames starlit skies at night. Ancient granite boulders scattered throughout the area serve as natural playgrounds for children and adults alike, their smooth surfaces warmed by the sun inviting exploration and contemplation. The melodic sounds of the Stanislaus River provide a constant soundtrack, its crystal-clear waters just steps away from your campsite, offering endless opportunities for streamside relaxation, fishing, or simply dipping your toes in the refreshing current.

Geological RegionEureka Valley Campground rests in the heart of Stanislaus National Forest, where millennia of geological forces have sculpted a landscape of stunning contrasts. The campground's location along the Stanislaus River showcases the region's signature granite formations - massive monoliths and scattered boulders that tell the story of ancient glaciers and volcanic activity. Dense coniferous forests have taken root among these rocky sentinels, creating a rich tapestry of stone and wood that defines this spectacular corner of the Sierra Nevada, where every vista reveals the powerful intersection of water, rock, and time.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Guests Allowed Per Site

Sites are generally spacious enough for RVs, trailers, or multiple tents.

Groups

No specific details about group camping were provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layout28 dirt-surfaced sites are spread across the campground with 2 double sites and 4 walk-in sites.

Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platforms due to walk-up-only availability.

Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates exclusively on a first-come-first-served basis.

Cancellation PolicyReservations cannot be made in advance. As a walk-up campground, cancellations do not apply.

AccessibilityNo information about specific accessibility features for campers with disabilities was provided.

Site SizeSites are described as large and able to accommodate RVs, trailers, or multiple tents.

PrivacySome sites offer privacy alongside the Stanislaus River, while others are more open near granite rock formations.

Total Campsites28 campsites

Recommended SitesSites along the river are highly recommended for their proximity to water and scenic views. Granite rock sites offer exploration and stargazing.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Eureka Valley Campground provides access to a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, and enjoying the nearby river. The campground is also a base for exploring the Stanislaus National Forest and nearby wilderness areas.

HikingUsers mentioned nearby hikes and trails, describing them as enjoyable. Specifics about trail difficulty or length were not mentioned.

ClimbingClimbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.

FishingFishing is a popular activity at the campground, with reviewers praising the quality of fishing spots. A valid fishing license may be required.

SwimmingThere is a swimming hole on the Stanislaus River about a mile away at the Douglas Flat picnic area.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSteep paths to the river may require caution, especially for children and individuals with mobility challenges.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted but must comply with any active fire regulations.

Emergency ServicesSummit Ranger Station, located 26 miles west of the campground, provides ranger services. Emergency services in Pinecrest.

Trash & RecyclingNo specific details about trash and recycling facilities are provided, but standard practices in unmanaged campgrounds suggest visitors may need to pack out their own waste.

Water FeaturesLocated alongside the Stanislaus River; a trail leads from the host site to the river.

Camp HostThe campground has a host site with a trail leading to the river, but further information about host services is unavailable.

Weather at Eureka Valley Campground

Reviews

4.5

36 reviews

Recommended

Eureka Valley Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Eureka Valley Campground is praised for its serene environment, proximity to the Stanislaus River, and large campsites. Visitors appreciate the natural setting and recreational opportunities, though some note limited amenities.

Review Summaries

Based on 36 reviews

What Campers Love

- Proximity to the Stanislaus River with excellent fishing opportunities - Large campsites suitable for RVs and tents - Quiet and peaceful environment, ideal for stargazing - Access to hiking trails...

Based on 36 reviews

Common Concerns

- Vault toilets are functional but can have odors - Lack of modern amenities, including no electricity, water hookups, or showers - Some campsites are on an incline, which may be inconvenient for...

Based on 36 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- Arrive early on a Thursday or Friday to secure a spot, as crowds increase on weekends - Bring a fishing license for the river - Prepare for dry camping with no hookups or modern facilities -...

Based on 36 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is well-loved during the warmer months for its accessibility to outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. In September, temperatures can drop significantly at night, while summer...

Based on 36 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Been camping here for over 25 years now ever since I was a young one. About a dozen spots right along the Stanislaus River so pull up a chair and listen to the greatest sound in the universe." -...

Based on 36 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

- Sites along the Stanislaus River offer the best views and access to water activities. - Some sites near granite rock formations provide a unique, scenic environment for stargazing. - A few...

Based on 36 reviews