How much does camping cost at Moore Creek Campground?

Camping at Moore Creek Campground is free. Confirm current rules and whether separate reservation, entrance, parking, or amenity fees apply.

Is Moore Creek Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Moore Creek Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. "First come first serve."

Can I see photos of campsites at Moore Creek Campground before I book?

Yes! Moore Creek Campground has 3 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 Moore Creek Campground?

Moore Creek Campground is open Site Open. 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 Moore Creek Campground?

Moore Creek Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Are dogs allowed at Moore Creek Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Moore Creek Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What activities can I do at Moore Creek Campground?

Popular activities at Moore Creek Campground include Fishing, Swimming, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Moore Creek Campground

3.71

17 reviews

SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

3,330 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

Varies

Season

Site Open

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

3,330 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

Varies

Season

Site Open

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Moore Creek Campground

Free

Campsite Fees

"The campground is free. "

No campsite fee categories listed.

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

USFS

Provider

nullnull

I manage this campground

Ask Camp Sage about Moore Creek Campground

Availability, what to pack, similar spots — ask anything and get an instant answer.

Campground Map

Moore Creek Campground

38.4799, -120.2663

Weather at Moore Creek Campground

Current alert: "Campground in closure status. "

Best Time to Camp at Moore Creek Campground

Summer brings daytime highs between 75–90°F with nights dropping to the mid-40s to mid-50s°F. The river beach is warmest and most inviting then, though expect busier conditions on weekends and fire-season restrictions during peak months. Mornings and evenings offer the best fishing. Holiday weekends mean more river traffic and competition for the better sites.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Swimming hole and warm temps (75–90°F) make summer the site's highlight despite crowds.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Site Open

About Moore Creek Campground

Moore Creek Campground sits along the Mokelumne River in Stanislaus National Forest at 3,330 feet elevation. The free primitive campground draws visitors for its riverside beach and swimming hole, though weekends bring crowds and maintenance struggles. Sites are spread out enough to avoid feeling cramped.

The campground appears to cater to primitive camping, with limited facilities and a focus on natural attractions.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings daytime highs between 75–90°F with nights dropping to the mid-40s to mid-50s°F. The river beach is warmest and most inviting then, though expect busier conditions on weekends and fire-season restrictions during peak months. Mornings and evenings offer the best fishing. Holiday weekends mean more river traffic and competition for the better sites.

Elevationnull

Natural Features and SceneryThe Mokelumne River defines this campground. A sandy beach stretches along the water, popular for picnics and wading. The swimming hole attracts families all summer. River sounds carry through camp. At this mid-elevation, you'll find typical Sierra Nevada forest. Pines, oaks, and granite outcroppings. Without the higher country's dramatic peaks.

Scenic Views"Scenic views of the Mokelumne River."

Lodging & AccommodationsThere is no information provided about hotel-style lodging or other accommodations.

Programs & ActivitiesCultural or educational programs are not referenced in any of the provided materials.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst come first serve.

AccessibilityAccessibility features are not discussed in any of the provided materials.

Site SizeThe exact size of the campsites is not specified, but user reviews note that 'the campsites are spread out enough so that you're not right on top of each other.

PrivacyUser reviews suggest a moderate level of privacy, as 'the campsites are spread out enough so that you're not right on top of each other.

Recommended SitesGet here early.

Best CampsitesReviewers mention "MONEY sites" worth arriving early for, though they don't specify locations. The best spots likely offer closer river access or better spacing from neighbors.

Amenities available

Potable water is not available at this site.

I manage this campground

Things to do at Moore Creek Campground

Moore Creek Campground offers a mix of natural attractions and recreational opportunities, though experiences are mixed based on user reviews.

Swimming4.0/5Top 21% in California

Beach activities4.0/5Top 24% in California

Fishing2.0/5

Water Sports2.0/5

River present but no kayaking/boat details; suitability unclear.

Winter Activities

Signature experiences

Stargazing3.5/5Primitive, free site in Stanislaus NF suggests darker skies, but no explicit mentions.

Photography3.5/5Scenic river views, sandy beach and granite outcrops provide good photo subjects; trash noted.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & Alerts"User reports of lots of trash. Bathroom issues."

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

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. 'Restrooms are not available at this site,' as stated in the authoritative content.

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

Rate Moore Creek Campground

Been here? Tap a star to start. Takes about a minute.

Sign-in required only if you want your name on it.

From Booking Sources

3.7

17 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Moore Creek Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews reveal a mixed experience at Moore Creek Campground. Highlights include the natural beauty of the area, the spread-out campsite layout, and the swimming hole. However, issues such as crowding, excessive trash, and poorly maintained restrooms are recurring themes.

Review Summaries

Based on 17 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciated the 'spread out' campsites, the fact that it's free, and the 'killer beach and swimming hole.'

Based on 17 reviews

Common Concerns

Criticisms include 'lots of trash everywhere,' poorly maintained restrooms described as 'the 3rd circle of Hell,' and a river that is 'pretty fished out.' Crowding was also noted as a downside.

Based on 17 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

One reviewer highlighted the importance of arriving early to secure 'MONEY sites.' No specific campsite numbers were mentioned.

Based on 17 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

One reviewer recommended arriving early to secure the best sites, referred to as 'MONEY sites.'

Based on 17 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The reviews do not provide specific seasonal insights, although the swimming hole and beach suggest visits during warmer weather might be more enjoyable.

Based on 17 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The campsites are spread out enough so that you're not right on top of each other.' 2. 'There is a killer beach and swimming hole.' 3. 'Lots of trash everywhere. I couldn't believe how much sh*t...

Based on 17 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features or experiences are not discussed in the provided reviews.

Based on 17 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are not mentioned in the provided materials.

Based on 17 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

Every adventure creates another. Share what you learned so the next camper feels a little more prepared heading out.

Moore Creek Campground

Free

Campsite Fees

"The campground is free. "

No campsite fee categories listed.

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

USFS

Provider

nullnull

Go if

Summer families chasing a river beach and swimming hole on a zero-dollar budget will find the spread-out sites worth the early arrival. Get there Friday morning to grab the 'money sites' before the weekend rush.

Skip if

The campground is currently closed, so no one should be booking a trip right now. When it reopens: no water, no toilets worth using, trash everywhere on weekends, and the fishing is largely picked over.

Nearby Campgrounds

Eldorado National Forest

Moore Campground sits in the Eldorado National Forest foothills of California, managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The exposed geological outcrops and wildflower displays draw photographers and day hikers, especially in spring when temperatures stay mild and wildlife is active. This is a straightforward base camp for exploring rock formations and trails without summer heat.

Eldorado National Forest

Mokelumne Campground sits in the Eldorado National Forest foothills with direct access to a reservoir and the Pardoe Trail. Operated by the Forest Service, this campground offers tent sites, primitive options, and group camping with vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Campers fish, swim, and hike from a peaceful base with mountain views.