River Ranch - Hacienda Campground

Star4.49
159 reviews
Hacienda Campground, River Ranch, Stanislaus National Forest

Quick Facts

2,530 ft

Price

$40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

50 campsites

Season

Open season starts M...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyShowersWiFi

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River Ranch - Hacienda Campground
$40.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The fee is $40 per night during peak season and includes 6 guests and 2 vehicles. Additional vehicles cost $5 each. Day use costs $5 per vehicle and...
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Standard Site Fee$40.00
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

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Provider
(209) 490-2267
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What Campers Say

4.49

Recommended

Based on 159 reviews

130 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulcleanshowersshade

Some mention

noisereservation

"User reviews highlight the campground's peaceful and naturally beautiful setting. While the camp host is frequently praised for being hospitable and helpful, there are concerns about maintenance of facilities, the presence of bugs, and the condition of roads leading to the campground."

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Campground Map

Hacienda Campground, River Ranch, Stanislaus National Forest

River Ranch - Hacienda Campground

Hacienda Campground, River Ranch, Stanislaus National Forest

Driving directions4 miles east of Tuolumne City on Cottonwood Road.
The campground is accessible via Cottonwood Road, located 4 miles east of Tuolumne City. User reviews mention challenges in accessing the site with average cars due to road conditions.
Nearby places
Tuolumne City (4 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Sonora (18 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Groveland (40 miles, approximately 50 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Tuolumne City is 4 miles away and provides access to groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.

Best Time to Camp at River Ranch - Hacienda Campground

Experience the full spectrum of Sierra Nevada weather at River Ranch - Hacienda. Summer days bring warm sunshine with temperatures climbing to a pleasant 90°F, perfect for water activities and evening campfires. When winter arrives, the landscape transforms into a cooler retreat with crisp 50°F days often accompanied by refreshing rain showers or enchanting snowfall. Spring and autumn emerge as the sweet spots for camping, offering gloriously moderate temperatures under clear, dry skies that showcase the region's natural beauty at its finest.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open May onward; summer brings warm weather and river activities though bugs/hot temps noted.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall likely excellent for scenery and cooler weather; reviews praise seasonal beauty.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Open from May 1; spring runoff may boost river but droughts can reduce flows.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground season starts May 1; winter access/operations not supported.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Peak season pricing applies starting May 1.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open season starts May 1 onwards.
  • Current Alerts: None reported.

About River Ranch - Hacienda Campground

Nestled in a tranquil shaded meadow where Basin Creek meets the North Fork Tuolumne River, River Ranch - Hacienda Campground offers the perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness charm. This unique destination seamlessly combines public and private lands, providing campers with sweeping scenic vistas while serving as your gateway to the expansive National Forest. Whether you're seeking riverside relaxation or mountain adventure, this campground positions you at the heart of nature's playground.
River Ranch - Hacienda Campground features a mix of public and private sites. Accommodations cater to both tent and RV camping, although there are no RV hookups available. Group camping is also an option, although it may require prior arrangements.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
Consecutive nights limit not specified in authoritative sources.

Amenities available

Showers
WiFi
Flush toilets
Firewood available
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Activities at River Ranch - Hacienda Campground revolve around its natural setting near the North Fork Tuolumne River. While the river provides opportunities for relaxation and wildlife viewing, there are no designated swimming areas, and some reviews suggest the water is more akin to a creek during low rainfall periods. Open fires are allowed, which enhances the camping experience for many visitors.
Wildlife viewingThe area offers abundant opportunities for wildlife viewing. Reviewers have mentioned spotting birds, bats, and even a bear during their stay. One reviewer highlighted: "Lots of birds, and tons of different types of trees."
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWildlife such as bears and skunks pose occasional risks. Mosquitoes and yellow jackets are frequent in hot conditions. Flooding concerns arise during heavy rains.
Active AlertsNone reported.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at River Ranch - Hacienda Campground

Reviews

4.5
159 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
River Ranch - Hacienda Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's peaceful and naturally beautiful setting. While the camp host is frequently praised for being hospitable and helpful, there are concerns about maintenance of facilities, the presence of bugs, and the condition of roads leading to the campground.
Review Summaries
Based on 159 reviews

What Campers Love

- 'The camp host is really nice and helpful.' - 'The river is beautiful and clean.' - 'The showers were described as a highlight.' - 'Lots of shade and a peaceful atmosphere.'
Based on 159 reviews

Common Concerns

- No potable water on-site. - Vault toilets in poor condition. - Roads leading to the campground described as difficult to navigate. - Reports of loud noise from fellow campers during quiet hours. -...
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Based on 159 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- Bring your own drinking and cooking water. - Be prepared for bugs, including mosquitoes and yellow jackets. - Make reservations in advance to secure a preferred spot. - Consider the drought's...
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Based on 159 reviews

Seasonal Insights

During dry seasons, the river turns into a creek, limiting water-based enjoyment. Hot weather can exacerbate bug problems, making it harder for campers to enjoy outdoor activities.
Based on 159 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'It was not a clean or safe space to stay. I'm blessed to say I found a great safe place.' 2. 'The riversong, singing gently in the background, was a nice bonus.' 3. 'Bring your own drinking and...
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Based on 159 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific feedback includes mixed reviews. For example, site 11R was praised for its proximity to the water and scenic views but criticized for being small. Another reviewer noted site 5B was...
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Based on 159 reviews

Accessibility Features

Limited reviews address accessibility directly, but one noted challenges for handicapped individuals trying to access the river.
Based on 159 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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