Wakalu Hep Yo (Wild River) Campground

Star4.40
111 reviews
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Quick Facts

4,068 ft

Price

$20/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

50 campsites

Season

Seasonal operations ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens US Forest Service site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Wakalu Hep Yo (Wild River) Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Recreation use fees are $20 per site. Payment can be made using cash or check directly at the site.
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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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What Campers Say

4.40

Recommended

Based on 111 reviews

99 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulspacioussites

"Overall, users appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the campground, with the North Fork Stanislaus River being a highlight. Some expressed concerns about cleanliness, noise from other campers, and wasps."

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Campground Map

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Wakalu Hep Yo (Wild River) Campground

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Driving directionsHighway 4 to Dorrington, northeast on Boards Crossing Road.
Road access includes paved concrete roads leading into the campground. Seasonal conditions like wildfires may impact the journey. The route via Boards Crossing Road is straightforward but may involve elevation changes.
Nearby places
Camp Connell (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Camp Connell, approximately 5 miles south on Bear Road/Highway 4, offers groceries, fuel, and camping essentials.

Best Time to Camp at Wakalu Hep Yo (Wild River) Campground

Summer brings perfect camping conditions to this riverside retreat, with crisp morning temperatures around 45°F giving way to comfortable 69°F afternoons under brilliant blue skies. The dry season creates ideal conditions for outdoor adventures, though savvy campers should monitor regional wildfire activity during peak summer months, as smoke from distant blazes can occasionally drift through the canyon.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Described as 'perfect camping conditions' in summer with crisp mornings and comfortable afternoons.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Late-season fishing remains good; cooler temps and fewer crowds after summer holidays.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Late spring recommended; wildflowers, butterflies and active fishing noted into the season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Seasonal operations and water reliability affected by wildfires/maintenance; limited winter appeal.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: No specific peak season dates specified. User reviews suggest late spring through early fall as the most active period.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Seasonal operations indicated in reviews with water availability affected by wildfires and maintenance.
  • Current Alerts: Water fountains and other amenities may be non-operational due to wildfires or maintenance, as stated in user reviews.

About Wakalu Hep Yo (Wild River) Campground

Nestled within a cathedral of towering conifers and ancient oaks, Wakalu Hep Yo (Wild River) Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape along the rushing waters of the North Fork Stanislaus River. This hidden gem operates on a first-come, first-served basis, welcoming adventurers seeking primitive camping experiences where the sounds of the river replace the noise of modern life. Whether you arrive by vehicle or trek in on foot, you'll discover a tranquil sanctuary where nature sets the pace.
The campground caters to first-come, first-served campers with options for drive-up and walk-in sites. Group sites are also available.
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Stay Limit
No information provided in authoritative sources about maximum consecutive nights allowed.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The campground provides access to a variety of outdoor activities. Highlights include fishing, swimming, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The river is a central feature, though it is noted to be fast-moving and potentially dangerous in certain areas.
FishingThe North Fork Stanislaus River offers fishing opportunities. One reviewer noted, "fishing was still going strong this late in the season."
SwimmingSwimming areas are available but caution is advised. The river is described as fast-moving and cold. Users recommend avoiding certain areas near the bridge, which are deemed unsafe.
Wildlife viewingWildlife such as dragonflies and butterflies are commonly seen. One reviewer noted, "we saw hundreds of dragonflies and butterflies flying over the river."
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWildfire risks frequently noted; fast-flowing, cold river water poses swim hazards. Mosquitoes and yellow jackets are common.
Active AlertsWater fountains and other amenities may be non-operational due to wildfires or maintenance, as stated in user reviews.

Weather at Wakalu Hep Yo (Wild River) Campground

Reviews

4.4
111 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Wakalu Hep Yo (Wild River) Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the campground, with the North Fork Stanislaus River being a highlight. Some expressed concerns about cleanliness, noise from other campers, and wasps.
Review Summaries
Based on 111 reviews

What Campers Love

Beautiful natural setting, spacious campsites, proximity to the river, and a peaceful environment are frequently mentioned positives.
Based on 111 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include littering, inconsistent water availability, poorly maintained bathrooms, and noise from other campers.
Based on 111 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring bug spray for wasps and mosquitoes, confirm water availability beforehand, and avoid swimming in fast-moving areas of the river.
Based on 111 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is less crowded after peak summer holidays like the 4th of July. Some amenities such as water spigots may not be reliable during certain seasons.
Based on 111 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Great campsites. I visited after the 4th of July and it wasn't crowded at all." "First come, first serve campsite with at least 50 campsites." "Bring a bug tent for the wasps." "The water was not...
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Based on 111 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #25 is quiet but lacks shade due to tree removal. Walk-in sites are described as having more mosquitoes compared to drive-up sites.
Based on 111 reviews

Accessibility Features

Some campsites are accessible and suitable for groups.
Based on 111 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but no specific pet-related amenities or challenges were noted.
Based on 111 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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Wakalu Hep Yo (Wild River) Campground