Valley Oak Recreation Area
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Total Campsites
Campground
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Reservable Sites
Check by phone
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Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
Organization
Overview
About Valley Oak Recreation Area
Overview Valley Oak Campground is part of the park system scattered along the lower Stanislaus River within the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. The environmental campground boasts quiet, peaceful tent sites situated next to the river’s edge. The scenic recreation areas and river access points are popular for activities such as rafting, picnicking, hiking and much more. Stanislaus River Parks is often referred to as the “string of pearls” since they serve as charming, quiet oasis running through a number of small towns and cities. Recreation The campground offers an excellent base camp for exciting recreation opportunities. The park boasts walking and hiking trails, picnic areas and river access points for fishing and boating. Facilities The campground offers an excellent base camp for exciting recreation opportunities. The park boasts walking and hiking trails, picnic areas and river access points for fishing and boating. Natural Features The campground scenery is a pleasant mix of Fremont cottonwoods, Valley Oak and the occasional elderberry bush, offering excellent shade with dispersed rays of sunshine. Nearby, grasses, shrubs and seasonal wildflowers fill the open spaces. Wildlife is also plentiful in the park with mule deer, acorn woodpeckers, scrub jays, foxes and squirrels among lots of other fauna. Nearby Attractions Within a short 15 min drive, campers can explore the historic town of Knights Ferry, rich with history of the gold rush era. Within the historic district, lies Knights Ferry Recreation Area, home to the longest covered bridge west of the Mississippi River and a National Historic Landmark dedicated in 2014. The park boasts walking and hiking trails, picnic areas and river access points. Visitors can learn about the area when they visit the Knights Ferry Visitors Center, which contains a small museum highlighting local, natural, and cultural resources. Visitors have a unique opportunity to make reservations with local rafting companies to journey down the Stanislaus River. During the summer months, rafters can enjoy guided and self-guided floats down the lower Stanislaus River. For thrill seekers, the fall season brings perfect flows for advanced white water in the Goodwin Canyon. Fall also brings thousands of Chinook salmon returning to the Stanislaus River to spawn, completing and beginning their lifecycles. Onlookers, can view the spawning salmon from several river access points along the river. Charges & Cancellations Contact Recreation.gov for changes or cancellations.
Our Take
What makes Valley Oak Recreation Area special
Valley Oak Recreation Area earns its reputation as one of the Sierra foothills' most inviting riverside campgrounds. Tent sites sit right at the edge of the Stanislaus River, part of the celebrated chain of parks locals call the "string of pearls" along this stretch of water. Wake up to the sound of the current, then spend your day floating, rafting, or simply wading in the cool river shallows. The oak-studded grasslands surrounding camp feel distinctly Californian — golden hills, sprawling valley oaks, and blue skies that seem to stretch forever. Spring is the magic season, when wildflowers blanket the hillsides and snowmelt keeps the river running strong for rafters. Summer stays warm and swimmable but can get hot, so grab a shaded site if you can. Bring a basic raft or inner tube for lazy afternoon floats. Valley Oak is perfect for tent camping purists, river lovers, and families seeking an unplugged weekend close to the Oakdale and Modesto area.
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
209-881-3517
Getting There
From Oakdale, California, take CA-120 W/N Yosemite Avenue northwest. In 1.3 miles, Turn right on Rodden Road and continue for approximately 5.4 miles, then turn right into Valley Oak Recreation Area. Proceed past the park entrance until you reach the parking lot. From Sonora, California, take CA-108 West. In approximately 30 miles turn right on Landcaster Road. In 1.7 miles, turn right on to Orange Blossom Road. In 0.6 Miles turn left onto Rodden Road. Continue on Rodden Road for 2.5 Miles and then turn left into Valley Oak Recreation Area. Proceed past the park entrance until you reach the parking lot.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to Valley Oak Recreation Area.
How do reservations work for Valley Oak Recreation Area?
Reservation availability for Valley Oak Recreation Area can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at Valley Oak Recreation Area?
Campsite type details are limited right now. Check back as this listing is enriched.
Where is Valley Oak Recreation Area located?
Valley Oak Recreation Area is in California near OAKDALE.
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