Reservations possible?
No
RV Hookups
No
Potable water
Yes
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Wakaluu is the Miwuk word for river, and Hep Yoo speaks to a wild force in nature. The Wakaluu Hep Yoo, or Wild River, Campground represents the wild forces of the western slope of the Sierra well. Situated on the banks of the rugged North Fork of the Stanislaus River, the campground remains an important cultural site for the Miwuk, who seasonally occupied the river canyon for over 2,000 years. 

Today the campground is part of the Sourgrass Recreation Area, which includes a day use picnic area located across the river. Closed between early-October until Memorial Day, Wakaluu Hep Yoo’s main draw are river recreation activities that include fishing and whitewater rafting. The North Fork of the Stanislaus has good trout fishing for both planted and wild trout, and there is a put-in here for whitewater downstream.

Sitting at 3,900 feet in elevation, the riverside campground is shaded by a forest of ponderosa pine, black oak, and incense cedar. Restrooms with showers are provided. All campsites are on a first-come, first-served basis and can accommodate vehicles up to 50 feet. Campfires are permitted with a free fire permit only.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Scenic riverside camping in a mature forest. Decent fishing.

Cons

Closed by mid-October.

Pets allowed

Allowed

Managed by

Forest Service

Features

ADA accessible
Flushing toilets
Showers
Swimming holes
Potable water

Location

Nearby Adventures

Calaveras Big Trees State Park
Calaveras Big Trees State Park, California

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