Mchenry Avenue Recreation Area

About

McHenry Avenue Recreation Area is part of the Stanislaus River Parks system, often called the "string of pearls" for its charming oases along the lower Stanislaus River. This environmental campground is managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers and sits in the Sierra Nevada foothills about 10 miles north of Modesto. The campground offers 12 individual tent sites and one group site, all positioned close to the river's edge. Each site includes a fire ring and picnic table. Campsites are tent-only with no vehicle access to sites and no hookups. The setting features Fremont cottonwoods, Valley Oaks, and occasional elderberry bushes providing natural shade, though hazard tree removal has reduced canopy coverage. Recreation opportunities include fishing, rafting, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The area is home to mule deer, acorn woodpeckers, scrub jays, and foxes. Within a 35-minute drive, visitors can explore Knights Ferry, featuring the longest covered bridge west of the Mississippi River.

Directions

From Modesto, take McHenry Avenue north. Turn left on East River Road and continue approximately 1 mile, then turn left into McHenry Avenue Recreation Area. Proceed past the park entrance station and stop sign at the intersection until you reach the parking lot. From Escalon, take McHenry Avenue south, turn right on East River Road, and follow the same route.