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Dry Gulch Campground sits on the north side of the Merced River. The small camp features walk-in tent sites on the river, shaded by a grove of pine and oak trees. Dry Gulch’s remote location makes for a quiet and peaceful camping experience.During the spring and early summer, the Merced River is a popular location for white water rafting and kayaking.
Things to do nearby
Sierra National ForestMerced RiverBass Lake
Best For
Families
Site Types
Tent
Amenities
Fire Rings
Picnic Tables
Vault Toilets
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Season
May through October
Max/site
6 people
Known Issues
Federal campground — book early. No hookups at most sites. Seasonal operations.
Cancellation Policy
Recreation.gov: full refund if cancelled 7+ days before arrival. $10 cancellation fee applies.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Dry Gulch cost per night?+
Dry Gulch costs $20 per night depending on site type and season. Hookup options: No hookups.
What season is Dry Gulch open?+
Dry Gulch is open May through October. Check-in is 2:00 PM, check-out is 12:00 PM.
Does Dry Gulch have hookups?+
No hookups.
What is the maximum RV length at Dry Gulch?+
Dry Gulch is primarily a tent camping facility. Contact the campground about RV access.
How do I make reservations at Dry Gulch?+
Dry Gulch is a federal campground — reservations open 6 months in advance at Recreation.gov. Sites sell out quickly. Set a free CamperWatch cancellation alert to be notified the moment a site opens.
How far is Dry Gulch from the nearest town?+
Dry Gulch is located in EL PORTAL, CA. Check the map above for distance to nearby services.
Own a campground nearby?
List free on CamperWatch — we take 5% only on bookings we send. No monthly fee.








