Camping spots near Merced, California occupy the Central Valley, positioned at elevations around 200 feet above sea level with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F. The area's campgrounds cluster around water features including the Merced River, Lake McSwain, and Lake McClure, creating cooler microclimates during hot seasons. These destinations serve as key recreation points for both local residents and travelers along Highway 99.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake McSwain Recreation Area offers excellent year-round fishing with consistent water levels. "We love McSwain. It is our go to camp ground in the area. It's close, clean and friendly. It's our thanksgiving weekend every year," notes Richard W. Trout fishing remains popular regardless of season.
Wildlife viewing: McClure Point Recreation Area provides excellent opportunities to observe local fauna. "We did see a couple tarantulas (one across the road and one on the way down from the entrance). They're harmless and kinda fun to watch. We also saw a couple deer and select of birds: turkey vultures, bluebirds, acorn woodpeckers, finches, Canadian geese and various ducks," writes Michael C.
Water recreation: COE Eastman Lake Codorniz Campground offers swimming and boating options when water levels permit. According to Haley M., "We drove to a beach area found about a mile up the road. There is also a day-use area across the lake with some good swimming sites." Water levels fluctuate seasonally due to irrigation demands.
What campers like
Quiet off-season camping: McConnell State Recreation Area Campground attracts visitors seeking peaceful riverside sites during shoulder seasons. Bradley A. explains, "I love this park and specially love the off season. I usually haul in just day hours and stay worry and bother free!"
Shaded sites: Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground receives praise for its tree cover. As one camper notes, "The campgrounds are nicely positioned with plenty of space for individuals or families. Best feature are the sites the run along the river. We hung out in the river all day located about 60ft from our campsite."
Security features: The Lakes RV & Golf Resort offers enhanced security that appeals to many visitors. "There is a high fence surrounding the property and it is secured by electronic hand held devices that you receive when you check in," reports Bill B., highlighting the resort's focus on safety.
What you should know
Shower conditions: McConnell State Recreation Area Campground has mixed reviews regarding shower facilities. A recent visitor reported, "The shower is of if you throw in quarters and close your eyes. It could use some TLC but was a quite place to stop for the night."
Noise considerations: Merced River Resort experiences significant noise issues according to some visitors. Eric G. warns, "Loud with highway noise, factory next door and train goes through many times a night. Most camper are there full time and are very sketchy."
Limited services: COE Eastman Lake Codorniz Campground requires advance planning due to remote location. "You are at least 30 minutes from any stores. The lake is beautiful but the campsites with power and water do not give a view of the lake at all with the exception of 42," notes Candy H.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Arena RV Park provides basic amenities with convenient highway access. "Nice campground for a night. A bit outdated, but clean shower and toilets. There is also a laundryroom. Good spaces and shade," reports Chantal K., making it suitable for overnight family stays.
Swimming options: Turlock Lake State Recreation Area Campground combines river access with camping convenience. One visitor shared, "My favorite time is during the late hours of the evening when things quiet down and falling asleep to the sounds of crickets and the river flowing by."
Kid-friendly activities: COE Eastman Lake Codorniz Campground offers designated play areas. "The campground was very clean and had rangers and a sheriff patrolling regularly (but not bothersome). There is a nice playground for the kids too," according to Haley M.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: McClure Point Recreation Area requires attention to spot choice and setup. Robin P. advises, "One interesting thing about the camp is that most of the spots you'd want to place your trailer in are on the 'other' side of the electric/water connections. This was fine, but make sure your hoses/cords are long enough to get around to the other side of your rig."
Hookup quality: Lake McSwain Recreation Area provides good utility connections for RVs. Ron R. confirms with a simple review: "Full hookups, close to the lake," making it a practical choice for RVers seeking convenience.
Campsite layout: McConnell State Recreation Area Campground offers spacious sites but with some maintenance concerns. Rich A. observed, "Good tent camping. The Merced river runs along the east side of the Park. 21 tent sites, showers, bathrooms, lost of tables and water for the sights to share."
