Camping Near Merced, CA

Are you in need of a campground near Merced, CA? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Merced campgrounds just for you. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your California camping adventure.

Best Camping Sites Near Merced, CA (130)

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake McSwain Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake McSwain Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake McSwain Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake McSwain Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake McSwain Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake McSwain Recreation Area

    1. Lake McSwain Recreation Area

    11 Reviews
    14 Photos
    77 Saves
    La Grange, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $30 - $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Campground — Point Reyes National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Campground — Point Reyes National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Campground — Point Reyes National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Campground — Point Reyes National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Campground — Point Reyes National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Campground — Point Reyes National Seashore
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes

    3. Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes

    37 Reviews
    124 Photos
    602 Saves
    Eastman Lake, California

    Yosemite Lakes RV Resort is located 80 miles east of Modesto, and just 5 miles west of Yosemite National Park’s Big Oak Flat entrance station. This large, year-round resort offers nearly 400 sites for RV and tent campers along the banks of the South Fork Tuolumne River. RV campers can choose from open, grassy spaces, or shady, wooded spaces with full hookups; tent campers can set up under mostly shady pine woods. Sites are equipped with picnic tables and fire pits, and restrooms and shower facilities are conveniently located throughout the resort. The resort also offers a variety of cottages, cabins, yurts and bunkhouses. Onsite amenities include a country store, laundry room, Wifi and satellite TV service, trash receptacles, gas station, and propane depot. Dogs are permitted. Reservations are recommended, however many tent sites are first-come, first-served. Seasonal campsite rates are $41–$75/night; other accommodations range from $86–$305/night. For campers looking for a little rest and relaxation time outside of the busy national park, the resort offers a variety of amenities and activities. There’s a playground for the kids, and mini golf, shuffleboard, horseshoes, and basketball for kids of all ages. Swimming, floating, fishing, and gold panning can be enjoyed on the South Fork Tuolumne River, which flows right through the resort area. The resort also hosts group activities, movies and weekend events. Nearby activities include swimming, fishing, boating and water skiing on Don Pedro Reservoir and New Melones Lake, as well as touring the old mining towns of Sonora, Angels Camp and Murphys. When it’s time to visit Yosemite National Park: Hetch Hetchy Reservoir is 45 minutes away; Yosemite Valley is 1 hour away; Tuolumne Meadows is 80 minutes away; and Mariposa Grove is 90 minutes away. In the busy summer season, it’s good to allow extra time to get to these destinations, and have patience looking for parking. Yosemite National Park, located in the heart of California’s spectacular Sierra Nevada Mountains, is, justifiably, one of America’s most popular national parks. Visitors flock to Yosemite every summer to marvel at its towering granite walls, domes and pinnacles, as well as its spectacular meadows, waterfalls and wildlife. No trip to Yosemite is complete without taking at least a short walk or hike to soak in the majesty of this glacier-carved landscape, away from the park’s busy roads and villages. Yet, with its limited camping and lodging options, it can be challenging to visit the park during its busy summer season. Fortunately, there are several campgrounds and resorts located just short distances outside of the park that make suitable alternatives to the often congested and overcrowded park facilities, while still allowing easy access to the park’s sights, attractions, and trails.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Wawona Campground — Yosemite National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wawona Campground — Yosemite National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wawona Campground — Yosemite National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wawona Campground — Yosemite National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wawona Campground — Yosemite National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wawona Campground — Yosemite National Park

    4. Wawona Campground — Yosemite National Park

    41 Reviews
    109 Photos
    125 Saves
    Wawona, California

    Overview

    Wawona Campground is located in breathtaking Yosemite National Park in Central California's rugged Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. The site is situated at the southern end of the park, 27 miles and approximately 45 minutes from Yosemite Valley, at an elevation of 4000 feet. Wawona was home to the park's headquarters in 1904 and historic structures still stand today. The majestic Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is just a short drive away. Within Yosemite, visitors gaze upon waterfalls, sheer granite cliffs, deep valleys, grand meadows, ancient giant sequoias, a vast wilderness area and much more. When on reservation, Wawona campsites are available to reserve up to five months in advance on the 15th of each month at 7:00 a.m. PST. For example, on January 15, arrival dates for the period May 15 to June 14 become available to reserve, and therefore, the full arrival date window would be from the campground open date to June 14. Reservation Tips! Campsites in Yosemite are extremely popular and typically sell out in minutes. Login to your account or create a new account before the 7:00 a.m. (PST) release time. You may only add reservations to your cart and proceed with your reservation if you are logged into your account. The recreation.gov call center does NOT have access to additional sites or additional information beyond what is published on recreation.gov. Yosemite National Park Campground Reservation Dates

    Recreation

    Yosemite's trails, cliffs, roads, and rivers provide endless recreational activities for any kind of visitor. Hiking, biking, rock climbing, fishing, horseback riding, rafting, auto touring, and photography are all very popular activities within the park. The Pioneer Yosemite History Center is like stepping back in time. A visit to the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, just four miles away, is a must-do. A network of hiking trails within the grove leads to stately trees with names like Grizzly Giant, Faithful Couple, and California Tunnel Tree.Wawona offers several additional hiking trails, including the Wawona Meadow Loop, Swinging Bridge Loop, Alder Creek and Chilnualna Falls.

    Natural Features

    The area is forested with a diverse mix of ponderosa pine, incense-cedar, white fir, and whiteleaf manzanita, which offers a pleasant combination of sun and shade. The gentle South Fork of the Merced River flows alongside the campground.

    Nearby Attractions

    Just 45 minutes away is Yosemite Valley, an awe-inspiring landscape containing many of the famous features for which Yosemite National Park is known. Hiking trails and bike paths are abundant in the valley. Rafting the Merced River is a fun way to cool down on a summer day when water levels are sufficient. Yosemite Valley also offers numerous guided bus tours, educational programs, museums, ranger-led activities, and an art center with workshops. A scenic 45-minute drive leads to Glacier Point, with its sweeping views of Yosemite Valley, Little Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, Vernal and Nevada Falls, and Clouds Rest, among other notable landmarks. The Tioga Road, in the central region of the park, offers a 39-mile scenic drive past forests, meadows, lakes, and granite domes. Tuolumne Meadows embodies the high-country of the Sierra Nevada, with its broad sub-alpine meadows and granite domes and peaks. Beautiful Hetch Hetchy Reservoir is home to spectacular scenery and numerous wilderness trailheads.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Cancellation of individual or equestrian site reservations will be charged a $10 service fee. If the cancellation is within 48 hours of the arrival date, the first night's fee will also be charged. Cancellations for a single nights use within 48 hours will not receive a refund, but will not be assessed an additional service fee. Cancellation of a group site reservation will incur a $10.00 service fee plus the first nights use fee when the reservation is cancelled within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date. No-shows for any type of reservation will be charged a $20 service fee and the first night's fee.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $28 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging
    Camper-submitted photo from Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging
    Camper-submitted photo from Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging
    Camper-submitted photo from Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging
    Camper-submitted photo from Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging
    Camper-submitted photo from Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging

    5. Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging

    23 Reviews
    70 Photos
    198 Saves
    Groveland, California

    Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging offers some of the best lodging near Yosemite National Park, with many types of cabins, plus yurts and RV and tent sites. While here, enjoy our large swimming pool, volleyball court, deli and Petting Farm! Spend your days at Yosemite and the surrounding Gold Country towns and return to stay with us, where peace and quiet is plentiful! Relax and recharge in a family-friendly setting, ready for your next day’s adventure!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from McConnell State Recreation Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from McConnell State Recreation Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from McConnell State Recreation Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from McConnell State Recreation Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from McConnell State Recreation Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from McConnell State Recreation Area Campground

    6. McConnell State Recreation Area Campground

    5 Reviews
    20 Photos
    36 Saves
    Atwater, California

    Group Camping Area

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $30 - $200 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from McClure Point Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from McClure Point Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from McClure Point Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from McClure Point Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from McClure Point Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from McClure Point Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Codorniz Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Codorniz Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Codorniz Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Codorniz Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Codorniz Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Codorniz Campground

    8. Codorniz Campground

    8 Reviews
    11 Photos
    43 Saves
    Raymond, California

    Overview

    Codorniz Campground on Eastman Lake is a perfect launchpad for activities like canoeing, birding and hiking. Tucked in the Sierra Nevada foothills, the area attracts abundant wildlife like bobcats, golden eagles, mountain lions, hawks and wood ducks.

    Recreation

    Eastman Lake is the first designated Trophy Bass Fishery, by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Both young and old anglers will find fishing on Eastman lake a satisfying challenge. At the campground, visitors can try their hand at disc golf or challenge a group of friends to a game of volleyball. Horseshoe pits are also available for a little friendly competition.

    Natural Features

    The rolling hills around Eastman Lake are surrounded by tall grasses and scattered oak trees, giving way to stunning mountain views. The lake features 1,780 surface acres, fed by the cool waters of the Chowchilla River.

    Nearby Attractions

    The Sierra National Forest is a short drive to the east of the campground.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site

    9. Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site

    29 Reviews
    51 Photos
    1070 Saves
    Fish Camp, California

    Dispersed Camping is allowed in the National Forest except in the area surrounding Huntington Lake, Shaver Lake, Bass Lake, Redinger Lake, and the Merced River Canyon. Campfire permits are required at all times whenever you plan to have a fire on public land outside of a developed campground. When building a fire please remember to only pick up down and dead wood that is no larger than wrist size and to never leave a campfire unattended.

    You can obtain a campfire permit at any Forest office or online at http://www.prevetnwildfireca.org/. Be sure to check and see if campfire restrictions are in effect, when campfire restrictions are in place you will not be able to make a fire in dispersed camping areas (Developed Designated Campgrounds Only) but, you will be able to operate gas stoves, and lanterns with your permit.

    When camping in the Forest proper food storage is also required either using a bear box, or by the proper use of the counter balance method. While camping anywhere in the forest also keep in mind that there are other people in the forest and we advise you to respect them and their space.

    You may stay at one campsite for a limit of 14 days and you may stay on each district for a limit of 21 days before we will ask you to vacate. Please follow ENVUM maps for all designated roads and vehicle limitations.

    We ask you to always remember to pack out what you pack in. Human waste needs to be buried 6 to 8 inches deep. For any other questions about visiting and camping in the forest and in the wilderness please visit LeaveNoTrace.org.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Merced River Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Merced River Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Merced River Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Merced River Resort

    10. Merced River Resort

    5 Reviews
    4 Photos
    11 Saves
    Stevinson, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
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Showing results 1-10 of 130 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Merced

Recent Reviews in Merced

603 Reviews of 130 Merced Campgrounds


  • William J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mariposa Fairgrounds
    Dec. 3, 2024

    Mariposa Fairgrounds

    Camping at the fair.

    Full hookups on level gravel pads. We stayed in lot 5 at the back of the fair grounds, and it was quiet at night. The showers were clean, and the wifi was the best campground internet we have experienced. It is 2 miles from town, but there are plenty of restaurants and a market in Mariposa to make the trip worthwhile Make sure you go to the Mine and Mineral museum on the the grounds.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
    Nov. 30, 2024

    Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site

    Ideal

    Quite a large level area, though it was November and not peak season so there were loads of space. We pulled in and there were a couple of trailers with horses and a couple of other vehicles and we parked with loads of space between. When we left early in the morning a handful more of vehicles had joined.

  • Natalie T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tumey Hills Box Canyon
    Nov. 22, 2024

    Tumey Hills Box Canyon

    Bewarned; Target shooting +11 hrs/day

    First, knowing nothing about this area of CA I looked for a spot to set up for a few to dry out, we'd just dropped out of Shasta Mt b4 heavy winter storms. Arrived late afternoon to set up. Problem is the ground is covered, literally, with all the casings, glass, human trash everywhere 😮‍💨 🙏 please, always pack out a bit more than you've created in an area. These pics are the cleanest spot I could find. 😪

  • Jason B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tumey Hills Box Canyon
    Nov. 15, 2024

    Tumey Hills Box Canyon

    This is closed

    The nature minder people closed this down and Panoche hills down due to environmental concerns regarding the decrease in population of a lizard.

  • Caroline S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Shooting Star Sanctuary and Retreat near Yosemite National Forest
    Nov. 10, 2024

    Shooting Star Sanctuary and Retreat near Yosemite National Forest

    Perfectly Peaceful

    What a gem! We loved our two-night stay surrounded by the animals. While the dirt road/driveway is a bit bumpy, we had no problem with our 23' Airstream -- just go slowly and you'll be fine (there was a 40' Class A there, too, if that says anything). Great host who is truly kind. Quiet, peaceful, and fun...what more do you need?

  • Chris P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Nov. 9, 2024

    Hardin Flat Road

    Dispersed Camping MINUTES from Yosemite NP

    Spent (2) nights here and loved it. Enough T-Mobile service for messaging and lite web browsing. Spacious pull-out with a small rock fire pit. I believe fires are allowed as long as you have a permit.

    ~8min drive to Big Oak Entrance and ~40min drive to Yosemite Valley Welcome Center. Why stay at Hodgdon when you can stay here!

  • cThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kamook Staging Camp
    Oct. 18, 2024

    Kamook Staging Camp

    Hidden space close to Yosemite NP

    I was expecting bad conditions because of the previous comments but it was actually a good surprise. It's very close to the entrance of Yosemite, in our case it was very quiet and well isolated. There is no view or wow effect but it's great location and isolated.

  • Be L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Diamond Gulch
    Sep. 27, 2024

    Diamond Gulch

    perfect

    Was a wonderful experience! The host was super helpful even at night when we didn’t find our designated spot (even though it had super obvious signs - our fault) Super lovely host and a beautiful ranch. A lot of fireplaces with wood. Can only recommend lighting up a little campfire and stargazing at night! Bring some marshmallows with you !

  • Miles L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Evergreen Rd Dispersed camping
    Sep. 25, 2024

    Evergreen Rd Dispersed camping

    A few spots scattered along the road

    Nothing fancy or too expansive, but a handful of spots on either side of the road. Certainly easier to settle in before it’s dark.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Medeiros Primitive Campsites — San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area
    Sep. 25, 2024

    Medeiros Primitive Campsites — San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area

    Great for a stopover

    This place always comes through for us when we need a quiet place to stay when traveling in the area. It's $20/night, there seems to always be room, and it's always been nice and quiet when we stay here.

    Sites are hit or miss, so drive around until you find one that suits you. One of these days we'll nab one of the sites to the right of the fork when you enter the campground, but they always seem to be taken.

    Good cell reception, pit toilets, trash dumpster (no recycling).

  • Mouni The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kamook Staging Camp
    Sep. 23, 2024

    Kamook Staging Camp

    Not ideal

    This is more of an ATV spot, I arrived on a Sunday evening and the ATV people were set up and essentially taking up most of the spots meant for camping. They were using the many many trails meant for ATVs before I arrived and, when I parked a decent distance away from where they were set up, they opted to ride circles around my RV throwing dust everywhere and revving their engines (likely an attempt to run me off). The open space at the top of the hill where the restrooms are is meant for camping, I would NOT ADVISE taking any of the other roads as they are steep, uneven, and you will struggle to turn around.

    There’s one spot at the entrance good for camping (away from most of the ATV action) but it is taken up by a permanent boondocker.

  • Delilah W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Fleming Meadows Don Pedro Recreation Area
    Sep. 23, 2024

    Fleming Meadows Don Pedro Recreation Area

    Lake is beautiful. Campground extremely noisy

    Our neighbors in A119 talked, played loud music, whooped and laughed loudly until at least 3 am. At about 11 pm, we requested that please keep the noise down and reminded them of the quiet after 10 pm park rule. They said that the rule only applied to loud music and proceeded to make rude comments and told us to call the ranger. No one answered the phone. We called the local police: no noise ordinance in the county. Our neighbors proceeded to increase the volume of their talking, laughing and started hooting (making animal noises) as well. My husband asked them again at about 12 am to please be quiet and they got even louder after that. We moved to a different site and were still able to hear them but the noise level dropped to a more moderate level. We reported them to the ranger the next day but did not get a satisfactory response. There were at least 20 people at that site. The ranger said that 8 people was the limit. Without enforcement, number limits or quiet time rules are meaningless.

  • Tyler S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Campground — Point Reyes National Seashore
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Wildcat Campground — Point Reyes National Seashore

    Hike-in Costal Camping

    This is an awesome spot, the hike out was absolutely gorgeous. We accessed it from the Palomarin trailhead. Beware, the costal weather can be volatile and you could get flash rain. Also, I highly recommend planning your visit with the sunny weather because it’s easy to pick a day that has endless overcast here, and it’s just not quite as much fun.

    Also be careful what campsite you reserve. Some are absolute gems off on the ocean bluff. Others are more inland and packed in

  • Greg D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging

    Going downhill ?

    It wasn’t as nice as the photos depicted. Water shortage? The grasses were long and dried up, there appears to have been a wooden bridge as a shortcut to the pool/restroom/laundry room/Deli, but no longer. The restrooms were barely tolerable and the woman’s had a bad odor. There’s a dishwashing station that is no longer serviceable, just a stainless sink set in a covered table with no water or even plumbing to include drains. You have to pay for WiFi and sometimes the signal drops. For the cost of the campground the WiFi should be free! Lesser known campgrounds even have free WiFi. There are Conestoga Wagons, Cabins and Yurts. None were occupied. Reason?

  • Noel L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Elks RV park
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Elks RV park

    Lost in Almond country

    Level gravel lots. In the middle of an orchard. Friendly and courteous hosts. Bathrooms, showers, laundry room, dumpsite. Quiet place. Easy in and out for overnight. Elks members discount.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Diamond Gulch
    Aug. 20, 2024

    Diamond Gulch

    Excellent base for exploring Yosemite

    We used Diamond Gulch as our base while exploring Yosemite for 5 days.  Overall, it was a great experience with a great host!  We visited in mid to late July, so it was very hot, and this means the campground was a little dusty, but manageable.  As others have stated, there is free firewood at your site, but we were a little scared to light a wood fire given how everything was so dry.  Also, as others have mentioned the showers were great, but we did have issues with getting them to heat up.  

    One thing to keep in mind is that while Groveland is only ~30 minutes from Yosemite, the drive within the park can take up 45-60 minutes.  So, plan accordingly and be prepared.  Our experience was that if we left camp around 7:30 we'd be through the gate with no line at 8am, and be at a parking lot around 9am.  This always worked for us to get a parking spot without any hassle.  After a long day of hiking and exploring the drive back to the campground felt a little long.

    Something we did not expect was how little there is in Groveland itself.  We tried to spend a couple of hours there one afternoon, and ended up just grabbing coffee and going back to camp.  There just isn't much to do in town.  This isn't to discourage anyone, but keep that in mind.

    The good:

    * Good host

    * Beautiful scenery from camp

    * Clean, well serviced bathrooms (porta potties)

    * Water available in camp

    * Excellent showers (especially when you can get them to heat up)

    * Very relaxed atmosphere

    The okay:

    * The sites have wood chips spread to keep down dust, but those get tracked everywhere.

    * A bit of a drive from the sights in Yosemite

    * On busy weekends it can get a bit crowded

  • Clara T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Tulloch RV Campground and Marina
    Aug. 15, 2024

    Lake Tulloch RV Campground and Marina

    Great time in this campground!

    We spent one night right in front of the water, amazing view for the sunset. It’s true that bathroom / toilets / showers aren’t clean, they are quite old.

    But we didn’t care, the view worth it. We went swimming in the lake : what a pleasure. We saw some squirrels and dears, they didn’t bothered us.

    It was super calm. The crew was nice with us and let us spend only one night here for 50$ (the minimum should be 2 nights)

    I recommend this place!

    (Also, it’s right halfway between Yosemite and San Francisco: which was perfect for us)

  • DJ M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Aug. 11, 2024

    Hardin Flat Road

    Pine and Cedar forest

    All wheel drive, okay. Large grounds, many motorbike and trails, permit required (bikes). Camped upper level. Please pack in, pack out, don't make others clean up after you.

  • Bobby J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Jul. 18, 2024

    Hardin Flat Road

    Really Nice Stay close to Yosemite

    This was a really nice stay close to Yosemite with really spread out spots. Couldn’t even see your neighbor and the vicinity to the park made it perfect. It’s 4 stars because you could hear the traffic from the main road from my spot

  • samuel C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Jul. 16, 2024

    Hardin Flat Road

    Great spot

    Awesome spot close to Yosemite, road isn’t too bad and it’s absolutely beautiful. I wasn’t bothered . I recommend arriving a little early, we didn’t have a little trouble finding the right road.

  • Nathan W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
    Jul. 3, 2024

    Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site

    Close, free, and beautiful

    We got there at 5pm on a Sunday. Went all the way to the back and In my opinion got the best spot. We had plenty of trees around us for privacy and shade. Highly recommend if you’re trying to camp close to Yosemite without a reservation. Only downside were the mosquitoes were on another level. They turned off once it got dark though.



Guide to Merced

Camping near Merced, CA, offers a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors while being close to some of California's most stunning natural wonders. From established campgrounds to dispersed sites, there's something for everyone looking to escape into nature.

What to do:

  • Explore Yosemite National Park: Just a short drive away, Yosemite is a must-see. As one camper noted about Upper Pines Campground, "Had a great weekend going to Yosemite national park, either way if the temperature was low."
  • Hiking: There are numerous trails for all skill levels. One reviewer at Wawona Campground mentioned, "The campground's location provides access to various outdoor activities."
  • Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A visitor at Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site shared, "We had plenty of trees around us for privacy and shade."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking views. A review from North Pines Campground highlights, "We had a fire pit, bear locker, picnic table and two tents! ... surrounded amongst the giant granite cliffs."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the peaceful surroundings. A camper at Wawona Campground said, "Very quiet and peaceful. You wouldn’t really notice other people were there unless you looked around."
  • Access to Water: Campgrounds like Lower Pines Campground are close to the Merced River, making it easy to cool off. One visitor mentioned, "The campground has access to the beautiful Merced River."

What you should know:

  • Booking Challenges: Reservations can be tough to secure. A camper at Upper Pines Campground noted, "Great place, amazing position with astonishing views, but almost impossible to book."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds lack showers and hookups. A review from Hodgdon Meadow Campground stated, "This is probably the most out-dated NPS campground we’ve ever stayed in."
  • Bear Safety: Always store food properly. A visitor at Camp 4 warned, "The rangers are very serious about bear/wildlife safety in Yosemite."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites with amenities. A reviewer at Yosemite Lakes RV Resort said, "The sites are really big. Beautiful trees, paved roads for biking or scootering."
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor gear. One camper at Wawona Campground mentioned, "With my family, I may come here and play games."
  • Keep an Eye on Kids: Some areas can be close to water. A parent at North Pines Campground advised, "The river was very nice to cool down after a long hike."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits. A camper at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes noted, "The sites were large and the scenery beautiful."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Services: Some campgrounds may not have full hookups. A review from Yosemite Pines RV Resort mentioned, "Worn shower and toilets, No free Wifi, only with charge."
  • Arrive Early: Popular spots fill up fast. A visitor at Camp 4 shared, "As of May 21, 2023, campsites will be available only by reservation via Recreation.gov one week in advance of your arrival date."

Camping near Merced, CA, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but be prepared for some challenges and plan accordingly!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Merced, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Merced, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 130 campgrounds and RV parks near Merced, CA and 8 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Merced, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Merced, CA is Lake McSwain Recreation Area with a 4.4-star rating from 11 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Merced, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 free dispersed camping spots near Merced, CA.

  • What parks are near Merced, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 23 parks near Merced, CA that allow camping, notably Hensley Lake and Fall River Lake.