Pet friendly camping areas near Merced, California offer varied terrain from valley lakes to wooded mountain sites. Elevations range from 300 feet in the valley floor to over 3,000 feet at higher campgrounds closer to Yosemite. Spring and fall provide milder temperatures between 65-85°F, while summer days often exceed 100°F at lower elevations.
What to do
Mountain biking at Barrett Cove: Miles of trails for all skill levels are accessible directly from the campground. "I went in March of 2021 to ride the mountain bike trails. The trails drain well and have a lot of sand it seems - so we rode upon arrival, again after a few beers that afternoon, again the next morning and again after a couple beers that afternoon," notes Twindaddy from Barrett Cove Recreation Area.
Fishing at Lake McSwain: Year-round trout fishing is available with regularly stocked waters. "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," shares Richard W. at Lake McSwain Recreation Area.
Swimming in the Tuolumne River: Natural swimming areas provide relief from summer heat. "The campgrounds are nicely positioned with plenty of space for individuals or families. Best feature are the sites that run along the river. We hung out in the river all day located about 60ft from our campsite," writes M.G. about Turlock Lake State Recreation Area.
What campers like
Quiet, secluded spots: Many campgrounds offer hillside or isolated sites away from crowds. "I picked a nicely isolated spot with great hill top views. The place was not crowded so we can't tell what it's like when full," reports a camper at Barrett Cove Recreation Area.
Clean facilities: Regular maintenance keeps bathrooms and shower facilities in good condition. "The bathrooms had showers which we used since our site didn't have a sewer hookup. Down the hill from us - about 1/8 mile - was a nicely maintained bathroom. It was clean, smelled good and, get this, had nice toilet paper!" shares a visitor to Barrett Cove.
Lake views: Many sites offer views of local reservoirs. "We have stayed at this campground many times and recently revisited. This COE is on a small lake that is used for irrigation during the summer resulting in a much lower water level than in the spring. Fishing is good," notes Tom D. about COE Eastman Lake Codorniz Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Many lakes in the area fluctuate dramatically throughout the year. "This COE is on a small lake that is used for irrigation during the summer resulting in a much lower water level than in the spring," explains a reviewer at COE Eastman Lake Codorniz Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Tarantulas are common in fall, especially at Eastman Lake. "Fall has a Tarantula migration and you will definitely see them. Coyote, Bobcat, and deer are frequently seen," warns Tom D. at Codorniz Campground.
Extreme heat: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F at lower elevations. "If you are staying in a tent make sure to layer up and bring lots of blankets because nights can get very cold," advises esmeralda at Lake McSwain Recreation Area.
Foxtail hazards: These plant seeds can harm pets during summer months. "Pretty dry in the summertime, lots of foxtails, so be aware if you have fur babies. Flies were a bit of a problem," cautions Brenda J. about Turlock Lake State Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Shade matters: Reserve sites with natural shade or shade structures during summer months. "We were able to park right under a tree to help keep the inside cool. Most the sites (at least in the C loop) have good shade and views," notes Michael C. at McClure Point Recreation Area.
Kid-friendly water activities: Several campgrounds offer splash pads or shallow swimming areas. "Like the store, Lake and splash n dash. But it seems like the money you pay goes to their cabins not the campground," mentions Everyday P. about Lake McSwain.
Bring bikes: Many campgrounds have paved roads for cycling. "The kids rode their bikes around the campgrounds alllll day. They had a blast!" shares Angie H. about Lake McSwain Recreation Area.
Playground access: Several sites include play structures. "There is also a nice playground for the kids too," notes Haley M. about Codorniz Campground.
Tips from RVers
Check site layout before booking: Some campgrounds have unusual hookup arrangements. "The hookups are seemingly on the wrong side of your vehicle in many sites. If you want easy access to the picnic table, you'll need to run your hose and power cord under your vehicle," advises Lori T. about McClure Point Recreation Area.
Limited 50-amp service: Most campgrounds only offer 30-amp connections. "There are only a handful of 50amp spots and people move to them quickly after someone leaves, lots of 30amp though so you might want to bring an adapter," suggests William V. at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes.
Site leveling challenges: Many sites require extensive leveling equipment. "The staff there were great, very helpful and accommodating. They put us in G loop #19 which was pretty much on a hill and with my 33 foot travel trailer, there was no way for me to get it in there and level," warns David B. about Barrett Cove Recreation Area.
Security features: Some RV parks offer enhanced security. "There is a high fence surrounding the property and it is secured by electronic hand held devices that you receive when you check in," notes Bill B. about The Lakes RV & Golf Resort.
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