Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Merced, CA
Lake McSwain Recreation Area and Barrett Cove Recreation Area permit pets at their campgrounds near Merced, California. Both recreation areas offer full hookup sites for RVs and tent camping options along with cabin accommodations. Ferral cats roam some campgrounds in the region, which may cause issues for dogs on leashes. The Lakes RV & Golf Resort and Merced River Resort provide designated dog park areas where pets can exercise off-leash. Most campgrounds require pets to remain on leashes no longer than six feet when outside vehicles or camping units. Campgrounds typically limit pets to two per site, though policies vary by location. Several campgrounds charge additional pet fees ranging from $2-5 per night per pet.
Merced River Resort's large dog park provides a secure area for pets to run freely, though campers report occasional issues with aggressive dogs. The shady campsites at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes, located about an hour from Merced, offer pet-friendly accommodations with access to the Merced River for dogs that enjoy swimming. Wildlife encounters are common in the area, with deer frequently wandering through campsites. Pet owners should secure food items as bears are active in some camping areas, particularly those closer to Yosemite National Park. Local veterinary services are available in Merced and surrounding communities for emergency care. Most campgrounds provide waste stations throughout their grounds, and campers are expected to clean up after their pets to maintain sanitary conditions.
