Merced, California serves as a gateway to Yosemite National Park with camping options ranging from established RV parks to remote riverside sites. The region experiences hot summer temperatures that regularly exceed 95°F between June and August, with cooler spring and fall seasons providing more comfortable camping conditions. Most campgrounds near Merced require campers to bring adequate water supplies, particularly at primitive sites along the Merced River.
What to do
River activities: 45 minutes east of Merced you'll find McCabe Flat Campground where water recreation dominates summer activities. "The river was cold, high and fast but I managed to catch a 12" rainbow almost right away, just feet from the campsite," reports one visitor who enjoyed fishing despite challenging conditions.
Petting zoo visits: Family-friendly option at Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging includes unusual amenities. "With a pool, petting zoo, a corral where they have a fire and s'mores followed by a movie, this is a great place to camp with the kids," notes one camper who appreciates the entertainment options beyond standard camping.
Swimming holes: Accessible from multiple campgrounds along Merced River. "There is a nice little swimming hole just up the path," mentions a camper at Railroad Flat Campground, while another visitor notes, "Tons of pull outs to park for dayuse/swimming, we always find a nice beach/spot all to ourselves to swim even when busy."
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Natural sound benefits at primitive sites. "All campsites are along the river so prepare for mosquitoes at night but the sounds of the river are amazing!" explains a Railroad Flat visitor who balanced the minor inconveniences with significant rewards.
Clean facilities: Important factor for many High Sierra RV Park visitors. "Nice camp, clean toilets and restrooms," states one reviewer, while another mentions, "The bathrooms are clean which is a great plus," highlighting maintenance standards that matter to campers.
Security features: Valued by travelers at certain parks. "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 a visitor to The Lakes RV & Golf Resort, adding a sense of safety not commonly mentioned in campground reviews.
What you should know
Road conditions: Critical access information for remote sites. The road to Railroad Flat Campground presents challenges as "the narrow road winds along the steep canyon wall with occasional pull-outs to allow oncoming cars to pass," according to one reviewer who recommends smaller vehicles.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies throughout the region. "There is no cell service," notes a camper at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes, while another mentions that the "pay WIFI" didn't work but complimentary WiFi was available at the laundry facilities for basic needs.
Bridge restrictions: Size limits apply at riverside campgrounds. "There is a narrow bridge before the campgrounds that limits vehicle size. It is not advisable for trailers over 18 feet in length," warns a McCabe Flat camper, providing crucial information for RV travelers considering these sites.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming safety: River conditions vary by season. A visitor to McCabe Flat Campground observed that "when it calms down (I think later in summer/fall) it's good for tubing and other river sports," suggesting that early summer visitors should exercise caution with water activities.
Wildlife awareness: Animal encounters common throughout the region. "The squirrels are a little too friendly, clearly they rely on the humans in the area for food," notes a camper who recommends keeping food secured and not feeding wildlife, as "they'll walk right up to you already."
Alternative activities: Non-water options available at some parks. At Yosemite Pines RV Resort, one camper mentioned their family "really enjoys Rainbow Pools and Yosemite Pine's proximity to Rainbow Pools is part of why we stay here," indicating that nearby attractions can enhance a family's experience.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placements: Site layout considerations matter at several parks. At Yosemite RV Resort, "spots are small little to no space for vehicle at the site we are at some sites have a lot more room than ours," notes one RVer who recommends researching specific site dimensions before booking.
Leveling challenges: Terrain varies even at developed rv sites near Merced, California. "Our spot was also very hard to try and level our trailer. We never did quite get it leveled the way we would've liked," reports a High Sierra RV Park visitor, suggesting that bringing additional leveling equipment is advisable.
Traffic flow issues: Maneuvering space limited at some parks. "We were able to use other empty spot across from us to turn around. Had it been full we would have had a heck of a time getting out," explains a High Sierra RV Park visitor who recommends requesting sites near entrances for easier access.
