Top Tent Camping near Merced, CA

Looking for the best options for tent camping near Merced? Find the best information on tent camping near Merced, including sites, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your camping experience. You're sure to find the perfect campsite for your California tent camping excursion.

Best Tent Sites Near Merced, CA (19)

    Camper-submitted photo from Cole Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Cole Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Cole Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Cole Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Cole Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Cole Ranch

    1. Cole Ranch

    2 Reviews
    50 Photos
    43 Saves

    "I firmly believe that Nature brings solace in all troubles." -Anne Frank-

    Pitch your tent under the shade of a majestic oak tree, right on the bank of the Tuolumne River, whose waters originate in Yosemite National Park. Keep an eye out for river otters, turtles, bald eagles, and beaver. Expect nighttime visitors like owls, foxes, and raccoons. Cole Ranch is a bit of an oasis surrounded by almond and walnut orchards. Pick a treat from the wild blackberry bushes, or from our family organic pomegranate orchard (mid-October thru mid-December). Warm yourself with your own personal fire pit in your camp, no extra charge (bring your own firewood, or purchase seasoned oak from Your Host). Outdoor kitchen available with a coffee bar, refrigeration, electricity, hot water, 3-burner stove, and BBQ’s.

    **ADVISORY** (9/08/23) 8:05 AM

    The river is back to normal flow, perfect for wading, swimming, fishing, kayaking, or any other river activities.

    **ADVISORY** (8/10/23) 8:05 AM

    The Tuolumne River unexpectedly rose about 2- 3' over night. The entire gravel shore us under water. Wading is relatively safe, but use extreme caution when boating or swimming.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents

    $60 - $90 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Railroad Flat Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Railroad Flat Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Railroad Flat Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Railroad Flat Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Railroad Flat Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Railroad Flat Campground

    2. Railroad Flat Campground

    3 Reviews
    27 Photos
    143 Saves

    Remember your OUTDOOR ETHICS when enjoying your public lands. Please RECREATE RESPONSIBLY. Overview At the end of Briceburg River Road and 4.5 miles from the suspension bridge within the BLM, Merced River Recreation Area is the Railroad Flat Campground. Popular with gold prospectors and hikers alike, there is always interesting campfire talk in this campground. It also serves as the trailhead for the BLM, Merced River Trail. The Merced River Trail is a spectacular wildflower walk in spring, has great scenery, fine fishing, and amazing swimming during other times of the year. Know Before You Go Camping Camping is first come, first served. No reservations available. There are 9 campsites available. Maximum 8 people and two vehicles per site. Quiet Hours: After 10 PM (No loud music, generators, etc.) There is a self-pay system available to pay for sites. A campsite is rented ONLY once it has been paid in full, pay-stub is properly completed and attached to campsite post, and site is occupied by campers (tent up). All sites have a picnic table, grill, and food storage lockers. No potable water available at the campsites. There is potable water available__by the information kiosk, across the Briceburg Bridge. Facilities Parking Area Restrooms Dumpsters Recycling Cans Campfires Seasonal fire restrictions apply. Fires must be in a metal fire ring. No fires on the beach! Warnings There are no lifeguards on duty at the Merced River! Please wear a life jacket. The Merced River is undammed, and the flow changes dramatically. SWIMMING IS ONLY RECOMMENDED BELOW 700 CFS. Trailers/RV's over 18 feet are not recommended crossing the suspension bridge. Dogs must be on a leash. No discharging of fireworks or firearms. Helpful Links: River flow is posted on-line at: www.dreamflows.com Return To: Merced River Recreation Management Area Visit: Mother Lode Field Office Recreation Passes: America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass ADA Access: At least 90% of all campsites are ADA accessible

    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash
    • Drinking Water
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow Placer Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow Placer Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow Placer Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow Placer Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow Placer Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow Placer Campground

    4. Willow Placer Campground

    2 Reviews
    8 Photos
    73 Saves

    Remember your OUTDOOR ETHICS when enjoying your public lands. Please RECREATE RESPONSIBLY. Overview The second BLM campground within the Merced River Recreation Management Area is Willow Placer. The campsites are located 3.6 miles downstream from the suspension bridge along Briceburg River Road. With mostly walk-in sites, this camp-ground usually offers a quieter, family atmosphere. The main beach is not nearly as large as McCabe Flat Campground, but good swimming can be found a short walk down stream in the late summer. Facilities in Willow Placer Campground (9 sites total): 8 Walk-in camp sites 1 drive-up group camp site (25 people max) 1 vault toilet 1 Port-o-let toilet (seasonal near site 1 and 13) Trash collection cans Recycling collection cans Main parking lot Self-pay Iron Ranger fee system There are picnic tables, fire grills, and food storage lockers at all camp sites. All campsites are within 200 feet of the river Permits, Fees, and Limitations: Camp fee is $10.00 per site per night. America the Beautiful Pass fee is $5.00/site/night. Camping is allowed only in designated, numbered camp sites. Maximum 8 people and two vehicles per site. Camping is first come, first served. No reservations available. A campsite is rented ONLY once it has been paid in full, pay-stub is properly completed and attached to campsite post, and site is occupied by campers (tent up). Self-pay system. Iron Ranger located near Bulletin Board. Pay camp fee within 30 minutes of occupying site. No dispersed camping within the Merced River corridor. No person shall leave any property unattended for more than 24 hours. (43 CFR 8351.2-1 (1)) Campfires are allowed ONLY in provided metal fire rings. NO campfires on beach.__Seasonal Fire Restrictions__apply. No glass bottles allowed within 1/4 mile of the Merced River. 43 CFR 8351.2-1 (i) Dogs must be on a leash at all times. NO DOGS allowed at McCabe BEACH. NO AMPLIFIED MUSIC or unreasonable noise any time. QUIET TIME AFTER 10:00 pm (no speakers, generators etc.) No discharge of firearms or fireworks 43 CFR 8351.2-1 (a) No person shall enter a developed campground between 10:00 pm and 6:00 am, unless that person is a registered camper. 43 CFR 8351.2-1 (g) All California Motor Vehicle Laws Apply. (Seat Belts, DUI, etc.). 43 CFR 8351.2-1 (e) Any person who fails to comply with these written orders may be subject to a fine not to exceed $500 and/or imprisonment not to exceed six months. Federal Register/ Vol. 66 No. 130/ Friday, July 6, 2001/ Notices Pg 35663. WARNING: No lifeguard on duty. Swimming is dangerous any time of year, but especially during spring and early summer. The Merced River is un-damned and the flow changes dramatically from year to year and season to season. Please wear a life jacket.__ SWIMMING IS ONLY RECOMMENDED BELOW 700 CFS. Potable water is available across the Briceburg Bridge as you head towards the campground facilities. Look for the faucet near the information kiosk. Bring your own water for camping purposes. Potable water is not available at the campground sites. PLEASE NOTE: Trailers over 18 feet and large RV's are not recommended crossing the suspension bridge. The old Yosemite railroad grade is accessible by vehicles up to the Railroad Flat Campground. Only equestrian, pedestrians, and bicycles are permitted beyond the Railroad Flat Campground. Commercial lodging is available in the town of Mariposa. Helpful Links: River flow is posted on-line at: www.dreamflows.com Return To: Merced River Recreation Management Area Visit: BLM, Mother Lode Field Office Recreation Passes: America the Beautiful -__National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass ADA Access: At least 90% of all campsites are ADA accessible

    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from George Hatfield State Rec Area

    5. George Hatfield State Rec Area

    2 Reviews
    1 Photo
    4 Saves

    George Hatfield Group Camp

    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    • Drinking Water

    $150 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Bass Lake Recreation Area Rudy
    Camper-submitted photo from Bass Lake Recreation Area Rudy
    Camper-submitted photo from Bass Lake Recreation Area Rudy
    Camper-submitted photo from Bass Lake Recreation Area Rudy
    Camper-submitted photo from Bass Lake Recreation Area Rudy
    Camper-submitted photo from Bass Lake Recreation Area Rudy

    6. Bass Lake Recreation Area Rudy

    2 Reviews
    14 Photos
    30 Saves

    Overview

    This is Bass Lake Complex in the Sierra National Forest, California.It is 20 miles south of Yosemite National Park, off Hwy. 41, near Oakhurst, California.

    For details and reservations in the Bass Lake Complex please select any of the following campgrounds:

    Cedar Bluff Campground

    Crane Valley Group Campground

    Forks Campground

    Lupine Campground

    Recreation Point

    Spring Cove Campground

    Wishon Campground (Bass Lake)

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • WiFi
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Yosemite Valley Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Yosemite Valley Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Yosemite Valley Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Yosemite Valley Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Yosemite Valley Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Yosemite Valley Campground

    7. Little Yosemite Valley Campground

    5 Reviews
    16 Photos
    90 Saves
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Eagle Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Eagle Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Eagle Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Eagle Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Eagle Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Eagle Point

    8. Eagle Point

    1 Review
    7 Photos
    29 Saves

    Army veteran and outdoor enthusiast that loves to share my passion for the wilderness!

    One hour from Yosemite's West Gate, we have plenty of room, extra camping gear and amenities, and lots of peace and quiet! ATVs and guided tours are also possible upon request. Four-wheel drive is required for RVs and campers, and we can assist with your arrival. Please call or email ahead.

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

    $50 - $150 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Dirt Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Dirt Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Dirt Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Dirt Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Dirt Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Dirt Flat

    9. Dirt Flat

    4 Reviews
    12 Photos
    54 Saves

    Overview

    Dirt Flat campground is situated on the north side of the Merced River. This small camp features walk-in tent sites on the river. The remote locates of the site makes for a quiet and peaceful camping experience.

    Recreation

    During the spring and early summer, the Merced River is a popular location for white water rafting and kayaking. Several private companies offer guided rafting trips.

    Natural Features

    The Sierra National Forest, located on the western slope of the central Sierra Nevada, is known for its spectacular mountain scenery and abundant natural resources. The terrain includes rolling, oak-covered foothills, heavily forested middle elevation slopes and the starkly beautiful alpine landscape of the High Sierra.

    Nearby Attractions

    This campground is close to the west entrance to Yosemite National Park. Yosemite offers a variety of activities that include scenic driving, picnicking, hiking and fishing.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Tent Cabin

    $38 - $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Recreation Point Group Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Recreation Point Group Campground

    10. Recreation Point Group Campground

    2 Reviews
    2 Photos
    11 Saves

    Overview

    Recreation Point is nestled in a partially shaded cove overlooking the northern end of Bass Lake. It offers tent-only, overnight sites and picnic area for groups. The maximum group sizes range from 30-50 people per campsite and 50-100 people per picnic site. The camp consists of four sites on one loop: Knoll, Lagoon, Scout and Acorn. The group picnic areas, Cove, Oak Point and South Park, are on a separate loop.

    Recreation

    Bass Lake offers a beach and boat ramp. Popular activities include swimming, motorized boating, canoeing, kayaking, water skiing, sailing and fishing for bass, trout, bluegill and catfish. Recreation Point has a designated swim area. Nearby hiking trails include Willow Creek, Goat Mountain, Spring Cove and Way-of-the-Mono Interpretive Trail. A variety of educational programs are offered on weekends during the summer.

    Natural Features

    The Sierra National Forest, located on the western slope of the central Sierra Nevada, is known for its spectacular mountain scenery and abundant natural resources. The terrain includes rolling, oak-covered foothills, heavily forested middle elevation slopes and the starkly beautiful alpine landscape of the High Sierra. Recreation Point is located in the Bass Lake Ranger District at an elevation of 3,400 feet. Bass Lake is a very popular area known for its variety of fish, as well as the bald and golden eagles that make their home here.

    Nearby Attractions

    Yosemite National Park can be reached in under an hour, making it an ideal day trip from Bass Lake.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Rules & Reservation Policies As you make travel plans that include reservations on Recreation.gov, there are standard policies that apply to most locations of which you should be aware. Do keep in mind, however, that there are many exceptions, so it is best to review reservation information listed on individual facility pages for those policies and procedures that pertain to your specific locations. Any location or activity requiring a permit or lottery will have unique requirements and policies. Please check individual facility pages for pertinent information for those sites. Booking Window For most locations, you can reserve six months in advance of your stay for individual sites and 12 months in advance for group sites. There are some exceptions, so it is best to check with each facility. Change and Cancellation Policies and Fees Overnight and Day Use Facilities: To ensure fairness, reservation arrival or departure dates may not be changed beyond the booking window until 18 days after booking the reservation. Camping / Day Use: A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation (including campsites, cabins, lookouts, group facilities, etc.). The $10.00 service fee will be deducted from the refund amount. You can cancel or change reservations through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Tours & Tickets: You may request changes to tour dates at no cost before the arrival date. If you cancel before your tour date, you may be eligible for a refund. Cancellation fees apply. Please check the tour facility description details page for cancellation policies. Permits: Varies by location. Please check the permit details for the permit location. Late Cancellations Overnight and Day Use Facilities: Late cancellations are those cancelled between 12:01 a.m. (Eastern) on the day before arrival and check out time on the day after arrival. Individual Campsites: If a customer cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival they will be charged a $10.00 service fee and will also forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a single night's reservation will forfeit the entire use fee but no cancellation fee will apply. Cabins / Lookouts: Customers will be charged a $10.00 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's use fee if a cabin or lookout reservation is cancelled within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Facility: If a customer cancels a group overnight facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date they will be charged the $10.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Day Use Area: If a customer cancels a group day use facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date, they will forfeit the total day use fee with no service fee charge. No-Shows Camping / Day Use: A camping no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Reserved campsites and group overnight facilities will be held until check-out time on the day following your scheduled arrival. Group day-use facilities will be held until check-in time on your scheduled arrival date. If a customer does not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by the times listed under "Late Cancellations" above, the customer may be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit use fees. Tours: A tour or ticket no-show is one who does not cancel a ticket before arrival and does not arrive for the tour. Tour no-shows are not entitled to a refund. Refunds Customers must request refunds no later than 14 days after the scheduled departure date. Recreation.gov will not grant refund requests after 14 days of departure. Reservation Fee: For some facilities, tours or permits an additional reservation fee is charged. For some overnight and day-use facilities, an additional non-refundable reservation fee may apply. The non-refundable reservation fee for tours and tickets is $1.00. The non-refundable reservation fee for permits varies by location. Refunds for Bankcard Purchases: Refunds for bank card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank card. Refunds for Check or Cash Purchases: Refunds for Recreation.gov payments made by check or money order, and cash payments at selected campgrounds will be issued a check refund. A refund will be processed within 30 days of receipt and approval. Please Note: Refund requests made during or after departure can only be processed when approved by the facility management staff based upon local policy. Refunds for Emergency Closures: In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team will attempt to notify users and offer alternate dates (as appropriate). If this is not possible, reservations will be cancelled and all fees paid will be refunded. Reservation fees for free tickets are non-refundable in the event of an emergency closure. Recreation.gov Billing Information Reservation transaction will appear on customer's credit card statements as "Recreation.gov 877-444-6777." Changes to Policies and Procedures Recreation.gov reserves the right, when necessary, to modify reservation policies. These policies were last updated July

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group

    $124 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 19 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews In Merced

549 Reviews of 19 Merced Campgrounds


  • c
    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.

  • 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.

  • 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.
    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.
    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.

  • Heather R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Lake Campground
    Jun. 23, 2024

    Lost Lake Campground

    A pretty good campground

    I enjoyed my stay on the most part. Sadly there was some trash scattered all over the place because of previous visitors. It was quite and have several trails to walk on. Their is a nice that runs by the campgrounds and further down and pass the station where pay the toll to the stake park. Their is a few playgrounds in the middle of the campgrounds and option to play an activity or two. It was also not to far from the town or it’s dam. I would only suggest to bring your own wood with you because California made it illegal to pick up any wood for a fire and it would be very and to find and wood for a fire. Overall it’s was a pleasant visit for this place for a camping trip .

  • Brian and Janet S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Codorniz Campground
    Jun. 20, 2024

    Codorniz Campground

    Not as advertised

    No wifi, bathrooms did not have hot water.

    Cool park with extremely friendly and helpful staff. Cannot say enough about the great park rangers and camp hosts.

    There were people close by to us with several tents and campers in one spot, not sure how this is monitored.

    Spotty T Mobile Service $32 per night

  • Brian and Janet S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mariposa Fairgrounds
    Jun. 20, 2024

    Mariposa Fairgrounds

    Cool spot - 1 Hour From Yosemite

    Underrated for sure - we stayed 2 nights while exploring Yosemite because we could not find a campground closer with spots. Big grassy area close to Mineral Museum, water and electric hookups. We basically had the fairgrounds to ourselves. They have additional spots in more of a parking lot setting, well marked.

    $55 per night Wifi worked great

  • dThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mercey Hot Springs
    Jun. 19, 2024

    Mercey Hot Springs

    Amazing Place

    I Van Camped at Mercey Hot Springs for 5 days. When I arrived the nights were hot so I decided to take an AC Cabin #10 where I could park right next to the cabin and slept comfortably. I moved to a RV camp site #5 when the temps at night were a more comfortable mid 60s. I love that the hot tubs are available all night long. It allows for long soaks while star gazing. The therapeutic water is magical some of the best I have found. As soon as you enter the pool or hot tubs you feel the smooth water on your skin. The hot tubs are all oversized privet bath tubs that you fill with mineral water of your desired temperature. This is a completely off the grid resorts that has good energy and tranquil atmosphere. It is very clean with clean bath rooms and showers. When I was there in June 2024 they did not have the restaurant open yet but one looks like it is in the near future. They do have snacks, cold drinks, coffee, ice cream and Ice in the front office for purchase. I took the short hike up the hill to see the solar array, while up there I discovered a most amazing triple Labyrinth circle walk that was very mindful experience. I have never seen such a neat labyrinth as this. Truly an amazing stay, I will be back.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes
    Jun. 19, 2024

    Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes

    Way to expensive for what you get

    This place itself is just one star worth. But the near proximity to Yosemite is good. Sites are cramped, toilets and showers were unhygienic. Was the most expensive camping we had with the worst service and accommodation.

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Barrett Cove Recreation Area
    Jun. 17, 2024

    Barrett Cove Recreation Area

    Back for more

    This time I brought a friend who hadn't been here before. 

    As usual, the staff was great! Very friendly at our arrival and in the evening while performing their drive-by checks. 

    This time I actually tried the showers and I was not disappointed. Great water pressure, plenty warm and cleaner than you might expect. Sure, there are some bugs that get in, but it was way nicer than showering in my van. 

    The bathrooms are well maintained and stocked with paper towels and tp. They really do a nice job here.

    The riding was great. We were in awe of how empty it was. Father's Day weekend and we never came across anyone else on the trails. 

    We did have to relocate. My buddy couldn't get his RV into the hillside spot we'd reserved - M49 I think it was.

  • Vinny D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
    Jun. 13, 2024

    Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site

    Great spot, only down fall is the mosquitos!

    This spot is great, right outside the YNP, but the mosquitos will suck ever last drop of blood out of you! This was the very back spot but also a quiet spot.



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

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Merced, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Merced, CA is Cole Ranch with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Merced, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 19 tent camping locations near Merced, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.