95% (5.6K) • 2,033 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Merced
Cole Ranch
1. Cole Ranch
100%
(410)
27mi from Merced · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
"I firmly believe that Nature brings solace in all troubles." -Anne Frank-
Serene, quiet acreage on the Tuolumne River, with views of the snow capped Sierra Nevadas on a clear day. Scores of wildlife sightings, including river otters, eagles, wild turkeys, beavers, and many more. Perfect for swimming, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, or just relaxing. Like to fish? Fishing at Cole Ranch is a Love/Hate thing. If you Love to Fish, you will Hate to leave. Gateway to Yosemite National Park, the Mother Lode region, hiking trails, and spelunking opportunities, Cole Ranch has just about everything a camper would look for. All sites have access to our community outdoor kitchen, which has a refrigerator, coffee bar, sink, BBQ's, and stoves. Also available are our bathrooms, quite possibly the cleanest campground bathrooms in the 13 western states, which include flushable toilets, two sinks, and warm showers. Book your visit now. (Group bookings must be approved by host. Group bookings that have not been pre-approved may be cancelled.)
Recent Cancellations: Several sites are now available for both Memorial Day and July 4 weekends !!!
** RIVER ADVISORY UDATE - 4/4/26 **
River is at normal flow, and only minor fluctuations are expected in the coming weeks.
(Cole Ranch is a working ranch, surrounded by walnut and almond orchards. Harvest for these orchards occur mid-August thru September, and can create dust and noise. Occasional noise from common ranching activities may be heard. Landscaping activities like mowing, watering, etc. generally occur Mondays-Wednesdays) Check back here periodically for advisories on river conditions.
Feel free to text or call Barry at (209) 484-3675 if you have any questions.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Camp Joy Don Pedro
2. Camp Joy Don Pedro
98%
(23)
29mi from Merced · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to Camp Joy, your own private slice of the Sierra Foothills. Unlike crowded campgrounds, Camp Joy is an exclusive, single-site destination, ensuring that you and your group have the entire space to yourselves for a truly peaceful retreat.
The Site & Amenities-
Nestled on a scenic off-grid goat farm, the site offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and functional comfort. Whether you are pitching a tent or arriving in a rig, we have you covered:
The Deck: A spacious wooden deck provides a clean, level surface for your tent, featuring a built-in picnic table and ample counter space for outdoor cooking.
RV & Camper Friendly: There is plenty of flat, open ground to easily park and level a camper or RV.
Farm Life: Meet our friendly resident dogs and enjoy the unique atmosphere of a working goat farm.
Natural Beauty: Experience breathtaking, unobstructed views of both stunning sunrises and amazing sunsets every single day.
Adventure at Your Doorstep
Camp Joy serves as a premier basecamp for exploring the best of Central California:
Lake Don Pedro (1 mile):Just a quick trip down the road for boating, fishing, and swimming.
Historic Gold Country (45 mins): Immerse yourself in California’s "Mother Lode" history in nearby Sonora and Jamestown.
Yosemite National Park (approx. 1 hour): We are a perfect stopover for those heading into the park, allowing you to beat the morning traffic while enjoying a quiet night under the stars.
Whether you're here to pan for gold, hit the water, or simply disconnect and watch the sun go down, Camp Joy offers the privacy and location to make your trip unforgettable.
Pets
Picnic table
Wildhaven Yosemite Glamping
3. Wildhaven Yosemite Glamping
95%
(29)
30mi from Merced · 36 sites
Wildhaven Yosemite offers glamping tents and cabins on a beautiful property with mountain views in Mariposa, CA, just outside Yosemite National Park.
Our glamping experience provides the comfort, cleanliness, and customer service of a hotel while keeping everything you love about a night outdoors in nature.
Our extra-large, safari-style tents feature comfortable beds with linens, electricity, heaters, and all the furnishings needed for a memorable night outdoors. Looking for a little more structure in your night outdoors? Our larger glamping cabins provide a kitchenette, bathroom & shower, AC and heating, improved sound insulation, upgraded views, large windows, and a private patio to get you the fresh air you need.
Your stay includes more than just a comfortable place to sleep.
Guests are treated to hiking trails, communal spaces to socialize, trip planning help, Wi-Fi, and on-site activities such as yoga, wine tasting, and live music (spring through fall).
The 36-acre hillside property is the star attraction, providing sweeping views towards the snow-capped Sierra Nevadas, down onto scenic Mariposa, and across miles of rolling hills.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
McConnell State Recreation Area
4. McConnell State Recreation Area
100%
(3)
State park 15mi from Merced · 21 sites
On the banks of Merced River lies an oasis for fishing and beating the heat.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Turlock Lake State Recreation Area
5. Turlock Lake State Recreation Area
83%
(7)
State park 23mi from Merced · 111 sites
Park with both lake and river offers camping and water recreation in the San Joaquin Valley.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Camp with Critters
6. Camp with Critters
100%
(28)
33mi from Merced · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Sharing my life and property with rescued animals has become a full time job full of joy and lessons learned.
What great teachers they are.
I began to share the experiences with my animals by offering a unique farm tour called coffee with Critters and I find that I really enjoy sharing this lifestyle with like minded folk.
If you love animals and want to camp near them please join me.
Learn more about this land:
Your campsite will be nestled among animal enclosures, listen to the munching of hay or the snorting of the horse. Your stay will include a modified animal tour and you can engage with horse, goats, rabbits, chickens, ducks and more... dogs and cats of course ;). I have a couple of spots but I would be flexible regarding campsite. My toilet is a compost toilet. The outside shower has been upgraded with privacy curtains etc following suggetions from previous campers ;)
I have a million $$ view and a modest house. My house is about 45 minutes from the Yosemite park entrance and it's an easy commute back/forth. Flowering vines cover my outdoor porches where we have big dinners when Wwoofers or Couchsurfers are in residence. The property is home to many animals, horse, goats, pigs, chickens, peacocks, rabbits, guinea pigs - dogs & cats - of course! :-) . The roosters wake us up pretty early so fair warning about that - but I love living with them and it makes the property so much more friendly with all the critters. My house is pet friendly and yours are welcome if they are 1. Fixed, 2. Are social and friendly with my pets, 3. Will not chase the cats and chickens. I can babysit your pups if you go to the park - provided they are compliant with rules above. I work from home. There are loads of trails nearby and 2 pretty ponds and plenty of wildlife, deer, turkeys and more. The property is rolling hills however there are plenty of flat areas for tents. NO FIRES PERMITTED ANYWHERE ON MY PROPERTY APRIL-OCTOBER - non negotiable.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Heart valley ranch
7. Heart valley ranch
90%
(48)
36mi from Merced · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
To make sure our place is the perfect fit for you, please take a moment to read both the general property description and the specific listing of the campsite or accommodation you’re booking. We want you to have a great stay and avoid any surprises!
Heart Valley ranch hosts 300+ acres of rolling pasture nestled along the beautiful Jackass Creek. Access to Yosemite via 120 takes 1 hour , Groveland 10 minutes, and Coulterville 5 minutes. You’ll find cows, goats, chickens, llamas and our two beloved livestock dogs on the property. Many pools to cool off in and sweeping sunset views from the highest point on the property. There is lots of nature to enjoy including bird watching, seasonal wildflowers, and other wild animals.
We welcome all ❤️🌈
We highly recommend not bringing any animals, including service animals. We have two livestock guardian dogs that free roam the property and they are not friendly with other animals.
IMPORTANT!!!
Update jun19th:
This year, water levels are lower than usual due to limited rainfall. As a result, swimming at the swimming hole will be closed starting in early July. We recommend planning accordingly and checking back here for updates as the season progresses. Thank you for your understanding!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Yosemite Foothills Camp
8. Yosemite Foothills Camp
94%
(26)
36mi from Merced · 1 site
Yosemite Foothills Camp is a nearly 1 acre residential, yet wild Sierra Foothills lot that features a large private undeveloped pad (~25ft. x 60ft.) with full hookups.
The lot sits down a quiet residential road and features a single site. Located just ~15 minutes from downtown Mariposa and ~60 minutes from the Arch Rock (Valley) entrance of Yosemite National Park makes this the perfect home base for your Yosemite vacation.
Please enjoy.
Site details:
- Full hookups
- 50 amp service (adapter required for 30 amp service)
- No dumpster on property; garbage must be packed out
- Fire ban in effect - absolutely no fires, charcoal grills, gas firepits, gas BBQ, gas stove, smoking, fireworks, generators, or other open flames permitted
- Site borders a neighbor's backyard
Pets
Full hookups
Wondernut Farm
9. Wondernut Farm
97%
(623)
36mi from Merced · 3 sites
Wondernut Farm is an upstart, entirely off grid, working farm-stead being built from the ground up. We breed milking goats and sheep, heritage pigs, and are in the process of converting to a grade A dairy and creamery! We use organic practices, management intensive rotational grazing, and dryland pasture management. We sell our animals locally so that others can have their own milking and meat animals. Our 110 year old hay barn and the roof of the former lumber mill were all we had to work with in getting off the ground.
Being first and foremost a functional farm, we can't help but offer a somewhat warts-and-all look into everything it takes to be working to our goals. Our hearts are, and always will be, educational and local community focused, and we work closely with farmers and friends alike in better understanding our innovative animal husbandry, power, pasture and water systems. Whenever we have time, we'll afford the same time and opportunities to interested hip-campers.
Our location is stunning and historic, and the beauty of the wild, natural landscape is powerful, yet offers easy access to both Yosemite Valley and the San Francisco Bay area. The area features excellent road and mountain biking in the immediate vicinity, vast access to hiking and backpacking trails, a huge variety of rock climbing in the area, the best whitewater rafting in California on the Tuolumne River, with some tasty places to eat or drink coffee in the nearby town of Groveland, just 10 minutes away.
Accommodations at the farm are certainly rustic, and private but not secluded, with occasionally heavily project-exploded shared kitchen and living space, showers, and airy flush toilets.
Do be advised that animals are pooping, hammers are hammering, sometimes we need to look into a health or animal injury related issue. Sometimes there is blood in an animal birth or slaughter, and our working guardian dogs have been known to be noisy some nights. Water and electricity are both very limited (though we reuse all our water), waste must be carefully sorted into a number of different categories, and there is always evidence of ump-teen projects unfolding at once. The most difficult condition during much of the summer are nuisance flies, which are always gone at night. We have almost no mosquitoes or ticks.
Depending on the exact situation and time of year, guests may have the opportunities to snuggle with baby animals and run our herd to or from pasture, and maybe even get their hands dirty picking veggies in the garden.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
George J. Hatfield State Recreation Area
10. George J. Hatfield State Recreation Area
100%
(2)
State park 27mi from Merced · 1 site
A restful and restorative patch of green with stellar fishing in California's San Joaquin Valley.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
Eastman Lake
11. Eastman Lake
100%
(3)
Park 29mi from Merced · 106 sites
This scenic retreat draws nature lovers and oudoor enthusiasts.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sierra National Forest
12. Sierra National Forest
92%
(176)
National forest 69mi from Merced · 1360 sites
“Secret Yosemite” offers scenic beauty, rugged forests, and outdoor recreation with smaller crowds.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area
13. San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area
90%
(17)
State park 39mi from Merced · 18 sites
Welcome to the largest offstream reservoir in the United States.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Red Dragonfly Ranch Yosemite
14. Red Dragonfly Ranch Yosemite
98%
(214)
36mi from Merced · 7 sites
Red Dragonfly Ranch – Your Yosemite Basecamp in Groveland, CA
Discover Red Dragonfly Ranch, a tranquil camping retreat nestled in a beautiful valley along the seasonal Cobb Creek—just 10 minutes from historic downtown Groveland and only 29 miles from Yosemite National Park’s Big Oak Flat entrance.
Set in the heart of California’s Gold Country, our ranch offers the perfect balance of quiet seclusion and easy access to adventure. Spend your days hiking Yosemite’s breathtaking trails, exploring Groveland’s charming shops and saloons, or uncovering the rich history of the Sierra Nevada. After a day of exploration, unwind at your private campsite, relax by your propane fire, and gaze at a brilliant canopy of stars.
Ideal for tent campers, vanlifers, and outdoor enthusiasts, Red Dragonfly Ranch provides a peaceful escape surrounded by nature while keeping you close to Yosemite’s wonders.
📍 Location Highlights:
• 10 minutes to Groveland’s Main Street dining, drinks & live music
• 29 miles to Yosemite National Park (Big Oak Flat entrance)
• Convenient to hiking trails, scenic drives & Sierra Nevada adventures
Follow us on Instagram @red_dragonfly_ranch
for updates and Sierra sunset views!
Come for the adventure, stay for the stars—Red Dragonfly Ranch is your perfect gateway to Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Flip Flop Flat
15. Flip Flop Flat
98%
(54)
36mi from Merced · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
We are a 5 Acre property along the Stanislaus River below the shade trees with 2 private beaches and boat launch. We are located between Oakdale and Knights Ferry and just a short drive to Yosemite Valley. Enjoy river raft trips, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, fishing etc. This property can accommodate tent camping, dry RV and group camping. We even hold weddings and events. Group rates, $25.00 per person , per night.
Disclaimer:
Fire ban in effect! We offer a community fire pit to all and we provide the firewood. We do allow propane firepits for your personal site.
Our property is our home and our business and is not a public park. Registered guests only.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
Little Piece of Yosemite
16. Little Piece of Yosemite
95%
(101)
37mi from Merced · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:
River Status:
Swimmable and lush green fresh crisp, beautiful, amazing!
Camp on our small piece of paradise located near Yosemite. We are a family of 4 (Me and three kids) living on 5 acres of mountain land in the foothills of the Sierras complete with an outdoor shower and bath and also flowing (seasonal) stream that you can swim in. Feel free to wander around the property on a few of our trails or just chill by the water and enjoy the magic of the mountains.
Our property is about a 55 min drive to the Yosemite entrance. PLUS another 15 mins to the main attractions.
Dogs are more than welcome as ling as they are friendly.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Leards L-3 Ranch
17. Leards L-3 Ranch
100%
(182)
38mi from Merced · 1 site · Tent, RV
The L3 Ranch was founded in 1974 when my grandfather bought the property for his show cows. In 1978, someone gave him a racehorse to pay off a debt. From then on, the property was known for its Quarter horse race horses, with some of the best in the state being born right here. In 2013 he found our he had cancer and handed the ranch down to me, Travis. While he survived the cancer, he's happy in retirement playing cards with his buddies every week and hanging out with his dog.Now the ranch is known for its horse boarding, cattle, and goats. We even hold weddings and events at the lake sometime. My main goal is to bring the ranch in a more in line with sustainable ranching. Its a process, but I love what I am doing, and where the ranch is going.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Robinson Mine Basecamp
18. Robinson Mine Basecamp
98%
(133)
39mi from Merced · 6 sites
Come enjoy the peaceful outdoors in a rustic mountain setting ! But still have all the amenities of town only a couple miles away; grocery store, restaurants, a craft brewery and one of the oldest saloons in California! There’s even a park for the kiddos, a Library and Museum for all ages! The stars are something to see, as you feel like you can just reach up and touch them! We are just getting started so each time you come visit us, you will see and enjoy something new! We are so close to Yosemite @ the big old flat entrance or maybe you would like to see Hetch Hetchy! There is river rafting, mountain biking, swimming and fishing all close by! Lots to do in our area it will be hard to choose! When you’re on the property keep your eye out for shiny rocks, as we are located on an old gold mine who knows you may “GET LUCKY“
Pets
Toilets
Glitter Cove Retreat
19. Glitter Cove Retreat
100%
(38)
39mi from Merced · 1 site
This beautiful property is situated on 55 secluded acres in the lovely foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Your adventure begins when you escape the pavement and experience three miles of beautiful scenery on a maintained dirt road. Swimming, fishing, and hiking await you. SAFE, GATED and perfect for moms who want to take their kids camping, or any one who wants to try out the camping experience but has been hesitant.
1 1/2 hours from Yosemite National Park. Reservations may be required.
Experience the abundant wild life and soothing sound of the Fresno River. Put your feet in the sand and just unplug for a few days. Each season is uniquely beautiful.
Spring hosts an abundance of green hills, wild flowers and cooler weather. The river is higher, faster and colder. New life pops up everywhere. Baby ducks, geese, quail and beaver frequent the river. Glitter Cove waterfall is in its full glory. The nights can be cool, so come prepared.
Summer is the perfect time to swim and lounge in the river. As the days heat up, the river begins to slow and warms up to a comfortable yet refreshing temperature. New beaches emerge, just waiting to be explored.
In late summer, early fall, there is a feeling of calm. The river slows significantly but still feels amazing to sit in. You can hear its gentle flow and soothing sound as it trickles over the rocks. This is a great time time to explore the river as it is mostly shallow with some swim holes.
Most of the time it is very quiet. There is another camp down stream owned by a wonderful family. They are here a couple times per week, and also rent their camp. You may hear them having fun and engaging in target practice. The river is a shared space but it is rare to see anyone else. Noise travels in the canyon so you may hear occasional barking or other vehicles. Hearing coyotes sing at night is very common. The rarely seen wildlife includes rattle snakes, bob cats, coyotes, fox, mountain lions and bears. Don't worry, our animal friends like to keep their distance. Hope to see you soon!
Watch a video!
https://youtu.be/QI_YsFr-kh8
Pets
Toilets
Showers
BaseCampByBo!
20. BaseCampByBo!
95%
(345)
40mi from Merced · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
If you are looking for man made and leveled campsites, then this is not your basecamp. This land is a gorgeous 20 acres that means a lot to us.
It's space to find your peace of mind and pitch a tent or hammock, as you would when hiking the backcountry.
Aside from complimentary ice water, potty, shower, soaps, sanitizer, sunscreen, first aid, communal fire pit, wood stove and dishwashing area) this is not "glamping".
If you are a person who appreciates nature and making due with what the land has provided, then we are a great fit.
Guests have 20 acres to find a secluded, or socially distanced spot to pitch camp.
This is for people that know how to camp in the backcountry -
Without a trash can, who don’t leave cigarette butts, respect the land and would rather not be sectioned off.
Flat areas are all over if you explore, and use your feet to brush aside rocks and twigs, to lay down a tent base, as we do every time we camp in the backcountry.
The geography of these mountains is just that, hills and mountains. The vista at the top of the property is gorgeous and easily camps 5 tents spaced out. The property does offer many other great camping areas, and I’m more than happy to point them out.
Yosemite is 30 minutes away, Don Pedro lake is 30 minutes, Cherry Lake is 30 minutes, Preston falls and Carlon falls are both 30 min away. Downtown Groveland Is 7 minutes away, and other historic towns are not too far.
Close to many swimming holes. Rainbow pools is 15 minutes away. 10 min from the local grocery store and other local shops. Base Camp is just off of highway 120. Sonora has a great farmers market on Sunday and is a beautiful 40 min drive away.
Thank you for taking time to read this, we look forward to hosting you!
-Best
Jarrett & Bo
Pets
Toilets
Showers
95% (5.6K) • 2,033 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Merced
Cole Ranch
1. Cole Ranch
100%
(410)
27mi from Merced · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
"I firmly believe that Nature brings solace in all troubles." -Anne Frank-
Serene, quiet acreage on the Tuolumne River, with views of the snow capped Sierra Nevadas on a clear day. Scores of wildlife sightings, including river otters, eagles, wild turkeys, beavers, and many more. Perfect for swimming, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, or just relaxing. Like to fish? Fishing at Cole Ranch is a Love/Hate thing. If you Love to Fish, you will Hate to leave. Gateway to Yosemite National Park, the Mother Lode region, hiking trails, and spelunking opportunities, Cole Ranch has just about everything a camper would look for. All sites have access to our community outdoor kitchen, which has a refrigerator, coffee bar, sink, BBQ's, and stoves. Also available are our bathrooms, quite possibly the cleanest campground bathrooms in the 13 western states, which include flushable toilets, two sinks, and warm showers. Book your visit now. (Group bookings must be approved by host. Group bookings that have not been pre-approved may be cancelled.)
Recent Cancellations: Several sites are now available for both Memorial Day and July 4 weekends !!!
** RIVER ADVISORY UDATE - 4/4/26 **
River is at normal flow, and only minor fluctuations are expected in the coming weeks.
(Cole Ranch is a working ranch, surrounded by walnut and almond orchards. Harvest for these orchards occur mid-August thru September, and can create dust and noise. Occasional noise from common ranching activities may be heard. Landscaping activities like mowing, watering, etc. generally occur Mondays-Wednesdays) Check back here periodically for advisories on river conditions.
Feel free to text or call Barry at (209) 484-3675 if you have any questions.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Camp Joy Don Pedro
2. Camp Joy Don Pedro
98%
(23)
29mi from Merced · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to Camp Joy, your own private slice of the Sierra Foothills. Unlike crowded campgrounds, Camp Joy is an exclusive, single-site destination, ensuring that you and your group have the entire space to yourselves for a truly peaceful retreat.
The Site & Amenities-
Nestled on a scenic off-grid goat farm, the site offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and functional comfort. Whether you are pitching a tent or arriving in a rig, we have you covered:
The Deck: A spacious wooden deck provides a clean, level surface for your tent, featuring a built-in picnic table and ample counter space for outdoor cooking.
RV & Camper Friendly: There is plenty of flat, open ground to easily park and level a camper or RV.
Farm Life: Meet our friendly resident dogs and enjoy the unique atmosphere of a working goat farm.
Natural Beauty: Experience breathtaking, unobstructed views of both stunning sunrises and amazing sunsets every single day.
Adventure at Your Doorstep
Camp Joy serves as a premier basecamp for exploring the best of Central California:
Lake Don Pedro (1 mile):Just a quick trip down the road for boating, fishing, and swimming.
Historic Gold Country (45 mins): Immerse yourself in California’s "Mother Lode" history in nearby Sonora and Jamestown.
Yosemite National Park (approx. 1 hour): We are a perfect stopover for those heading into the park, allowing you to beat the morning traffic while enjoying a quiet night under the stars.
Whether you're here to pan for gold, hit the water, or simply disconnect and watch the sun go down, Camp Joy offers the privacy and location to make your trip unforgettable.
Pets
Picnic table
Wildhaven Yosemite Glamping
3. Wildhaven Yosemite Glamping
95%
(29)
30mi from Merced · 36 sites
Wildhaven Yosemite offers glamping tents and cabins on a beautiful property with mountain views in Mariposa, CA, just outside Yosemite National Park.
Our glamping experience provides the comfort, cleanliness, and customer service of a hotel while keeping everything you love about a night outdoors in nature.
Our extra-large, safari-style tents feature comfortable beds with linens, electricity, heaters, and all the furnishings needed for a memorable night outdoors. Looking for a little more structure in your night outdoors? Our larger glamping cabins provide a kitchenette, bathroom & shower, AC and heating, improved sound insulation, upgraded views, large windows, and a private patio to get you the fresh air you need.
Your stay includes more than just a comfortable place to sleep.
Guests are treated to hiking trails, communal spaces to socialize, trip planning help, Wi-Fi, and on-site activities such as yoga, wine tasting, and live music (spring through fall).
The 36-acre hillside property is the star attraction, providing sweeping views towards the snow-capped Sierra Nevadas, down onto scenic Mariposa, and across miles of rolling hills.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
McConnell State Recreation Area
4. McConnell State Recreation Area
100%
(3)
State park 15mi from Merced · 21 sites
On the banks of Merced River lies an oasis for fishing and beating the heat.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Turlock Lake State Recreation Area
5. Turlock Lake State Recreation Area
83%
(7)
State park 23mi from Merced · 111 sites
Park with both lake and river offers camping and water recreation in the San Joaquin Valley.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Camp with Critters
6. Camp with Critters
100%
(28)
33mi from Merced · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Sharing my life and property with rescued animals has become a full time job full of joy and lessons learned.
What great teachers they are.
I began to share the experiences with my animals by offering a unique farm tour called coffee with Critters and I find that I really enjoy sharing this lifestyle with like minded folk.
If you love animals and want to camp near them please join me.
Learn more about this land:
Your campsite will be nestled among animal enclosures, listen to the munching of hay or the snorting of the horse. Your stay will include a modified animal tour and you can engage with horse, goats, rabbits, chickens, ducks and more... dogs and cats of course ;). I have a couple of spots but I would be flexible regarding campsite. My toilet is a compost toilet. The outside shower has been upgraded with privacy curtains etc following suggetions from previous campers ;)
I have a million $$ view and a modest house. My house is about 45 minutes from the Yosemite park entrance and it's an easy commute back/forth. Flowering vines cover my outdoor porches where we have big dinners when Wwoofers or Couchsurfers are in residence. The property is home to many animals, horse, goats, pigs, chickens, peacocks, rabbits, guinea pigs - dogs & cats - of course! :-) . The roosters wake us up pretty early so fair warning about that - but I love living with them and it makes the property so much more friendly with all the critters. My house is pet friendly and yours are welcome if they are 1. Fixed, 2. Are social and friendly with my pets, 3. Will not chase the cats and chickens. I can babysit your pups if you go to the park - provided they are compliant with rules above. I work from home. There are loads of trails nearby and 2 pretty ponds and plenty of wildlife, deer, turkeys and more. The property is rolling hills however there are plenty of flat areas for tents. NO FIRES PERMITTED ANYWHERE ON MY PROPERTY APRIL-OCTOBER - non negotiable.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Heart valley ranch
7. Heart valley ranch
90%
(48)
36mi from Merced · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
To make sure our place is the perfect fit for you, please take a moment to read both the general property description and the specific listing of the campsite or accommodation you’re booking. We want you to have a great stay and avoid any surprises!
Heart Valley ranch hosts 300+ acres of rolling pasture nestled along the beautiful Jackass Creek. Access to Yosemite via 120 takes 1 hour , Groveland 10 minutes, and Coulterville 5 minutes. You’ll find cows, goats, chickens, llamas and our two beloved livestock dogs on the property. Many pools to cool off in and sweeping sunset views from the highest point on the property. There is lots of nature to enjoy including bird watching, seasonal wildflowers, and other wild animals.
We welcome all ❤️🌈
We highly recommend not bringing any animals, including service animals. We have two livestock guardian dogs that free roam the property and they are not friendly with other animals.
IMPORTANT!!!
Update jun19th:
This year, water levels are lower than usual due to limited rainfall. As a result, swimming at the swimming hole will be closed starting in early July. We recommend planning accordingly and checking back here for updates as the season progresses. Thank you for your understanding!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Yosemite Foothills Camp
8. Yosemite Foothills Camp
94%
(26)
36mi from Merced · 1 site
Yosemite Foothills Camp is a nearly 1 acre residential, yet wild Sierra Foothills lot that features a large private undeveloped pad (~25ft. x 60ft.) with full hookups.
The lot sits down a quiet residential road and features a single site. Located just ~15 minutes from downtown Mariposa and ~60 minutes from the Arch Rock (Valley) entrance of Yosemite National Park makes this the perfect home base for your Yosemite vacation.
Please enjoy.
Site details:
- Full hookups
- 50 amp service (adapter required for 30 amp service)
- No dumpster on property; garbage must be packed out
- Fire ban in effect - absolutely no fires, charcoal grills, gas firepits, gas BBQ, gas stove, smoking, fireworks, generators, or other open flames permitted
- Site borders a neighbor's backyard
Pets
Full hookups
Wondernut Farm
9. Wondernut Farm
97%
(623)
36mi from Merced · 3 sites
Wondernut Farm is an upstart, entirely off grid, working farm-stead being built from the ground up. We breed milking goats and sheep, heritage pigs, and are in the process of converting to a grade A dairy and creamery! We use organic practices, management intensive rotational grazing, and dryland pasture management. We sell our animals locally so that others can have their own milking and meat animals. Our 110 year old hay barn and the roof of the former lumber mill were all we had to work with in getting off the ground.
Being first and foremost a functional farm, we can't help but offer a somewhat warts-and-all look into everything it takes to be working to our goals. Our hearts are, and always will be, educational and local community focused, and we work closely with farmers and friends alike in better understanding our innovative animal husbandry, power, pasture and water systems. Whenever we have time, we'll afford the same time and opportunities to interested hip-campers.
Our location is stunning and historic, and the beauty of the wild, natural landscape is powerful, yet offers easy access to both Yosemite Valley and the San Francisco Bay area. The area features excellent road and mountain biking in the immediate vicinity, vast access to hiking and backpacking trails, a huge variety of rock climbing in the area, the best whitewater rafting in California on the Tuolumne River, with some tasty places to eat or drink coffee in the nearby town of Groveland, just 10 minutes away.
Accommodations at the farm are certainly rustic, and private but not secluded, with occasionally heavily project-exploded shared kitchen and living space, showers, and airy flush toilets.
Do be advised that animals are pooping, hammers are hammering, sometimes we need to look into a health or animal injury related issue. Sometimes there is blood in an animal birth or slaughter, and our working guardian dogs have been known to be noisy some nights. Water and electricity are both very limited (though we reuse all our water), waste must be carefully sorted into a number of different categories, and there is always evidence of ump-teen projects unfolding at once. The most difficult condition during much of the summer are nuisance flies, which are always gone at night. We have almost no mosquitoes or ticks.
Depending on the exact situation and time of year, guests may have the opportunities to snuggle with baby animals and run our herd to or from pasture, and maybe even get their hands dirty picking veggies in the garden.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
George J. Hatfield State Recreation Area
10. George J. Hatfield State Recreation Area
100%
(2)
State park 27mi from Merced · 1 site
A restful and restorative patch of green with stellar fishing in California's San Joaquin Valley.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
Eastman Lake
11. Eastman Lake
100%
(3)
Park 29mi from Merced · 106 sites
This scenic retreat draws nature lovers and oudoor enthusiasts.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sierra National Forest
12. Sierra National Forest
92%
(176)
National forest 69mi from Merced · 1360 sites
“Secret Yosemite” offers scenic beauty, rugged forests, and outdoor recreation with smaller crowds.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area
13. San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area
90%
(17)
State park 39mi from Merced · 18 sites
Welcome to the largest offstream reservoir in the United States.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Red Dragonfly Ranch Yosemite
14. Red Dragonfly Ranch Yosemite
98%
(214)
36mi from Merced · 7 sites
Red Dragonfly Ranch – Your Yosemite Basecamp in Groveland, CA
Discover Red Dragonfly Ranch, a tranquil camping retreat nestled in a beautiful valley along the seasonal Cobb Creek—just 10 minutes from historic downtown Groveland and only 29 miles from Yosemite National Park’s Big Oak Flat entrance.
Set in the heart of California’s Gold Country, our ranch offers the perfect balance of quiet seclusion and easy access to adventure. Spend your days hiking Yosemite’s breathtaking trails, exploring Groveland’s charming shops and saloons, or uncovering the rich history of the Sierra Nevada. After a day of exploration, unwind at your private campsite, relax by your propane fire, and gaze at a brilliant canopy of stars.
Ideal for tent campers, vanlifers, and outdoor enthusiasts, Red Dragonfly Ranch provides a peaceful escape surrounded by nature while keeping you close to Yosemite’s wonders.
📍 Location Highlights:
• 10 minutes to Groveland’s Main Street dining, drinks & live music
• 29 miles to Yosemite National Park (Big Oak Flat entrance)
• Convenient to hiking trails, scenic drives & Sierra Nevada adventures
Follow us on Instagram @red_dragonfly_ranch
for updates and Sierra sunset views!
Come for the adventure, stay for the stars—Red Dragonfly Ranch is your perfect gateway to Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Flip Flop Flat
15. Flip Flop Flat
98%
(54)
36mi from Merced · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
We are a 5 Acre property along the Stanislaus River below the shade trees with 2 private beaches and boat launch. We are located between Oakdale and Knights Ferry and just a short drive to Yosemite Valley. Enjoy river raft trips, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, fishing etc. This property can accommodate tent camping, dry RV and group camping. We even hold weddings and events. Group rates, $25.00 per person , per night.
Disclaimer:
Fire ban in effect! We offer a community fire pit to all and we provide the firewood. We do allow propane firepits for your personal site.
Our property is our home and our business and is not a public park. Registered guests only.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
Little Piece of Yosemite
16. Little Piece of Yosemite
95%
(101)
37mi from Merced · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:
River Status:
Swimmable and lush green fresh crisp, beautiful, amazing!
Camp on our small piece of paradise located near Yosemite. We are a family of 4 (Me and three kids) living on 5 acres of mountain land in the foothills of the Sierras complete with an outdoor shower and bath and also flowing (seasonal) stream that you can swim in. Feel free to wander around the property on a few of our trails or just chill by the water and enjoy the magic of the mountains.
Our property is about a 55 min drive to the Yosemite entrance. PLUS another 15 mins to the main attractions.
Dogs are more than welcome as ling as they are friendly.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Leards L-3 Ranch
17. Leards L-3 Ranch
100%
(182)
38mi from Merced · 1 site · Tent, RV
The L3 Ranch was founded in 1974 when my grandfather bought the property for his show cows. In 1978, someone gave him a racehorse to pay off a debt. From then on, the property was known for its Quarter horse race horses, with some of the best in the state being born right here. In 2013 he found our he had cancer and handed the ranch down to me, Travis. While he survived the cancer, he's happy in retirement playing cards with his buddies every week and hanging out with his dog.Now the ranch is known for its horse boarding, cattle, and goats. We even hold weddings and events at the lake sometime. My main goal is to bring the ranch in a more in line with sustainable ranching. Its a process, but I love what I am doing, and where the ranch is going.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Robinson Mine Basecamp
18. Robinson Mine Basecamp
98%
(133)
39mi from Merced · 6 sites
Come enjoy the peaceful outdoors in a rustic mountain setting ! But still have all the amenities of town only a couple miles away; grocery store, restaurants, a craft brewery and one of the oldest saloons in California! There’s even a park for the kiddos, a Library and Museum for all ages! The stars are something to see, as you feel like you can just reach up and touch them! We are just getting started so each time you come visit us, you will see and enjoy something new! We are so close to Yosemite @ the big old flat entrance or maybe you would like to see Hetch Hetchy! There is river rafting, mountain biking, swimming and fishing all close by! Lots to do in our area it will be hard to choose! When you’re on the property keep your eye out for shiny rocks, as we are located on an old gold mine who knows you may “GET LUCKY“
Pets
Toilets
Glitter Cove Retreat
19. Glitter Cove Retreat
100%
(38)
39mi from Merced · 1 site
This beautiful property is situated on 55 secluded acres in the lovely foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Your adventure begins when you escape the pavement and experience three miles of beautiful scenery on a maintained dirt road. Swimming, fishing, and hiking await you. SAFE, GATED and perfect for moms who want to take their kids camping, or any one who wants to try out the camping experience but has been hesitant.
1 1/2 hours from Yosemite National Park. Reservations may be required.
Experience the abundant wild life and soothing sound of the Fresno River. Put your feet in the sand and just unplug for a few days. Each season is uniquely beautiful.
Spring hosts an abundance of green hills, wild flowers and cooler weather. The river is higher, faster and colder. New life pops up everywhere. Baby ducks, geese, quail and beaver frequent the river. Glitter Cove waterfall is in its full glory. The nights can be cool, so come prepared.
Summer is the perfect time to swim and lounge in the river. As the days heat up, the river begins to slow and warms up to a comfortable yet refreshing temperature. New beaches emerge, just waiting to be explored.
In late summer, early fall, there is a feeling of calm. The river slows significantly but still feels amazing to sit in. You can hear its gentle flow and soothing sound as it trickles over the rocks. This is a great time time to explore the river as it is mostly shallow with some swim holes.
Most of the time it is very quiet. There is another camp down stream owned by a wonderful family. They are here a couple times per week, and also rent their camp. You may hear them having fun and engaging in target practice. The river is a shared space but it is rare to see anyone else. Noise travels in the canyon so you may hear occasional barking or other vehicles. Hearing coyotes sing at night is very common. The rarely seen wildlife includes rattle snakes, bob cats, coyotes, fox, mountain lions and bears. Don't worry, our animal friends like to keep their distance. Hope to see you soon!
Watch a video!
https://youtu.be/QI_YsFr-kh8
Pets
Toilets
Showers
BaseCampByBo!
20. BaseCampByBo!
95%
(345)
40mi from Merced · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
If you are looking for man made and leveled campsites, then this is not your basecamp. This land is a gorgeous 20 acres that means a lot to us.
It's space to find your peace of mind and pitch a tent or hammock, as you would when hiking the backcountry.
Aside from complimentary ice water, potty, shower, soaps, sanitizer, sunscreen, first aid, communal fire pit, wood stove and dishwashing area) this is not "glamping".
If you are a person who appreciates nature and making due with what the land has provided, then we are a great fit.
Guests have 20 acres to find a secluded, or socially distanced spot to pitch camp.
This is for people that know how to camp in the backcountry -
Without a trash can, who don’t leave cigarette butts, respect the land and would rather not be sectioned off.
Flat areas are all over if you explore, and use your feet to brush aside rocks and twigs, to lay down a tent base, as we do every time we camp in the backcountry.
The geography of these mountains is just that, hills and mountains. The vista at the top of the property is gorgeous and easily camps 5 tents spaced out. The property does offer many other great camping areas, and I’m more than happy to point them out.
Yosemite is 30 minutes away, Don Pedro lake is 30 minutes, Cherry Lake is 30 minutes, Preston falls and Carlon falls are both 30 min away. Downtown Groveland Is 7 minutes away, and other historic towns are not too far.
Close to many swimming holes. Rainbow pools is 15 minutes away. 10 min from the local grocery store and other local shops. Base Camp is just off of highway 120. Sonora has a great farmers market on Sunday and is a beautiful 40 min drive away.
Thank you for taking time to read this, we look forward to hosting you!
-Best
Jarrett & Bo
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Hannah
3 days ago
20 ft campervan
The campsite was stunning. Gorgeous views of the river / waterfall. Beautiful place to see the sunset. Camp was super well maintained. Bathrooms / showers were really clean and functional. Liza and Tom were super attentive, accommodating and responsive hosts. We stayed for 3 nights and would have stayed longer if we could. We stayed at the Yosemite Falls site with our 21.1’ campervan and it worked perfectly. Super close to Yosemite as well!!
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rina
6 days ago
18 ft campervan
Great camping spot on our way to Yosemite!
Our van 🚐 fit perfectly on site #4 with no leveling needed. The views in the morning were extraordinary 🤩⛰️⛰️☕️
Liza was very responsive and accommodating 😁🙏. They even had bath towels in the shower 🚿 room
Would definitely stay here again!
Also interesting in their summer rafting tours as this is a staying area for rating 🌊 tours 🤩🤙🏾🤙🏾
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K
Katie
1 week ago
25 ft travel trailer
With kids
What an absolute gem of a place! It's so obviously loved and cared for- and we had a wonderful stay to the point that we skipped our last day at Yosemite to hang out at Red Tail Ranch and walk around the meadow, play in the hammock, do yoga, read in the beautiful barn, and wash up in the epic shower. Rob is great & gave us such good advice for the area, and it was so fun to see his books in all the shops in the park! We had the place to ourselves but planning to come back with a big group, it's perfect for that. 10/10 would recommend!
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E
Emily
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
We stayed during spring break and practically had the campground to ourselves. This was a great location to get to Yosemite! Easy access to the valley via a gorgeous drive but without the crowds.
My kiddos LOVED the darts! Our doggo loved the dog run! I was a bit skeptical of the rustic shower, but it ended up being my favorite part of the experience. I would definitely stay at Robb’s place again!
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Ally
1 week ago
17 ft campervan
Really appreciate the clean bathrooms and hot showers! Just a quick hour to Yosemite Valley made it an excellent stop.
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B
Brooke
2 weeks ago
19 ft rooftop tent
With pets
We had the most perfect view from our campsite. Listening to the falls and the sky at night is unreal. We will 1000% be coming back!!
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William
2 weeks ago
42 ft travel trailer
My Wife and I had peaceful time at Cole Ranch. As others have mentioned Berry is a kind and friendly Host. His property is well maintained and is beautiful camping spot right along the river.
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n
narasimhan
2 weeks ago
13 ft campervan
Beautiful view. Awesome camp. We camped here for 2 nights for our day trips to the yosemite valley. Shower and toilets were awesome
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F
FRANCOIS
2 weeks ago
19 ft Class C
Une belle vue. Un très bon accueil de Tom parlant un peu français appréciable. Douche chaude, sanitaire très bien. Branchement électrique et eau OK.
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I
Issac
2 weeks ago
14 ft truck camper
Fantastic views and a great place to camp! The clean showers and bathrooms are a huge plus. Not far from the park and definitely worth the stay.
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l
laurane
2 weeks ago
27 ft campervan
Group trip
Beautiful domain, very helpful host, enjoyed our stay
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Y
Yifei
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
Very beautiful lake! Travis is so welcoming and nice. We spent a great weekend there.
We didn't realize there's electricity there so it's a pleasant surprise
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Yulia
3 weeks ago
With kids
We loved everything: the grounds themselves, the opportunity to see the animals, the incredibly affectionate dogs, and the really cool restrooms (!). The kitchen in the barn was also very romantic! However, we didn't like that everything was so spread out; we had to constantly trek back and forth between the campfire pit, the house, the restroom, and the kitchen.
Also, once it got dark—while we were grilling chicken—the dogs kept coming around; it was uncomfortable having to shoo away such huge hounds, and eventually, they even started fighting right next to us.
It's a pity there's only one bed in the house—maybe we could bring in a folding cot or something similar?
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Gary
3 weeks ago
Tent
Mac and Tom, his son, are such nice guys to sit and chat to while you camp on their property. The views are amazing, the bathrooms and showers were wonderfully clean and warm! (the shower). Mac was ready with recommendations. I stayed for 3 nights out a four night reservation, rain on the way. I only wish one thing, you should inquire right away if they are running river rafting on one of your days, and plan it! I think I missed an amazing opportunity and wish I had planned ahead to raft with their company.
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N
Natalie
3 weeks ago
Tent
Would highly recommend! We stayed at campsite 6, such a lovely spot right by the creek. The site was very thoughtfully taken care of. The cutest lights come on at night making the site feel very safe. :)
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E
Evann
3 weeks ago
Tent
Well kept and quiet! Was a pleasure to meet Jarrett and his pup!
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Alison
3 weeks ago
19 ft campervan
John was so nice and helpful. We got in late, and he answered his phone and came out to meet us to make sure we got in ok. Such a relaxing and beautiful place to wake up to in the morning as well.
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L
Lena
3 weeks ago
Tent
This campground was absolutely incredible! We were wanting to camp in Yosemite, but (of course) all the campsites were full, so we came here instead. It was the best decision ever! The grounds were beautiful, and the scenery was stunning. There were maybe a couple of other campers, so it was super peaceful and private. Lots and lots of cows! They were very vocal too haha! They were afraid of people, but the donkeys were very friendly. The amenities were a tad rustic, but I think that’s part of the charm. About a 30min drive to the Big Oak Flat entrance to Yosemite, and then another 30mins from there down the canyon to the welcome center. Totally doable for a day trip to Yosemite. 10/10 would recommend!!
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J
Joey
3 weeks ago
Tent
Great secluded area, beautiful sunset, friendly dogs. Had a great stay at Dustin’s!
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W
Wyatt
3 weeks ago
20 ft campervan
Beautiful property and a wonderful place to stay! Returning from a long day in Yosemite the hot outdoor shower beneath the stars was fantastic. The entire experience was great and wish that I could have stayed a couple more nights. I look forward to a return trip.
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