McConnell Campground

McConnell is right on the Merced River, where you’ll find many of the park’s campers canoeing or leisurely rafting. This sight may make you jealous, so we’re warning you in advance: if you’ll want in on these water activities, BYOB or R (Boat or Raft). The Merced will be flowin’ pretty slowly, especially in the summer time, so come here to relax on the water. For more river info, check this out!

Catfish, black bass and perch, oh my! The Merced River has plenty of awesome fish for you to hang out with. Stand in the shade of cottonwoods and sycamores and cast your line (as long as you have a California sport-fishing license, that is). Meet other enthusiastic fisher(wo)men and enjoy the cool, flowing river. You probably won’t want to leave.

If you want to stroll around the woods and wander away from the populated riverbanks, McConnell has a sweet trail from the campground, down to the river and back. This is more of a nature walk than a strenuous hike, so come prepared to chill and meander your way through. Check out a map of the trail and campground to see the route.

No rentals here folks, so bring your canoe or kayak if you wanna row ‘round McConnell. You’ll be in good company if you do; canoeing is super popular here. We’d recommend trying to organize a boat race of some kind. Because, you know, why not?

Don’t think it’s possible to cool down in the San Joaquin Valley? Well then you haven’t been to McConnell. Here you can take a dip in the cool waters of the Merced River beneath the shade of towering sycamore and cottonwood trees. The river is calm and slow-moving, so swimmers of all abilities should feel comfortable cooling off here. There’s even a rope swing so you can channel your inner Tarzan! If you’re sweltering in the heat and need a scenic, cool (both in terms of temperature and awesomeness) escape, McConnell could be the place for you.