Discover the best waterfall campgrounds near Merced, California

United States
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California
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Merced

96% (1018 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Merced

Available this weekend

Dog-friendly getaways

96%

(256)

Hudson and Wendy's Land

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Oakhurst, CA

Welcome to Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp. Come and enjoy our beautiful and private micro climate, created by the cascading waterfalls from Nelder and Lewis Creek. Camp by the creekside and fall asleep to the sound of the meandering creek, with absolutely incredible views of the stars overhead. Both creeks feed into the head of the Fresno river next to the campsite. You'll be surrounded by Oaks, Alders, Pine and Cedar trees. Take a day trip to Yosemite, hike/bike in the mountains, or explore the nearby towns of Oakhurst and Bass Lake. The south gate to Yosemite is approx. 20 minutes and Bass Lake is 5 minutes by car.

Yosemite Colfax Spring

11 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Groveland, CA

Welcome to Yosemite Colfax Spring! Home to a basecamp for river rafting trips during the summertime, we are located 15 minutes driving distance to the entrance to Yosemite National Park. If you are staying with us between May - September and want to come rafting, ask us about our river trips! Our camp sits on a ridge with views down into the Tuolumne River Canyon. The Tuolumne River begins at 13,000 feet of elevation in the High Country of Tuolumne Meadows and provides drinking water for over 2.7 million people in San Francisco. With cedar and pine trees, manzanita bushes, and wildflowers in the spring, enjoy the Sierras' flora and fauna. Our family has been operating our river rafting company for over 50 years, the last 11 of those years being here at Colfax Spring. Conveniently located off Highway 120, we are in close proximity to swimming holes, hikes, and more. Enjoy the privacy of our campsite and getting world-class views to yourself, with all of the amenities (flushing toilets, wi-fi, showers.) Make sure to check the Yosemite National Park website for information about reservations to visit the park!

BaseCampByBo!

4 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Groveland, CA

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

7 top waterfall campgrounds near Merced

96%

(256)

Hudson and Wendy's Land

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Oakhurst, CA

Welcome to Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp. Come and enjoy our beautiful and private micro climate, created by the cascading waterfalls from Nelder and Lewis Creek. Camp by the creekside and fall asleep to the sound of the meandering creek, with absolutely incredible views of the stars overhead. Both creeks feed into the head of the Fresno river next to the campsite. You'll be surrounded by Oaks, Alders, Pine and Cedar trees. Take a day trip to Yosemite, hike/bike in the mountains, or explore the nearby towns of Oakhurst and Bass Lake. The south gate to Yosemite is approx. 20 minutes and Bass Lake is 5 minutes by car.

Yosemite Colfax Spring

11 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Groveland, CA

Welcome to Yosemite Colfax Spring! Home to a basecamp for river rafting trips during the summertime, we are located 15 minutes driving distance to the entrance to Yosemite National Park. If you are staying with us between May - September and want to come rafting, ask us about our river trips! Our camp sits on a ridge with views down into the Tuolumne River Canyon. The Tuolumne River begins at 13,000 feet of elevation in the High Country of Tuolumne Meadows and provides drinking water for over 2.7 million people in San Francisco. With cedar and pine trees, manzanita bushes, and wildflowers in the spring, enjoy the Sierras' flora and fauna. Our family has been operating our river rafting company for over 50 years, the last 11 of those years being here at Colfax Spring. Conveniently located off Highway 120, we are in close proximity to swimming holes, hikes, and more. Enjoy the privacy of our campsite and getting world-class views to yourself, with all of the amenities (flushing toilets, wi-fi, showers.) Make sure to check the Yosemite National Park website for information about reservations to visit the park!

BaseCampByBo!

4 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Groveland, CA

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

Tent Camp- Alpaca My Bags

8 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Bonadelle Ranchos Madera Ranchos, CA

Camp in the country with beautiful sunsets, sunrises, and night sky. A & M Ranch (40 acres) is located 10 min north of Fresno and near Hwy 41 which leads to the mountains. Many travelers stop here on their way to the national parks (Yosemite, Kings Canyon, Sequoia). We are also close to hiking trails, lakes, Sierra mountains, wineries, farmers' markets, and casinos. When you arrive, you will see our four alpacas in their pen. We have designated spots for Tent camping, although if you'd like another spot let us know. Each site is listed separately. We are listed on other platforms, so there may be other guests here. Marta also has a she shop if you are interested in refurbished items or alpaca products. We are not a day camp, so if you stay a few nights, we expect you will be out most of the day. You may hear coyotes at night, and see lots of squirrels and wild bunnies. Be careful of squirrel holes. We are generally only open Friday and Saturday, during the school year. *** If we do not respond right away and give approval it is because sometimes our schedule changes. We usually respond WITHIN the week of your stay.

Private Riverfront Resort Pool Spa

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Oakhurst, CA

Welcome to your private paradise! Nestled on a riverfront property with stunning waterfalls and swimming holes, this custom 4,000 sqft home offers unparalleled luxury and serenity. Boasting 5 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms, this expansive residence features a swimming pool adorned with rock waterfalls, as well as a spa complete with its waterfall—perfect for unwinding and taking in the picturesque surroundings. Step inside and be greeted by a grand spiral staircase leading to a family room and wet bar, ideal for entertaining guests and enjoying quality time with loved ones. For those who enjoy staying active, a private tennis court awaits, providing endless opportunities for recreation and fitness. Outside, breathtaking views abound, offering a feast for the eyes in every direction. Whether you're relaxing on the patio, taking a dip in the pool, or exploring the private campground area, you'll find tranquility at every turn. Conveniently located near Yosemite Park and Bass Lake, adventure awaits just beyond your doorstep. Whether you're hiking through majestic forests, boating on pristine lakes, or simply soaking in the natural beauty of the area, this property offers the perfect home base for all your outdoor pursuits. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and experience the ultimate in luxury and relaxation at your private resort. Welcome home.

100%

(9)

Glitter Cove Retreat

2 sites · Lodging55 acres · Coarsegold, CA

This beautiful property is situated on 55 secluded acres in the lovely foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Swimming, fishing, and hiking await you. 1 1/2 hours from Yosemite National Park. Reservations may be required. Experience the abundant wild life, the 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. 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. The nights can be cool, so come prepared. 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. There is abundant wildlife including rattle snakes, bob cats, cayotes, fox, mountain lions and bears. Although it is rare to see them, always be aware of your surroundings and watch where you are stepping. Please don't leave food outside overnight or if you plan to leave for the day. Hope to see you soon! Watch a video! https://youtu.be/QI_YsFr-kh8

89%

(22)

Oakhurst Rustic Cabin & Campsite

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Oakhurst, CA

Indoor sleeping accommodation, outdoor/indoor lighting, electrical outlets, WiFi network, camping area, picnic table, drinkable well water, propane grill, outdoor sun shower and portable restroom are provided. Deer and turkey sightings occur frequently, and hiking trails are located on this 10-acre wooded property. Two seasonal creeks also located on the property which are still flowing this June. There is also an Airbnb cabin located on this wooded property about 100 yards uphill from the camp. The site is centrally located about between Oakhurst and Bass Lake about 10 to 15 minutes away from either location. The south entrance of Yosemite National Park is about 30 minutes away.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

92%

(171)

Sierra National Forest

Big Creek, California

93%

(165)

Stanislaus National Forest

Strawberry, California

Glacier point, definitely recommended! Get here EARLY in the morning for a damn good sunrise, and before the tour busses show up (or snag a wilderness permit and stay overnight!)

97%

(1537)

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Valley, California

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Waterfall camping near Merced guide

Overview

Looking to camp near Merced, California and explore picturesque waterfalls? Look no further than The Enchanted Forest Retreat (743 reviews), Camp Nauvoo (546 reviews), and Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden (388 reviews) are just a few of the top campsites available. Average price per night is $80, but you can also find options as low as $10. Popular amenities include campfires, cooking equipment, and showers. And if you're feeling adventurous, popular activities in the area include paddling, hiking, and whitewater paddling. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience near Merced.