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List your RVCampgrounds and RV parks near Merced, CA
51 campgrounds and RV Parks near Merced, CA. Compare campsite amenities, photos, and site types to find the perfect stop for your rig on your route.
51 campgrounds
4553 campsites
221 RVs available for delivery
From $28/night
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Best campgrounds near Merced, CA
Castle Air Museum RV Park
Atwater, CA (7 miles away)
(18 sites)
McConnell State Recreation Area
California (15 miles away)
$$$$$
(19 sites)
+2
Arena RV Park
Chowchilla, CA (18 miles away)
$$$$$
(34 sites)
Lake McSwain Recreation Area - MID
California (18 miles away)
(100 sites)
+3
The Lakes RV and Golf Resort
Chowchilla, CA (18 miles away)
$$$$$
(87 sites)
+7
Turlock Lake State Recreational Area
California (23 miles away)
$$$$$
(66 sites)
+5
George J Hatfield State Recreation Area
Hilmar, CA (26 miles away)
$$$$$
(1 site)
Santa Nella RV Park
Gustine, CA (32 miles away)
$$$$$
(50 sites)
+4
Los Banos Creek Reservoir
Los Banos, CA (32 miles away)
$$$$$
(20 sites)
Oasis West RV Park
Santa Nella, CA (33 miles away)
$$$$$
(100 sites)
+6
Medeiros - San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area
Gustine, CA (34 miles away)
$$$$$
(17 sites)
+2
San Luis Creek - San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area
Gustine, CA (35 miles away)
$$$$$
(53 sites)
+3
Most common amenities
Toilets Pet friendly Tables Showers Grills Dump station Laundry Internet Pool Hiking
Camping near Merced
Merced sits at the junction of Highway 99 and Highway 140 in California's Central Valley, roughly 70 miles from Yosemite's Arch Rock Entrance. That position makes it a practical base for RV travelers heading to the park, with year-round YARTS bus service from the Merced Transportation Center for car-free park days.
RV options near Merced split into three groups. Private full-hookup parks include Castle Air Museum RV Park in Atwater, Arena RV Park in Chowchilla, and The Lakes RV and Golf Resort, also in Chowchilla, which has 87 RV sites with 20/30/50-amp service and full hookups. State and public-agency campgrounds offer riverside or lakeside settings, notably McConnell State Recreation Area on the Merced River and Lake McSwain Recreation Area, run by the Merced Irrigation District in the Sierra foothills. Hookups, length limits, and amenities vary widely between these properties, so match the site type to the rig and trip length before booking.
Things to do near Merced
Yosemite National Park is the headline trip from Merced. Drivers reach the Arch Rock Entrance via Highway 140 through Mariposa and El Portal, and YARTS runs the same corridor year-round for travelers who prefer to leave the rig at camp.
Closer in, the Merced River corridor supports swimming, fishing for catfish, black bass, and perch, kayaking, and tubing at McConnell State Recreation Area. Lake McSwain has a marina, boat launch, fish-cleaning station, and stable year-round water levels that suit paddling and family swimming; the seasonal Splash-N-Dash inflatable water park operates on the lake in summer. The Castle Air Museum in Atwater displays dozens of historic military aircraft and is walking distance for guests at the adjacent RV park.
Camping spots and RV parks near Merced, CA
Seasonal patterns in Merced
- spring
March - May
73° / 50°F 35 mmMild and comfortable; rivers run high from snowmelt
- summer
June - August
93° / 61°F 1 mmHot and dry; shaded riverside sites book up fast
- fall
September - November
79° / 50°F 20 mmWarm days, cool nights; wildfire smoke possible early on
- winter
December - February
57° / 39°F 60 mmWettest season; tule fog can reduce Highway 99 visibility
Merced has a Mediterranean climate: hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer highs frequently reach the mid-90s with little rainfall, so shaded riverside sites at McConnell State Recreation Area and lakeside loops at Lake McSwain are in heavy demand from June through August. Reserve early for weekends and holidays during this window. The Splash-N-Dash water park at Lake McSwain typically runs in the summer season only.
Spring and fall are the most comfortable months for Central Valley camping, with daytime temperatures generally in the 70s and 80s. Spring brings the bulk of any remaining rainfall and stronger river flows on the Merced. Tule fog can settle over the valley on winter mornings, reducing visibility for towing on Highway 99 and Interstate 5. Campfire restrictions tied to California wildfire season can apply at Lake McClure and Lake McSwain sites, with fires typically permitted only in the cooler months from about November to April; check the operator before arrival.
How to book campgrounds near Merced
McConnell State Recreation Area is reserved through ReserveCalifornia.com, or by phone at 1-800-444-7275, up to six months in advance. The campground has 21 sites that accept tents, trailers, and RVs up to about 30 feet, with no hookups. Check-in is 2 p.m. and check-out is noon; generators are allowed between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m.
Lake McSwain Recreation Area is booked through the Merced Irrigation District's Lake McClure and McSwain reservation portal at lakemclure.com. McSwain sites can be reserved the same day of arrival, with cancellation changes required at least 24 hours before check-in. Private parks, Castle Air Museum RV Park, Arena RV Park, and The Lakes RV and Golf Resort, are booked direct with the property; calling ahead is recommended for full-hookup spots.
What to expect at Merced campgrounds
Private parks near Merced lean utilitarian rather than scenic. Castle Air Museum RV Park offers a small number of full-hookup sites on the museum grounds in Atwater. The Lakes RV and Golf Resort in Chowchilla has 87 RV-only sites with full hookups, 18 pull-throughs, a pool, and complimentary play at the adjacent Pheasant Run Golf Club.
Public-agency campgrounds offer more nature but fewer amenities. McConnell sites sit under cottonwood and sycamore canopy along the Merced River, with flush toilets and coin-operated showers and no hookups. Lake McSwain Recreation Area has 108 campsites, 42 of them with water and electric, plus six lakefront cabins, a dump station, hot showers, and the seasonal Reel Deal Market and Cafe.
Own an RV? Earn up to $31,284/year.
List your motorhome or travel trailer for free on RVezy.
Frequently asked questions about campgrounds near Merced, CA
How much does it cost to rent an RV in Merced, CA?
RV rentals in Merced, CA are surprisingly affordable—travel trailers often start around $80-110 per night, while a full-size motorhome rental in Merced can run $165-225 per night, depending on the season and amenities. Looking for a cheap RV rental in Merced? Book mid-week or early spring/fall for the best rates, and filter by price on RVezy to spot deals. You’ll find delivery options, add-ons, and pet-friendly picks to customize your experience. Pro tip: Longer trips often unlock discounts from local hosts, making it even more budget-friendly.
visitmerced.com/plan-your-visit/lodging/What license do I need to rent an RV in California?
Good news—a regular Class C driver's license is all you need for most RV rentals in Merced, CA. No special permits or commercial licenses are required, even for motorhomes and campervan rentals up to 40 feet. Simply upload your valid ID to RVezy (you must be 25+) and you’re ready to roll. This makes a Merced RV trip accessible, even for first-time renters. International travelers can join in too—just bring an International Driving Permit along with your license.
dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-licenses-identification-cards/driver-licenses-dl/What protection is included with my RV rental in Merced?
Every RV rental in Merced through RVezy comes with a renter protection plan, so you can hit the road with confidence. Protection plans cover damage to the RV based on the coverage level you select, and 24/7 roadside assistance is included with every booking, whether you are camping at Lake Yosemite or exploring Yosemite National Park. You choose your coverage tier at checkout, and RVezy support is available throughout your trip. That way you can focus on your California adventure, not the what-ifs.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailCan I cancel my RV rental in Merced and get a refund?
You can book your Merced RV rental with confidence. RVezy has a standard platform-wide cancellation policy that applies to every booking, with refund eligibility based on how far in advance you cancel relative to your trip start date. To cancel, just open your booking in your RVezy account and submit the request. If a host cancels on you, RVezy will refund you or help you rebook. Review the full policy before booking so you know exactly what to expect.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360037736674-Understanding-the-cancellation-policy-for-guestsAre there pet-friendly RV rentals in Merced, CA?
Yes, you will find plenty of pet-friendly RV rentals in Merced. Use the "Pet-Friendly" filter on RVezy to see listings that welcome your travel buddy. Lake Yosemite Regional Park, just north of town, allows leashed dogs in day-use areas, making it a great spot to stretch your pup's legs before hitting the road. Always confirm pet rules directly with your host before booking so you know about any cleaning fees or leash requirements for your Merced RV trip.
countyofmerced.com/Facilities/Facility/Details/Lake-Yosemite-Regional-Park-37Can I have the RV delivered to me in Merced?
Yes, many hosts offer RV delivery in Merced. Use the "Delivery" filter on RVezy and your motorhome or travel trailer can be brought to your home, a local campground, or Lake Yosemite Regional Park. Your host will set it up, give you a full walk-through, and answer your questions, which is ideal for first-time renters who want to skip towing or parking. It is the easiest way to start a stress-free Merced RV trip.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Merced%2C%20CaliforniaHow far can I travel with my Merced RV rental?
Merced is an ideal launch point for a California RV road trip. Most RV rentals in Merced include a set daily mileage allowance, and some hosts offer unlimited mileage upgrades. Yosemite Valley is about 80 miles east via Highway 140, Sequoia National Park is roughly 150 miles south, and Monterey Bay is about 130 miles west. If you have a specific route in mind, message your host before booking so they can confirm mileage and any travel restrictions.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360037736494-Understanding-mileage-and-generator-usageWhere can I camp with my RV near Merced?
There are several great RV camping options near Merced. Lake Yosemite Regional Park sits about 6 miles northeast of town with day-use lake access. For full hookups, Merced River RV Resort in Delhi offers riverside sites about 20 miles north. Inside Yosemite National Park, Upper Pines and North Pines accept RVs and require reservations through Recreation.gov. San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area, about 35 miles west, offers lakefront sites with partial hookups. Book early for spring and fall weekends.
recreation.gov/camping/gateways/2991When is the best time to plan an RV trip to Merced, CA?
The sweet spot for a Merced RV trip is late March through early June and late September through November, when daytime highs sit in the 70s to mid 80s F with cool, comfortable nights. Summers (June to August) are hot, often reaching 95 to 105 F in the Central Valley, so book a rental with strong air conditioning and plan early morning drives. Fall brings golden valley sunsets and thinner crowds at nearby Yosemite, and spring wildflowers in the foothills are well worth the trip.
weather.gov/hnx/Is renting an RV in Merced easy for first-timers?
Yes, first time renting an RV in Merced is straightforward. Every RVezy host provides a full walk-through at pickup or delivery, covering driving tips, leveling, hookups, and onboard systems. You can message your host in advance with questions and choose a rig size you feel comfortable with, from a compact campervan to a larger motorhome. Prefer to skip the drive on day one? Choose RV delivery and your host will set everything up at your campsite.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039008774-Understanding-approved-driver-requirementsWhat if something goes wrong during my Merced RV trip?
You are never on your own with an RVezy rental in Merced. 24/7 roadside assistance is included with every booking, covering issues like flat tires, lockouts, battery problems, and towing. If you have a question about RV systems, your host is just a message away for quick troubleshooting. Merced also has plenty of service stations and easy access to Highways 99 and 140, so help is rarely far away when you need it.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039340074-Insurance-coverage-validityCan I cross state lines with my Merced RV rental?
Most hosts allow you to take your Merced RV rental across state lines into Nevada, Oregon, or Arizona, but you should confirm cross-border travel with your host before booking since policies vary by listing. Popular trips like Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, and Sequoia from Merced stay within California and are generally welcomed. Travel into Mexico is not permitted under RVezy insurance coverage. Always share your route with your host so they can confirm mileage and coverage details.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039340074-Insurance-coverage-validityHow should I budget for fuel during an RV trip in Merced?
Fuel is one of the biggest trip costs, so plan ahead. Motorhomes typically get 8 to 12 mpg, while smaller campervan rentals in Merced can reach 14 to 20 mpg. California gas prices run higher than the national average, and fuel inside Yosemite is notably more expensive than in town, so fill up in Merced before heading east on Highway 140. Steady speeds on Highway 99 and limited idling will help stretch every tank.
eia.gov/petroleum/gasdiesel/How far in advance should I book a campground near Merced?
Popular RV sites near Merced fill up fast. For Yosemite's Upper Pines, North Pines, and Lower Pines, reserve up to 5 months ahead through Recreation.gov the moment your date opens. California State Parks like San Luis Reservoir SRA take reservations up to 6 months ahead via ReserveCalifornia. For more flexibility, private parks such as Merced River RV Resort often have shorter lead times and same-week availability. Booking early gives you the best site selection and hookup options.
recreation.gov/camping/gateways/2991What local roads or driving conditions should I be aware of near Merced?
Driving an RV around Merced is generally easy. Highway 99 runs north-south through the valley, and State Route 140 is the main RV-friendly route into Yosemite Valley. Summer Central Valley heat can stress engines and tires, so check coolant and tire pressure and plan rest stops in shade. Watch for slow-moving farm equipment on rural roads near Atwater and Livingston, and be ready for gusty afternoon winds. Check Caltrans QuickMap before heading into the Sierra for chain controls in winter.
quickmap.dot.ca.gov/What hookups and facilities can I expect at Merced area RV parks?
Most private RV parks near Merced offer full hookups (electric, water, sewer), with Merced River RV Resort in Delhi being a popular full-service option featuring showers, laundry, and Wi-Fi. State recreation areas like San Luis Reservoir typically offer partial hookups along with dump stations, potable water fills, and great lake access. Inside Yosemite, campgrounds do not have hookups but do offer dump stations seasonally. Confirm site amenities at booking so you arrive prepared.
parks.ca.gov/?page_id=558What features do most Merced RV rentals include?
RV and campervan rentals in Merced typically come well equipped: comfortable beds, a full kitchen with fridge, stove, and cookware, a private bathroom with shower, and air conditioning, which is essential for Central Valley summers. Many motorhomes add slide-outs for extra living space, backup cameras, and outdoor kitchens. Generators, Wi-Fi hotspots, and bedding or kitchen kits are common add-ons. Check the listing's amenity list on RVezy and message the host if you need a specific feature for your trip.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Merced%2C%20CaliforniaWhat are common add-ons and features for RV rentals in Merced?
You can tailor your Merced RV rental with popular add-ons like outdoor chairs, BBQ grills, bike racks, bedding and kitchen kits, and portable generators. Many hosts also offer unlimited mileage upgrades, extra generator hours, and pet packages. RV delivery to a campground, the Merced County Fairgrounds, or your driveway is a favorite option for renters who want a hands-off start to their trip. Add-ons are listed on each RVezy listing, so you can build the trip that suits you.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Merced%2C%20CaliforniaHow does payment and security deposit work when I rent an RV in Merced?
Booking on RVezy is secure and simple. Your trip payment is processed online when you book, and the refundable security deposit is held separately, typically authorized on your card shortly before pickup rather than charged outright. The deposit protects the host against damage and is released after the RV is returned in the same condition you received it. Review your host's check-in checklist, return the RV clean and on time, and the deposit will be released promptly.
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