Merced River Recreation Area Tours

Things to do near Merced River Recreation Area

The Merced River Recreation Area in Coulterville, California, is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy scenic riverside hiking trails, excellent fishing opportunities in the river, and various camping options to immerse themselves in nature. Wildlife viewing is also abundant, making it a great spot for nature lovers. Whether you're looking to relax by the river or explore the stunning landscapes, there’s something for everyone at this beautiful area.

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, El Portal Market, located 11 miles away from the Merced River Recreation Area, offers a variety of local goods and souvenirs. It's a great spot to find unique gifts that reflect the charm of the region.

Recreation

At Lake McClure Bagby Recreation Area, enjoy tranquil waters and serene landscapes, perfect for relaxation. Ascent, the Spa at Tenaya Lodge, offers rejuvenating body treatments in a peaceful environment. For outdoor enthusiasts, Wawona Golf Course provides a scenic setting for a round of golf amid beautiful surroundings.

Adventure

At Yosemite Ziplines and Adventure Ranch, located 9 miles from Merced River Recreation Area, thrill-seekers can soar through the treetops on exhilarating ziplines. Badger Pass Ski Area, 17 miles away, offers fantastic skiing opportunities for snow enthusiasts. For a relaxing day, visit Cathedral Beach Picnic Area, 20 miles away, and enjoy beautiful outdoor vistas.

Nightlife

Experience the charming nightlife at Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater, 22 miles away, offering a blend of culture and entertainment. Alternatively, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at Golden Chain Theater, located 24 miles away, where family-friendly performances create lasting memories in a romantic setting.

Find the best attractions near Merced River Recreation Area

When visiting the Merced River Recreation Area in Coulterville, California, you'll find a mix of outdoor adventures and family-friendly experiences. Explore the scenic Merced River, enjoy a relaxing river walk, and visit the Merced River Visitor Center to learn about the area's history. Don't miss the nearby history museum for a deeper understanding of the region. This destination is perfect for those seeking adventure and natural beauty.

• Briceburg Information Center: Located only 0.2 miles from the Merced River Recreation Area, this visitor center offers a perfect starting point for adventure seekers and families alike. With stunning outdoor vibes, you can gather information about local trails, recreational activities, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
• Yosemite Arch Rock Gate Entrance: Situated 14 miles away, this visitor center serves as the gateway to Yosemite National Park. It's an ideal spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts to access maps, tips, and insights about the park’s many adventures, all while soaking in the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada.
• Mariposa County's Old Stone Jail: Just 8 miles from the recreation area, this historic prison offers a glimpse into the local culture and history. Explore its intriguing architecture and learn about its storied past, making it a fascinating stop for history buffs.

Best time to go to Merced River Recreation Area

The best time to visit Merced River Recreation Area can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Merced River Recreation Area falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Merced River Recreation Area falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	43.9°F (6.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
March	46.8°F (8.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	60.4°F (15.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
June	70.3°F (21.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	77.7°F (25.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	76.3°F (24.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	71.1°F (21.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
October	60.6°F (15.9°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
November	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	42.6°F (5.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Merced River Recreation Area

To save money on your trip to the Merced River Recreation Area, consider visiting during the off-peak months of January, March, or November when prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, and aim for a Tuesday stay, as Fridays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly accommodations and look for last-minute deals. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and help you earn cash for future bookings. Don’t forget to explore free outdoor activities in the area to maximize your savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Merced River Recreation Area are January, March and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Merced River Recreation Area about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Merced River Recreation Area is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Merced River Recreation Area is Friday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your ideal location, and much more. You can organize your results to display prices from the lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will show you sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking a package with Expedia, which combines your hotel stay at the Merced River Recreation Area with your flights and activities.
• Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.