Find hotels near Merced River Recreation Area, Coulterville from $160

Top reasons to visit Merced River Recreation Area

• Stunning Natural Landscapes: Experience breathtaking views of waterfalls, lakes, and the picturesque Merced River.
• Outdoor Activities: Enjoy camping, swimming, and exploring scenic trails perfect for adventurers and families.
• Proximity to Yosemite: Access to Yosemite Valley enhances your outdoor adventure with iconic landscapes.
• Family-Friendly Environment: Discover campsites and activities suitable for all ages, ensuring a fun vacation for everyone.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts, catering to all preferences.

Find great hotels near Merced River Recreation Area

Explore a diverse selection of hotel accommodations in the scenic Merced River Recreation Area, ranging from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious 5-star resorts. Whether you're seeking adventure, a family-friendly atmosphere, or a pet-friendly getaway, you'll find the ideal lodging to suit your needs. Enjoy the natural beauty of the region while discovering exciting activities like camping at Merced River Resort or relaxing at a lakeside retreat.

• Yosemite View Lodge: Nestled 12 miles from the Merced River Recreation Area, Yosemite View Lodge offers an exhilarating blend of adventure and family-friendly amenities. This hotel is perfect for those seeking a fun-filled getaway, with a variety of onsite and nearby outdoor activities such as rafting, skiing, and hiking. Families will appreciate the dedicated children's amenities, including an arcade game room and nearby sledding opportunities. Pet owners will find a welcoming environment, as the lodge allows dogs and provides services for service animals.
• Tenaya at Yosemite: Located 20 miles from the Merced River Recreation Area, Tenaya at Yosemite is a luxurious 4-star resort that caters to adventure seekers and families alike. With activities like rock climbing, fishing, and snowshoeing offered onsite, guests can easily immerse themselves in nature. Families can enjoy the resort’s arcade game room, sledding area, and a pool specifically designed for children. Tenaya also welcomes pets, ensuring a memorable stay for the whole family, including furry members, with designated dog exercise areas and specific pet policies in place.
• Cedar Lodge: Just 7 miles from the Merced River Recreation Area, Cedar Lodge boasts a beach-themed vibe combined with adventurous offerings. Guests can enjoy direct beach access and partake in thrilling activities such as fishing, rafting, and kayaking. The lodge is ideal for those looking to embrace the outdoors while also having a relaxing beach experience. Its proximity to adventure sports makes it a fantastic choice for both relaxation and excitement.

Discover the best areas to stay near Merced River Recreation Area

Your adventure to the Merced River Recreation Area promises a delightful blend of relaxation and exploration. Discover family-friendly camping spots nestled among stunning scenery, while the gentle flow of the Merced River invites you to unwind. Nearby, the city of Merced offers vibrant local culture, making it an ideal base for excursions into California's beautiful state parks. Experience friendly communities and breathtaking landscapes that will make your vacation unforgettable.

• Mariposa: Located 8 miles from the Merced River Recreation Area, Mariposa is a charming town that offers a seasonal influx of visitors, peaking during the spring and summer months. Known for its stunning outdoor scenery and adventurous opportunities, Mariposa serves as a gateway to the nearby Yosemite National Park. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, camping, and exploring the beautiful landscapes. Notable local attractions include the historic Mariposa County Courthouse and the scenic Yosemite Valley. Whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat in nature, Mariposa is an ideal stop.
• Groveland: Situated 22 miles from the Merced River Recreation Area, Groveland is a delightful community that sees moderate seasonal travel, particularly during the spring and summer. This quaint town is perfect for those looking for outdoor adventures, with nearby recreational areas and ski resorts. Groveland provides access to the iconic Yosemite National Park and offers picturesque views and hiking trails. Don't miss the chance to visit the historic Groveland Hotel and the charming town square, where local shops and eateries await. Groveland's inviting atmosphere makes it a perfect getaway for adventurers and families alike.
• El Portal: Just 11 miles from the Merced River Recreation Area, El Portal is a small yet vibrant community that attracts visitors year-round, especially during the summer months. This town is a fantastic base for outdoor activities, including hiking and wildlife watching, with easy access to Yosemite National Park. El Portal is known for its breathtaking scenery and proximity to the Merced River, making it an excellent spot for nature lovers. Explore the surrounding landscape, which features symbolic landmarks and stunning vistas. El Portal seamlessly blends adventure and relaxation, making it a must-visit destination.

Things to do near Merced River Recreation Area

The Merced River Recreation Area offers a variety of activities for visitors, including several campsites perfect for tent camping, scenic swimming spots to enjoy the refreshing waters, and a dog park for your furry friends. Additionally, the area provides access to videos and information for visiting Yosemite, enhancing your outdoor adventure experience in this beautiful Californian locale.

Food and drinks

Visit Butterfly Creek Winery, located 9 miles from the Merced River Recreation Area, for a delightful tasting experience. Enjoy their local wines amidst picturesque river canyons and the relaxing vibes of Chilnualna Creeks, perfect for a romantic outing or a casual evening with friends.

Shopping

For a charming shopping experience, visit the El Portal Market, located 11 miles away from the Merced River Recreation Area. This store offers a selection of local goods and souvenirs, perfect for your trip. If you're up for a drive, it's worth the visit!

Recreation

Explore Lake McClure Bagby Recreation Area for serene lakeside relaxation and outdoor activities amidst nature. Unwind at Bagby Recreation Area, which offers peaceful settings perfect for wellness. For active fun, visit Wawona Golf Course, where you can enjoy a round of golf surrounded by beautiful landscapes.

Adventure

Experience the thrill at Yosemite Ziplines and Adventure Ranch, 9 miles from Merced River Recreation Area, with exhilarating ziplines and a challenging ropes course. For winter fun, head to Badger Pass Ski Area, located 17 miles away, offering fantastic skiing and sports activities amidst stunning mountain scenery.

Enjoy a scenic hike at Merced Grove Trailhead, situated 13 miles from Merced River Recreation Area, where you'll be surrounded by breathtaking views and the serenity of nature on your adventure.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Merced River Recreation Area

To save money on your trip to Merced River Recreation Area, take advantage of the free entry to the park and nearby attractions like Lake McClure Bagby Recreation Area. Visit during the cheaper months of November to January for lower accommodation rates. Book hotels about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Use their search tool to filter options by budget and preferences, and consider booking a package that includes flights and activities. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide additional discounts and rewards for future stays.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Merced River Recreation Area are November to January, 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Merced River Recreation Area is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will show you sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking an Expedia package that 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.

Find the best attractions near Merced River Recreation Area

The Merced River Recreation Area in Coulterville, California, offers a range of attractions for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Visitors can explore stunning waterfalls, the visitor center, and beautiful lakes. Key experiences include enjoying the Merced River, discovering Yosemite Valley, and exploring Merced Lake and Merced Canyon. This area is perfect for adventure seekers looking to immerse themselves in nature's beauty.

• Yosemite National Park: A breathtaking national park known for its stunning granite cliffs, waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems. Adventure awaits with hiking, rock climbing, and scenic vistas that leave you in awe of nature's beauty, just 22 miles from the Merced River Recreation Area.
• Yosemite Valley: This picturesque valley offers outdoor enthusiasts a playground of activities. Experience thrilling adventures in a stunning natural setting filled with lush meadows, towering cliffs, and breathtaking views, located just 23 miles away.
• Briceburg Information Center: Conveniently located 0.2 miles from the recreation area, this visitor center serves as a great starting point for families and adventurers. Enjoy informative exhibits and access to nearby trails and outdoor activities in the beautiful surrounding landscape.

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 moderately high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Merced River Recreation Area falls in December, visitor numbers are moderately 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	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	43.9°F (6.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
March	46.8°F (8.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	60.4°F (15.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
June	70.3°F (21.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	77.7°F (25.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	76.3°F (24.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	71.1°F (21.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	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	Moderately Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Merced River Recreation Area

To visit the Merced River Recreation Area, you can fly into several nearby airports. Merced Municipal Airport (MCE) is 37 miles away, with convenient hotel options such as El Capitan Hotel (2 miles), TownePlace Suites by Marriott Merced (4 miles), and Courtyard by Marriott Merced (3 miles). Mariposa-Yosemite Airport (RMY) is closer at 8 miles, with choices like AutoCamp Yosemite (7 miles) and Yosemite Plaisance Bed & Breakfast (5 miles). For those considering Modesto City-County Airport (MOD), located 54 miles away, you can find accommodations like DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Modesto (3 miles) and SpringHill Suites by Marriott Modesto (4 miles).