McCabe Flat Campground

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

The McCabe Flat Campground in the Merced River Recreation Management Area has one of the biggest swimming beaches in the area. Along with swimming and camping, you can also fish, hike, paddle boat, or picnic. The McCabe Flat Campground is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), a federal organization that oversees more than 15 million acres in California. You can access this campground by crossing the Briceburg suspension bridge. All campsites here are within 200 feet of the beautiful 145-mile-long Merced River.

Yosemite National Park, known for its almost 1,200 square miles of cliffs, waterfalls, and wilderness, is only 47 miles away. Pinnacles National Park, home to one of the country’s most active wildlife areas, is 162 miles away. The best place to stop for supplies locally is Mariposa. Bigger cities like Atwater and Merced are a little over an hour away.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Stockton Creek Preserve Loop

This trail is popular with hikers and wildlife enthusiasts. Head here in the early morning to beat the crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. There's very little shade so be sure to bring sunscreen and a wide-brim hat.

Intensity: Moderate

Length: 3.2 miles

Bull Creek OHV Trail

The beginning of this trail is narrow and steep. Once you make it up the incline, it becomes much easier. Enjoy the stunning views of the river and nearby wilderness. This trail is popular with visitors on their way to Yosemite National Park.

Intensity: Moderate

Length: 13.4 miles

Fishing and Boating

Boating, fishing, and whitewater rafting are all permitted on the Merced River. You'll find exceptional rafting opportunities between Yosemite River and Lake McClure. Anglers of all skill levels have no problem catching brown trout, largemouth bass, wild rainbow trout, and spotted bass. Boating is most popular up on Lake McClure near Coulterville.

Climbing

Yosemite National Park is one of the greatest climbing areas in the world. Try your hand at sustained crack climbing or plan a multi-day excursion up the walls of Yosemite Valley. Those staying overnight during their big wall climbs must have a wilderness climbing permit. Minimize your impact on the canyon walls and flora by practicing safe climbing habits.

Wildlife Viewing

The wooded wilderness around McCabe Flat Campground is full of red foxes, opossums, mule deer, bighorn sheep, ground squirrels, and marmots. Significant local birds include gray owls, grouse, ducks, woodpeckers, and kingbirds. While it's important to keep an eye out for black bears and mountain lions, encounters with these large predators are uncommon.

Picnicking

You'll find plenty of trash cans, picnic tables, and fire grills at McCabe Flat Campground. This site is one of the only organized picnicking areas on the Merced Wild and Scenic River for several miles. You're welcome to picnic anywhere on California BLM lands unless otherwise designated. Make sure to practice the Leave No Trace principles when visiting and pack out all of your waste.

ATVing

Bring an off-roading vehicle to maximize your BLM adventure near the Merced River. These vehicles allow you to haul extra supplies like food, water, and camping essentials so you're better prepared. You’ll also be able to see and do more during the day, maximizing your exploration potential.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

The McCabe Flat Campground is one of three Bureau of Land Management campgrounds in the Merced River Recreation Management Area. This campground has eight walk-in sites and three drive-up sites. The amenities include vault toilets, overflow parking, recycling cans, and food locker storage. A maximum of eight people are allowed to stay at one site. The camp fee is $10 per night. The Willow Placer Campground is the second-closest camping option with mostly walk-in sites. You'll find similar amenities here like picnic tables, fire rings, and trash services.

The Bagby Camping & Recreation Area on Lake McClure offers a more modern RV camping experience. You'll love their free hot showers, water and electric hookups, fish cleaning station, and boat launch. The Indian Flat Campground near Yosemite National Park offers partial and full RV hookups. Visitors also have access to a small gift shop and outdoor pool.

Free Camping

Bureau of Land Management free camping options are available in the form of dispersed camping. You're welcome to park your RV on the shoulder of an accessible highway or set up a tent under the trees. Be aware that you should never leave your belongings alone for more than 24 hours. Dispersed camping is not permitted in the Merced River corridor.

RV Rentals Near McCabe Flat Campground Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your McCabe Flat Campground BLM trip

While searching for "BLM camping near me," keep in mind that many BLM campgrounds offer sites on a first come, first served basis. They can't be reserved ahead of time, meaning the site may be booked up when you arrive. If you're set on visiting during the peak season, it may be best to reserve a spot at a local modern campground. In addition to planning your camping arrangements, you should also pack a lot of water, extra clothes, cookware, bug repellant, and bear repellant. If you're going to spend a few days climbing, have an idea of the projected forecast. It's safer to hike and explore with like-minded friends rather than go alone. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

Minimize the impact of your BLM RV camping trip by only starting fires in the provided metal fire rings. Keep all glass bottles, plastics, and waste away from the Merced River. Pets are not allowed on the beach at McCabe Flat Campground. You should always keep your pet on a leash and away from local wildlife. Don't discharge any fireworks or firearms that may disturb other campers or start a fire. Being a respectful BLM visitor ensures future explorers can enjoy the pristine California wilderness.

McCabe Flat Campground Location

Starting in Merced, head east on State Highway 140 to Mariposa. Keep traveling another 12 miles until you reach the Briceburg Visitor Center. Potable water is available here. The campground is about two miles further down the road after you pass the suspension bridge.

Address: 11202 Bull Creek Road, Mariposa, CA

Ready to visit McCabe Flat Campground? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night, where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.