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BLM Camping

Railroad Flat Campground

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

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Railroad Flat Campground

The Bureau of Land Management manages public lands throughout the country, including in California. Camping is allowed in many of these areas for tents and RVs. Railroad Flat Campground is one of three Bureau of Land Management campgrounds along the Merced River. You can get to Railroad Flat Campground by crossing a suspension bridge near the Briceburg Visitor Center. Railroad Flat Campground is located within the Merced River Recreation Area and is only 24 miles from Yosemite National Park. The area around the campground is loved by hikers and gold prospectors alike, and it sits at the trailhead of the Merced River Trail. All of the campsites are shaded by oak and pine trees and include a table and grill. Hiking, fishing, rafting, and swimming opportunities are nearby.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

The Merced River Trail

This trail is open all year. The best time of year to visit is in the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom. Dogs are welcome. Length: 5.5 miles Intensity: Moderate

Hikes Cove Trail

This dog-friendly trail is open all year. There's not much shade, but it's a scenic path along the river with plenty of wildflowers in the spring. Length: 6.5 miles Intensity: Moderate

Clearing House Trail

This trail is located within the Stanislavsky National Forest. May through September is the best time of year to visit. It's the perfect spot to get away from the crowds. Dogs are welcome on this trail. Length: 1.4 miles Intensity: Moderate

Diana Falls Trail

The best time of year to visit this trail is from March through July. Your scenic journey is rewarded with a beautiful waterfall at the end, as well as a swimming hole. Length: 1.4 miles Intensity: Easy

Fishing and Boating

The Merced River provides white water rafting for Class 3 through Class 5 rapids. The river is also a great place to go fishing, but be aware of catch and release regulations for native rainbow trout. Yosemite National Park is nearby and has several lakes and reservoirs that are open for fishing all year.

Climbing

Yosemite National Park has a wide variety of rock climbing opportunities available near Railroad Flat Campground. There are sustained crack climbs offered in the Merced River Canyon, and multi-day climbs can be found along the valley's walls. You'll need a wilderness climbing permit before you begin.

Wildlife Viewing

You'll discover plenty of wildlife near Railroad Flat Campground and in Yosemite National Park. This includes the American black bear, coyote, mule deer, and bighorn sheep. Small animals such as raccoons, squirrels, bats, and owls are prevalent. You'll also find a variety of birds, amphibians, and fish in the area.

Picnicking

Each Railroad Flat Campground site includes a picnic table and fire grill. There's even a food storage locker to keep your supplies safe from wildlife.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

Railroad Flat Campground offers BLM camping near me that features three walk-in sites and six sites for RV camping. All sites are within 200 feet of the river. Amenities include trash and recycling cans, one vault toilet, and two port-o-let toilets. The sites are first come, first served and cost $10 per night. The fee is $5 for those with an America the Beautiful Pass.

Free Camping

There is no Bureau of Land Management free camping near Railroad Flat Campground. Dispersed camping is not allowed. If all of the sites are filled, McCabe Flat and Willow Placer campgrounds are nearby.

RV Rentals Near Railroad Flat Campground Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Railroad Flat Campground BLM trip

All fees for Railroad Flat Campground are paid by a self-pay Iron Ranger fee system located near the main bulletin board. Camping is only allowed in the designated areas with a maximum of eight people per site. Dogs must be leashed at all times. Guests are asked to respect quiet time after 10 p.m. The discharge of firearms or fireworks is prohibited. Swimming is popular in the Merced River that runs beside the campground, but be aware that there's no lifeguard on duty. Swimming is most dangerous during spring and early summer. The river is not dammed and changes its flow from one season to the next. Life jackets are highly recommended. While visiting Railroad Flat Campground, you can enjoy fishing, scenic surroundings, and a stunning wildflower display along the Merced River Trail. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

Millions of people visit BML lands each year. As a visitor, it's important to preserve these spaces for future generations. Leave No Trace is a program that offers education to all guests on how to enjoy these outdoor spaces responsibly while taking advantage of Bureau of Land Management camping. Dispose of waste properly, don't take any part of nature with you, and minimize how your campfire impacts your surroundings. Respect the wildlife and be considerate of others. Double-check your campsite for any trash you may have overlooked before leaving.

Railroad Flat Campground Location

When coming from Merced, travel east on U.S. Highway 140 for 40 miles, where you'll reach Mariposa. From here, go for another 15 miles along U.S. Highway 140 to the Briceburg Visitor Center and Scenic Merced River. The campground can be reached by going across the suspension bridge just past the visitor center and then heading down Briceburg River Road along the river. Address: Railroad Flat Campground, Briceburg Road, Midpines, CA 95345 Ready to visit Railroad Flat Campground? An RV rentalRV 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.

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