Overview The Merced River Recreation Management Area is a very special place just downstream from Yosemite. It is well known for excellent whitewater boating, wildflower viewing, camping, swimming, and recreational gold panning/prospecting. Bird watching is good throughout the area most of the year. Fishing is popular
Yes — your pass gets you in.
The official site information states the federal recreation (America the Beautiful) pass is accepted here.
- Fee type Entrance fee — The standard per-vehicle park entrance fee.
- Source Official / Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Confirmed
- Official pagewww.blm.gov ↗
- Contact 209-379-9414 · BLM_CA_Web_ML@blm.gov
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Merced River Recreation Management Area — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Yes Does the America the Beautiful pass work at Merced River Recreation Management Area?
Yes — your pass covers the entrance fee here.
Yes Can you fish at Merced River Recreation Management Area?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Merced River Recreation Management Area. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you swim here?
Yes — swimming is available at Merced River Recreation Management Area. There are typically no lifeguards, so swim at your own risk and check conditions.
Yes Can you camp at Merced River Recreation Management Area?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Telegraph Road, Bull Creek Road, Yosemite Valley Railroad Grade, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you bike here?
Yes — biking is available at Merced River Recreation Management Area. Confirm which roads or trails allow it.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Merced River Recreation Management Area is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
Nearby sites
California High-Speed Rail Authority / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons Bureau of Land Management Fresno River Recreation Area
CheckThis Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Sacramento District / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Eastman Lake
CheckArmy Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
