| Description: Including the South Fork, the Merced flows through exceptional scenery -- glaciated peaks, lakes, alpine & subalpine meadows -- in alternating pools & cascades. Wildflower displays are spectacular. The South Fork possesses one of the few remaining pristine Sierra fisheries with self-sustaining populations of rainbow, eastern brook, & brown trout. Archeology & wildlife are also noteworthy. Rafting is best April- August, on class III-V+ rapids. Camping at Railroad Flat or McCabe Flat campgrounds.
Location: From its source (including Red Peak Fork, Merced Peak Fork, Triple Peak Fork, & Lyle Fork) in Yosemite National Park to a point 300 feet upstream of the confluence with Bear Creek. The South Fork from its source in Yosemite National Park to the confluence with the main stem.
Put-ins at Redbud, Cranberry, Briceburg & Indian Flat. Take- outs at Briceburg, McCabe Flat, Railroad Flat, Bagby Reservoir. Portage at North Fork Falls.
Season: year round.
Fee: for some areas along the river.
Reservations: no. Activities:
Fishing Picnicking
Boating (WW) Hiking/Backpacking Scenic Driving Camping Wildlife Viewing Drinking Water RV Sites Restrooms Boat Ramp.
Notes: Managed in partnership with the National Park Service & Sierra National Forest. |
Bureau of Land Management, Merced River Campground Web Site |
Campground: Bureau of Land Management, Merced River in Bakersfield California *