Bagby Recreation Area: Lakeside Camping and Merced River Inlet. Photo Credit; mypubliclands, -conservationlands15 Social Media Takeover, Oct 15th, Top 15 Bucket List Adventures (21586256194).jpg
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Published February 26, 2026
Bagby Recreation Area: Lakeside Camping and Merced River Inlet
At the inlet of Lake McClure along Highway 49 in Mariposa County, Bagby Recreation Area offers lakeside camping, river access, and a rustic retreat below the Wild & Scenic Merced River. This remote Merced Irrigation District site provides primitive and hookup sites; a peaceful foothills escape.
A Lakeside and River Inlet Mosaic
Bagby blends Merced River inflow, Lake McClure shores, oak woodlands, and grasslands. Fish (bass, trout) and wildlife (birds, deer) thrive; the area supports riparian habitat and seasonal wildflowers in a scenic river-lake transition.
Adventure With a Conservation Conscience
Camping (31+ RV sites, primitive river sites, water-electric hookups); fishing, swimming, boating (ramp open); hiking along river.
Access is intentional: day-use fees, camping reservations (Campspot), pack out waste. Wood campfires allowed (permit recommended); high-clearance for some access; no major closures.
Bagby Recreation Area delivers lakeside camping and Merced River inlet recreation in rustic beauty. For campers and anglers seeking remote shores, the sites reward quiet immersion; a foothills riverside gem.