Location: County: Merced. Nearest City: Hilmar. See map 3.

Campsites, facilities: There are 21 family sites and one large group site for tents or RVs up to 32 feet long. Picnic tables, fire grills, and piped water are provided. Flush toilets are available. Supplies can be obtained in Newman, five miles away. Leashed pets are permitted.

Reservations, fees: Call ahead for group reservations and fees; $12-$14 per night for family sites, $1 pet fee. Open year-round.

Contact: Phone the Four Rivers District Office at 1-209-826-1196 or the park at 1-209-632-1852.

George J. Hatfield SRA
4394 North Kelley Road
Hilmar CA 95324

Operating hours, seasons: Call park for information.

Directions: South of the junction of Interstate 5 and Interstate 580, take Interstate 5 to the Newman/Stuhr Road exit. Turn east on County Road J18 (Stuhr Road) and drive to Newman and the junction with Highway 33. Turn right (south) and drive a short distance to Hills Ferry Road. Turn left (east) and drive five miles to the park entrance.

Weather, clothing: The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recomended.

Trip notes: George J. Hatfield State Recreation Area is surrounded by the Merced River. This is a small state park set in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley near the confluence of the Merced River and the San Joaquin River, this park offers swimming and fishing. The area was once the home of Native Americans. The park has many trees and is home to various wildlife, especially birds. The park has picnics areas. The San Joaquin Valley is well known for hot summer days and foggy winter nights. Some folks say that if you eat enough catfish from this spot, you'll glow in the dark after a few years. It's advisable to throw them back.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Where to go Camping

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Miwok Lodge 439