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

Campsites, facilities: There are 21 sites for tents or RVs up to 24 feet long and two group sites for tents only. Piped water, fire grills, and picnic tables are provided. Flush toilets and hot showers are available. Supplies can be obtained in Delhi, three miles away. Leashed pets are permitted.

Reservations, fees: Phone 1-800-444-PARK/7275 ($7.50 reservation fee) for group fees and reservations; $15 per night for family sites, $1 pet fee. Open March through September.

Contact: Phone the Four Rivers District Office at 1-209-826-1196.

McConnell SRA
8800 McConnell Road
Ballico CA 95303

Operating hours, seasons: Call park for information; open all year round.

Directions: From Modesto or Merced, drive on Highway 99 to Delhi and the Shanks Road exit. Turn east on El Capitan Way and drive five miles to Pepper Street. Turn right and drive to the park.

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

Trip notes: McConnell State Recreation Area is on the banks of the Merced River. Fishing is popular for catfish, black bass and perch. There are over 70 acre picnic, camping and play areas. The weather gets scorching hot around these parts in the summer months, and a lot of out-of-towners would pay a bunch for a little shade and a river to sit next to. That's what this park provides, with the Merced River flowing past, along with occasional mermaids on the beach. In high-water years, the Merced River attracts salmon (in the fall).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Where to go Camping

-M-6-

Miwok Lodge 439