Lake McClure, nestled in the foothills of Central California’s stunning Sierra Nevada Mountain range, is the perfect setting for your next camping trip.
This blog post will review the best RV camping accommodations near Lake McClure. Furthermore, we will reveal some of the many exciting attractions featured in this region. I am sure you and your family have a wonderful time exploring all that Lake McClure offers.
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RV Parks at Lake McClure
Quite a few campgrounds surround Lake McClure and nearby Lake McSwain Recreation Area, which you can check out online using each facility’s virtual tour. Below are the top recreation areas for RV camping near this iconic lake in Mariposa County.
Barrett Cove Recreation Area
Barrett Cove Recreation has much to offer visitors of Lake McClure, including a children’s playground, free hot showers, and almost ninety full water and electric hook-up sites. Each RV campsite comes equipped with a fire ring and picnic table. There are boat launch ramps at the campground’s marina, home to a tasty cafe.
The campground also provides travelers easy access to Exchequer Mountain Bike Park, boasting challenging biking trails and scenic views. Thus, Barrett Cove Recreation Area is a must-visit for adventurous RV campers.
Bagby Recreation Area
There is a lot to enjoy at Bagby Recreation Area, particularly for those who love picnicking. Day passes are offered to those who wish to picnic in this picturesque Central California region. The campground boasts full RV hook-up sites, flushing toilets, and a fish cleaning station.
Bagby Recreation Area is a bit smaller than the other campsites on this list, making it an excellent destination for those looking for relaxed, low-key accommodations. It is also pet-friendly, so your fur babies are more than welcome to tag along on your camping trip to Lake McClure.
Horseshoe Bend Campground
The Horseshoe Bend Recreation Area is among the best places to RV camp near Lake McClure, offering travelers access to thirty-five electric and water hook-up sites. Guests may take advantage of the campground’s camp store, pristine public restrooms, event pavilion, swimming lagoon, and waterfront picnic area.
McClure Point Camping & Recreation Area
McClure Point is a fan favorite spot for frequent visitors since it offers to most picturesque views of the entire lake. It is also a prime destination for lakeside picnics, though picnic tables are included at every campsite. In addition, a marina store, fish cleaning station, laundry facilities, and swimming area are situated on the grounds.
Lake McClure’s Recreational Opportunities
There are plenty of exciting attractions and outdoor recreation opportunities around Lake McClure. We will share some of those with you below that you may want to consider adding to your camping trip itinerary.
Boating
There is no better way to explore the Lake McClure reservoir than by boat. Whether you want to fish, swim, or take in the scenery, access to a floating vehicle will be handy. Water skiing is also a popular pastime amongst Lake McClure’s loyal visitors. Boat slip rentals are available at Barrett Cove Marina, beginning at approximately $15 per night. Please note that boat access permits are also required with varying rates depending on the season.
Biking
Thrill-seeking travelers will adore the challenging yet scenic paths in Exchequer Mountain Bike Park. The park is the prime destination to catch panoramic views of the region’s beautiful lakes and mountains, making it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Lake McClure. Admission is accessible from Barrett Cove Recreation Area and costs $8 per day.
Fishing
Rainbow trout are abundant in Lake McClure and other noteworthy species like bass and salmon. An annual Spring Trout Derby is even held every year in Mariposa County at nearby Lake McSwain, currently scheduled for the first weekend of April in 2022.
After a relaxing morning out on the water, you can bring your catch back to the campsite to whip up a tasty meal for your group. Most of the campgrounds listed above offer guests access to fish cleaning stations, making the whole process easier and more sanitary.
Splash N Dash Aqua Park
This lovely lakeside water park is the perfect spot for some family-friendly fun. Inflatable obstacle courses are scattered on land and the water, ranging in difficulty level to accommodate all ages. The most exciting rides include the swing, trampoline, and wiggle bridge. Splash N Dash Aqua Park is only a short drive away along Lake McClure Road. However, the park utilizes Lake McSwain’s Recreational Area’s waterfront.
For another great RV campground, visit Lake Nacimiento.
Feature image ogwen, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Tony is an avid camper and RV traveler. He fell in love with camping on his first RV trip with his wife over 25 years ago. Tony loves sharing lessons learned and tips about RV maintenance and safe traveling.
