River access draws campers to George J. Hatfield State Recreation Area Group Camp, where the Merced River runs low enough for children to wade safely. This group camping facility accommodates RVs up to 30 feet and operates year-round with reservations available at $150 per night. California State Parks manages the site, which includes basic amenities like restrooms, picnic tables, and campfire areas.
Recent visitors note significant mosquito populations, particularly during warmer months. The park has undergone cleanup efforts following past flooding events. Limited campsites mean fewer crowds, though access conditions can vary. Fisherman's Bend sits just over a mile west for those seeking additional options in the area.
Description
George Hatfield Group Camp
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Thank you for your patience as we finalize the 2026 inventory. Please continue to check back. We will be releasing the inventory as soon as it becomes available.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundGeorge J. Hatfield State Recreation Area Group Camp is located in California
Directions
From Interstate 5, take the Newman exit into Newman and continue east on County Road J-18 for five miles; the park entrance is just past the San Joaquin River bridge.
Address
4394 North Kelley Road
Hilmar, CA 95324
Coordinates
37.357184 N
120.960004 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
Site Types
- Tent Sites
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Toilets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 24 min from Modesto, CA
- 33 min from Merced, CA
- 52 min from Stockton, CA
- 1 hr 27 min from San Jose, CA



