Willow Placer Campground

Perched along the serene Merced River in Midpines, California, Willow Placer Campground offers a tranquil retreat amid oak and pine woodland, with a family-friendly atmosphere and peaceful surroundings that contrast the often-busy campgrounds closer to Yosemite. This Bureau of Land Management (BLM) campground features eight walk-in campsites and one group site, all equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and food storage lockers, set within 200 feet of the river for easy access to its scenic beauty.

The facilities include vault toilets and seasonal portable restrooms, but campers should plan to bring their own water or fill up near the Briceburg Bridge, as potable water is not available on site. The first-come, first-serve layout ensures a sense of spontaneity, and its quieter environment makes it an excellent option for weekend getaways or stopover trips. A short drive leads to several outdoor opportunities, with Yosemite National Park’s entrance and the surrounding wilderness just 30 minutes away, perfect for hiking, swimming, or relaxing alongside the river.

Located 3.6 miles downstream from the Briceburg suspension bridge along Briceburg River Road, this campground is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts who value simplicity, privacy, and proximity to stunning natural attractions. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, and exercise caution with poison oak and rattlesnakes common in the area.