Yosemite National Park Swimming Spots
Swimming hole in Merced, California · River
Yosemite National Park Swimming Spots is a river swimming hole. It is near Merced, California. Fee notes: May be a fee to enter Yosemite N.P. depending on where you enter. Best season: Spring through early summer for vibrant water flow.
Typical season: Spring through early summer for vibrant water flow
About Yosemite National Park Swimming Spots
Yosemite National Park Swimming Spots lies in California, where Varies -See Below moves through a wooded corridor. Visitors trade crowds for a quieter bank access.
Few experiences in the American West match the simple pleasure of slipping into the cold, clear waters of the Merced River with Yosemite's towering granite walls rising around you.
Whether you're wading into a sandy-bottomed pool in the heart of Yosemite Valley or picking your way along a trail to a secluded . The river runs the length of the park, shifting in character from roaring springtime torrent to a gentler, sun-warmed summer retreat. And the . Granite monoliths like El Capitan and Half Dome loom overhead while ponderosa pines cast dappled shade along the riverbanks. At spots like Sentinel Beach, you'll find sandy shores that feel almost tropical in contrast to the rugged cliffs above. A surreal mix of wilderness grandeur and lazy summer afternoon. Further from the valley, the Bryceburg Recreation Area offers a rawer, more rugged atmosphere where the river carves through chaparral-covered hillsides and the . Spring hikers heading toward the Hites Cove area are rewarded with one of California's finest wildflower displays. Poppies and lupine painting the hillsides gold and purple. Before the trail descends to the river's edge. What . Refreshing on a hot August afternoon, but something to ease into rather than dive headlong.
Swim at your own risk at Yosemite National Park Swimming Spots. Check conditions after rain and respect any posted closures.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Water type
- River
- Water body
- Varies -see below
- Fee
- May be a fee to enter Yosemite N.P. depending on where you enter.
- Nearest town
- Merced
- State
- California
- Best season
- Spring through early summer for vibrant water flow; summer for warmer .
- Access difficulty
- Easy access at Bryceburg and Yosemite Valley; moderate hiking required for Hites Cove .
- Parking
- Designated area
- Restrooms
- Yes
- Lifeguard
- Present (seasonal)
- Cliff jumping
- Reported
- Camping
- At the Park - get reservations if you want to stay in the valley. There are tents and cabins in Curry Village in the Yosemite Valley. There is a campground at Wawona as well - probably less crowded because it isn't in the Valley.
- Land manager
- National Park Service
- Activities
- Swimming, jumping
- Facilities
- Parking is available near Bryceburg and Yosemite Valley .
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visit Spring through early summer for vibrant water flow; summer for warmer .
- Access Easy access at Bryceburg and Yosemite Valley; moderate hiking required for Hites Cove .
- Facilities Parking is available near Bryceburg and Yosemite Valley .
- Camping nearby At the Park - get reservations if you want to stay in the valley. There are tents and cabins in Curry Village in the Yosemite Valley. There is a campground at Wawona as well - probably less crowded because it isn't in the Valley.
Highlights & features
- Bryceburg Recreation Area’s rugged swimming spots
- Historic trails leading to Hites Cove
- Sandy swimming areas in Yosemite Valley
- Spring wildflowers at Hites Cove
- Photography hotspots near Sentinel Beach
- Gold rush history at Hites Cove
- Sandy shores in Yosemite Valley
- Secluded river spots at Bryceburg
How to get there
Yosemite National Park Swimming Spots lies in California near Merced, Yosemite Village. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. Yosemite National Park Bryceburg Recreation Area (Merced River) Located along Route 140, Bryceburg Recreation Area offers camping, rafting, and . Bring water, sunscreen, and gear for a primitive swim day. Weekends and holidays can draw more visitors. Check local updates on access and water levels before you leave home.
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From Mariposa
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Take Route 140 east for about 12 miles to Bryceburg.
At Bryceburg, cross the bridge over the Merced River. After crossing the bridge, turn onto the road that follows the river downstream. This road is an old railroad grade and may appear to be a dead end, but it leads to several campgrounds and .
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Look for parking areas near the campgrounds and . Coordinates
Latitude 37.59589, Longitude -119.98450 Google Maps Link Hites Cove (South Fork Merced River) Hites Cove is a scenic area along the South Fork of the Merced River, accessible via a short hike from Route 140. From Bryceburg (or Mariposa): Continue east on Route 140 past Bryceburg.
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Drive to the point where the Merced River and South Fork Merced River meet at a large bridge.
Park at the turnout located on the north side of the bridge.
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Cross the road and head toward the river. Look for chalets in the area as a landmark.
Locate the trail along the South Fork of the Merced River and follow it toward Hites Cove. Along the trail, you will find side paths leading to . Coordinates: Latitude 37.64972, Longitude -119.88503 Google Maps Link Merced River (Yosemite Valley) The Merced River in Yosemite Valley offers sandy bars and . From Mariposa: Continue east on Route 140 into Yosemite Valley. Look for . Housekeeping Camp Beach is a popular spot for . Parking is available near Housekeeping Camp and other designated areas along the river. Coordinates: Latitude 37.74178, Longitude -119.58331 Google Maps Link
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Helpful notes
Bring proper footwear for hiking trails and access points. Bring water, sunscreen, and any necessary supplies for . Follow all park regulations and guidelines for safety and environmental preservation.
Plan your visit
Yosemite National Park Swimming Spots works well as a day trip from Merced or Yosemite Village. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Combine the swim with camping at Auburn American River Swimming Spots or browse more California river spots in our directory. For the full list in California, see our state directory.
Access & fees
A park entrance fee may apply. Facilities like restrooms are available at main park areas. River access at Bryceburg and Hites Cove may involve unpaved roads or trails. Always check current park conditions and water levels before visiting.
Top picks for this trip
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Willit Rashguard Swim Shirt UPF 50+
The best all-around sun shirt for swimming holes — light enough to swim in, dry enough to hike out in.
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What to pack for Yosemite National Park Swimming Spots
Gear we compare side by side for river swims like this one — water access, sun, and the hike in.
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Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Yosemite National Park Swimming Spots?
Yes. Yosemite National Park Swimming Spots near Merced and Yosemite Village in CA is a river swimming spot on Varies -see below. Scout depth and current before entering — no lifeguards at most natural access points.
How much does Yosemite National Park Swimming Spots cost?
Plan for fees: May be a fee to enter Yosemite N.P. depending on where you enter.. Rates and policies change — verify with the land manager before you drive.
How do you get to Yosemite National Park Swimming Spots?
Yosemite National Park Swimming Spots is in CA within day-trip range of Merced and Yosemite Village. Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.
Explore more nearby swimming guides
Nearby swimming holes
Culture & history
Hites Cove reflects the region’s gold rush history, while the Merced River has been a vital resource for indigenous peoples and settlers alike.
Conservation
Preserve the pristine environment by following Leave No Trace principles. avoid littering, respect wildlife, and stay on designated trails.
Sources & updates
Official land managers cited on this page
Always confirm current rules, closures, and fees on the agency site before visiting.
Spotted outdated access, fees, or safety info? Send a correction with the page URL — we review every submission.