Location: County: Merced. Nearest City: Hilmar.
Campsites, facilities: There are 21 family sites and
one large group site for tents or RVs up to 32 feet long. Picnic
tables, fire grills, and piped water are provided. Flush toilets
are available. Supplies can be obtained in Newman, five miles
away. Leashed pets are permitted.
Reservations, fees: Call ahead for group reservations
and fees; $12-$14 per night for family sites, $1 pet fee. Open
year-round.
Contact: Phone the Four Rivers District Office at 1-209-826-1196
or the park at 1-209-632-1852.
George J. Hatfield SRA
4394 North Kelley Road
Hilmar CA 95324
Operating hours, seasons: Call park for information.
Directions: South of the junction of Interstate 5 and
Interstate 580, take Interstate 5 to the Newman/Stuhr Road exit.
Turn east on County Road J18 (Stuhr Road) and drive to Newman
and the junction with Highway 33. Turn right (south) and drive
a short distance to Hills Ferry Road. Turn left (east) and drive
five miles to the park entrance.
Weather, clothing: The weather can be changeable; layered
clothing is recomended.
Trip notes: George J. Hatfield State Recreation Area
is surrounded by the Merced River. This is a small state park
set in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley near the confluence
of the Merced River and the San Joaquin River, this park offers
swimming and fishing. The area was once the home of Native Americans.
The park has many trees and is home to various wildlife, especially
birds. The park has picnics areas. The San Joaquin Valley is
well known for hot summer days and foggy winter nights. Some
folks say that if you eat enough catfish from this spot, you'll
glow in the dark after a few years. It's advisable to throw them
back.
© 2001, Miwok Lodge 439, Order of the
Arrow, Santa Clara County Council Inc., BSA
Revision 1.2
