Merced Lakes

Lakes Near Merced

Every once in a while you just need to spend some time near the water. A stay at a lake can be perfect for those that enjoy wildlife too, because they offer opportunities to take in the local scenery and all that nature has to offer.

Whether you’re looking to float in a tube with a book, buzz around doing water skiing, go for a swim, or work on your tan, the lakes near Merced offer you plentiful opportunities for outdoor activities. Don’t you deserve an enjoyable getaway? Pack up the car with your beach goodies and a picnic basket then hit the road on your next vacation to find your own favorite location on a lake!

Lakes Close to Merced

Lake Activities

When you visit a lake near Merced you’ll find all kinds of things to do for people of all persuasions. Whether you’re just looking for a day trip or decide to stay overnight to a hotel or a bed and breakfast on the water to make the most of your time unwinding.

Any stay at the lake offers you all the options from partying to restful bliss.

Get a little crazy with the water sports. If you’ve got access to a fast boat, why not spend the day kicking up a wake showing off your water sports skills? Enjoy a day of wakeboarding or knee boarding as the lakes near Merced offer you a number of options.

Canoeing, kayaking, or paddle boarding. If you like to paddle around, load up your preferred vessel and chart your course to a lake with a public launch and start paddling around to enjoy the scenery in all it’s glory.

Partake in some delicious delights outside. Merced’s lakes gives you the chance to visit all sorts of excellent picnic areas where you can enjoy tasty treats, or a quick snack while enjoying the scenery. If you’re with that special someone, a picnic on the beach is hard to beat.

Preparing for a Day on the Lake

A lake day itinerary can be drastically different depending on which lake you choose, when you decide to go, and the activities on your to-do list. To make things easier we’ve assembled a rundown of popular lake and beach-related items that you can use as a checklist before you hit the road.

Common lake items

When you’re out on a lake near Merced you will likely need to bring several of the things in our list below so that you’ll be safe, healthy, and having fun.

  • Bottle opener
  • A cooler and drinks
  • Dry shirt
  • Garbage bags
  • A picnic basket
  • Bathing suits
  • Insect repellant
  • Plates, cups and utensils
  • Beach blanket
  • Radio or speaker

Specialty lake stuff

Take into consideration the itinerary at the lake and who will be joining you, the items below will likely be helpful and worth a quick spot check before hitting the road.

  • Licenses and registration for boating and fishing
  • Life jackets
  • Something to clean up with like sanitizers or wet wipes
  • Swimming goggles
  • Diapers (if a baby’s on board)
  • Inflatable pool toys
  • Beach toys (buckets, shovels, football, frisbee, etc.)
  • Bait
  • Fishing poles
  • Something to read

Staying Safe on a Lake

While spending a weekend to your favorite body of water can be lots of fun, everyone’s safety needs to remain top of mind. When you decide to spend a day at the lake these are some extremely important tips for keeping everyone safe.

  • Avoid swimming near rocks or shallow water areas that may not be deep enough to dive underneath and escape from waves
  • Don’t swim alone
  • Have an escape plan for what to do if you get stuck on a boat that capsizes or tips over
  • Avoid plants that can sting or cause allergic reactions
  • Always wear a life jacket when boating, kayaking or paddle boarding
  • Regularly apply sunblock throughout the day – following the product’s instructions
  • Avoid alcohol consumption before swimming, as it can impair judgment and result in drowning

More Merced Lake Tips

Not everyone has had a chance to visit the amazing lakes around Merced and might have a few questions on ways to maximize their fun. Of course, any body of water is going to possess their own character and trappings, but here are a couple key points to review while planning that might help you end up with a winning itinerary.

  1. Pay attention to the beaches. If you pick the wrong time of year, occasionally the beaches near Merced can get extremely crowded. To find some more space to spread out, do some digging on multiple lakes and beaches to learn about how busy they are if you want a more relaxing vibe. To get in on the party, search out the biggest, most happening sandy party scene!
  2. Rent a boat. It’s common that lakes will have local marinas that offer boat rentals of all sizes. Boats are expensive to own, but a rental will still allow you to enjoy fishing with family and friends or taking the kids out for some wakeboarding or tubing. Asking a local can typically allow you to locate options for renting the perfect boat.
  3. Make the most of the best assets in the area. When you have time for a longer getaway, find local state parks and recreation areas which give you the option to camp in a spot that is right on top of the water without breaking the bank.