Yosemite, CA
Adventure, Blog

Local Attractions Around Yosemite National Park

While most people know Yosemite for the park itself, there are tons of outdoor activities and local attractions around Yosemite National Park that offer as much adventure as the park itself. Please note, if you do plan to explore Yosemite National Park, you are now required to make a reservation. More information and permits can be found here.

Our team at AutoCamp Yosemite put together a list of their favorite local activities in Mariposa County.

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

  • SkyDive Yosemite: Is there a better place to skydive? SkyDive Yosemite is the only Skydive center with incredible views of Yosemite National Park and Yosemite Valley.
  • Mariposa Museum & History Center: Explore an array of exhibits detailing Native American, Spanish Settlement, California Gold Rush and Yosemite, and Mariposa County History.
  • Mariposa Visitor’s Center: Chock-full of information and experienced specialists who are ready to guide you through what there is to see and do in Mariposa County.
  • Yosemite Trails Horseback Adventures: Explore Yosemite’s Mariposa Grove on horseback! No previous horseback riding experience necessary. Choose between a one or two hour ride led by experienced guides.
  • River Creek Golf Course Oakhurst: Tee off at River Creek’s 9-hole championship golf course. In close proximity to Yosemite National Park, River Creek is surrounded by incredible natural views of the Sierras.
  • Gold Panning at Yosemite Crystals: Mariposa’s one-stop-shop for local crystal and gold panning! Two-hour tours include a guided gold panning experience in which you learn the history of California Gold Mining and are able to keep all of the gold and crystals you find.
  • California State Mining & Mineral Museum: Discover the importance of mining and minerals to our history, our environment, and our future. The museum offers free activities for children, including a Junior Ranger Program. Custom tours can be arranged for special groups.
  • Casto Oaks Wine Tasting: Visit the Casto Oaks tasting room in downtown Mariposa! Just a ten-minute drive from AutoCamp Yosemite, Casto Oaks offers a wide range of local varietals.
  • Yosemite Outfitters Fly Fishing: Discover beautiful Yosemite National Park through fly fishing along the Merced, Tuolumne, and Stanislaus Rivers. Choose either a full- or half-day trip which includes equipment, lunch, and experienced guides. Trips for children and families are also available!
  • Butterfly Creek Winery: About 10 minutes from AutoCamp Yosemite, Butterfly Creek Winery and Vineyards is set on 200 acres of the Sierra Foothills. Enjoy a glass of local vino in the great outdoors.
  • Yosemite Flight Tours: Experience Yosemite from new heights. Yosemite Flight Tours offer guided aerial tours of Yosemite National Park and the Sierra.

HIKES

  • Stockton Creek Preserve: 12 min drive from AutoCamp Yosemite – 2.2 mile, dog-friendly loop featuring a beautiful lake and an abundance of wildflowers
  • Lewis Creek Trail: 50 min drive from AutoCamp Yosemite. 0.5 round trip hike to Corlieu Falls, 3 miles round trip to Red Rock Falls
  • Bagby Recreation Area/trail: 30 min drive from AutoCamp Yosemite – 3.3 miles out and back trail along the Merced River. Perfect for all skill levels

FISHING

  • Lake McClure- various water sports
  • Bagby Recreation Area
  • Bass Lake
  • Merced River

MERCED RIVER ACTIVITIES

  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Rafting
  • Floating

DOWNTOWN MARIPOSA ACTIVITIES

SHOPPING

BARS

RESTAURANTS