Madera County, Southern Gateway to Yosemite

Find adventure on the Fossils to Falls Trail through California’s south gateway to Yosemite at Oakhurst and Fish Camp in Madera County. Swing by the Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau for up-to-date info on park conditions. In summer, a park ranger is on hand to answer questions. And the fun does stop at Yosemite National Park’s border. Here are more things to do just southwest of the park including a lake oasis, a scenic train ride and a wine trail.

Bass Lake

Stop at Bass Lake to see why Sunset Magazine named it one of the West’s Best Lakes. The lake area is renowned for excellent fishing, hiking trails, and warm waters. With three resorts, wakeboarding and other watersports, Bass Lake is perfect destination with activities to please the whole family. Find more things to do at Bass Lake at www.yosemitethisyear.com/bass-lake

Fossil Discovery Center

Find adventure on the Fossils to Falls Trail through California’s Gateway to Yosemite. Start your journey off Highway 99 in Chowchilla at the Fossil Discovery Center. You’ll find the fossilized remains of sabre toothed cats, mammoths and more. Learn more about the Fossil Discovery Center at www.yosemitethisyear.com/account/fossil-discovery-center-of-madera-county

Madera Wine Trail

Having touched ancient history, sample the award winning creations of the Madera Wine Trail and learn why even wineries in California’s well known winemaking regions buy Madera County grapes. Or, stop by Homegrown Cellars and learn why the city of Madera is called the Heart of Pomegranate Country. Learn more about the Madera Wine Trail at www.yosemitethisyear.com/account/madera-wine-trail-madera-vintners-association

Oakhurst, Calif.

Shopping and information central

Located on CA 41, 22 miles south of Yosemite’s South Entrance, Oakhurst is a bustling gateway city with a selection of franchise hotels, stores, and restaurants. Stop at the Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau on the main drag at 40637 California Street. A ranger is on duty here in summer to answer questions. You can get information year-round about attractions in Yosemite and surrounding national forest lands.

Fish Camp, Calif.

Last stop for lunch and a train ride

Located just 2 miles from Yosemite’s South Entrance, this little village (population 600) has a general store where you can pick up sandwiches and fishing supplies, plus an ATM. The main attraction is the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, which offers rides on a restored narrow gauge locomotive.

For More Information:
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