2021 Map of Yosemite Lake

About this map

Yosemite Lake and its recreation area at Rotary Cove dominate the southern portion of this landscape, situated just north of the Merced city limits. This region of the San Joaquin Valley is defined by a sophisticated water management network essential to Central California agriculture. The northern reach is shaped by the Merced River and Dana Slough, while an intricate system of artificial waterways, including the Main Canal, Henderson Lateral, and Rotterdam Lateral, distribute water across the terrain. Natural drainage still persists through various seasonal watercourses such as Canal Creek, Fahrens Cr, and Edendale Cr. The layout of roads like Snelling Rd and La Paloma Rd follows the early township and range survey lines, illustrating how the rural infrastructure was built to support the valley's intensive irrigation-based economy.