Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular camping spots in the country. With iconic landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome, the park draws millions of visitors each year, most of whom choose to experience the Park by camping under the stars. Who doesn't want to sip their morning coffee in the crisp mountain air and hike through picturesque trails?
From the bustling campgrounds in Yosemite Valley to the serene hideaways in the backcountry, this guide will help you find the perfect campsite for your next outdoor adventure.
Best Time to Visit
- The best time to visit Yosemite is from April to October. The peak season is from June to September.
- If you prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds, you can visit during the spring or fall.
- Winter camping options are also available, but you'll have to deal with cold temperatures and potential road closures.
Best Campgrounds in Yosemite Valley
- Upper Pines Campground is open year-round and has 238 sites.
- Lower Pines Campground is open from April to October and has 60 sites.
- North Pines Campground is open from April to October and has 81 sites.
- Camp 4 has 36 campsites, each designed for tent camping only.
Best campgrounds Outside Yosemite Valley
- Wawona Campground is open year-round and has 93 sites.
- Hodgdon Meadow Campground is open year-round and has 105 sites.
1. Upper Pines Campground
One of the largest campgrounds in the park, Upper Pines has campsites suitable for both tents and RVs. It’s conveniently located near Yosemite Village and is on the park's shuttle route.
Facilities:
- Fire rings and food storage lockers
- Flush toilets and drinking water
- Access to the Yosemite Valley Shuttle
Activities:
- Hiking: You can access numerous trails like the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls and the challenging hike to Half Dome (permit required)
- Biking: Over 12 miles of paved bike paths wind through Yosemite Valley
- Rafting and Fishing: During warmer months, visitors can enjoy rafting on the Merced River or fishing in designated areas.
Unique Features: Largest campground in Yosemite, ideal for families and groups.
Price: $36 per night
Booking Info: Reservations can be made five months in advance through Recreation.gov. Sites fill up quickly when bookings open on the 15th of each month at 7 AM PST.
2. Lower Pines Campground
Lower Pines Campground offers both natural beauty and convenient amenities, making it a sought-after camping spot. The campground is located at an elevation of 4,000 feet, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It is conveniently located near Half Dome Village (formerly Curry Village), making it easy to access essential services.
Facilities:
- Flush toilets and drinking water are available nearby.
- An amphitheater hosts ranger-led programs and evening talks.
- A dump station is located at the entrance to Upper Pines.
Activities
- Hiking: The campground provides easy access to popular trails like the Mist Trail leading to Vernal and Nevada Falls, and the Yosemite Falls Trail.
- Rafting and Fishing: During warmer months, visitors can enjoy rafting on the Merced River or fishing in designated areas.
- Ranger Programs: Participate in educational ranger-led programs on Yosemite's ecology, geology, and history.
Unique Features: This campground is smaller, and offers a more intimate camping experience than Upper Pines.
Price: $36 per night
Booking Info: Reservations are required and available up to five months in advance through Recreation.gov. Reservations usually open on the 15th of each month at 7 AM PST.
3. North Pines Campground
North Pines is slightly more private compared to Upper Pines, since campsites are located between the Merced River and Tenaya Creek. It’s famous for its beautiful riverside views and proximity to Yosemite’s most popular spots.
Facilities:
- Picnic tables and fire rings
- Vault toilets and drinking water available nearby
Activities:
- Swimming in the Merced river.
- Hiking: The campground provides direct access to several popular trails like the Mist Trail, the Mirror Lake Trail and the Happy Isles Loop.
- Rafting and Fishing: During warmer months, you can enjoy rafting on the Merced River or fishing in designated areas.
- Ranger Programs: Participate in educational ranger-led programs on topics related to Yosemite's ecology, geology, and history.
Unique Features: Close proximity to amenities in Curry Village, making it convenient for families.
Price: $36 per night
Booking Info: Reservations open five months in advance on the 15th of each month, and can be made through Recreation.gov.
4. Camp 4
Camp 4 offers a walk-in camping experience for tent campers. With 35 shared sites, it’s a social camping option, perfect for solo travelers or those who don’t mind sharing space. During the peak season (mid-May to September), spots are allocated through an online lottery system the day before. Camp 4 is open year-round, making it a great choice for winter camping as well.
Facilities:
- Basic amenities including picnic tables and fire rings; no flush toilets.
Activities:
- Rock Climbing: Known as the birthplace of American rock climbing, Camp 4 attracts climbers eager to try famous routes like El Capitan and bouldering problems like Midnight Lightning.
- Hiking: You can hike through numerous trails including the Yosemite Falls Trail which leads to stunning views of Yosemite Falls.
- Bouldering: The area surrounding Camp 4 is filled with boulders perfect for bouldering enthusiasts looking to test their skills.
Unique Features: Known for its communal atmosphere and popularity among climbers.
Price: $10 per person per night
Booking Info: Sites are available through a daily lottery system from late May to early September. You can also make online reservations via recreation.gov. Camp 4 is first come, first served during winter months.
If you're visiting Yosemite in winter, Camp 4 is back to first-come, first-served. With only 25 sites available (holding up to 150 people), it’s essential to arrive early to snag your spot!
5. Wawona Campground
If you'd like to camp near Yosemite’s giant sequoias, Wawona Campground is a great option. With 93 sites that accommodate tents, RVs, and trailers, it offers a quieter experience outside the busy Yosemite Valley. The South Fork of the Merced River runs nearby, offering a peaceful riverside setting.
Facilities:
- Restroom with drinking water; fire rings and picnic tables available.
Activities:
- Hiking: The campground provides access to several scenic trails, like the Wawona Meadow Loop, swinging Bridge Loop, Alder Creek Trail and Chilnualna Falls Trail
- Fishing and Swimming: You can swim and fish in the nearby river during warmer months.
- Canoeing and Kayaking: You can go canoeing and kayaking on the Merced River.
- Historical Exploration: Nearby attractions include the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias and the Yosemite History Center in Wawona.
Unique Features: Offers serene riverside campsites, perfect for those seeking solitude.
Price: $28 – $36 per night
Booking Info: Reservations can be made up to five months in advance through Recreation.gov.
One camper shared why they loved Wawona Campground:
'I loved this campsite! It is right next to the river and has decent privacy. Walking distance to the bathroom and water spout.' Wawona Campground offers both tranquility and convenience, making it a favorite for many."
6. Hodgdon Meadow Campground
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Hodgdon Meadow is perfect for those entering the park from the west, and offers easy access to the Merced Grove and Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias. It’s a bit further from Yosemite Valley (about an hour’s drive), but makes up for it with its peaceful, wooded surroundings. Vibrant wildflowers bloom here during the summer, adding color to the entire meadow.
Facilities:
- Clean flush toilets and drinking water are available.
- A sanitary dump station is located nearby for RV users.
- Bear-proof food storage lockers are provided to ensure safety from wildlife.
Activities
- Hiking on popular trails to the Tuolumne and Merced Groves of Giant Sequoias, an approximately 2.5 to 3 miles round trip.
- Biking and Horseback Riding
- Fishing and Rafting
Pricing: Campsites are available for approximately $36 per night.
Booking Info: The campground is open from late May through mid-September, with some sites available on a first-come, first-served basis during the winter months. Reservations can be made up to five months in advance through Recreation.gov, starting at 7 AM PST on the 15th of each month.
Backcountry Camping and Permits
If you prefer more solitude, Yosemite also offers incredible backcountry camping options. You'll need a wilderness permit for overnight stays in the backcountry. You can get these permits through the National Park Service website or at the park’s visitor center. Popular backcountry spots include areas along the John Muir Trail and in the remote parts of the park like Yosemite Creek and Lyell Canyon.
Recommended Backcountry Camping Spots
- Glacier Point Road is a popular spot that offers excellent views of Yosemite Valley.
- Tuolumne Meadows is a beautiful area with many lakes and streams.
- The High Sierra Camps are a series of backcountry camps that offer stunning views and access to hiking trails.
Alternative Camping Options Outside Yosemite
If you can’t find a spot inside the park, there are plenty of options just outside the park. The Stanislaus National Forest near the Big Oak Flat entrance offers several public campgrounds like Sweetwater and Diamond O, while the Sierra National Forest near the South Entrance has sites like Summerdale and Kelty Meadow. These areas provide a more relaxed camping experience, and often have better availability.
Booking Tips
- Create an account on Recreation.gov before you reserve to make the process smoother.
- Log in at least 15 minutes before reservations open to ensure you’re ready when they become available.
- Be flexible with your dates, or have alternate campgrounds ready if your first choice is fully booked.
Tips for a Successful Camping Trip in Yosemite
- Plan and book your campsite well in advance, especially during peak season.
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions, and bring layers and warm clothing.
- Don’t forget to bring a water filter or purification tablets, a first aid kit and bear spray.
- Follow all regulations and guidelines for camping in Yosemite National Park, especially those related to campfires and bear safety.
Campfire Safety
- Campfires are only allowed in designated areas and must be fully extinguished before you leave them.
- Check and follow any guidelines related to fire rings and cooking.
Bear Safety
- Yosemite is home to black bears, so it’s essential to keep bear safety precautions in mind when camping.
- Store all your food and trash in bear-proof containers, and maintain a clean campsite.
- Always be aware of your surroundings and make noise while hiking to avoid surprising bears.
Conclusion
Yosemite offers options for different camping styles—from family-friendly sites with full amenities to rustic locations. As it's one of the most popular camping destinations in the U.S., securing a spot can be competitive.
If you miss the early booking window, you can still score a spot by checking for cancellations. Some campsites like Camp 4 allow last-minute bookings via a lottery system. You can also find cancellations through websites or apps like Campsite Tonight.
