This campground is located outside of Yosemite Valley, so it has less of the “Disneyland of the Sierra” feel—more serene and fewer people and buses.

we stayed in the area for backpackers—our first night there before hitting the trail for backcountry camping, as well as our last night before heading home. The spots in the backpackers camp area are first come first serve, take your pick when you arrive—only for folks with a backcountry permit. I recommend walking further back and up the hill to the more tucked away spots. Our first night we grabbed one of the first spots we saw which had an exposed feeling and plenty of foot traffic going by. Our last night we went to the back area and had a nice spot tucked against the forest.

A lovely creek runs along one side of the campground. It’s also walking distance to the general store and cafe.