Tamarack Flat Campground, near Yosemite National Park, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without straying too far from the park's iconic attractions. With its first-come, first-served setup, it’s a great choice for spontaneous campers eager to explore the stunning landscapes of Yosemite.

This campground is perfect for tent camping or small RVs, and it offers a semi-private feel thanks to its wooded surroundings. Visitors have noted the presence of bear boxes at each site, which is a must in bear country, along with fire rings for cozy campfires. As one camper put it, “Tamarack Flat is an awesome campground and definitely worth being a short 30 minutes away from Yosemite Valley.”

While there are no showers or electric hookups, the essentials are covered with toilets and water hookups available. Campers have mentioned the chilly nights, so be sure to pack extra layers and firewood to stay warm. The nearby river offers a scenic spot for a refreshing dip or a leisurely stroll, and it’s just a short trek to some beautiful waterholes.

If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat with easy access to Yosemite’s breathtaking views, Tamarack Flat Campground is a solid pick. Just remember to arrive early to snag a spot, and you’ll be set for a memorable outdoor adventure.

## Overview

 Tamarack Flat Campground is available by reservation only. No first come, first serve sites are available. The campground typically opens in mid-June and closes in early October. Opening date for the Tamarack Flat Campground varies depending on the opening of the Tioga Road and related seasonal facility and road work. Tamarack Flat Campground is located off the Tioga Road just east of Crane Flat. The campground is approximately 20 miles (45 minutes) from Yosemite Valley and is tucked away in the forest 3 miles off Tioga Road. RVs and Trailers are not recommended for this hard to access, primitive campground. At an elevation of 6,300 feet (1,900 m) elevation, the campground is near Tamarack Creek, which is the only water source (must be filtered, treated, or boiled). There is a gas station nearby at Crane Flat. For additional park information, call (209)372-0200 or visit [www.nps.gov/yose][1] 
## Recreation

 Yosemite's trails, cliffs, roads and rivers provide endless recreational activities for any kind of visitor. Hiking, biking, rock climbing, fishing, horseback riding, rafting, auto touring, and photography are all very popular activities within the park. A hiking and backpacking trail leaves from the campground and can be used to hike to areas such as Cascade Creek, El Capitan and other points along the North Rim of Yosemite Valley. Yosemite Valley is a 25 mile drive from Tamarack Flat Campground. Many of Yosemite's most popular trails along with the Merced River, bike trails, beaches and picnic areas can be easily accessed in Yosemite Valley. Two of Yosemite's three groves of giant sequoias are located in the Crane Flat area (5-10 miles from Tamarack Flat). Tuolumne and Merced Groves of Giant Sequoias, both of which require a 2.5 to 3-mile roundtrip hike to view. The trailheads are accessible year-round, although trails may be snow-covered winter. Both short hikes lead downhill into sheltered areas with flowing water, dogwood, azaleas, and ancient sequoia trees. Many other hiking opportunities exist at trailheads along the Tioga Road and in Tuolumne Meadows. For additional park recreation information, visit [www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/][2] 
## Natural Features

 Yosemite National Park covers nearly 1,200 square miles (3,100 square km) in the Sierra Nevada, with elevations ranging from about 2,000 feet (600 m) to 13,000 ft (4,000 m). Yosemite receives 95% of its precipitation between October and May, and over 75% between November and March. Most of Yosemite is blanketed in snow from about November through May. Tamarack Flat is situated along a seasonal creek which is it's only source of water. Creek water must be treated and/or boiled before consuming. 
## Nearby Attractions

 Just 25 miles away is Yosemite Valley, an awe-inspiring landscape containing many of the famous features for which Yosemite National Park is known. Hiking trails and bike paths are abundant in the valley. Rafting the Merced River is a fun way to cool down on a summer day when water levels are sufficient. Yosemite Valley also offers numerous guided bus tours, educational programs, museums, ranger-led activities, and an art center with workshops. The Tioga Road offers a 39-mile scenic drive past forests, meadows, lakes and granite domes. Tuolumne Meadows embodies the high-country of the Sierra Nevada, with its broad sub-alpine meadows and granite peaks. Several trailheads line the road offering hikes to beautiful, secluded areas that can only be accessed and enjoyed by foot. Beautiful Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, just 23 miles from Crane Flat, is home to spectacular scenery and numerous wilderness trailheads. 
## Contact Info

 For facility specific information, please call (209) 379-2123.
## Charges & Cancellations

 Cancellations more than 48 hours in advance of arrival date will generate a refund, less a $10 transaction fee. Within 48 hours, $10 and the first night's fee are charged. One night reservations do not incur an additional $10 fee, but do not receive a refund. No-shows will be assessed a $20 service fee along with the loss of the first night's fee. 

[1]: http://www.nps.gov/yose
[2]: https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/index.htm

Tamarack Flat Campground — Yosemite National Park

El Portal is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. El Portal is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Discover great camping spots near El Portal, reviewed by campers like you.

El Portal

The Best Camping Near El Portal, California

site: first come, first served. wooded.  only tents/small camper vans allowed. Semi-private. large. 
amenities: no water. 
attractions: 30 minutes to Yosemite Valley. 
I would go camping here (just drove through checking out the campground).


good option

I know that you don’t know me but trust me! Tamarack Flat is an awesome campground and definitely worth being a short 30 minutes away from Yosemite Valley. It is first come first serve but I have never had any problem acquiring a campsite. While it is remote, it is beautifully scenic and with many campers nearby, you don’t feel like you’re out in the wilderness alone. There are bear boxes at every site as well as a fire ring/pit. I would highly recommend camping here if you are tent camping or have a small unit. You will not be disappointed.

A Hidden Gem!

Is close to Yosemite valley, 12$ a night, first come first serve , show up at 7:30 am, check out is around 10 am.  

Follow the river down to some golden waterholes ;)

Worth it! 

Cool camping site. But, dont listen to the weather app. It said it was going to be 35 to 40. But, actually was 20 degrees. So, pack smart.  Bring extra water and firewood. Store is not near. 

Photos of Tamarack Flat Campground — Yosemite National Park

Real photos from real campers