Yosemite is one of the premiere national parks in the United States. With its stunning High Sierra scenery, glorious waterfalls, abundant wildlife, and 100s of miles of hiking trails to explore it all, Yosemite is a must-visit for any outdoor lover. But finding a place to camp in the park during the busy summer travel season can be an exercise in advanced planning, patience—and a little luck. Fortunately, there are a few options available to campers who can’t score a prized campsite reservation in the Valley in the form of a few smaller, first-come, first-served campgrounds in remote areas of the park. While these sites are pretty spartan, they offer a quieter Yosemite experience while still providing access to the park’s popular destinations, trails and viewpoints. 

 Located on the west side of the park, just a short distance off Tioga Road (Hwy 120), the Tamarack Flat Campground offers 52 first-come, first-served campsites for tent campers. The campground can be accessed through the Big Oak Flat Entrance Station, and is approximately 7 miles northwest of the Tioga Road–Big Oak Flat junction. Campsites are located in shady pine forest, and are equipped with picnic tables, fire pits and food lockers, and the campground has vault toilets. All food and scented items should be secured at all times. Potable water is not available, but water can be acquired from nearby Tamarack Creek; water should be treated (boiled or filtered) before drinking. Trash service is not available, so campers should pack out all trash and waste items. Dogs are permitted, but must remain leashed. This location is only open seasonally, typically late June through September; sites are $12/night.

 From the Tamarack Flat Campground, the picturesque Tenaya Lake is 45 miles farther east on Tioga Road. There are picnic areas here for enjoying the view, and the lake is nice for fishing and paddling around on kayaks and SUPs. Another 15 miles east is the expansive and spectacular Tuolumne Meadows. Several short and long hiking trails originate from here and lead into Yosemite’s amazing backcountry. Near the often overflowing Tuolumne Meadows Campground is a small cafe, grocery store, post office, and outdoor gear shop. Going the other way, Yosemite Valley is 20 miles southwest. Here you can take in views of the famous El Capitan and Half Dome, walk to the base of Bridalveil and Yosemite Falls, and visit the park’s visitor center, galleries, shops and restaurants.



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