Upper Pines is not a place you go to for relaxation and solitude - but then neither is Yosemite Valley. Upper Pines is a great home base for seeing all of the sights of Yosemite Valley. The valley shuttle runs from right outside the campground. If you manage to get a spot a bit further back in the loops, these seemed quieter. But it's a nice, reasonably priced location for what it is. The amenities weren't great, though - there are no dishwashing stations, so if you're tent camping, you best bring a bin or something to do your dishes back at your site.