Yosemite Valley Backpacker's Campground — Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park's Backpacker's Campground sits at the base of the Upper Yosemite Fall trail, managed by the National Park Service as a dedicated stop for hikers moving through the valley's backcountry network. With only 20 sites, the campground is small by design. Granite cliffs rise directly above the grounds, and the sites are set within a grove of trees that provides shade through the warmer months of the season, which runs from early April through early November.

A backcountry permit is required to stay here, valid for either the day before or after a backcountry trip. That restriction keeps the crowd composition relatively consistent: the campground fills with other backpackers rather than general visitors, which several reviewers note makes for a more considerate atmosphere. Sites are first-come, first-served within that permit system, so there are no reservations to secure in advance. "It can get pretty crowded," notes Daniel S., "but there'll be room for a tent and a food locker for your food." Bear boxes are on-site, which matters here. Cury H. flags it plainly: "FYI Bears Big Bears."

Amenities include picnic tables, fire pits, and bathrooms, though at least one reviewer notes the bathrooms lack soap or hand-drying supplies, so packing your own is worth doing. Valley loop trails and bus stops connecting to Half Dome Village and major trailheads are accessible on foot from camp. The campground is also listed as pet-friendly, though campers traveling with animals may want to check pet-friendly options around Yosemite National Park for alternatives if this site is full.

Finding the campground can take effort, particularly for first-time visitors. Multiple reviewers mention spending time at information centers asking for directions before locating it, and arriving after dark adds to the difficulty. Cell service is listed as available, but confirming the route before entering the valley is a practical step. The access is listed as rough, so account for that on foot or by shuttle.

Campers who want a more conventional setup with advance reservations can look at Lower Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park nearby, which operates on a different reservation model and draws a broader range of visitors.