Unlock Planning Tools in App

Established Camping

Merced Lake High Sierra Camp — Yosemite National Park

Do you own or manage this property?

Claim Your Listing
CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Merced Lake High Sierra Camp is located in Yosemite National Park, surrounded by mountainous terrain and forested areas. Temperatures can reach highs of around 80°F in summer and drop to lows near 30°F in winter. Nearby attractions include the iconic Half Dome and the scenic Mist Trail, offering opportunities for hiking and exploration.

Suggest an Edit

Location

Merced Lake High Sierra Camp — Yosemite National Park is located in California

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

37.73866381 N
119.40676328 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Cabins

Features

For Campers

  • Market
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Reservable
  • Showers
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Water Hookups

Contact

General Info


2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Reviews

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

100%
0%
0%
0%
0%

5.0

out of 5

1 Review

Reviewed Feb. 20, 2019

beautiful and somewhat remote

Backcountry camping with several swimming spots, decent fishing and meals and hot showers! If you feel rich, this is a place for a big treat. Tent cabins with basic sleeping set up and a nice spot to sit around a group fire. The ranger talks can be a little much but easy to sneak off and enjoy the quiet. Food is fantastic and the folks who work there are super friendly. A nice loop is to walk in via Tenaya Lake, pass through the Mansfields and over to Merced Lake - a very doable 15 mile one day. Exit out through Happy Isles - about the same distance.

Month of VisitAugust

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make reservations for Merced Lake High Sierra Camp?

Reservations for Merced Lake High Sierra Camp must be made through a lottery system run by Yosemite National Park. Applications are typically accepted in fall for the following summer season. Due to high demand, it's advisable to apply early and be flexible with dates. The lottery results are usually announced in spring. Contact Yosemite National Park directly or visit their official website for current application deadlines and reservation procedures.

What is the difference between Merced Lake Backpackers Camp and High Sierra Camp?

Merced Lake High Sierra Camp offers tent cabins with basic sleeping arrangements and a communal fire area, providing a more developed backcountry experience with amenities like hot showers and prepared meals. The Backpackers Camp is a more traditional wilderness camping area near the High Sierra Camp where visitors bring and set up their own gear. Both share the same beautiful setting, but the High Sierra Camp provides a more comfortable, service-oriented experience for those willing to pay premium rates.

What amenities are available at Merced Lake camping areas?

Merced Lake High Sierra Camp provides tent cabins with basic sleeping setups, hot showers, and meal service - a luxury in the backcountry. The camp features communal fire rings for evening gatherings, ranger talks, and access to multiple swimming spots. Fishing opportunities are available in the area. For backpackers staying at the nearby Backpackers Camp, the amenities are more limited, but the location still offers the same natural features including swimming holes and fishing access.

Is Lower Merced Pass Lake accessible from the Merced Lake camping areas?

Lower Merced Pass Lake is accessible from the Merced Lake camping areas, though it requires a day hike. The trail connects these areas within Yosemite's backcountry, but hikers should be prepared for elevation changes and varying trail conditions. Always check current trail conditions and distances with rangers before attempting the hike, and carry appropriate navigation tools, water, and supplies for a day in the backcountry.