Bridalveil Creek Campground offers drive-in horse camping sites in Yosemite National Park at 7,200 feet elevation. The campground typically operates from July through September, depending on snowpack conditions. Overnight equestrian users share space with regular campers in this mixed-use facility that sits 25 minutes from Glacier Point Road.
What to do
Trail riding to viewpoints: Access multiple bridle trails directly from the campground leading to scenic overlooks. "It's only 2.5 miles round trip to Sentinel Dome and the view is stunning, you're higher up than Half Dome on one side and El Capitan on the other," notes Buck R. from Bridalveil Creek Campground.
Fishing nearby waters: Within 30 minutes of the campground, several fishing spots offer trout opportunities. "The fishing at silver lake was awesome," reports Andy M. from Silver Lake Campground, which provides another option for equestrians exploring the region.
Swimming holes: During summer months, natural swimming areas provide relief from heat. "There are some beautiful waterfall spots about 2 miles of hill climb from campground, well worth the hike. Water can be very cold though," writes Rosina A. about Big Sandy Campground, located within day-trip distance.
What campers like
Uncrowded camping experience: The campground offers more seclusion than valley floor alternatives. "Decent space for tents and you're semi secluded from other campers and not as many RVs/Trailers as some of the other campgrounds," explains Elliott B. about camping at Bridalveil Creek.
Equestrian-friendly layout: Sites accommodate horse trailers with adequate spacing. "Site 504 rocks! I had a great view of Half Dome and it felt amazing to be near all this majestic granite," writes Alix F. about North Pines Campground, another horse-friendly option in the Yosemite area.
Cooler temperatures: The high elevation location typically runs 10-15 degrees cooler than Yosemite Valley. "Being late October, I was expecting very cold conditions. But the weather was great! 70s during the day and 40s at night. Clear skies. Absolutely beautiful," reports Erin S. about camping in the region.
What you should know
Limited services: The campground provides basic amenities only. "No electric, sewer or shower. There are bathrooms with an outlet (Yea- can charge your Phone but get in line). You can bathe in river like I do or go to curry village and pay for a shower at housekeeping," explains Christy C. about camping in Yosemite.
Road access considerations: Reaching high-elevation horse campgrounds requires planning. "The 6 mile road to get into it is rough. With high rain season, you have to cross the creek and it may require a lifted type vehicle like a truck," says Rosina A. about accessing certain camping areas.
Bear safety requirements: All food, toiletries, and scented items must be stored in provided bear boxes. "You get a fire ring and a bear box at each site. Generator hours are limited so plan accordingly," notes a camper about proper storage protocols at Sweetwater Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Book early for peak season: Family-friendly spots fill quickly during summer months. "It is hard to get a Camping spot in Yosemite but well worth it if you do. I got up early many a morning to try and get a day here or there for our summer trips out west," advises Christy C.
Pack for variable weather: Mountain conditions can change rapidly even in summer. "The side has more than ample room for my daughter's small cot, which ran the width of the tent along the side window. Very comfortable for three people," notes Erin S. about accommodating families.
Consider camping outside park boundaries: Alternative horse campgrounds near Eastman Lake offer easier booking. "This campground is in the heart of Yosemite Valley. It is great to camp on the valley floor, especially during peak season as traffic from all main gates to the valley floor is very congested," explains Kerry V. about location considerations.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most horse camping facilities near Yosemite lack full hookups. "There are no hook-ups, and the comfort stations only have toliets and sinks (no showers), a fresh water faucet, and a disposal 'toliet' for dish water. All dishes must be washed at camp," explains an RV camper.
Generator restrictions: Plan around limited generator hours in equestrian campgrounds. "Only thing I would complain about is everyone else had a RV and had there generators on at 6am. We are not RV people so we don't know why they need to run them," notes Sarah F. about campground noise considerations.
Seasonal water availability: Water systems typically operate from July through first frost. "There was easily accessible water for cooking, drinking, etc. We also know that they disinfect the sites between visitors," reports Fred H. about Goat Meadow, an alternative dispersed camping option.
