Dispersed camping options near El Portal provide alternatives to established campgrounds in Yosemite National Park. This area sits at the western entrance to the park at approximately 2,000 feet elevation with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F. Winter brings cooler conditions but generally remains accessible for camping outside peak snow periods.
What to do
Trail riding with horses: Horse owners camping near El Portal can explore extensive trail networks through Yosemite's high country. "I've camped at Goat Meadow twice- once in 2022 and more recently in March of 2025. Both times were fantastic," reports Alexander at Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site. This free dispersed camping area provides space for trailers with horses as noted by Kevin: "We pulled in and there were a couple of trailers with horses and a couple of other vehicles and we parked with loads of space between."
Fishing in nearby waters: Anglers find productive fishing spots within driving distance of El Portal. "The fishing at silver lake was awesome," notes Andy from Silver Lake Campground at June Lake, which is about 2 hours from El Portal. Another reviewer recommends: "It's worth it to grab a fishing license up the road at Ernie's."
Waterfall hikes: Multiple waterfall trails exist within a short drive of El Portal camping areas. "There are some beautiful waterfall spots about 2 miles of hill climb from campground, well worth the hike," writes Rosina about Big Sandy Campground. "Water can be very cold though." The campground offers convenient access to these water features with a creek running through the middle of most sites.
What campers like
Higher elevation escapes: When valley temperatures soar, campers appreciate higher elevation options. "The campground's horse sites sit at a higher elevation than valley floor locations, offering a cooler summer camping experience," Buck notes about Bridalveil Creek Campground: "Just off the road that takes you to Glacier Point. Reservations not needed, but tough to get on weekends. Get up early and go to Glacier Point for the sunrise overlooking Half Dome."
Star viewing opportunities: Clear skies away from light pollution create excellent stargazing conditions. "Amazing star gazing! Hiked up a rock face and laid out for hours watching the stars," shares Savannah about Silver Lake Campground. Similarly, at Goat Meadow dispersed site, Jonathan reports: "This site had loads of space. Had great cell service through Verizon," making it possible to research constellations while enjoying the night sky.
Access to wilderness areas: Locations providing entry points to less-crowded wilderness appeal to many equestrian campers. "The nearby lake was beautiful, especially in early morning, and it provided an entry and exit point to the quieter side of the CA wilderness, such as Ansel Adams Wilderness (for when you don't want to fight the crowds in Yosemite)," writes Tara about Silver Lake Campground, highlighting how horse campers can access alternative backcountry areas.
What you should know
Campsite availability: Finding campsites can require advance planning or early arrival. At North Pines Campground in Yosemite, Christy advises: "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." For dispersed camping at Goat Meadow, Katelin warns: "This place gets CROWDED. At 5:30 it's like everyone got off work and headed home, it's nuts."
Road conditions: Access roads to some equestrian-friendly camping areas require appropriate vehicles. "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," explains Rosina about Big Sandy Campground. At Goat Meadow, Paige notes: "The road getting there has tons of potholes and the road in the site is super super bumpy."
Wildlife awareness: Both bears and other wildlife require proper food storage. Alexander warns at Goat Meadow: "Coyotes and bears are active in the area- coyotes raided a bag I had hanging from a tree and stole my food!" Bear boxes are provided at established campgrounds but not at all dispersed sites.
Tips for camping with families
Timing for trailhead access: Families planning day rides should start early. "Get up before dawn if you want to have a parking spot anywhere you want to hike," Buck recommends when staying at Bridalveil Creek Campground, which offers direct trail access for horses and riders of all ages.
Camp location selection: For families with children, consider proximity to facilities. At Yosemite Valley Backpacker's Campground, Jack notes: "It is a lot less busy than the main campgrounds. The campground did fill up when I stayed there but it was only other backpackers so they were very respectful." This creates a more controlled environment for families with horses.
Temperature planning: Wide temperature swings affect comfort especially for younger campers. "Being late October, I was expecting very cold conditions. But the weather was great! 70s during the day and 40s at night," reports Erin about North Pines Campground, highlighting the importance of preparing for varied conditions when camping with children and horses.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: RVers should research site dimensions before arrival. At Sweetwater Campground, Fidel notes: "Campsites were $16 and included a picnic table, campfire ring, and a bear box. There were plenty of spots within our campsite for three 2-person tents," indicating space that could accommodate horse trailers.
Generator restrictions: RV campers with horse trailers should note power limitations. About North Pines Campground, Erin explains: "Generators are allowed during limited hours, but the noise wasn't overwhelming, since they were few and far between." This affects planning for electric needs when camping with horses and trailers.
Hookup availability: Most equestrian camping areas have limited or no hookups. Toni shares about Sweetwater Campground: "Very close to the national park. Does not take reservations so you might have to get there early. The camp host was very sweet. Camp ground was $24 a night. Large sites for tents." RVers must plan accordingly for self-sufficient horse camping.
