Wawona camping offers diverse options within Yosemite National Park at an elevation of 4,000 feet, where the climate is typically milder than Yosemite Valley but still experiences seasonal temperature shifts. Summer temperatures range from 50-90°F while winter temperatures often drop below freezing with occasional snow. Campers can access both developed campgrounds and more primitive sites, with facilities ranging from basic tent pads to canvas yurt accommodations depending on location.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: 5-10 miles round-trip from most Wawona area camping locations to reach nearby cascades. Upper Pines Campground provides convenient access to several trails. "Great location, close by many amazing hikes! Make sure to make a reservation in advance, we were lucky enough to get 2 nights but we took some of the last spots," notes Alexis P.
River swimming: 10-minute walk from many campsites to find swimming holes along the Merced River near North Pines Campground. "The river is close to the campgrounds and are refreshing on a hot day," shares Norina N., who enjoyed cooling off after hiking.
Stargazing: Best after 10pm when light pollution is minimal. "Pinch yourself," writes Berton M. about Upper Pines Campground, "Being able to sleep under the stars in Yosemite Valley is a dream come true. The campground is crowded but the scenery makes up for it. Everywhere you look is an Ansel Adams portrait."
Wildlife watching: Dawn and dusk offer prime viewing hours for deer and smaller mammals. "It was fun to watch various critters (birds, squirrels, deer, coyotes) waltz through camp," according to rodger K., who enjoyed animal sightings from his North Pines campsite.
What campers like
Creek access for summer cooling: Many sites back up to water features for natural air conditioning during hot months. At Big Sandy Campground, "Has a very nice stream that runs right down the middle of campground that basically every site is next to the water," according to Leon G., who visits this spot as part of a family tradition.
Proximity to famous landmarks: Stay within walking distance of iconic Yosemite features. "North Pines is one of three campgrounds in the valley. I love how I can walk from here to several hikes, like Vernal and Nevada Falls," explains Alix F., adding, "If you can get one of the sites by the Merced river it is icing on the cake."
Yurt camping near Wawona: Canvas accommodations offer a middle ground between tents and cabins. At Camp 4, "This is a great place to stay if you want to network and meet other hikers and climbers but is a terrible place to stay if you want a decent night's sleep," according to R D., highlighting the social aspect of the communal camping areas.
Freedom from driving: Camp locations eliminate the need for daily park entry. "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," advises Kerry V. about North Pines.
What you should know
Strict food storage rules: All food must be kept in provided bear lockers at all times. "Like all other campgrounds in Yosemite, food and all other scented items must be stored in the bear locker at all times. Each site gets its own locker," explains R D. about Upper Pines Campground.
Limited privacy between sites: Most campgrounds feature close quarters with neighboring campers. "Site: small with little or no privacy. Some tree cover and a stream near," notes Benjamin C. about Upper Pines.
Reservation system complexity: Bookings open months in advance and fill quickly, especially for yurt camping near Wawona and surrounding areas. "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," shares Christy C. about North Pines.
Fire restrictions: Rules vary by season and campground. "Fires are allowed from 5-10pm, wood must be purchased in the park to help control the spread of invasive species," notes R D. about Camp 4, highlighting common regulations.
Tips for camping with families
Choose quieter campgrounds: Look for locations with more space between sites when camping with children. At Lower Pines Campground, "site: right on river was a huge plus! Semi-private, decent sized site. Some sites seemed more private than others. Some tree cover. A bit loud for tent camping quiet, but it's expected with such a full campground," shares Benjamin C.
Pack entertainment for downtime: Evenings can be long with limited electricity access. "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," advises Molly & Armand K., suggesting families focus on using campgrounds as a base for daytime adventures.
Consider alternative accommodations: Canvas yurt camping near Wawona provides more structure for families with young children. At Curry Village, "We stayed in a heated tent cabin for 4 nights. The beds were comfy and the linens were great. We requested additional blankets as the comforter on the bed was nylon on both sides and kept sliding off the beds. We were given old school wool blankets and they were great!"
Pack for temperature swings: Mountain elevations mean significant day-to-night changes. "We were 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 North Pines in late October.
Tips from RVers
Generator restrictions: Hours for running power are strictly limited. Campers at Indian Flat RV Park appreciate its convenient hookups: "This campground is a 45 minute bus ride from Yosemite Village... The YART bus (that shuttles you into the park) stops at the hotel next door. It doesn't run frequently, and we had to catch it really early (7 am), but it was $20 for a family of four (round trip), and that included admission to the park."
Dump stations location: Plan waste management carefully as limited facilities exist within the park. "There is a spot to RV dump and fill water. This was free when I was there (FEB) but it was clearly being renovated so might be pay in future," notes Christine W. about Upper Pines.
Size restrictions apply: Many campgrounds cannot accommodate large rigs. "Sites are tight would not recommend a rig over 30. Good access to shuttle system," advises Rick L. about Upper Pines Campground.
Consider off-park alternatives: When in-park camping is full, nearby options exist. At "Yosemite Boondock National," "Only about a mile or so off the main road. Spots are a little confusing as there's no direct road through the sites, but you'll find a spot. Been here a few nights on a holiday weekend and wasn't busy at all. Really close to the park entrance and to the less populated but still great areas of the park."
