Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Yosemite Valley, CA
Yosemite Valley Backpacker's Campground permits pets at its backpacking-focused sites, offering one of the few options for bringing dogs into this highly-regulated section of Yosemite National Park. Pet owners must adhere to strict wildlife protection protocols, including keeping dogs leashed at all times and properly storing pet food in bear-resistant containers. Upper Pines Campground also accommodates pets with designated pet-friendly sites featuring fire pits, bear boxes, and access to water. The campgrounds are heavily visited with limited space between neighboring sites. Bears regularly pass through both campgrounds, requiring vigilant food management for pet safety. While most campgrounds in Yosemite Valley allow pets, they must remain on leashes no longer than 6 feet and cannot be left unattended at campsites.
Trails accessible to dogs near Yosemite campgrounds are extremely limited, as pets are prohibited on all unpaved trails throughout the park. Dogs are permitted only on fully paved pathways and within developed areas including campgrounds, picnic areas, and alongside public roads. Goat Meadow dispersed camping area outside the park boundary offers more freedom for pets while still providing access to Yosemite. Pet owners should be prepared for wildlife encounters, as coyotes have been observed approaching campsites even when people are present. The valley campgrounds provide convenient access to the shuttle system for transportation between pet-accessible areas. Visitors camping with dogs should bring sufficient supplies, as pet stores are not available within the park boundaries.
