Tent camping in Yosemite Valley, California ranges in elevation from 4,000 feet in the valley floor to over 9,000 feet at higher backcountry sites. Summer daytime temperatures often exceed 90°F in the valley while dropping below 40°F at night in higher elevation camps. Winter brings significant snowfall to higher elevations, with many backcountry camping areas completely inaccessible from November through May.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 5-8 miles round-trip to reach multiple cascades near Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp. The trail follows the Tuolumne River with several waterfall views. "A mile and a half day hike down river is California Falls. Further down are LaConte and Waterwheel Falls," notes Erin S.
Stargazing: Best after 10pm when quiet hours begin at most Yosemite tent sites. Upper elevation areas provide clearer views of the night sky. "The campers were all very friendly, with everyone down at sunset and up at sunrise. It got cold - just above freezing at night," shares one Glen Aulin camper.
Swimming: Early to mid-afternoon when water temperatures peak at river sites. "In warmer weather, the pool formed at the base of Tuolumne Falls would make a great swimming hole, but for us in 60 degree weather, it was just a beautiful place to sit and listen to the sound of falling water," reports a visitor to Hetch Hetchy Backpacker's Campground.
What campers like
Uncrowded alternatives: Hetch Hetchy area remains significantly less crowded than Yosemite Valley proper. "Crossing the dam, going through the tunnel and entering the back country is easy and there are incredible water falls there and you will miss the crowds," explains MarinMaverick about camping near Hetch Hetchy.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and dusk offer best chances to see native species. "We did see one bear in camp (at night), though he took off running as soon as we saw him," reports a Glen Aulin camper. Marmots, deer, and ground squirrels are commonly spotted at higher elevations.
Electrical access: Limited availability but valuable for extended stays at Housekeeping Camp. "Bunk beds, electrical outlets, private patio with awning and round picnic table, even curtains for your shared sleeping quarters," describes Kuo G. about the amenities that make this location popular.
What you should know
Campfire restrictions: Seasonally enforced with complete bans common during dry periods. "Sites are not reserved - they are first come, first served. Each site had a small fire ring, though fires were banned when we went," notes an experienced camper at Glen Aulin.
Water filtration: Required at all natural sources. Near Upper Lyell Canyon Footbridge, campers find convenient water access but must treat it. "Plenty of water! Plan well for water crossing. Impeccable views!!" advises Brandon L.
Bear activity: Food storage containers required in backcountry sites. Established campgrounds provide metal lockers. "In the campgrounds there were large bear lockers, and well distributed benches and fire rings. Quiet time is 10pm and they are strict about it," reports Kuo G.
Permit timing: Plan 6 months ahead for popular routes and sites during peak season. For many trails, wilderness permits become available exactly 24 weeks before your intended entry date and sell out within minutes for popular areas.
Tips for camping with families
Start with lower elevations: Valley floor sites reduce altitude adjustment issues for young children. "The Hetch Hetchy dam hike didn't originally appeal to me, but we learned a ton about the water supply and explored tunnels as well. The area was easy to access and my young (5/6) children were able to easily hike," shares Sunshine S.
Consider hybrid accommodations: Housekeeping Camp offers a middle ground between tent camping and cabins. "I've been staying here since I was probably about 8 years old and I love coming here. It's camping, but you have electricity, a camping mattress, and community bathrooms and showers," explains Heather F., who plans to "bring my children here in the future for years to come."
Choose multi-day base camps: Fixed locations reduce setup/teardown stress when traveling with children. "We stayed in one of the 30 regular campsites at Glen Aulin. Having not been backcountry camping in a while, we appreciated the remoteness of the location, but still having access to a vault toilet, bear boxes, and being around a few other campers," shares Erin S.
Tips for RVers
Limited accessibility: Most tent camping areas near Yosemite Valley restrict larger vehicles. "We are parked across from a private drive so I can turn around with my RV if needed," notes Ashley M. about finding suitable spots along Hardin Flat Road, one of the few dispersed areas accessible to small RVs.
Alternative parking: Consider base camp options outside park boundaries. "25feet could turn around. Bigger not suggested," warns one camper about tight access roads to smaller campgrounds.
Early arrival essential: Before noon is recommended for finding suitable spots during peak season. "The best spots will be taken early. I ended up down a paved road on the side, but one that was closed a mile further up," explains Jeremy P. about Hardin Flat Road camping.
