Complete Guide to Camping in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Campgrounds: Complete Guide

Yosemite Valley Campgrounds

Wawona and South Entrance Area

Tioga Road and High Country Campgrounds

Big Oak Flat Area

Campground Comparison Table

Campground	Location & Sites	Cost & Reservations
Upper Pines	Yosemite Valley 238 sites	$36 Recreation.gov
North Pines	Yosemite Valley 81 sites	$36 Recreation.gov
Lower Pines	Yosemite Valley 60 sites	$36 Recreation.gov
Camp 4	Yosemite Valley 36 sites	$10/person Lottery in peak season
Wawona	South Yosemite 93 sites	$36 Recreation.gov
Bridalveil Creek	Glacier Point Road 110 sites	$27 First-come, first-served
White Wolf	Tioga Road 74 sites	$27 First-come, first-served
Crane Flat	Big Oak Flat junction 166 sites	$36 Recreation.gov
Hodgdon Meadow	Big Oak Flat entrance 105 sites	$36 Recreation.gov

Campground Amenities and Best Uses

Valley Campgrounds: Upper Pines offers year-round access and proximity to valley attractions but has limited privacy between sites. Lower Pines provides Half Dome views and river access with a central location. North Pines excels for river access and slightly quieter valley location. Camp 4 serves climbers, solo travelers, and those wanting a social atmosphere at an affordable per-person rate.

Outside Valley Options: Wawona provides year-round access and proximity to Mariposa Grove in a quieter setting than the valley. Bridalveil Creek offers cooler temperatures and access to Glacier Point. High-country sites like White Wolf provide quieter experiences with access to less-traveled trails.

High Country Access: Tioga Road campgrounds provide access to alpine lakes and meadows with cooler summer temperatures, though they require self-sufficiency and close early due to snow.

Photo by Benny Marty

Planning Your Yosemite Camping Trip

When to Visit

Season	Temperatures	Camping Conditions
Spring (March-May)	Valley: 60-73°F days, 35-42°F nights High Country: Snow-covered	Valley campgrounds open by May Wawona open Tioga Road closed
Summer (June-August)	Valley: 82-90°F days, 48-55°F nights High Country: 70-80°F days, 30-40°F nights	All campgrounds open Highest demand period Reservations essential
Fall (September-October)	Valley: 74-58°F days, 39-31°F nights High Country: 60-40°F days, 25-15°F nights	All campgrounds open until first snow Moderate crowds Beautiful fall colors
Winter (November-February)	Valley: 48-55°F days, 26-30°F nights High Country: Inaccessible	Upper Pines, Camp 4, Wawona (limited) Hodgdon Meadow (limited)

Spring (March-May):

Late spring offers an excellent combination of flowing waterfalls, blooming wildflowers, and increasing accessibility. By May, the valley's dogwoods bloom while waterfalls reach peak flow from snowmelt. Valley campgrounds operate at full capacity, though higher elevation options remain snow-covered. Temperatures span from comfortable days to cold nights, requiring layers and proper sleeping gear. Crowds build toward Memorial Day but remain manageable compared to peak summer.

Summer (June-August):

Summer brings the park's busiest season with all facilities operating and areas accessible. Once Tioga Road opens (typically by late June), high-country campgrounds provide access to alpine lakes and meadows. July and August see the heaviest visitation, with campgrounds filling immediately upon reservation release. Days warm to the 80s in the valley while high country remains more moderate. Afternoon thunderstorms occur frequently in July and August, creating potential hazards on exposed trails.

Fall (September-October):

Fall marks a transition toward quieter conditions, especially after Labor Day. September maintains summer-like conditions with slightly cooler temperatures and decreased crowds. By October, fall colors emerge in the valley's deciduous trees while the first snow often dusts higher elevations. Most campgrounds remain open through October, with high-country options closing after the first significant snowfall closes Tioga Road. Nights grow increasingly cold, often dropping below freezing.

Winter (November-February):

Winter transforms Yosemite into a snow-covered landscape with dramatically reduced crowds. Only four campgrounds operate: Upper Pines and Camp 4 in the valley, plus limited sections of Wawona and Hodgdon Meadow. All function primarily on a first-come, first-served basis during winter. Valley temperatures typically range from 40-50°F during days with nights in the 20s, though colder periods drop well below freezing. Snow accumulates throughout the season, particularly in January and February.

Yosemite Reservation Systems Explained

Securing a Yosemite campsite requires understanding the reservation process:

National Park Campgrounds use Recreation.gov for reservations during their primary operating season. Reservations become available in blocks, 5 months in advance, on the 15th of each month at 7:00 AM Pacific Time. Demand greatly exceeds supply, especially for valley campgrounds during summer months. Most sites book within minutes or even seconds of becoming available.

For the best chance of securing a reservation:

• Create your Recreation.gov account beforehand and log in before the booking window opens
• Have alternate dates ready if your first choice isn't available
• Be prepared with payment information
• Consider less popular campgrounds or weekday arrivals
• Check for cancellations regularly, especially 2-7 days before desired dates

First-Come, First-Served Options during the off-season (typically November through March) include Upper Pines (limited sites), Camp 4, Wawona (limited sites), and Hodgdon Meadow (limited sites). For summer first-come, first-served campgrounds (Bridalveil Creek, White Wolf, Yosemite Creek, Porcupine Flat), arrive early in the morning (before 9 AM) and try midweek rather than weekends.

Camp 4 Special System uses a unique process. During peak season (late May through mid-September), it operates a daily lottery through Recreation.gov with one-day-ahead lottery application. Off-season operates traditional first-come, first-served with registration at the campground.

Campground Costs and Budgeting

Campground Type	Nightly Cost	Key Features
Valley Campgrounds	$36	Flush toilets, drinking water, fire ring, picnic table, food storage locker
High-Country Campgrounds	$20-27	Vault or flush toilets, drinking water (most sites), fire ring, picnic table
Camp 4 (walk-in)	$10/person	Shared sites (6 people per site), flush toilets, drinking water, no fires allowed

Additional Fees and Budget Tips

Park and Entry Fees: Park entrance fee costs $35/vehicle (7 days) or $70 for an annual Yosemite pass. The America the Beautiful Pass at $80 annually covers all national parks.

Facility and Service Fees: Showers cost $5 per shower at Curry Village/Half Dome Village. Ice costs $4-6 per bag at valley stores. Firewood costs $8-10 per bundle inside the park. Bear canister rentals cost $5 per week if backcountry camping.

Budget-Friendly Tips: Visit during shoulder seasons for better availability and rates. Purchase an America the Beautiful Pass if visiting multiple parks. Stay at first-come, first-served campgrounds which are often less costly. Bring your own firewood from outside the immediate area.

Essential Gear for Yosemite Camping

The high-elevation environment and variable weather require specific gear considerations:

Shelter and Sleeping:

• Tent with rainfly and footprint (storms can develop quickly)
• Sleeping bag rated at least 20°F colder than expected temperatures
• Insulated sleeping pad with R-value of at least 4 for ground insulation
• Extra blanket for unexpected cold snaps
• Shade structure or tarp for summer sun protection
• Bungee cords and extra stakes for securing gear in windy conditions

Kitchen Equipment:

• Bear-resistant food storage containers (if not using provided lockers)
• Camp stove and extra fuel
• Water containers and treatment method
• Cooler with block ice (lasts longer than cubed)
• Dish washing basin to avoid washing directly in bathroom sinks
• Garbage bags for packing out trash

Clothing:

• Layering system essential for dramatic temperature changes
• Moisture-wicking base layers
• Insulating mid-layers (fleece or down)
• Waterproof/windproof outer layer
• Warm hat and gloves even in summer
• Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support

Wildlife Safety and Park Regulations

Black Bear Safety in Yosemite

Yosemite hosts a significant black bear population that regularly visits campgrounds when food is improperly stored. Follow these essential guidelines:

Food Storage Requirements:

• Use provided food storage lockers at all times (mandatory, not optional)
• Store ALL food, toiletries, and scented items in lockers when not actively using them
• Nothing scented may remain in vehicles day or night (even empty coolers)
• Wash dishes immediately after meals and store
• Dispose of trash in bear-resistant dumpsters promptly
• Typical metal food lockers are 33"(d) x 45"(w) x 18"(h) and must fit all food and scented items

Bear Encounter Guidelines:

• If you see a bear in a developed area, make noise to scare it away
• Maintain distance of at least 50 yards from all bears
• Never approach or feed bears under any circumstances
• If a bear approaches your campsite, yell, clap hands, bang pots
• Report all bear sightings to the nearest ranger station

Park Regulations and Etiquette

Regulation Category	Specific Rules	Penalties
Campfires	Allowed only in established fire rings Valley campfire hours limited to 5pm-10pm Must be attended at all times Subject to seasonal fire restrictions	Fines starting at $250 Possible eviction from campground
Food Storage	All food, trash, toiletries must be in food lockers No food in vehicles or tents Clean tables and grills after use	Fines starting at $125 Possible eviction from campground
Quiet Hours	10:00 PM to 6:00 AM Generator hours: 7-9 AM, 12-2 PM, 5-7 PM only	Warning, then possible eviction

Additional Park Regulations

Camping Limits: Maximum 6 people per site, maximum 2 vehicles per site, 30-night annual camping limit, 14-night limit May-September, and 7-night limit in valley campgrounds during summer.

Protected Resources: No collecting plants, rocks, wood, or artifacts. No feeding or approaching wildlife. Stay on established trails. No nails in trees or trenching around tents. No drones/UAVs in the park.

Other Important Rules: Check-in time is 12:00 PM, check-out time is 12:00 PM. Quiet hours (10:00 PM - 6:00 AM) strictly enforced. Pets must be leashed at all times and cannot be left unattended. Pets prohibited on all trails except paved paths. Fishing requires California fishing license and follows specific park regulations.

Photo by Mark Yarchoan

Beyond the Campground: Activities and Exploration

Day Trips from Yosemite Campgrounds

From Valley Campgrounds:

Glacier Point: A 32-mile drive from the valley (one hour each way) leads to this spectacular viewpoint with panoramic vistas of Half Dome, Nevada Fall, Vernal Fall, and the High Sierra. The point sits at 7,214 feet, providing a dramatically different perspective than from the valley floor. Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias -- Located near the south entrance, about a 45-minute drive from the valley, this grove contains over 500 mature giant sequoia trees, including the 1,800-year-old Grizzly Giant. A shuttle bus operates from the parking area to the grove during peak season. Hetch Hetchy Valley: This lesser-visited area about 38 miles from Yosemite Valley (1.5-hour drive) offers excellent spring hiking with waterfalls, wildflowers, and fewer crowds. Wapama Falls and Rancheria Falls trails provide spectacular waterfall views.

From High Country Campgrounds:

Tuolumne Meadows: Those staying along Tioga Road have easy access to sub-alpine meadows, granite domes, and high-country lakes. The area has numerous day hikes, including Lembert Dome (2.8 miles round-trip), Elizabeth Lake (4.8 miles round-trip), and Cathedral Lakes (7-8 miles round-trip). Mono Lake and Eastern Sierra: From Tuolumne Meadows campgrounds, the eastern entrance of the park (Tioga Pass) sits just 10 miles away. Beyond the pass, a 12-mile drive leads to Mono Lake with its otherworldly tufa towers. Tenaya Lake: Often called "the jewel of the high country," this alpine lake sits right along Tioga Road, about 10 miles west of Tuolumne Meadows. The clear blue waters surrounded by granite domes offer swimming (though quite cold), picnicking, and photography opportunities.

Top Hiking Trails Near Campgrounds

Trail Name	Difficulty & Distance	Key Features
Mist Trail to Vernal & Nevada Falls	Moderate to Strenuous 3 miles RT to Vernal Fall 7 miles RT to Nevada Fall	Up-close waterfall views, stone stairways through mist, valley views from top
Valley Loop Trail	Easy to Moderate 13 miles full loop (flat)	Valley meadow views, less crowded than other trails, year-round accessibility
Four Mile Trail to Glacier Point	Strenuous 4.8 miles one-way	Switchbacks up valley wall, expanding views as you climb, panoramic vista
Cathedral Lakes	Moderate 7 miles RT to Lower Lake	Alpine lakes with mountain reflections, meadows and forest sections
Sentinel Dome/Taft Point Loop	Moderate 5 miles loop	360-degree views from Sentinel Dome, sheer drop-offs at Taft Point
Wawona Meadow Loop	Easy 3.5 miles loop	Historic meadow views, dog-friendly (rare in Yosemite), flat wide path

Trail Access and Starting Points

Valley Access: Mist Trail starts at Happy Isles (Shuttle Stop #16), while Four Mile Trail begins near Swinging Bridge. Valley Loop Trail has multiple access points throughout the valley.

High Country Access: Cathedral Lakes trail starts at Tuolumne Meadows, west of visitor center. Sentinel Dome/Taft Point Loop begins at parking area on Glacier Point Road.

Family-Friendly Options: Wawona Meadow Loop starts at Wawona Hotel and is one of the few dog-friendly trails in the park.

Water Activities in Yosemite

Despite being known for waterfalls rather than lakes, Yosemite offers several water-based recreational opportunities:

Swimming Areas:

• Sentinel Beach (Yosemite Valley) -- Sandy beach area along the Merced River with swimming holes and gentle current during summer. Located near Sentinel Bridge with nearby parking.
• Cathedral Beach (Yosemite Valley) -- Another Merced River access point with sandy areas and swimming holes. Views of El Capitan make this a scenic swimming spot.
• Tenaya Lake (Tioga Road) -- Clear, cold alpine lake at 8,150 feet. The east beach provides the best swimming access with a sandy shoreline. Water remains very cold even in summer.

Fishing Opportunities:

• Merced River (Valley) -- Catch-and-release fishing for rainbow and brown trout in the valley sections. California fishing license required for anglers 16 and older.
• Tuolumne River (High Country) -- High-country sections hold native brook trout and rainbow trout. The meadows section offers gentle currents and clear pools.
• High Sierra Lakes -- Various lakes throughout the park's high country offer fishing opportunities, particularly for brook and rainbow trout.

Water Safety Guidelines:

• Cold water shock can occur even on hot days - enter slowly
• Swift currents exist even in seemingly calm sections of rivers
• No lifeguards monitor any swimming areas - swim at your own risk
• Never swim or wade above waterfalls or in rapids
• Life jackets recommended for children and weak swimmers

The Dyrt Community Insights

Ranger Recommendations

The Dyrt Rangers - experienced campers who document and review camping areas - offer these insider tips for Yosemite:

Best Sites at Valley Campgrounds:

"In Lower Pines, sites 37-41 offer the most space and best views toward Half Dome," notes one Dyrt Ranger with over 20 Yosemite trips. "Loop A sites in North Pines back directly against the Merced River, providing pleasant background sounds and more privacy on one side." For Upper Pines, Rangers consistently recommend the 200-numbered sites along the outer edges which tend to have slightly more space and separation from neighbors.

Timing Tips for Better Experiences:

"The first two weeks of June often hit the sweet spot - waterfalls still flowing strong but before peak summer crowds and heat," suggests a longtime Yosemite visitor. Several Rangers recommend sunrise exploration, noting that early risers can reach popular viewpoints like Tunnel View or Glacier Point with minimal crowds before 8:00 AM.

Weather Adaptation Strategies:

Multiple Rangers emphasize Yosemite's temperature fluctuations, particularly the cold nights even during summer months. "Bring a sleeping bag rated at least 15-20 degrees below the forecast low temperature," advises one high-country camping specialist. For camping in shoulder seasons, Rangers recommend placing extra insulation beneath sleeping bags, as ground cold typically causes more discomfort than air temperature.

Top-Rated Sites from The Dyrt Community

Category	Top Pick & Rating	Key Highlights
Highest-Rated Valley Campground	Upper Pines 4.5/5 stars	Central location, year-round operation, well-maintained facilities, close to trailheads
Best for River Views	North Pines 4.4/5 stars	Sites along Merced River, slightly less crowded feel, proximity to Happy Isles trailhead
Most Tent-Friendly	Camp 4 4.5/5 stars	Walk-in sites, social community atmosphere, affordable per-person pricing

Community Insights and Recommendations

Valley Campground Praise: The Dyrt community consistently praises Upper Pines for its convenient location and well-maintained facilities, though frequently mentions the limited privacy between sites. North Pines earns high marks for riverfront sites and slightly more space, while Lower Pines receives praise for Half Dome views from select sites.

High-Country Options: High-country options like White Wolf rank highly for scenic beauty and cooler temperatures, though reviews note the significant nighttime cold even in summer.

Budget-Conscious Options: Camp 4 receives praise from budget travelers and climbers for its unique social atmosphere and affordable per-person pricing structure.

Photo by Jason Finn

Responsible Camping Practices

Camping in Yosemite's fragile ecosystems and high visitation requires thoughtful camping practices:

Wildlife Protection:

• Store all food, toiletries, and scented items in provided food storage lockers
• Never feed any wildlife, including seemingly harmless squirrels and birds
• Maintain distance from all wildlife (at least 50 yards from bears and predators)
• Clean cooking areas thoroughly after meal preparation
• Dispose of dishwater in designated utility sinks, not in natural areas
• Report wildlife issues to rangers rather than attempting to resolve yourself

Leave No Trace:

• Pack out everything you bring in, including micro-trash like wrappers and bottle caps
• Stay on established trails and campsite areas to protect fragile vegetation
• Camp only in designated sites to prevent widening impact areas
• Leave natural objects where you find them (rocks, plants, wood, antlers)
• Respect quiet hours to minimize noise pollution
• Use established fire rings only and never leave fires unattended

Water Conservation:

• Take brief showers when facilities are available
• Turn off water taps completely after use
• Report leaking faucets or pipes to maintenance staff
• Use designated utility sinks for dishwashing rather than bathroom sinks
• Minimize soap use when washing dishes or hands
• Conserve water even during wet seasons as the resource remains limited

Campfire Responsibility:

• Obey all fire restrictions, which vary seasonally and by location
• Purchase firewood locally to prevent introducing pests or diseases
• Keep fires small and manageable
• Burn only clean wood, never trash or food waste
• Never leave fires unattended
• Completely extinguish fires before sleeping or leaving your site

Frequently Asked Questions

When do I need to make campground reservations for Yosemite? Reservations for Yosemite campgrounds open exactly 5 months in advance, on the 15th of each month at 7:00 AM Pacific Time. For summer camping (June-August), you should attempt to secure reservations the moment they become available, as most sites book within minutes of release. For example, reservations for all of July camping open on February 15th. Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) offer slightly better availability but still require advance planning.

Are there any first-come, first-served campgrounds in Yosemite? Yes, several Yosemite campgrounds operate partially or entirely on a first-come, first-served basis. During summer months, Bridalveil Creek, White Wolf, Yosemite Creek, and Porcupine Flat campgrounds are entirely first-come, first-served. During winter (roughly November through March), all open campgrounds switch to first-come, first-served. For peak season camping, arrive at the campground by 8:00 AM or earlier to secure a site.

What's the best campground for families with small children? Lower Pines and Upper Pines campgrounds in Yosemite Valley offer the most family-friendly options within the park. Their central location provides easy access to visitor centers, shuttle stops, and gentle hiking trails. Both have flush toilets and drinking water, making logistics easier with children. The valley's paved paths allow for easy stroller access to major viewpoints.

Can I camp in Yosemite in winter? Yes, winter camping is available but limited to a few campgrounds. Upper Pines (with reduced loops), Camp 4, Wawona (with reduced loops), and Hodgdon Meadow (with reduced loops) remain open year-round. All winter camping operates on a first-come, first-served basis rather than reservations. Winter campers should prepare for temperatures that routinely drop below freezing, with nighttime lows often in the 20s or lower.

How do I protect my food from bears while camping? All Yosemite campgrounds provide metal food storage lockers at each site, and using them is mandatory. Store ALL food items, toiletries, and scented products (including empty coolers) in these lockers whenever not actively in use. Nothing scented may remain in vehicles or tents at any time. Bears in Yosemite have learned to recognize coolers, grocery bags, and boxes as food sources, so keep these items stored properly even if empty.

What amenities are available at Yosemite campgrounds? Amenities vary by campground. Valley campgrounds (Upper, Lower, North Pines) offer flush toilets, drinking water, picnic tables, fire rings, and food storage lockers. No electrical hookups exist at any park campground. High-country sites like Yosemite Creek and Porcupine Flat offer more basic facilities with vault toilets and limited or no piped water. Only Curry Village/Half Dome Village provides public showers for a fee.

Planning Resources

Essential Yosemite Links

• The Dyrt Campground Finder - Reviews and availability for campgrounds in and around Yosemite
• Yosemite National Park Official Website - Current conditions, alerts, and regulations
• Recreation.gov Yosemite Campgrounds - Booking platform for all reservable Yosemite campgrounds
• Yosemite Road and Weather Conditions - Current updates on road status and weather
• Yosemite Shuttle System - Routes, schedules, and stops for park shuttles
• CalTrans Road Conditions - Highway information, especially important in winter

Reservation Timeline

Time Period	Reservation Task	Platform/Details
5 Months Before Trip	Book park campgrounds	Recreation.gov (opens 7:00 AM PT on 15th of each month) Set calendar reminder for exact opening date
3-4 Months Before	Reserve alternative options and book activities	Private campground websites Tour operators for activities
1-2 Months Before	Research first-come, first-served options and check for cancellations	NPS and Forest Service websites Check Recreation.gov regularly
2-3 Weeks Before	Check current conditions and confirm reservations	NPS current conditions page Recreation.gov reservation management
1 Week Before	Check detailed weather forecast and finalize gear list	National Weather Service Recreation.gov
Day Before Arrival	Check road conditions and download offline maps	CalTrans website GPS or map apps

Yosemite Camping Checklist

Reservations and Permits:

• Campground reservation confirmation (printed and digital copy)
• Park entrance pass or America the Beautiful Pass
• Photo ID that matches reservation
• Vehicle information
• California fishing license (if fishing)

Camping Gear:

• Tent with rainfly and footprint
• Extra stakes and guy lines
• Sleeping bag rated for appropriate temperature
• Sleeping pad with adequate R-value
• Extra blankets or sleeping bag liner
• Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
• Lantern and/or string lights

Kitchen Items:

• Camp stove and fuel
• Lighter/matches in waterproof container
• Cookware and utensils
• Cooler and ice
• Water containers
• Dish washing supplies (biodegradable soap, basin)
• Trash bags and recycling bags
• Food storage containers

Clothing:

• Moisture-wicking base layers
• Insulating mid-layers (fleece, down)
• Waterproof/windproof jacket
• Hiking pants/shorts
• Extra socks and underwear
• Warm hat and gloves
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Camp shoes/sandals

Safety and First Aid:

• First aid kit including blister treatment
• Prescription medications
• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
• Insect repellent
• Basic tools and repair kit
• Toilet paper and hand sanitizer
• Whistle for emergencies

Navigation and Communication:

• Printed reservations and maps
• Offline maps downloaded to phone
• Portable phone charger
• Emergency contact information
• Maps and compass

By planning thoroughly and following park guidelines, your Yosemite camping experience can be both enjoyable and responsible. The park's varied campgrounds offer experiences ranging from the bustling energy of the valley floor to the quiet solitude of high mountain meadows. Whether you're watching the sunset glow on Half Dome from your valley campsite or stargazing from a high-country perch, camping in Yosemite connects you to one of America's most spectacular landscapes.