Immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of Yosemite National Park by camping under its star-studded skies.
Home to a variety of campgrounds, each unique in its offerings and atmosphere, Yosemite is one of the most visited national parks and caters to every camper’s taste.
From the bustling Yosemite Valley to the more secluded, primitive grounds off Tioga Road, these campgrounds provide opportunities to wake up to majestic vistas, explore iconic landscapes, and unwind amidst tranquil nature.
Here, we highlight the best Yosemite campgrounds, reviewing their amenities, accessibility, and distinct features, guiding you to find your perfect open-air home away from home.
Top Picks For Camping In Yosemite National Park
Our top three picks for the best Yosemite National Park campgrounds are based on their exceptional locations, variety of amenities, and unique characteristics. They are:
- White Wolf, nestled at an elevation of 8,000 feet, offers a tranquil and secluded environment, perfect for hikers and backpackers due to its proximity to stunning wilderness areas.
- Bridalveil Creek provides a serene atmosphere amidst a blend of open meadows and dense forest and is a perfect base for exploring Glacier Point, Sentinel Dome, or hiking on the Pohono Trail.
- Lower Pines, located in the heart of Yosemite Valley, provides unparalleled access to iconic landmarks such as Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. This campground offers a wide range of amenities and is well-suited to those seeking comfort amidst breathtaking scenery.
The unique appeal of each campground caters to diverse camping experiences, making them our top picks in Yosemite National Park.
1. Upper Pines Campground
Upper Pines Campground, positioned near the Merced River in Yosemite Valley, offers an idyllic base with year-round cell phone reception, trash/recycling collection, and other facilities.
Being the largest reservation campground in the valley, it is a relatively huge campground that features 235 sites, including 32 RV-only, 5 tent-only, and 10 ADA-accessible spots, accommodating RVs up to 35 feet and trailers up to 24 feet.
Reservations, necessary all year, start five months in advance at $36 per night.
Located at a 4,000 feet elevation and accessible from all park roads, Upper Pines Campground provides proximity to Yosemite Valley‘s iconic features, services, trailheads, and the free shuttle route.
However, on-site showers, a camp store, ice for sale, laundry facilities, and internet connectivity are not provided at Upper Pines.
From December to mid-February, only the first three loops of Upper Pines, about 90 sites, are open.
Leashed pets are welcome, and up to two motor vehicles are allowed per site, with potential extra free parking nearby.
Despite possible crowding, the location, natural beauty, convenience, and year-round availability of Upper Pines Campground make it a top choice, rendering it one of Yosemite’s best campgrounds for any visitor.
2. Lower Pines Campground
Lower Pines Campground, situated in Yosemite Valley at 4,000 feet elevation along the Merced River, provides close encounters with nature.
With easy access to park roads and 73 sites, including 9 RV-only and 64 mixed-use, it’s a popular choice among hikers, families, and nature enthusiasts.
Lower Pines Campground offers seasonal cell reception, trash/recycling services, food storage lockers, and an amphitheater.
Each site features a fire ring, picnic table, food locker, and nearby restrooms with drinking water and flushing toilets.
Its location on the free shuttle route and proximity to Yosemite Valley and the river add to its appeal.
Showers, a camp store, ice for sale, or laundry facilities are not available on-site at Lower Pines Campground.
Operating seasonally from mid-April to late October, reservations for all sites, starting five months in advance, are mandatory at Lower Pines.
Regular sites cost $36.00 per night, and double sites are $60.00. The campground has five ADA-accessible sites and accommodates RVs up to 40 feet and trailers up to 35 feet.
Leashed pets are welcome, and each site allows up to two motor vehicles. Extra parking may be available nearby.
Despite possible crowding due to its popularity, Lower Pines Campground is praised for its large sites, close restrooms, and river and bus stop accessibility, making it one of the best campgrounds in Yosemite, some say even better than Upper Pines Campground.
3. North Pines Campground
Located in Yosemite Valley by the Merced River and Tenaya Creek, North Pines Campground, 4,000 feet above sea level, serves as an excellent base for exploring Yosemite’s key attractions, including a starting point for hiking in Little Yosemite Valley.
Its easy park road access and free shuttle route location offer added convenience.
North Pines has 80 sites, including 13 for RVs, 67 mixed-use, and 5 ADA-accessible sites, accommodating RVs up to 40 feet and trailers up to 35 feet.
Each campsite at North Pines Campground has a fire ring, picnic table, and food locker.
On-site amenities include seasonal cell reception, trash/recycling collection, and food storage lockers. Bathrooms provide drinking water and flush toilets.
North Pines Campground lacks showers, a camp store, ice sales, and laundry facilities, but its breathtaking setting and accessibility compensate for these.
The campground operates from early April to late October, requiring reservations five months ahead. Nightly fees are $36.00 per site.
Leashed pets are allowed at North Pines, and each site can host two motor vehicles. Additional parking may be available nearby.
Despite its popularity leading to crowding and booking difficulties and potentially small sites, North Pines Campground remains one of Yosemite National Park’s top campgrounds.
4. Crane Flat Campground
Crane Flat Campground, perched 6,200 ft above sea level along Big Oak Flat Road, provides a serene high-altitude base just 30 minutes from Yosemite Valley.
Its proximity to Merced and Tuolumne Giant Sequoias makes it ideal for nature enthusiasts.
The campground features 151 sites with fire rings, picnic tables, and food lockers.
On-site restrooms have drinking water and flush toilets. Seasonal amenities include trash/recycling collection, staff assistance, and an amphitheater.
However, there are no cell services, internet, showers, camp stores, ice sales, or laundry facilities.
Crane Flat Campground accommodates tents, RVs up to 35 feet, and trailers up to 27 feet (note that not all sites can host these sizes).
The campground, typically open from July to mid-October, requires reservations, which open two months in advance.
Fees are $36.00 per night for standard sites and $60.00 for double sites.
Leashed pets are permitted, and each site can have two motor vehicles. Additional parking may be available nearby. Some sites may be uneven or dusty, posing challenges for trailers.
Despite minor inconveniences, the charm of Crane Flat Campground lies in its convenient access to amenities and sequoia groves, offering a fulfilling camping experience for most visitors.
5. Tuolumne Meadows Campground
Located at an elevation of 8,000 feet along Tioga Road, Tuolumne Meadows Campground is a serene high-elevation retreat perfect for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers.
This scenic campground provides direct access to the captivating Tuolumne Meadows region’s hikes, lakes, and viewpoints.
The campground offers 304 sites, including tent-only, group, and horse sites, with seasonal amenities like cell reception and trash/recycling collection.
Each site is equipped with food storage lockers. However, there are no camp stores, internet, laundry facilities, or showers on-site.
Tuolumne Meadows Campground operates seasonally from July to September but is expected to remain closed until 2024 or 2025 due to rehabilitation.
Upon reopening, half the campground will require reservations up to five months in advance, and half will remain first-come, first-served.
The fees vary from $36.00 for standard sites, $75.00 for group campsites, and $50.00 for stock sites.
Pets are welcome but must be leashed, and a maximum of two vehicles per site is allowed. The campground also offers 61 tent-only sites and several ADA-accessible sites.
Though amenities are limited, the surrounding Tuolumne Meadows offers an unmatched natural experience.
Yosemite Valley and its facilities are 90 minutes away, with easy access via Tioga Road and numerous hikes directly from the campground.
Despite variable site quality, visitors find Tuolumne Meadows Campground a tranquil and rewarding getaway.
6. Camp 4
Positioned in Yosemite Valley’s scenic heart, Camp 4, renowned as the climber’s campsite, offers a unique shared camping experience amidst Yosemite’s iconic features.
With close proximity to Yosemite Falls and numerous trails, it’s a favorite for hikers, rock climbers, and outdoor enthusiasts who are looking for a tent camping experience.
Camp 4 accommodates 61 tent-only sites equipped with picnic tables, shared food lockers, and fire rings. Restrooms, showers, and drinking water are centralized, ensuring comfort.
There is no vehicle access or allowance for pets, with parking adjacent to the site.
This lively campground accommodates up to six people per site, promoting a sociable atmosphere.
Open year-round, it requires campsite reservations from May 21 through September, while October to May operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
At $10.00 per person per night, it’s an economical choice.
Two accessible sites, nearby accessible parking, and paths leading to the sites and restrooms accommodate accessibility needs.
However, RVs and electric hookups are not available as it caters only to tents. Camp 4 is the only campground of the major ones that do not allow pets.
With trails, cliffs, roads, rivers, and attractions such as Yosemite Falls within walking distance, Camp 4’s location is excellent, particularly for hikers and rock climbers.
A popular bouldering site also lies within its area.
Though unsuitable for quiet camping or pets, those seeking breathtaking views of El Capitan and Half Dome, along with trail accessibility, will find Camp 4 an ideal spot.
7. Bridalveil Creek
Bridalveil Creek Campground, nestled along Glacier Point Road, offers a serene forest environment near tranquil waters.
Located approximately 7 miles from Glacier Point and 45 minutes from Yosemite Valley, this campground is a perfect choice for hikers and outdoor lovers, providing easy access to the John Muir Trail and stunning Glacier Point views.
The campground boasts 115 campsites, hosting tents, RVs up to 35 feet, and trailers up to 24 feet.
Amenities include flush toilets, fire rings, picnic tables, and food lockers, with drinking water and trash collection provided seasonally. However, the area lacks showers and cell or internet connectivity.
Open from mid-July through early September, a campground reservation is needed.
The per-night costs range from $36.00 for non-group campsites, $75.00 for group campsites, to $50.00 for stock sites.
The locale is perfect for sightseers, with Glacier Point’s views nearby and plentiful hiking trails along Glacier Point Road.
Pets are welcome in individual sites, excluding group ones, provided they are leashed.
Each campsite at Bridalveil Creek Campground can host two vehicles on a designated parking pad, with trailers not considered extra if they fit within the parking pad.
Groceries and showers can be found in Yosemite Valley, and a seasonal dump station is available near the Wawona Store.
While there are no designated accessible campsites, restrooms are wheelchair-friendly.
In summary, for a peaceful forest-based camping experience, Bridalveil Creek Campground is a top pick in Yosemite National Park.
8. Wawona Campground
Located in Yosemite National Park’s southern end, 27 miles from Yosemite Valley, Wawona Campground offers a peaceful camping experience near the South Fork Merced River and historic Wawona.
It caters to a diverse set of visitors, including families, groups, and horse campers, featuring 95 sites suitable for tents and RVs up to 35 feet.
Wawona Campground provides amenities such as flush toilets, fire rings, picnic tables, food lockers, and trash/recycling collection.
It offers cell reception but lacks internet connectivity. Reservations are required from mid-April to mid-October.
The campground’s tranquil river setting and proximity to Mariposa Grove of giant sequoias and the Yosemite History Center are key attractions.
It is also an option as a Yosemite Valley Stable if you want to go horseback riding.
However, its absence of internet, limited amenities such as showers or a camp store, and advanced reservation requirements could be downsides for some visitors.
Fees vary from $36.00 per night for reserved non-group campsites, $28.00 for first-come, first-served non-group sites, and $75.00 for group campsites.
Yosemite Valley’s iconic features and activities are a 45-minute drive away. Pets are welcome in individual sites (excluding group campsites) when leashed.
Each site at Wawona Campground can accommodate up to two vehicles on a parking pad, and trailers within the pad aren’t considered extra.
Groceries and showers can be found in Yosemite Valley or Wawona, and a seasonal dump station is located near the Wawona Store.
While there are no designated accessible campsites, the charm and tranquility of Wawona Campground make it a notable choice for a Yosemite camping experience.
9. Hodgdon Meadow Campground
Hodgdon Meadow Campground, located at a 4,900 feet elevation on Yosemite National Park’s western edge, offers convenient access to the park from the Big Oak Flat Road Entrance.
Situated 25 miles from Yosemite Valley, this campground is also proximate to the Merced Grove and Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias.
Among the amenities offered at Hodgdon Meadow Campground are flush toilets, food lockers, fire rings, picnic tables, and drinking water.
However, cell reception and internet connectivity are absent. The campground has 103 campsites accommodating tents, RVs up to 35 feet, and trailers up to 27 feet.
While the location near the Big Oak Flat Entrance and Giant Sequoia groves are major perks, Hodgdon Meadow Campground has some limitations, including no showers or camp store, unreliable cell reception and internet, and less frequent bus service for those with RVs and no additional vehicle.
Reservations are required from April 10 to October 23, 2023, up to five months in advance. For the rest of the year, it operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Fees range from $36.00 for reserved non-group sites, $28.00 for first-come, first-served non-group campsites, and $75.00 for group campsites.
Despite its relative remoteness, Hodgdon Meadow Campground is close to several attractions, including the Merced and Tuolumne Groves of Giant Sequoias and Yosemite Valley.
Pets are welcome in individual sites (excluding group campsites) if leashed.
On-site parking allows up to two vehicles per campsite on a parking pad, with trailers within the pad not counted as additional vehicles.
Groceries and showers are available in Yosemite Valley or Crane Flat, and dump stations are located in Yosemite Valley year-round and seasonally near Tuolumne Meadows Campground.
10. Tamarack Flat Campground
Tamarack Flat Campground, nestled off Tioga Road east of Crane Flat in Yosemite National Park, offers a secluded, rustic camping experience amidst a tranquil forest near the Tamarack Creek.
Located about 20 miles and a 45-minute drive from Yosemite Valley, the campground offers 52 tent-only sites, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts and adventurers.
Equipped with fire rings, picnic tables, and food lockers, each campsite at Tamarack Flat Campground provides a primitive experience with vault toilets and seasonal trash/recycling collection.
The lack of cell reception, internet connectivity, or potable water adds to its rustic allure. While the campground is not recommended for RVs and trailers, some sites are wheelchair accessible.
Open from June through mid-October, the campground requires reservations, with each site costing $24.00 per night.
Despite its secluded nature, it offers easy access to several attractions, including Mirror Lake and Glacier Point‘s mesmerizing views of Yosemite Valley and Half Dome.
Other nearby features include the Valley Visitor and Wilderness Centers, trails along the Merced River, and Happy Isles with its Nature Center and trails leading to Vernal and Nevada Falls.
Leashed pets are welcome at Tamarack Flat Campground.
Parking is available on-site, accommodating up to two vehicles per campsite if parked on the pad, with trailers within the pad not counted as extra vehicles.
Proper food storage is essential, with groceries available in Yosemite Valley and Crane Flat and showers in Yosemite Valley.
At an elevation of 6,300 feet, Tamarack Flat Campground offers a unique high-altitude, low-development camping experience for those seeking to intimately connect with nature.
11. White Wolf Campground
Situated between Tuolumne Meadows and Crane Flat off Tioga Road, the secluded White Wolf Campground in Yosemite National Park offers a peaceful, private camping experience, unlike the bustling Valley campgrounds.
At an elevation of 8,000 feet near White Wolf Lodge and an hour’s drive from Yosemite Valley, this rustic campground caters to hikers, backpackers, and nature-loving campers.
Open from mid-July to September, White Wolf Campground can host tents, RVs up to 27 feet, and trailers up to 24 feet across its 74 sites.
Each site offers a fire ring, picnic table, and food locker, with seasonal flush toilets and potable water.
Despite limited connectivity and services, the campground provides trash/recycling collection and an amphitheater.
This secluded campground is known for its tranquility and forest surroundings, providing easy access to trails like Lukens Lake and Harden Lake.
With a nightly fee of $30.00 for all sites and reservations required during the open season, it’s a camper’s haven. Leashed pets are welcome.
Each campsite permits a maximum of two motor vehicles, with trailers fitting on the pad not considered additional.
Amenities and attractions can be found in Yosemite Valley, Tuolumne Meadows, El Capitan views, and Crane Flat.
The campground enforces strict bear-safe food storage, reinforcing its commitment to a true, rustic, and environmentally respectful camping experience.
12. Yosemite Creek Campground
At a lofty 7,700 feet, Yosemite Creek Campground nestles in Yosemite National Park’s heart, offering a secluded, primitive camping experience.
Located off Tioga Road and over an hour from Yosemite Valley, this spot suits nature lovers, hikers, and those craving a rustic adventure.
The campground has 75 tent-only sites, unsuitable for RVs and trailers due to rough, narrow roads. However, it includes wheelchair-accessible sites 47 and 49.
Each site features a fire ring, picnic table, and food locker, with seasonal vault toilets and trash/recycling collection. No potable water is provided.
Renowned for its secluded ambiance and Yosemite Creek proximity, Yosemite Creek Campground opens from early July to September, subject to change.
Despite limited amenities, the nightly fee is a reasonable $24.00 for all sites, and reservations are mandatory during the open season. The campground is pet-friendly but requires leashing.
Per campsite, two motor vehicles are permitted on a parking pad. Campers can explore nearby northern park attractions, scenic views, and trails.
Amenities like groceries and showers are available in Yosemite Valley, though be aware of potential snowfall and fallen trees causing closures.
Ideal for car camping or small RVs, this limited development area offers an immersive, in-the-wild experience at large, creek-side campsites.
Other Yosemite Campgrounds To Consider
While these are some of the most popular campgrounds in Yosemite National Park, there are other options you may want to consider.
Porcupine Flat Campground
Porcupine Flat Campground sits on the scenic Tioga Road at an elevation of 8,100 feet and offers an ideal high-altitude escape for nature lovers.
Equipped with 52 first-come, first-served sites, this Yosemite campground features amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and a refreshing creek nearby for water, offering a truly immersive camping experience.
The strategic location of Porcupine Flat Campground provides quick access to Porcupine Creek, Tenaya Lake, Olmsted Point, and the Tuolumne Meadows, making it a standout choice among Yosemite campgrounds.
Curry Village
Curry Village, nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley, provides a unique blend of traditional camping and modern amenities with canvas tent cabins and hard-sided cabins.
It features amenities like a swimming pool, dining facilities, and equipment rental for outdoor activities, making it an appealing choice for families and comfort seekers.
With its prime location near Half Dome and Glacier Point, Curry Village offers an unforgettable Yosemite experience without sacrificing convenience and comfort.
Summerdale Campground
Located just outside Yosemite’s south entrance, Summerdale Campground is a quiet and peaceful camping spot that gives campers the feeling of being in the wilderness while still offering convenient access to the park.
With spacious sites shaded by cedars and pines and a charming creek flowing nearby, Summerdale presents an ideal environment for campers seeking a serene escape.
Despite its smaller size, the campground boasts of amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and access to fishing spots, making it a hidden gem for those who want to experience Yosemite’s natural beauty.
Indian Flat RV Park
Indian Flat RV Park, located just outside Yosemite’s entrance, is an excellent choice for RV enthusiasts, with full hook-up sites and ample amenities.
Campers can enjoy the beautiful surrounding nature while still having access to a convenience store, a swimming pool, picnic areas, and even free Wi-Fi.
While it offers a quieter, less crowded experience than some of Yosemite’s in-park campgrounds, Indian Flat still provides easy access to the park’s main attractions, offering a balance of convenience and tranquillity.
Tips On Picking Campgrounds In Yosemite National Park
Selecting a Yosemite campground is an exercise in appreciating nature’s diversity.
The park offers thirteen campgrounds, each with unique attributes that cater to varying preferences and needs.
When picking a site, consider the location, the kind of camping experience you desire, the amenities you need, and the time of year.
For example, if you’re an ardent hiker, campgrounds like Upper Pines Campground or Camp 4, located in Yosemite Valley, provide easy access to popular trails.
If you crave tranquility and solitude, consider more remote campgrounds like Tamarack Flat or Porcupine Flat.
Take note that amenities vary; while some campgrounds offer full RV hookups, others are more primitive. Moreover, some campgrounds are open year-round, but many close for winter.
Tips On Staying In Yosemite National Park
When planning your camping trip to a Yosemite Valley campground, there are several key factors to keep in mind.
Firstly, the popularity of the best campgrounds cannot be overstated – they typically sell out within minutes of release.
To maximize your chances of securing a spot, ensure you are logged into your account and ready to book at exactly 7:00 a.m. (PST), usually, two to five months in advance of your camping dates to make campsite reservations.
Secondly, while camp stores are available in proximity to some campgrounds, prices can be steep. We find it is often more economical to stock up on supplies before entering the park.
However, do remember that proper food storage in provided bear boxes is mandatory to protect the park’s wildlife in all Yosemite Valley campgrounds, specifically Yosemite’s bears.
If you’re camping at one of the Pines campgrounds, including the ever-popular Upper Pines Campground, bring your own towel for the free showers at nearby Curry Village.
For those needing internet access, WiFi is also available at Curry Village, making Curry Village an important hub for many who want the tent camping experience but aren’t able to fully disconnect.
Keep these tips in mind for a smooth and enjoyable Yosemite camping experience.
If you want to go backpacking and stay away from your camp for a day, make sure you understand the rules.
To stay overnight in the wilderness, you do need a wilderness permit. The rangers at Yosemite national park check for these.
If you camp in the Little Yosemite Valley area or the High Sierra Camps, you need to stay in the designated backcountry campgrounds.
We like to recommend stopping by Yosemite Village. This serves as a great jumping-off point to learn more about the park’s offerings.
You can also rent bikes, which is an ideal way to see the park.
Choose The Best Campground In Yosemite National Park
Camping in Yosemite National Park offers a unique experience, whether it’s the convenience of Hodgdon Meadow, the seclusion of Tamarack Flat, the tranquility of White Wolf, or the wild beauty of Yosemite Creek.
Your choice ultimately depends on what you seek from your camping adventure.
Despite varying amenities and atmospheres, all of Yosemite’s campgrounds share a common allure — the opportunity to connect with Yosemite’s stunning landscapes, from soaring sequoias and granite cliffs to gentle meadows and rushing rivers.
Whatever campground you choose, unforgettable encounters with nature await in the heart of this world-renowned national park.
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