If you’re looking for a camping trip that takes your breath away, Yosemite National Park is calling your name. Located in the heart of California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, Yosemite is one of the most famous national parks in the world—and for good reason.
With its massive waterfalls, towering cliffs, giant sequoia trees, and endless hiking trails, Yosemite is a camper’s dream. Whether you’re pitching a tent or rolling in with an RV, this guide will help you plan the perfect trip to one of America’s natural wonders.
Why Camp in Yosemite?
Let’s start with the big question: Why Yosemite?
Here’s why campers from all over the world make this park their top choice:
- Stunning Views: Yosemite Valley is home to famous sights like El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls.
- Adventure for All Ages: From gentle walks to tough climbs, there’s something for everyone.
- Amazing Wildlife: Black bears, mule deer, bobcats, and even the rare Sierra Nevada red fox call this park home.
- Four Seasons of Fun: Spring waterfalls, summer hikes, fall colors, and winter snowshoeing—all in one park.
But most of all, Yosemite offers the chance to unplug and truly connect with nature.
Where to Camp in Yosemite
Yosemite has 13 campgrounds, and most allow tents and RVs. Some are in the famous Yosemite Valley, while others are in quieter, more remote spots.
Here are the main types of camping available:
1. Valley Campgrounds (Busy but Beautiful)
These fill up fast—really fast—because they put you right in the heart of the park. You’ll be near major landmarks and trailheads.
- North Pines Campground
- Lower Pines Campground
- Upper Pines Campground
These are best for:
- First-time visitors
- Families
- People who want to walk to views and hikes
Tip: Reserve online at Recreation.gov five months in advance. These sites often sell out in minutes!
2. High Country Campgrounds (More Peaceful)
If you want to escape the crowds, try one of these:
- Tuolumne Meadows Campground: Near alpine lakes and meadows
- Bridalveil Creek Campground: In a wooded area off Glacier Point Road
- Porcupine Flat and Yosemite Creek: More primitive and quiet
These are best for:
- Experienced campers
- Backpackers and hikers
- People who want more solitude
Note: Some high country roads (like Tioga Road) are closed in winter and spring due to snow.
3. Group and Horse Camps
- Wawona Group Campground: Near the southern entrance
- Tuolumne Meadows Group Campground: Great for big hiking groups
- Horse Campgrounds: Wawona and Tuolumne have space for horses and trailers
What About RV Camping?
Yosemite does allow RVs at several sites. However:
- There are no hookups inside the park.
- Generator use is limited to certain hours.
- Dump stations are available at Tuolumne Meadows and Upper Pines.
If you want full hookups, stay just outside the park in El Portal, Mariposa, or Groveland.
Camping Without a Reservation?
Spontaneous trip? You still have options!
- Camp 4 (Walk-In Only): Famous among rock climbers. First come, first served.
- Backcountry Camping: You’ll need a wilderness permit, but it’s a great way to get off the beaten path.
- Outside the Park: National forests around Yosemite offer dispersed camping and small campgrounds that don’t fill up as fast.
Things to Do While Camping in Yosemite
You’ll never be bored here. In fact, there’s often too much to choose from! Here are the top activities:
1. Hiking
From short walks to all-day adventures:
- Glacier Point Trail: Easy walk with one of the best views in the world.
- Mist Trail: Hike up next to Vernal and Nevada Falls (prepare to get wet!).
- Four-Mile Trail: A tough but rewarding climb from the Valley to Glacier Point.
- Half Dome: An all-day, permit-required hike with cables to climb the rock face. Not for beginners!
2. Waterfalls
Yosemite is home to some of North America’s tallest waterfalls.
- Yosemite Falls: 2,425 feet tall! Best seen in spring.
- Bridalveil Fall: Easy walk, lovely in all seasons.
- Horsetail Fall: Glows like fire at sunset in February.
3. Rock Climbing
Yosemite is a global rock-climbing hotspot.
- El Capitan: Legendary 3,000-foot vertical climb.
- Camp 4: Historic basecamp for climbing culture.
Even if you’re not climbing, it’s fun to watch the climbers with binoculars!
4. Stargazing and Night Skies
Far from city lights, the stars here are breathtaking.
- Visit Glacier Point at night for a clear view of the Milky Way.
- Join a ranger-led astronomy program in summer.
5. Wildlife Watching
Keep your eyes open for:
- Black bears (store food properly!)
- Mule deer
- Coyotes
- Marmots and squirrels
Food and Supplies
There are a few stores inside Yosemite, but they’re expensive and may not have everything.
Better to bring:
- All your food and snacks
- Cooking gear (camp stove, pots, utensils)
- Ice for coolers (available at some park stores)
Yosemite has bear-proof lockers at every campsite. Use them! Never leave food in your tent or car—bears will find it.
Safety Tips for Yosemite Camping
Nature is beautiful, but safety comes first. Keep these tips in mind:
1. Bears
- Use food lockers.
- Don’t leave out coolers or trash.
- Stay calm if you see one—slowly back away.
2. Fires
- Allowed only in fire rings at designated sites.
- Follow fire bans during dry months.
- Never leave a fire unattended.
3. Water
- Bring drinking water or a filter.
- Don’t drink from streams without treating the water.
4. Weather
- Summer days are warm, but nights get chilly.
- Sudden storms happen, especially in the mountains.
- Snow is common from November to April in high areas.
Best Time to Camp in Yosemite
Yosemite is open all year, but every season feels different:
Spring (April–June)
- Rushing waterfalls
- Wildflowers blooming
- Some roads may still be closed
Summer (July–August)
- Most popular time
- All roads and trails are open
- Book campsites early—it’s busy!
Fall (September–October)
- Fewer people
- Golden colors in the trees
- Cooler nights and clear skies
Winter (November–March)
- Snowy wonderland
- Great for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing
- Limited campgrounds are open
Tips for First-Time Campers
If this is your first camping trip, don’t worry. Here’s what will help:
- Arrive early to set up in daylight.
- Test your tent before your trip.
- Bring layered clothing for changing weather.
- Pack extra batteries for flashlights.
- Don’t forget a first aid kit.
Yosemite is friendly to beginners, but it’s still the wild. A little prep goes a long way.
Nearby Attractions
If you want to explore outside the park:
- Mariposa Grove: Giant sequoia trees just inside the South Entrance
- Bass Lake: Great for swimming and boating
- Mono Lake: Otherworldly views east of the park
- Hetch Hetchy Reservoir: A quieter corner with waterfall hikes
Thoughts
Camping in Yosemite is more than a vacation—it’s a chance to experience nature at its best. The beauty, the quiet, the sense of wonder you’ll feel beneath the granite cliffs and pine trees—it’s something you’ll never forget.
So whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, one thing’s for sure: Yosemite will leave you wanting more.
Ready to unplug and recharge? Pack your gear and head to Yosemite. The adventure of a lifetime is waiting.