Camping in Yosemite National Park
Have you ever wanted to camp at Yosemite National Park? Plan it. Do it!
Have you ever wanted to camp at Yosemite National Park?
I have been an Ansel Adams fan for over 40 years and have had a print of Half Dome that he took a picture of in my living room for almost 27. There is just something about Yosemite that screams out to me to explore. To go on an adventure!
Hear the crash of waterfalls, explore breathtaking scenic overlooks, and experience the natural beauty represented in the park that most boldly represents the American West. Make memories with your family and friends that will last a lifetime as you walk among some of the most iconic sights in nature. Get outdoors and submerge yourself into the great outdoors - take in views that words can't even begin to capture!
If taking a selfie in front of Yosemite Falls excites you more than duck lips in the bathroom, then we have what you need. In this article, we will give you the information you'll need for your trip of a lifetime, from suggested activities to permitting suggestions for camping in Yosemite National Park. Read on and come on a little mini adventure with us as we walk through the whats and hows of this epic journey
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Yosemite National Park - A Brief History
Yosemite National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1984, is steeped in rich history, natural beauty, and an array of outdoor activities. Spanning over 1,100 square miles, this vast Sierra Nevada region in California has captivated the hearts of nature lovers for centuries. Native Americans were the first inhabitants of the Yosemite region, calling it "Ahwahnee," or "the place of a gaping mouth." European explorers and settlers first discovered it in the mid-1850s, and it officially gained recognition as a national park in 1890.
The grandeur of Yosemite National Park is most vividly represented by its iconic landmarks such as El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls. El Capitan is a monumental granite rock formation that towers over the western end of Yosemite valley at 3,000 feet. It is a popular destination for rock climbers worldwide and provides an exceptional view of the valley. Half Dome, another remarkable granite formation with a sheer vertical face, towers 4,737 feet above the valley floor. The roughly 14- to 16-mile hike to the summit of Half Dome is a strenuous but rewarding achievement for adventurous hikers.
Yosemite Falls is the highest waterfall in North America, plunging 2,425 feet from the top of the upper fall to the base of the lower fall. The falls are a truly breathtaking sight, especially during the springtime when the snowmelt generates a powerful cascade of water. Another notable site is the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, home to over 500 ancient and massive sequoia trees. These trees are among the oldest and largest living organisms in the world, with some reaching over 3,000 years old and 300 feet high.
Yosemite National Park offers a plethora of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking and backpacking are popular, with over 750 miles of trails available ranging from easy, short walks to challenging multi-day treks. Rock climbing in Yosemite is regarded as world-class, with areas such as El Capitan, Half Dome, and Tuolumne Meadows providing thrilling climbs. Wildlife enthusiasts can also catch glimpses of over 400 species of animals, including black bears, mule deer, bobcats, and the endangered Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep.
Winter sports, though much less reported on, are also available, such as skiing and snowboarding at the Yosemite Ski & Snowboard Area (formerly known as Badger Pass). Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing provide opportunities for quieter exploration of the park's snow-covered landscapes.
Yosemite National Park camping also offers numerous options, with 13 campgrounds available. Among these campgrounds are popular locations such as Upper Pines campground, North Pines campground, and Lower Pines campground, which provide easy access to the splendors of Yosemite valley. More remote campgrounds, such as the Tuolumne Meadows and White Wolf, offer a serene and secluded camping experience. Most campgrounds are available on a first-come, first-served basis, but some the best campgrounds require advanced reservations.
Yosemite National Park boasts a rich history and embodies the essence of America's wilderness. With its awe-inspiring landscapes, diverse outdoor activities, and ample camping options, it continues to draw millions of visitors every year, ensuring its place as a cherished national treasure for generations to come.
Why We Picked Yosemite National Park
It's hard to know what to expect when camping in a new place, let alone a national park as beautiful as Yosemite.
Camping is a great way to experience nature and get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, but it's not always easy to know where to start climbing that mountain of possibility.
Outdoor Verified is here to help. We know what it means to be inspired by nature. We understand the guttural call to explore places we've never been before to sneak a glimpse of sights and beauty we have never seen before. We have done our best to disseminate enough information in this article to not only peak that feeling in you, but also to give you a jumpstart on planning your adventure in Yosemite.
What you will see
Yosemite National Park is home to some of the most breathtaking views and landscapes in all of the United States. Whether you're a nature lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a great place to explore, Yosemite National Park has something for everyone to enjoy.
The park's iconic sites include Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls as well as Glacier Point which offers unparalleled views of the Yosemite valley. For those looking for an exhilarating hike or climb, Cathedral Peak, Cloud's Rest, and Sentinel Dome are great options. Additionally, hikers can take in more iconic sites such as Olmsted Point, Tenaya Lake, and the Tuolumne Meadows from their trails.
Hetch Hetchy Valley
Hetch Hetchy Valley is a tranquil and serene area located within Yosemite National Park. It is full of awe-inspiring landscapes, including cascading waterfalls, majestic cliffs and peaks, lush vegetation, clear lakes, and meandering rivers. In addition to the stunning views and untouched nature in the valley, there are also many activities for visitors to take part in such as kayaking, horseback riding, bird watching, fishing, swimming, and more.
Hetch Hetchy Valley has a unique history that dates back to the mid 1800s when it was first settled by settlers. Today it serves as an example of how human development can be balanced with preserving natural beauty. Visitors looking for a peaceful escape in nature will not be disappointed by this hidden gem of Yosemite National Park!
Glacier Point
Glacier Point is a breathtaking overlook located in Yosemite National Park. It provides unparalleled views of the Yosemite valley, Half Dome, and numerous other iconic landmarks in the south entrance of the park. From here visitors can take in sweeping vistas from 3,213 feet above ground.
Glacier Point is accessible by car or by taking the popular hiking trail known as Four Mile Trail from Yosemite valley. The route can be daunting for less experienced hikers, but well worth it for the spectacular views that await at the top.
Whether you are visiting Yosemite National Park for a day trip or an extended vacation, Glacier Point should definitely be on your itinerary!
Wawona
Wawona is a quaint village located deep within Yosemite National Park. Visitors can explore the area’s fascinating history, go for a hike on one of the nearby trails, or simply spend time relaxing and enjoying the beauty of nature.
One of the most popular attractions in Wawona is the historic Mariposa Grove, which contains some of the oldest and largest trees in all of Yosemite National Park. Here visitors can meander through picturesque pathways that are lined with Sequoia trees that tower hundreds of feet above them.
In addition to Mariposa Grove, other activities available in Wawona include horseback riding, golfing at the golf course, fishing along the South Fork Merced River, and more! It’s no wonder why people are drawn to this tranquil spot within Yosemite National Park.
Mariposa grove
Mariposa Grove is one of the most popular attractions in Yosemite National Park. Located deep within the park, this huge grove of ancient Sequoia trees stands majestic and full of life.
Mariposa Grove contains around 500 mature giant sequoias, some of which are more than 2,000 years old. Visitors can marvel at these massive trees and meander through picturesque paths lined with them as they explore the area. In addition to hiking, other activities available here include biking, horseback riding, and bird watching.
Mariposa Grove is an amazing spot to visit for both new and seasoned travelers when exploring the park.
Tuolumne Meadows
Tuolumne Meadows is an amazingly idyllic area in Yosemite National Park that provides visitors with unbeatable views of rolling hills, meadows filled with wildflowers, and majestic peaks. Situated at an elevation of 8,600 feet, the meadows offer unparalleled views of the nearby mountains and granite domes along with Tuolumne meadows campground nearby.
One of the most popular activities in Tuolumne Meadows is hiking. The area contains some incredible trails such as Lyell Canyon, Tenaya Lake, and Clouds Rest from which visitors can get breathtaking views of Yosemite’s wilderness. Other activities offered here include camping, rock climbing, fishing, and horseback riding.
Tuolumne Meadows is without a doubt one of the most beautiful spots in the entire park. Whether you are looking for a peaceful stroll or a challenging hike, this spectacular area has something to please.
Crane Flat Area
Crane Flat Area is a large area of Yosemite National Park located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. This area is known for its sweeping views of meadows, wildflowers, and towering sequoia trees, as well as its abundance of trails that offer the opportunity to explore and discover the natural beauty of the park.
The most popular activity in Crane Flat Area is hiking. Here, visitors can find numerous trails ranging from easy strolls to more challenging treks. Some of these trails include Big Oak Flat Road and Hodgdon Meadow Loop, both of which will take you through majestic national forests and fields full of wildflowers.
Another popular activity in this area is camping - Crane Flat Area has several campgrounds available, like the Crane Flat Campground, that provide great access to the surrounding wilderness and opportunities to spot wildlife such as deer, foxes, and black bears.
Waterfalls
Yosemite National Park is home to some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the world and are some of the main attractions for the park. The biggest and most popular waterfall in Yosemite is Yosemite Falls, which cascades a total of 2,425 feet from the top of Yosemite valley. This impressive waterfall is visible from many spots around the park and can be experienced up close by hiking one of two trails that lead to its base.
Other notable waterfalls in the park include Bridalveil Fall, Lower Yosemite Fall, Vernal Fall, and Nevada Fall. These falls are all part of the Merced River, which runs through Yosemite valley, and they each have their own unique characteristics - Nevada Fall is known for its long cascading drop while Vernal Fall has a short but powerful plummet.
Horsetail Fall offers one of the most unique features of all, but you have to time it just right. During peak season in mid to late February, a red or orange sunset reflecting off of the falls makes it appear as if it is on fire! Visiting these waterfalls in Yosemite will leave you breathless whether it's your first time or your hundredth time visiting.
Here is the live webcam of Yosemite Falls!
Granite Rock Formations
Yosemite National Park is renowned for its incredible rock formations, which are created by glaciers, rivers, and streams over thousands and thousands of years. The most iconic and imposing rock formation in Yosemite is Half Dome, located in Yosemite valley. This granite rock stands at 8,842 feet and attracts climbers from around the world and many attempt to summit Half Dome during the summer.
Other notable rock formations in the park include El Capitan (which stands 3,593 feet above sea level), Glacier Point (which provides stunning views of the valley floor), Sentinel Rock (a popular spot for climbing), and North Dome (another challenging climb).
Ron Knezek
What you can do
Yosemite offers a vast array of outdoor activities that cater to a diverse range of interests and abilities. From engaging guided tours to thrilling backcountry adventures, the park's magnificent scenery and exceptional biodiversity create the perfect environment for enjoying a multitude of recreational pursuits.
Guided Tours
One popular way to explore the park is through guided tours, which provide comprehensive insight into the park's unique features, history, and wildlife. Park ranger-led interpretation programs offer the opportunity to learn about the natural and cultural history of the park, as well as the abundant plant and animal species that call Yosemite home. These educational walks and talks offer a valuable experience for visitors who want to connect more deeply with this remarkable landscape.
Hiking
For the more adventurous, hiking is a must-do activity in Yosemite, featuring over 750 miles of trails that cater to all fitness levels. For a truly unforgettable Yosemite experience, one can take on the challenging yet rewarding hike to Half Dome or explore the scenic John Muir Trail. In Yosemite's backcountry, seasoned hikers and backpackers can escape the crowds and truly immerse themselves in the park's remote wilderness.
Cycling
Cycling enthusiasts can take advantage of the Yosemite valley network of bike trails that weave through picturesque meadows and alongside the park's iconic granite cliffs. The park's diverse terrain also presents ample opportunities for birdwatching, with over 260 species calling the park home. Visitors can spot majestic golden eagles or the elusive great gray owl while exploring the park's various habitats.
Fishing
Anglers can experience the serene beauty of Yosemite's alpine lakes and streams while fishing for native trout species. The park's waterways, some of which are open year-round for catch-and-release fishing, provide a peaceful backdrop for enthusiasts looking to land their next catch.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is another popular activity at Yosemite valley stable, which allows visitors to explore the park's vast wilderness on guided trail rides. These excursions, typically led by knowledgeable wranglers, offer an opportunity to traverse remote areas of the park inaccessible to motorized vehicles.
Rock Climbing
Yosemite's granite walls attract climbers from all over the world, with iconic routes like El Capitan and Cathedral Peak offering diverse climbing difficulties for both beginners and seasoned veterans. Additionally, stargazing in Yosemite is an unforgettable experience. The park's high altitude and minimal light pollution create ideal conditions for observing celestial wonders, such as the Milky Way, constellations, and meteor showers.
Rafting
Adrenaline-seekers may also partake in exhilarating rafting trips on Yosemite's Merced River, navigating the park's thrilling rapids while surrounded by majestic granite cliffs. During cooler months, winter sports enthusiasts can delight in snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice skating, experiencing the serene splendor of Yosemite's snow-covered landscapes.
Yosemite National Park offers a myriad of activities that cater to various interests and abilities, providing visitors with unique ways to connect with nature while basking in the beauty of this iconic American treasure. Whether it's by foot, bicycle, or raft, there is no shortage of opportunities to explore, learn, and create unforgettable memories within the park's awe-inspiring wilderness.
Where You Can Camp
Yosemite National Park camping is a dream come true for many outdoor enthusiasts. With a diverse range of campgrounds and backcountry camping options, visitors can find the perfect spot to immerse themselves in the astounding beauty of this natural wonder. From the towering granite cliffs and vast meadows to the ancient sequoia groves and thundering waterfalls, Yosemite campsites offers a captivating escape into nature.
Upper Pines campground
Among the most popular campgrounds in Yosemite within the park are Upper Pines, Lower Pines, and North Pines. These three adjoining campgrounds are nestled in the magnificent Yosemite Valley, boasting awe-inspiring landscapes and easy access to visitor facilities. Upper Pines is the largest of the three, with 238 sites available for tents, RVs, and trailers alike. Lower Pines offers 60 sites, while North Pines has 81 sites – both accommodating a combination of tent and RV camping.
Camp 4
Camp 4 is an iconic, popular campground located near the heart of Yosemite Valley, catering predominantly to the rock climbing community. With a rich history and a legendary reputation, this first-come, first-served camping area provides 35 walk-in sites. The Camp 4 campground has played a significant role in the development of modern rock climbing and still serves as a hub for climbers worldwide.
Wawona campground
Wawona Campground is located in the southern part of the park, perched along the beautiful South Fork Merced River. With 93 campsites available by reservation, Wawona provides easy access to the Mariposa Grove, home to over 500 massive and ancient sequoias.
Yosemite Creek Campground
Yosemite Creek Campground is a beautiful and rustic campsite in Yosemite National Park. Located at an elevation of 7,400 feet, the campground is just minutes from the iconic views of Yosemite Valley. The campground offers 58 sites for tents and RVs, as well as five group camping areas that can accommodate up to 50 people.
Backcountry campgrounds
For the more adventurous campers, Yosemite National Park offers numerous backcountry camping options, where a wilderness permit is required. The park encompasses a vast area of over 750,000 acres of wilderness area, brimming with serene alpine lakes, high mountain peaks, and dense forests. Backpackers and avid hikers can relish this chance to explore beyond the constraints of developed campgrounds and experience Yosemite's pristine wilderness in a personal and profound way.
RV Camping
RV camping is another popular way to enjoy Yosemite. Most campgrounds, including Upper Pines, Lower Pines, North Pines, and Wawona, can accommodate RVs and trailers, subject to specific size limitations. However, only a limited number of sites within Yosemite have full hookups available for visitors. Check to ensure you know where the dump stations are located prior to a visit.
Camping in Yosemite National Park offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature and enrich the soul. Horse campsites are available during summer at Wawona, Bridalveil Creek, and Tuolumne Meadows Campgrounds. Reservations are required. Sites designated as creek water have vault toilets while those designated as tap water full restrooms and potable water.
With its abundance of campgrounds and backcountry options, campers are sure to find the perfect spot to relax, rejuvenate, and experience the park's unparalleled wonder. There are also many options available near Yosemite to camp or RV.
Permitting and Reservations
Yosemite National Park requires permits and reservations for activities such as camping, backpacking, fishing, horseback riding, rafting, and more.
Camping in Yosemite campgrounds is allowed year-round but campsites must be reserved ahead of time to ensure you have a spot. Many visitors do this online or by calling the park’s reservation line. Permits are also needed when fishing in Yosemite, with a daily limit of two fish per person (and specific rules regarding size and species that must be adhered to).
There are a few campsites that operate limited first-come, first-served basis. For details ensure you read up on the dates and campgrounds this applies to.
Those wishing to go backpacking in the park will need an overnight permit and if planning on taking horses into the wilderness there are specific restrictions and areas where animals are not allowed - a permit is required for horseback riding as well.
These permitting and reservation requirements are necessary to protect the environment and provide visitors with a safe experience when exploring Yosemite National Park - always make sure to read all regulations before embarking on any activities.
Final Thoughts
Yosemite National Park offers a unique and incredible camping experience that should not be missed. From the pristine lakes to the snow-capped mountains, the scenery alone is worth the visit. Although you will need to get permits and make reservations (advised) in advance, Yosemite has something for everyone from stargazing to birdwatching to hiking or even just taking in the beautiful views.
With its diverse ecosystem, adventurous activities and breathtaking beauty, it's safe to say that Yosemite National Park is worth discovering. So if you are thinking about planning your next camping holiday, it would be difficult to go wrong with making a trip to Yosemite National Park.
Be sure to be prepared with all the details needed for camping at Yosemite and, if you do decide to visit, I guarantee it will be an experience that you won't forget. And if you want to follow along for further adventures around the world, consider subscribing to me so that I can keep you updated when I publish a new post.
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