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Best Camping Spots In Yosemite

You Dont Need To Worry About Parking If You Camp

Best Campsites in Yosemite National Park

A huge benefit of camping in Yosemite is the parking. In peak season, parking in Yosemite can be incredibly difficult and camping removes that problem as each reservation has its own parking space. This means you can simply walk out of your site each day to a trail or hop on the shuttle to wherever you want to go.

White Wolf Tent Cabins

White Wolf has 24 wood-outlined, wood-stunned, material-covered tent lodges and four customary lodges. There is no power. However, they give candles and a wood-consuming oven. They additionally give sheets, covers, cushions, and towels.

The tent lodges share showers and bathrooms. The four deluxe tent cabins have private baths, restricted power, and house cleaner service.

Does The Pct Go Through Yosemite

One of the trails that youll find in California is the Pacific Coast Trail, which connects Canada to Mexico through several American states.

A few parts of the trail pass through parts of Yosemite, including the Dorothy Lake Pass and Donahue Pass. You can exit the trail to spend more time in the park too.

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Travel Tips For Camping

To get to the best camping spots on our list, you will need to do a bit of planning and preparation.

First, make sure that you have all of the necessary gear for your trip, including a tent, sleeping bags and pads, cooking supplies, hiking or camping shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen and bug spray, and any other essentials that you might need.

Once youve packed up your gear, its time to start exploring. Each spot on our list has its own unique set of attractions and activities, from hiking and wildlife watching to surfing, swimming, and more. Be sure to do some research in advance so that you know what to expect at each location.

And finally, dont forget to take the time to enjoy your surroundings. Whether you spend your days soaking up the sun on pristine beaches or trekking through rugged mountains, getting out into nature is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and reinvigorated.

You can try river rafting, biking, boating, and even go skydiving. There are many extremely beautiful camping spots around the world that will actually leave you awestruck.

How Do I Get A Reservation At Yosemite Campgrounds

Little Yosemite Valley Campground, CA

Yosemite National Park has 13 well-known campsites, of which up to seven are on a booking system. From April through September, reservations are vital. Its no surprise that the first-come, first-served camping areas are usually fully booked by early afternoon from April through September.

Reservations are required the entire year for Yosemite Valleys vehicle campsites and summer. Campsite reservations are accessible in a batch of each month in turn. Know that virtually all bookings for the long stretches of May through September are filled the day they become accessible.

For your most apparent opportunity regarding getting a reservation, visit this website before 7 am Pacific time. You can get more assistance reserving a spot and now and read inquiries about visiting the campgrounds.

You may reserve two spots for every call or site visit. Call once more to make an additional reservation. If you cant get a camping area reservation, you might need to attempt first-come, first-served campsites.

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South Of Yosemite Valley

Bridalveil CreekBridalveil Creek Campground on Glacier Point Road has 110 sites, and because all of the sites are first-come, first-served, its often a good option when campgrounds in Yosemite Valley are full. The campground is near, though not directly on, Bridalveil Creekthe creek that tumbles over the rim of the Valley to become Bridalveil Fall. Its open roughly mid-June to mid-September.

WawonaThe southernmost campground in Yosemite, Wawona Campground stretches out along the South Fork of the Merced River, conveniently located near the Wawona store and Hotel. Its open year-round, with its 93 sites reservable through recreation.gov from mid-April to mid-October. Sites are first-come, first-served the rest of the year.

Where Should I Camp In Yosemite

August 31, 2019Bob Howells

This post is part of Just Aheads Yosemite Trip Plannerour guide to what you need to know to plan your trip to Yosemite National Park. . And be sure to download our Just Ahead smartphone audio tour of Yosemite before you head to the park.

Camping under the stars in Yosemite sounds like a dream, and it is. However, its a dream shared by many others. Although the park has 13 campgrounds, many of them are seasonal, and most are in great demand. When it comes to deciding where to camp in Yosemite, the key is to plan ahead for campgrounds that take reservations, and to arrive early for campgrounds that dont. The parks most popular campgrounds take reservations through recreation.gov, but to nab a site in one of them, you need to think in terms of getting tickets for a big rock concert. Get on the website ready to start clicking promptly at 7 a.m. Pacific time on the 15th of the month, five months in advance of your month of arrival.

Sights like this are not far from your tent flap when you camp in Yosemite.

All campgrounds accept RVs unless noted in the write-ups that follow. As for amenities, as a general rule, expect tables, fire pits, running water, toilets, and bearproof food lockers. Exceptions are noted below.

Naturally, Just Ahead points out all of these campgrounds as you drive through Yosemite.

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Most Trails Open In April/may

Most of the trails in Yosemite close for the winter and dont open again until April. If the season runs longer though, you may find that you cant access some of your favorite trails until May.

You should use the NPS website to check on the status of each trail before your trip. The site lets you know which trails and campgrounds are open and closed.

What Can You See In Yosemite In One Day

See some of the best Yosemite area glamping spots

Even if you only have one day to spend in the park, you can still plan an itinerary that lets you hit some of the top spots.

In less than 24 hours, you can take a shuttle to explore the floor of Yosemite Valley and travel to Glacier Point.

There is also a 13-mile trail called the Valley Loop Trail that you can complete in a day.

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Yosemite National Park Free Camping Spots

Yosemite National Park is in Mariposa County in the US and is open throughout the year in all seasons. There are many things that you can do while in this park. Such activities include seeing awe-inspiring vistas, stunning waterfalls, granite icons, and finding fascinating history. The good thing is that you will never fall short of things to do while in Yosemite National Park whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned veteran traveler. Yosemite National Park receives about 4 million visitors every year hence it is a vacation destination choice for many people.

Yosemite National Park Ticketed Entry

Yosemite National Park is one of Americas most beautiful national parks and it offers plenty of activities to enjoy, including camping, hiking, biking, and visiting the museums.

Make sure to purchase your park ticket in advance as it can be quite expensive especially during peak season.

Watch out for heavy traffic during this time period plan accordingly!

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Grand Canyon National Park Arizona

If youre looking for a camping experience that offers stunning views and a chance to commune with nature, theres nowhere better than the Grand Canyon National Park. Both the South Rim and North Rim offer camping opportunities for visitors, though reservations are required during the summer months at both developed and undeveloped sites.

Alternatively, you can opt for backcountry camping, which requires a permit to explore more remote areas of the canyon.

No matter which campground you choose, one thing is certain: youll enjoy incredible vistas of the majestic canyon walls, as well as access to some of the parks incredible hiking trails.

So if youre looking for an unparalleled camping experience, be sure to book your trip to the Grand Canyon today.

Explore More Of California’s Outdoors

How To Backcountry Camp In Yosemite National Park

Exploring Yosemite: Once you’ve secured a campsite, you can focus on activities. Interested in hiking? Check out our detailed article on the best hikes in Yosemite. To make sure you don’t miss any of the park’s highlights, have a look at our article on the Top Attractions & Things to Do in Yosemite.

Camping in California: If you are planning on spending more time camping in California, narrow down your choices with our series of feature articles on camping. Camp below the giant trees at Sequoia NP, Kings Canyon NP, and Redwood National and State Parks. To enjoy some water activities, check out the best campgrounds in Lake Tahoe. For something a little hotter, head to the jewel of the desert and camp at Joshua Tree National Park. Each of these offers a completely different experience, with incredible sights and things to do.

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The Best Campgrounds In Yosemite

Get up close and personal with the Sierra Nevadas starry skies and sweet mountain air

Since youre visiting the park for the scenery, why spend the night walled off from it? Try one of these eight recommended Yosemite campgrounds graced by the Sierra Nevadas starry skies and sweet mountain air.

BEST SITE: White Wolf. Nestled in a lodgepole pine forest at 8,000 feet, the campground provides a taste of the Yosemite high country without the drudgery of backpacking. The camping gods are smiling on you if you score site 28 , 22, or 23- the largest and most private options. White Wolf offers a few luxuries, including delicious meals at neighboring White Wolf Lodge . Trails to Lukens and Harden Lakes lead from the camp. 74 sites Jul-early Sep $14. 209/372-0200. Closed for 2021 Updates can be found here.

Porcupine Flat. Situated 38 miles from Yosemite Valley, its often the last to fill up on summer nights, and its ideal for exploring the high country. 52 sites Jul-early Oct $10. No running water. 209/372-0200. Closed for 2021 Updates can be found here.

North Pines. Just a quick walk from the historic Half Dome Village, this campsite serves as a perfect rest-stop in between exploring. You can head to the general store for supplies, grab a brew at the Village Bar, or catch an informational ranger program. 81 sites, April 15-Oct 31 $26. Reservation required, www.recreation.gov

OUTSIDE THE PARK

CAMPING TIPS

CAMPING RESERVATIONS

Yosemite National Park Boondocking Locations Warren Fork Trail Head

Address

Free Dispersed Camping-> No Reservations

Best Review:

You may stay 14 Days at Virginia Creek Camping Area for the Yosemite National Park boondocking visitors. Great place to camp. They have outhouses. The actual campground closer to the trailhead is $18 per night . This spot was way better and right on the creek. Very quiet when we were there. Clean campground as well.

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Boya Lake Provincial Park Canada

Boya Lake Provincial Park is a great place for anyone looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether youre a seasoned camper or just interested in trying out your hand at fishing or swimming, Boya Lake has something for everyone.

The water is crystal clear and wonderfully cool, making it the perfect spot for an afternoon of fishing and relaxing on the shore. If youre more adventurous, you can also swim in Boyas beautiful lake.

The place is also famous for hiking as well. Apart from that, you can explore other islands and lakes that surround the area which is the result of the big glaciers that used to exist here some time back.

And if thats not enough, Boya Lake is known as one of the best places to go camping in all of Canada. Just prepare yourself for a wonderful trip full of adventure and relaxation! Whether youre a large group or small, Boya Lake will provide everything you need for the vacation of a lifetime.

Corcovado National Park Costa Rica

Camping in Yosemite National Park – Everything You Need to Know

If youre looking for an amazing wildlife experience, then Corcovado National Park in Costa Rica is the place for you.

With over 5% of the worlds biodiversity contained within its borders, Corcovado is truly a nature lovers paradise. Whether youre into camping or just want to take in the lush green rainforest surroundings, Corcovado offers it all.

As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Costa Rica, Corcovado also makes for a great camping spot.

The parks dense forests offer plenty of space to pitch your tent and settle in for the night. With so much wildlife around, Corcovado gives you front-row access to some truly incredible views and experiences.

If you really want to go off the beaten path and get up close and personal with nature, Corcovado is where you need to be.

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Tuolumne Grove & Nature Trail

  • Distance: 2.5 miles
  • Skill Level: Moderate
  • Features: Large sign marks the trailhead, connects to Hodgdon Meadow, reaches an elevation of 500 feet
  • What Youll See: Sequoia trees, meadows, a small bridge, wildflowers

Measuring 2.5 miles in length, this is the trail youll want to take to get close to the sequoias in the park. Those trees rise hundreds of feet in the air.

You can hop on the trail near Tunnel Tree, which has a large sign that marks the beginning. It moves in a loop through the trees and circles back around to return you to the start.

If you want to extend your hike, you can remain on the main road. This will help you reach Hodgdon Meadow in 4.5 miles.

The Campsites Can Get Noisy

As we eluded to above, the campsites at Yosemite are surprisingly noisy, and isnt the place to go if you are a light sleeper. People come and go regularly in RVs that make a lot of noise, bear boxes slam shut throughout the day and night .

The noise is made worse because the spots are pretty close together. Unlike some other park campsites weve stayed in, there are no divides between spots, so whilst each camping spot is reasonably big, there is nothing to stop the noise going straight into your tent!

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Lower Pines Campground Yosemite National Park Free Camping Spots Alternative

Out of the Upper Pines, Lower Pines, and North Pines Campgrounds which are all located in Yosemite Valley near Curry Village, this one is the smallest. One side of Lower Pines runs along the river and hence it is prone to flooding during spring. There are 60 sites open between Late March and early November.

Glacier Point Road Camping

How To Backcountry Camp In Yosemite National Park

Glacier Point road stretches 16 miles from Wawona Road to Glacier Point. Perched 3,000 feet above the floor of Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point offers stunning views of Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, Nevada Falls and half a dozen other famous landmarks. Glacier Point Road is also the jumping off point for several outstanding day hikes, many of which head to dramatic viewpoints along Yosemite Valleys south rim.

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Porcupine Mountains State Park

This campsite is in a peaceful area of Porcupine Creek. If you would rather have some solitude like me, this is one of the more isolated campgrounds in the valley. Because it is remote, you will have to bring supplies like drinking water.

52 tent sites can easily fill up. Each campsite comes with a picnic table, fire ring, food locker and is near a vault toilet. It is a first-come, first-served basis area. Some site bonuses are accessible to some valley tourist attractions like Olmsted Point, Tenaya Lake, and Tuolumne Meadows.

There are, of course, many miles of trails you can hike to your hearts content. For camp supplies, the nearest store for buying groceries is about a 14-minute drive. By the way, if your camping style is with a Recreational Vehicle or trailer, this is not the place.

Rv Camping On Hwy 120

Tuolumne Meadows Campground

Located deep inside the park along Tioga Road, Tuolumne Meadows Campground is a great location for those looking to explore Yosemites High Country. At an elevation of 8,600 feet along the Tuolumne River, this campground is a favorite with many campers. Amenities include evening programs and access to trails along with a gift shop, store and post office.

There are 304 campsites at Tuolumne Meadows. Some of these sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 35 feet. Be sure to check the specifications for each site prior to booking as maximum lengths vary by site.

The campground is open from July through late September. Half of the campground is reservation only while the other half is first-come, first-served. There is a dump station in the campground.

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What Should You Not Miss In Yosemite

You should not miss Yosemite Falls when visiting the park because this is one of the worlds most beautiful hiking trails.

Many visitors also take time to see Half Dome and either hike up to the top of the dome or stick close to its base.

Glacier Point is also well worth a visit.

Hiking Yosemite with Half Dome in the background

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park

SPORTSMOBILE GREEN MACHINE CAMPING AT YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK
  • Type of attraction: State park
  • Distance from Sonora: 4 miles
  • Cost: $10 to $15 for train tickets
  • Skill level: Easy
  • What youll see/do: Take a 45 mile train ride, see filming spots from movies and television shows, visit the interpretive museum
  • More info: Railtown 1897

Back to the Future III and Petticoat Junction are just a couple of the shows and movies that were filmed at the Railtown 1897 State Historic Park.

This park can make you feel as though you just stepped back in time because it includes so many artifacts from the 1890s. Its home to a train that takes visitors on a 45-mile long journey around the park.

Kids five and under can ride for free, but the park charges $10 per ticket for kids over five and $15 for each adult. The park also has a steam shop that repairs trains and an interpretive museum.

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