Campgrounds At Yosemite: Explore The Best Options

Jul 01, 2025

09:38

From breathtaking granite cliffs to majestic waterfalls and giant sequoias, Yosemite National Park is a dream destination for outdoor lovers. One of the best ways to fully experience its wonders is by staying overnight at one of the many campgrounds at Yosemite. Whether you're looking for a secluded tent site deep in the wilderness or a family-friendly campground close to Yosemite Valley's main attractions, there’s an option to fit every style and budget. This guide from National Park Shops will walk you through the best campgrounds at Yosemite and nearby, complete with addresses, contact details, pricing, and ratings so you can plan the perfect outdoor getaway.

What to Know Before You Go Camping in Yosemite

When to Visit

Yosemite has long been known as a popular summer and fall destination, drawing hikers, backpackers, and climbers to the valley and the higher-elevation areas like Tuolumne Meadows, where snow-free trails, scenic lakes, and majestic climbing walls await. However, in recent years, the park has evolved into a year-round attraction. February brings the renowned firefall, while spring sees the valley’s wildflowers and waterfalls in full bloom. During the Yosemite winter, visitors can enjoy skiing, ice skating, and the famous Bracebridge Dinners.

When to Book

Booking a stay at the campgrounds at Yosemite can be a bit tricky. Instead of offering simple six-month advance reservations, Yosemite divides campground reservations into blocks, allowing booking up to five months in advance. Reservations open on the 15th of each month at 7 a.m. Pacific Time. For instance, if you want to camp from June 15 to July 14, reservations will open at 7 a.m. on February 15. Out of the park’s 13 campgrounds, seven allow reservations in advance, so it's essential to plan ahead for your Yosemite adventure.

Leave No Trace

As Yosemite’s popularity grows, it becomes even more crucial for visitors to protect the park’s pristine environment. Always store food and scented items in bear-proof lockers, available at every campground at Yosemite and most trailheads. Make sure to pack out all your trash, as bear spray is prohibited in the park. If you're traveling with pets, keep them on a six-foot leash at all times, restricting them to developed areas like campgrounds, roads, and paved paths in the valley. Never leave pets unattended, including inside tents or RVs. Lastly, be sure to follow the Leave No Trace principles to preserve Yosemite's natural beauty for future generations.

The Best Campgrounds at Yosemite

Yosemite National Park features 13 official campgrounds, each offering a unique mix of scenery, amenities, and access to iconic landmarks. Below, we highlight the most popular and highly rated campgrounds at Yosemite, starting with one of the most accessible and well-loved spots.

Upper Pines

Address: 9024 Southside Drive, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
Phone: (209) 372-8502
Price Range: $36/night
Rating: 4.7/5

As one of the most popular campgrounds at Yosemite, Upper Pines provides unmatched proximity to Yosemite Valley’s iconic landmarks. Situated just minutes from Happy Isles, the Mist Trail, and the Half Dome trailhead, this campground serves as a convenient base for exploring Yosemite’s most famous hikes. With 238 sites that can accommodate both tents and RVs up to 35 feet in length, Upper Pines is one of the largest and most accessible campgrounds at Yosemite.

Each site comes equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and bear-proof food locker, while clean flush toilets and potable water stations are available year-round. The campground's layout is designed for easy vehicle access and shaded by towering pines that offer a sense of privacy despite its central location. Staying here puts you within walking distance of shuttle stops, scenic viewpoints, and services like the Yosemite Village store and visitor center. Due to its popularity, reservations often fill up within minutes of release, especially between May and October, making advance planning essential when choosing campgrounds at Yosemite.

Wawona

Address: Wawona Road, Wawona, CA 95389
Phone: (209) 372-8502
Price Range: $36/night
Rating: 4.5/5

Wawona is a peaceful retreat among campgrounds at Yosemite, located just inside the park’s southern entrance near the charming Wawona community. This historic area is home to the Wawona Hotel and the Pioneer Yosemite History Center, adding a cultural layer to your camping experience. The campground features 93 spacious sites suitable for tents, RVs, and trailers, each equipped with a fire ring, picnic table, and food locker. Guests have access to flush toilets, potable water, and nearby riverbanks that offer excellent fishing and wading spots.

Because of its location near Highway 41, Wawona is a convenient option for those also wanting to explore the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias or take a day trip to Glacier Point. Unlike the busier sites in Yosemite Valley, Wawona offers a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere with shaded sites nestled beneath tall pines and cedars. For those looking to relax while still being well-positioned for sightseeing, Wawona remains one of the best-balanced and underrated campgrounds at Yosemite.

Yosemite Creek

Address: Yosemite Creek Campground Road, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
Phone: (209) 372-8502
Price Range: $18/night
Rating: 4.3/5

Yosemite Creek is a hidden gem among the campgrounds at Yosemite, perfect for those seeking a primitive and adventurous camping experience. Accessible only by a rugged five-mile dirt road, this remote location naturally limits visitor traffic, making it a haven for campers who value solitude and quiet. The campground features 75 tent-only sites scattered along the creek, with basic amenities including vault toilets and a water source from Yosemite Creek (must be filtered or boiled before drinking).

Its remote setting provides a deep sense of immersion in Yosemite's wilderness, with no cell service, minimal noise, and dark skies ideal for stargazing. Wildlife sightings are common, and the sound of rushing water creates a tranquil backdrop for restful nights. Yosemite Creek is one of the most authentic and peaceful campgrounds at Yosemite, offering a raw and rewarding connection to nature for those willing to go off the grid.

Camp 4

Address: Northside Drive, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
Phone: (209) 372-8502
Price Range: $10/person
Rating: 4.8/5

Famous among rock climbers worldwide, Camp 4 is a walk-in only campground at Yosemite Valley that has earned legendary status for its role in the birth of modern rock climbing. This campground features 36 shared sites, each accommodating up to six people, fostering a communal and social atmosphere ideal for solo travelers and small groups. The site includes picnic tables, fire rings, food lockers, and shared bathroom facilities with running water, but no showers.

Camp 4 is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its significance to climbing history, particularly during the 1950s and 60s when pioneers like Royal Robbins and Warren Harding called it home. Set beneath soaring cliffs near Yosemite Falls, it provides direct access to bouldering routes and trailheads like Upper Yosemite Falls and Columbia Rock. As one of the most affordable and iconic campgrounds at Yosemite, Camp 4 operates on a daily lottery system from spring through fall, making flexibility and early arrival key to securing a spot.

White Wolf

Address: Tioga Road (CA-120), Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
Phone: (209) 372-8502
Price Range: $24/night
Rating: 4.4/5

White Wolf offers a high-country experience at 8,000 feet elevation, ideal for campers who want to escape the crowds and enjoy Yosemite’s alpine beauty. This seasonal campground at Yosemite typically opens from July through September, depending on snow conditions. Its elevated setting means cooler temperatures, abundant shade from coniferous trees, and occasional wildlife sightings including deer and marmots. Sites here are more spread out compared to valley campgrounds, offering greater privacy and a quieter ambiance.

Facilities include picnic tables, fire rings, food lockers, and well-maintained vault toilets, but there is no potable water, campers must bring their own or treat creek water. The campground serves as a convenient base for accessing nearby hiking trails, such as Lukens Lake, Harden Lake, and Ten Lakes Basin. With fewer tourists and minimal light pollution, White Wolf is one of the best campgrounds at Yosemite for those seeking serenity, stargazing, and proximity to Tuolumne Meadows without the hustle of Yosemite Valley.

Tuolumne Meadow

Address: Tioga Road, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
Phone: (209) 372-8502
Price Range: $26/night
Rating: 4.6/5

Tuolumne Meadow is the largest high-elevation campground at Yosemite, with over 300 sites accommodating tents, RVs, and trailers. Sitting at nearly 8,600 feet, it offers expansive views of alpine meadows, granite peaks, and glacier-carved landscapes that captivate nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. This area is especially popular among hikers and backpackers who want access to trailheads leading to Cathedral Lakes, Glen Aulin, and Vogelsang Pass. The campground includes flush toilets and potable water stations, but lacks showers and electrical hookups, so come prepared for a semi-primitive experience.

Its remote setting along Tioga Road means lighter foot traffic than Yosemite Valley, making it a peaceful choice among the campgrounds at Yosemite. Nights here are incredibly dark, making it a top pick for stargazing, and wildlife sightings are common in the early morning hours. A seasonal ranger station nearby provides helpful information, bear warnings, and wilderness permits. For those seeking a quieter, high-country experience with access to some of the park’s most scenic hiking routes, Tuolumne Meadow stands out among all campgrounds at Yosemite.

>> Read More: Experience Sunrise Yosemite: 5 Best Places To Watch

May Lake High Sierra Camp

Address: May Lake Trailhead, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
Phone: (209) 372-8502
Price Range: $167/person (includes meals)
Rating: 4.9/5

May Lake High Sierra Camp is a backcountry favorite that offers a semi-luxurious experience in the heart of Yosemite's alpine wilderness. Perched at 9,270 feet near the crystal-clear May Lake, this seasonal camp features tent cabins outfitted with real beds, fresh linens, and hearty family-style meals included in the reservation price. Guests must hike 1.2 miles from the trailhead on Tioga Road, making it accessible yet remote enough to feel like a true escape.

It’s ideal for hikers and backpackers who want to explore the High Sierra without hauling tents and cooking equipment. May Lake offers easy access to stunning trails such as Mount Hoffmann and provides sweeping views across the Sierra Nevada. Solar lighting, composting toilets, and attentive staff add a level of comfort unmatched in most campgrounds at Yosemite. If you crave solitude and backcountry beauty without sacrificing basic comforts, this camp is a standout choice.

Housekeeping Camp

Address: Southside Drive, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
Phone: (209) 372-8502
Price Range: $75–95/night
Rating: 4.5/5

Housekeeping Camp bridges the gap between traditional camping and a hotel stay, making it one of the most popular family-oriented campgrounds at Yosemite. Located right along the Merced River, it provides a unique semi-enclosed lodging experience with concrete walls, canvas roofs, and private outdoor areas for each unit. Units include beds, electrical outlets, and fire rings for cooking and evening gatherings. While guests must bring their own bedding or rent it from the camp store, the convenience and comfort of Housekeeping Camp are hard to beat.

This campground is ideal for families and groups who want to stay in the heart of Yosemite Valley without the hassle of setting up a tent. It is within walking distance of shuttle stops, bike rentals, grocery stores, and scenic landmarks like Yosemite Falls and Swinging Bridge. On-site showers, laundry facilities, and a camp store make it one of the most convenient campgrounds at Yosemite, especially for longer stays or travelers with young children.

Top Campgrounds Outside the Park

Autocamp Yosemite

Address: 6323 CA-140, Midpines, CA 95345
Phone: (888) 405-7553
Price Range: $180–300/night
Rating: 4.7/5

Autocamp Yosemite is a luxury glamping destination that redefines outdoor lodging just 30 minutes from the Arch Rock Entrance. Guests can choose from custom-designed Airstream suites, luxury canvas tents, or modern cabins. Each unit includes plush bedding, spa-inspired bathrooms, climate control, and private patios with fire pits. On-site amenities include a mid-century modern clubhouse, seasonal pool, yoga decks, and complimentary bikes.

Ideal for those who want the atmosphere of camping with hotel-style convenience, Autocamp is one of the most upscale alternatives to traditional campgrounds at Yosemite. The property is also pet-friendly and offers shuttle service into Yosemite Valley, eliminating the stress of driving and parking. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking comfort in nature, Autocamp provides a seamless blend of luxury and wilderness access.

Yosemite Southgate Campground

Address: 40899 CA-41, Oakhurst, CA 93644
Phone: (559) 683-7662
Price Range: $40–80/night
Rating: 4.2/5

Conveniently located in Oakhurst near the park’s southern entrance, Yosemite Southgate Campground is a well-equipped facility catering to both tent campers and RV travelers. The campground offers full hookup RV sites, pull-through spaces, and shaded tent pads. Amenities include restrooms with hot showers, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi access, and a small general store stocked with essentials.

Its proximity to Yosemite’s South Entrance makes it a great home base for exploring the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias or venturing into Yosemite Valley. Among the campgrounds at Yosemite’s edge, Southgate stands out for its affordability, accessibility, and family-friendly atmosphere. It’s also a practical choice for those arriving late or without an in-park reservation.

River Ranch Campgrounds

Address: 48003 CA-41, Fish Camp, CA 93623
Phone: (559) 683-7113
Price Range: $30–60/night
Rating: 4.3/5

Located just two miles from Yosemite’s South Entrance, River Ranch Campgrounds offers a peaceful, forested setting ideal for couples and solo travelers. The campground provides basic amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets, and easy access to nearby streams. While more rustic than some of the larger campgrounds at Yosemite, River Ranch makes up for it with serenity and charm.

Its proximity to Mariposa Grove makes it a great launching point for day hikes among giant sequoias. Guests can enjoy shaded sites beneath towering trees and the sound of nearby creeks. River Ranch is especially appealing to those who want the Yosemite experience without the crowds of the Valley floor, offering a great balance between access and quiet.

Red Dragonfly Ranch

Address: 6769 Triangle Rd, Mariposa, CA 95338
Phone: (209) 966-2970
Price Range: $50–90/night
Rating: 4.4/5

Red Dragonfly Ranch is a boutique eco-campground located about 45 minutes from the Arch Rock Entrance. It caters to mindful travelers with a range of accommodations including glamping tents, cabins, and tent sites set among fruit trees and organic gardens. Amenities include outdoor showers, composting toilets, a shared kitchen, and yoga spaces, promoting a holistic and environmentally friendly experience.

This spot is ideal for those seeking a more personal and sustainable alternative to traditional campgrounds at Yosemite. The peaceful ambiance, star-filled skies, and curated atmosphere make it a favorite for retreat-goers and creatives. With limited capacity and excellent guest reviews, it’s wise to book in advance, especially during spring and fall.

Yosemite Westlake Camp

Address: 6554 Greeley Hill Rd, Coulterville, CA 95311
Phone: (209) 878-3849
Price Range: $35–60/night
Rating: 4.1/5

Yosemite Westlake Camp is a quiet, affordable campground located about 35 miles from the Big Oak Flat Entrance. It accommodates both tents and RVs, offering flat pads, picnic tables, fire pits, and clean restrooms with hot showers. While it lacks luxury amenities, the campground is well-maintained and praised for its friendly staff and relaxed environment.

This is a smart option for budget-conscious travelers or those who couldn’t secure a spot inside the park. Among the extended network of campgrounds at Yosemite, Westlake stands out for its convenient northern access and quiet nights. It’s also a great place to base yourself for visiting Hetch Hetchy or exploring the Stanislaus National Forest nearby.

Conclusion

From in-park sites like Upper Pines and Tuolumne Meadow to luxurious options like Autocamp or rustic escapes like Yosemite Creek, the wide variety of campgrounds at Yosemite ensures that every type of traveler can find a perfect match. Each campground comes with its own vibe, some are ideal for families, others are tailored for climbers or solitude seekers.

To secure the best experience, plan early, understand seasonal access, and always check for reservation updates. Most importantly, follow Leave No Trace principles to protect this extraordinary landscape for future generations. No matter which campground you choose, your time beneath the towering cliffs, ancient trees, and starry skies of Yosemite will be unforgettable. Among all national park adventures, few compare to nights spent in the incredible campgrounds at Yosemite.

>> Read More:

Campgrounds At Yosemite​: Explore The Best Options