Yosemite National Park in east-central California covers an area of about 761,000 acres. Reaching across the western slope of the Sierra Nevada mountain chain, the park is internationally recognized for its geological attractions and biodiversity. Camping in Yosemite can provide adventurers with granite cliffs, waterfalls, giant sequoia groves and other wilderness sites. Travelers can also enjoy seeing Yosemite's U-shaped valley, another top attraction in the area.
Campground and Campsite Reservations
Yosemite National Park has an elevation range from about 2,000 to 13,000 feet above sea level. Many rare plants and geologic formations are found in its vast area. This attracts many campers to enjoy the rich flora and fauna and the many scenic vistas.
Seven Yosemite campgrounds operate strictly on a reservation system. During summer, about 400 first-come, first- served campsites are available in Yosemite. During winter, about 250 campsites require reservations. When camping from April to September, reservations are essential. Even the first-come, first-served campgrounds often get filled up by noon, especially from May to September.
Campgrounds at Yosemite National Park
The National Park Service operates 13 campgrounds in Yosemite National Park. In Yosemite Valley, campgrounds include Lower Pines, North Pines, Upper Pines and Sunnyside Walk-in. Outside Yosemite Valley, the campgrounds include Bridalveil Creek, Crane Flat, Hodgdon Meadow, Porcupine Flat, Tamarack Flat, Tuolumne Meadows, Wawona, White Wolf and Yosemite Creek. Among these, four are utilized as group campgrounds: the Wawona, Tuolumne Meadows, Hodgdon Meadow and Bridalveil Creek. Each group site caters to a maximum of 30 people. Check-in/check-out time for each site is usually noon.
General Rules and Regulations
Camping and sleeping in vehicles is permitted only at designated campsites. Pets are permitted only at specific campgrounds and must be on leashes at all times. Pets are not allowed on hiking trails and may not be left unattended. Most campsites implement quiet hours from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Generators are allowed but should be used sparingly from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Disposal of dishwater and sewage is allowed only in designated utility drains. Every campsite must be cleaned daily. Campfires are permitted only from May 1 to Oct. 15 of every year, and only from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Food Storage
Proper storage of food must be strictly followed as required by federal law. This includes all food-related items and toiletries. Campers must properly store food leftovers, garbage, cosmetics, toothpaste, soap, shampoo and anything else with odor because they can attract bears. It is highly recommended to bring bear-resistant food canisters. The use of these canisters is required above 9,600 feet. According to the Yosemite National Park Camping Page website, "bear-resistant food canisters are currently the only effective portable means of food storage in Yosemite's wilderness."
Camping Restrictions
Unrestricted camping is not allowed in Yosemite. In response to the growing understanding of river dynamics and geologic hazards, certain restrictions have been implemented for the protection of life forms in the area. The camping restrictions are meant to avoid possible risks of damage that can be caused by certain campers and/or camping conditions. There is also a 30-day camping limit within Yosemite National Park at any time of the year.
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