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The best camping near Yosemite National Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Yosemite adventure.

The best camping near Yosemite National Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Yosemite adventure.

Camping near Yosemite National Park

97% (1537 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Yosemite adventure.

Pros know Yosemite camping is either a feat of advanced planning or a willingness to wing it.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Yosemite National Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Yosemite National Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Yosemite National Park

89%
(243)

Yosemite Westlake Camp

33 sites ¡ RVs, Tents6 acres ¡ Coulterville, CA
Located on the John Muir Historic route to Yosemite National Park, Yosemite Westlake Campground and RV Park is convenient to all things Yosemite. Between here and the park is Rainbow Pool, a well-known swimming hole that campers here often visit on their way back to the campground for a refreshing dip in the cool waters. Coulterville was started as a gold-rush town. You can visit the museum and visitor center even try your hand at panning for gold.
from 
$48
 / night
100%
(2)

El Captain’s View

2 sites ¡ RVs80 acres ¡ El Portal, CA
80 majestic acres of mountain top with a bird's eye view of El Capitan in Yosemite! No frills, no extras, just you and nature. Surrounded by over 400,000 acres of land owned by the U.S. Forest Service, there are no houses or stores (45 Minute drive). Far below in elevation is the Merced River and its many swimming and fishing holes (45 Minute drive). Look to the west to see the coastal mountains. Gaze across the Yosemite Valley to the East at iconic El Capitan in the distance. Take a drive into the Yosemite National Park (1 hour drive). Escape the hustle and bustle and federal laws of Yosemite at night (420 friendly). Inclusive. Views in every direction. Breathtaking sunsets. Incredible wildlife. Freedom. America!
from 
$69
 / night
98%
(660)

Yosemite's Colfax Spring

8 sites ¡ RVs, Tents15 acres ¡ Groveland, CA
Welcome to Yosemite's Colfax Spring! Home to a basecamp for river rafting trips during the summertime, we are located 15 minutes driving distance to the entrance to Yosemite National Park. If you are staying with us between May - September and want to come rafting, ask us about our river trips! Our camp sits on a ridge with views down into the Tuolumne River Canyon. The Tuolumne River begins at 13,000 feet of elevation in the High Country of Tuolumne Meadows and provides drinking water for over 2.7 million people in San Francisco. With cedar and pine trees, manzanita bushes, and wildflowers in the spring, enjoy the Sierras' flora and fauna. Our family has been operating our river rafting company for over 50 years, the last 11 of those years being here at Colfax Spring. Conveniently located off Highway 120, we are in close proximity to swimming holes, hikes, and more. Enjoy the privacy of our campsite and getting world-class views to yourself, with all of the amenities (flushing toilets, wi-fi, showers.) Make sure to check the Yosemite National Park website for information about reservations to visit the park!
from 
$90
 / night
97%
(57)

Musick Creek Falls

4 sites ¡ RVs, Tents40 acres ¡ Sacramento, CA
Musick Creek Falls is 40 acres that lies just south of Shaver Lake. At an elevation of, 5400ft. The land is regenerating in a green and lush state following the Creek Fire of four years ago, exhibiting novel and intriguing wildflowers such as Sierra Manzanita, sweet peas, and cedars. The terrain is natural, beautiful, and rugged. This property boasts three exquisite cascading waterfalls, hiking trails, 4x4 roads, hunting, rock climbing, and stargazing opportunities. We are just 8 minutes from the town of Shaver Lake, Sierra National Forest, campgrounds, boating, fishing, and about 20 minutes from China Peak Ski Resort. The road into the property, although being maintained by us and the community, can be a challenge for vehicles very low to the ground. There is water, and trash on site, but no bathrooms or outhouse currently. one is in the works, and should be completed this spring There are 4x4 roads starting on the property going into vast wilderness. We stay on site part of the year, but the campsites are far enough for privacy , or hospitality , and you are welcome to explore the entire 40 acres. There is an amazing sunset every night, and just the sounds and smells of nature. The weather is very mild most of the year, where a sweat shirt is perfect most nights and not to hot in the day We have kayaks available for use free of charge. Musick Creek Falls offers an affordable option whereas campgrounds and cabins in the area are often booked up and very expensive. Most cell phones have good reception throughout the property. We also have spare tents and camping gear, blankets etc. if you forget something. If using off road vehicles, please stay on Old Railroad Grade Bed Rd until you enter in national forest. Please be advised Winter months December through February there will be no host on site and access will be limited as weather permits.
from 
$48
 / night
97%
(495)

Diamond Gulch

23 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents824 acres ¡ Groveland, CA
CLOSE TO YOSEMITE! Explore the mines and hang out on our Groveland, California ranch! We are 35 minutes to the main gate of Yosemite National Park. A great place to stay just outside of the park. We have 824 acres on a beautiful cattle ranch with two small ponds. On our property, you'll find frogs, turtles, oak trees, pine trees and stunning views of Yosemite. We have several campsites to choose from including RV camping, tent camping, and a glamping tent. Pets are welcome. Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban. Potable water and toilet are available onsite. There's a golf course less than a mile away. We are also very close to town. In just a few minutes, you can drive to our local grocery store and pizza parlour. We are a 10-minute drive to Pine Mountain Lake. Beautiful Pine Mountain Lake offers golfing, dining, horseback riding, water sports and an airport. When you come to the ranch it feels like you are hundreds of miles away from civilization, but still close to everything you need. It is incredibly peaceful! This is a great place for someone who wants to escape city life and enjoy the tranquillity of nature. Much of the ranch is open wilderness for you to explore, and it's not uncommon to see deer, frogs, turtles, quail, turkeys, or other countless species of birds. Diamond Gulch Camp is the perfect place to relax if you’re a photographer, artist, family or a group of friends looking for a place to camp near Yosemite. A small portion of the property was used as a gold mine years ago, and you may find remnants of old home sites if you go exploring. We're not far from Wards Ferry Road, Groveland, Lake Don Pedro and other interesting places.
from 
$30
 / night
97%
(201)

Hudson and Wendy's Land

2 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres ¡ Oakhurst, CA
Welcome to Hidden Falls Yosemite Camp. We can't wait for you to stay with us and enjoy what the area has to offer.
from 
$72
 / night
90%
(921)

Bridgeport Reservoir Campground

33 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre ¡ CA
Bridgeport Reservoir is a lake at the lower end of Bridgeport Valley in Mono County, California. Its earth-filled dam was constructed in 1923 by the Walker River Irrigation District, along the East Walker River. The campground and marina was built I-don't-know-how-long ago, but it sure is nice! About Us: Welcome to Bridgeport Reservoir Marina and Campground. Join us for the classic camping and fishing experience with unique views of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. Within the Toiyabe National Forest, Bridgeport Reservoir Marina and Campground is conveniently located near two distinct hot spring areas. A true angler's paradise, the Reservoir has excellent trout fishing from spring through fall and is close by to multiple rivers for incredible fly fishing. A short 30-minute drive to Tioga pass will bring you straight into the heart of Yosemite National Park. Off-road enthusiasts will have a heyday will the plethora of 4x4 trails in the area as well as the famous trail that brings you right to the Bodie Ghost Town. Climate & Ecosystem: At 6,400 feet (1,950 meters), this high desert climate has little to moderate tree coverage and gets hot during the days and cool at night. The conditions are much like Joshua Tree National Park or Alabama Hills camping area. During your visit, you will notice many flying insects that resemble mosquitos. These Chironomidae are harmless and do not bite. On the contrary, the mosquito presence is very minimal. Lake Levels: Due to this devastating drought across California and the Western United States, reservoir levels are low. As of August 1st, 2022, Bridgeport Reservoir is approximately 25 feet below normal. Swimming is not advisable at this time, but fishing and boating activities are still up and running.
from 
$27
 / night
98%
(46)

Camp SourBerry (near Yosemite)

1 site ¡ RV40 acres ¡ Oakhurst, CA
Welcome to Camp SourBerry! Here, you can park your home-on-wheels in a private space with a view. You can enjoy the feeling of rural seclusion while within walking distance (~1 mile) from shops and restaurants in Oakhurst. The South Gate to Yosemite National Park is less than a 30-minute drive (~75 minutes drive-time to the Valley floor), and Bass Lake's shores are only 15 minutes away. Local wildlife is abundant. Wild turkeys are a common sighting, especially in the spring and fall, as are squirrels, bears, deer, coyotes, and bobcats, plus all kinds of native birds (hawks, quail, jays, woodpeckers, ravens, vultures, and eagles). We have a small homestead-style farm and so do the neighbors, so you can hear the distant sounds of chickens, turkeys, sheep, goats, and cows. Because the safety of our animals (and yours) is paramount, we do not allow other pets to visit. The parking location is an ease pull-through for passenger vehicles and shorter trailers. People with longer, taller trailers find it easier to pull-in and back out. The best view is on the passenger side of the drive! Whether you want to stay put and enjoy the natural setting or have a base from which to explore world-class attractions, we would love to host your next vacation.
from 
$40
 / night
100%
(42)

River Ranch Campgrounds

27 sites ¡ RVs, Tents50 acres ¡ Twain Harte, CA
At River Ranch Campgrounds, Tuolumne, CA we offer a wide range of activities to make your stay enjoyable. Take a hike on one of the many trails winding through the Stanislaus National Forest at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains, or cast a line in the North Fork of the Tuolumne River or Basin Creek for some great native fishing. After a long day of exploration, come back to the campgrounds and relax by the firepit or enjoy a picnic in one of our many picnic areas. Activities in the campground include horseshoes and volleyball. We pride ourselves on blending nature and family camping in a safe, serene environment. We offer water hookups and centrally located restrooms with heated showers to make your stay comfortable and convenient.
from 
$40
 / night
50%
(4)

Granite Mountain RV Park

32 sites ¡ RVs10 acres ¡ Oakhurst, CA
Our property takes pride in its no-frills approach, emphasizing our prime location, ease-of-access, and affordable prices. While we offer minimal services and amenities, this straightforward approach caters to travelers seeking a practical and unembellished stay while visiting, or just passing through on their way into the park. We offer a simple and convenient arrival experience. For guests who have already made reservations, just drive straight to your assigned spot! Walk-ins are also welcome, with a self-check-in area available on the property complete with clear instructions on how to book a site and get settled in after a long day on the road.
from 
$49
 / night
100%
(8)

Restoration Ranch and Retreat

1 site ¡ Lodging46 acres ¡ Ahwahnee, CA
Nestled into the Sierra Nevada mountains, 15 miles to beautiful Yosemite National Park, overlooking Deadwood Mountain is this gorgeous property! Here we have The Modern Barn Cabin. But we also offer more! Camp, glamp, or roll up in the ol’ RV to enjoy the sights and sounds of serene nature. Spy a deer, owl, wild turkey or more as you watch the sunset from outside your door or tent. Walk the property, or find a quiet spot to meditate or connect with family and friends. Come and create the memories of a lifetime! Don’t want to haul the tent and supplies, tear down and pack up? We have you covered. Try a Modern Cabin instead! Drive in and experience that Glamp life. All the memories, sights and sounds of camping without the headache. Heck, we will even wash the sheets and provide a bed if you want in that cabin. Yosemite is calling you!
from 
$95
 / night
95%
(86)

Red Tail Ranch

9 sites ¡ RVs, Tents90 acres ¡ Pine Mountain Lake, CA
Concerned about getting into Yosemite with the new summer reservation requirements? We know all the details, including how to navigate and get through or around the system. Stay with us and we will show you how to access the park with or without reservations. Welcome to Red Tail Ranch (newly listed on Hipcamp), a stunning 90 acre property in the Sierra Nevada foothills, just 25 minutes from the Yosemite entrance gate. Among the oak woodlands, meadows and coniferous forest, there are numerous trails to explore the property and direct riding access to a developed mountain biking area nearby. Great birding, botanizing and wildlife watching opportunities abound. Use Red Tail Ranch as an ideal launching off point for Yosemite or stay on the property and enjoy all that it has to offer. We have RV sites with hookups, a four site drive-in campground and two walk-in campsites- all with clean, flush toilet bathrooms, hot outdoor showers, indoor camp kitchen and gathering space. Whether your pitching a tent, parking a campervan or rv, there are opportunities for everyone. We are 10 minutes from the small town of Groveland with a market and restaurants and just down the road from the put in for rafting on the Tuolumne river. Our pricing is a little higher than other places nearby and this is due to the property's great locations, incredible beauty, and all of the amenities added for a great experience.
from 
$60
 / night

The best camping near Yosemite National Park guide

Overview

About

Yosemite Valley smashes into your sightline with a big hello from the Tunnel View parking lot. Soaring Half Dome. Plummeting waterfalls. Forested greenery as far as the eye can see. Is this real life? Elbow-to-elbow crowds quickly confirm its reality, but escaping the valley hordes is easy if you follow one of the many hiking trails leading into the wilds. The Mist Trail, which climbs the Granite Staircase past thundering waterfalls in spring, is especially worthy. Outside the valley, alpine lakes and lush meadows along Tioga Road are the stunning backdrop for High Sierra campsites.    

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for Rock Climbers: Long popular with climbers, Camp 4 is near Yosemite Falls in Yosemite Valley.
  • Best Launchpad: Crane Flat Campground sits between Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows.
  • Best for Hikers: Tuolumne Meadows Campground connects with the John Muir Trail.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Of the park’s 13 campgrounds, Upper Pines, Lower Pines, North Pines, and Camp 4 campgrounds are in Yosemite Valley.
  2. Reservations are required year-round for all Yosemite Valley campgrounds.
  3. Outside the valley, reserve ahead for summer and fall campsites at Wawona, Hodgdon Meadow, Crane Flat, and half of the sites at Tuolumne Meadows.
  4. Make online reservations up to five months in advance on the 15th day of each month beginning at 7am Pacific. Competition is fierce for campsites between May and September. Don’t dawdle!
  5. Bridalveil Creek, Tamarack Flat, White Wolf, Yosemite Creek, and Porcupine Creek campgrounds are first-come, first-served. These campsites typically fill by noon from April through September.

When to go

Everything is open in summer, but crowds may bum you out, especially in Yosemite Valley. Wildflowers bloom at higher altitudes in summer too. Spring is the best time to see the waterfalls, which are usually surging from snowmelt as temperatures warm, while colorful foliage is a highlight in fall. Tioga Road typically closes in November, reopening in late spring. Glacier Point Road remains groomed and opens up to the Badger Pass Ski Area from mid-December through early April, but the stretch to Glacier Point is closed until spring. Yosemite Valley is also quite pretty in winter after a light snow, and February brings the awe-inspiring Yosemite firefall.

Know before you go

  • Campers are required by law to store all food overnight inside food lockers, which are found at every campsite. Food includes scented items, canned goods, bottles, and toiletries. Do not store these items in your car or truck overnight.
  • Although the recreational use of small amounts of marijuana is legal across most of California with certain restrictions, don't possess or partake of cannabis in the federally run park.
  • Cell service is best in eastern Yosemite Valley. Access is unreliable in Tuolumne Meadows. Free wifi is available at Degnan’s Kitchen in Yosemite Valley.

Nearby attractions

  • Experience the tranquility of riverside camping near the Merced River. With its clear waters, abundant fishing opportunities, and scenic surroundings, the Merced River camping experience blends adventure and relaxation in California's serene wilderness.
  • Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting and relaxing fishing sessions when camping near Tuolumne River. With ruggedly beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife, the Tuolumne River camping experience is truly one for the outdoor enthusiast’s bucket list.

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