Yosemite Camping Reservations
Reservation System Overview
Planning a camping adventure in Yosemite National Park? Getting your campsite reservations locked in is like bagging a golden ticket! From April to October, all 13 of the park’s buzzing campgrounds play the reservation game (NPS.gov). This ain’t no walk in the park; it’s a bit of a scramble. Thousands of folks hit the reserve button online, so pro tip: plan ahead. Dive into Yosemite camping to get the lowdown on where you can pitch your tent.
Reservation Release Times
Wanna beat the crowds and snag a sweet spot? Knowing when to pounce on your reservation is half the battle. Yosemite opens up its campground bookings on the 15th of each month, five months before those dates roll around—sharp at 7:00 AM PST.
| Reservation Date | Book For This Month |
|---|---|
| January 15 | June |
| February 15 | July |
| March 15 | August |
| April 15 | September |
| May 15 | October |
Yosemite campsites are flashy and everybody wants ’em, so they go fast! Be early, and have your clicking finger ready when the clock strikes.
With the web system supporting an endless number of users all trying to book at once, there’s a mad rush, and top sites get snapped up in a blink. You’ll wanna have your game plan and info all set before you start clicking away.
If you’re figuring out when to visit, let our guide on the best time to visit Yosemite keep you in the know.
Jumping on those early reservations will make a big difference, especially when the park is hoppin’. Check out specific campground deets and find out what’s up for grabs by taking a peek at the Yosemite Map and Yosemite Valley Lodging.
Keep these tips in your back pocket, stay ahead of the curve with current info, and you’ll be flexing your reservation skills like a pro, securing that dream location in Yosemite’s breathtaking beauty.
Yosemite Campgrounds
Checking out Yosemite National Park means figuring out where to pitch your tent. There are hot spots and hidden gems—all adding to your Yosemite camping adventure.
Popular Campgrounds Overview
Yosemite’s got 13 top-choice campgrounds, and come April through October, you’ll need to get a reservation (NPS Yosemite). This makes sure you’ve got your spot in nature’s finest playground.
Here’s the lowdown on the fan-favorite campgrounds:
| Campground | Location | Elevation | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upper Pines | Yosemite Valley | 4,000 ft | Year-Round |
| Lower Pines | Yosemite Valley | 4,000 ft | Seasonal |
| North Pines | Yosemite Valley | 4,000 ft | Seasonal |
| Camp 4 | Yosemite Valley | 4,000 ft | Year-Round |
| Hodgdon Meadow | Near Big Oak Flat | 4,875 ft | Year-Round |
| Wawona | Near South Entrance | 4,000 ft | Year-Round |
| Tuolumne Meadows | Tioga Road | 8,600 ft | Seasonal |
Year-Round Campgrounds
A few spots in Yosemite welcome campers all year long, so you’re never out of options.
Upper Pines Campground hangs out in Yosemite Valley, making it a perfect pit stop. With 238 sites up for grabs, there’s room for your tent, RV, or trailer.
Hodgdon Meadow Campground off Highway 120 is your gateway to both Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows. Mark your calendar—reservations are up for grabs five months ahead, always on the 15th.
Wawona Campground sits pretty by the park’s south gate. Roll up with your tent, RV, or trailer and soak in the riverside vibes from the South Fork Merced River.
Camp 4 boasts some cool climbing history. It’s a grab-and-go spot in winter, so come early on busy weekends and holidays to snag a space.
Seasonal Campgrounds
For those summer nights and warm walks, seasonal campgrounds in Yosemite are waiting. They open from late spring through early fall, each with its own cool perks.
Lower Pines Campground and North Pines Campground are nestled in Yosemite Valley. Swing by between late April and mid-September, just in time to catch Yosemite Falls.
Tuolumne Meadows Campground offers a sky-high vibe at 8,600 feet. Open from late June till September, it’s your launchpad for incredible hikes across stunning meadows and granite domes.
Seasonal spots give you killer views and peace—plan ahead, they’re open for a short spell.
Think about when you’ll make your way there and when to book your reservations—check out our guides on visiting Yosemite National Park and the best time to visit Yosemite for the scoop.
Booking Procedures
Booking a stay in Yosemite is like setting the stage for a wild adventure. Knowing how to snag those reservations guarantees you’re playing by the park’s rules and keeping your trip stress-free.
Maximum Reservations
Heading to Yosemite National Park for some campfire stories and starlit skies? Keep in mind, you can book two spots each time you log onto the site or pick up the phone. But hey, you can place new bookings once you’ve hit the camping cap by starting over on the browser or dialing in again (National Park Service).
| Booking Method | Max Reservations per Go |
|---|---|
| Online Visit | 2 |
| Telephone | 2 |
Reservation Limits
There’s no limit on how many times you can snag a spot in Yosemite all year long. But hey, don’t go overboard—at any given moment, you’re allowed up to six future reservations. Balance out your bookings to fit your getaway agenda.
| Type | Limit |
|---|---|
| Annual Reservations | No Limit |
| Active Reservations | 6 at one time |
Reservation Modifications
Life happens, and sometimes plans change. If you need to tweak an existing booking, know the rules, particularly about modifying before a specific deadline (Recreation.gov). For cancellations or if you want your money back, you can file for a refund up to a week after your trip wraps up through your Recreation.gov profile or anytime via a call.
| Action | The Rulebook |
|---|---|
| Changes Ahead of Time | Stick to the cut-off schedule and watch out for penalties |
| Late Cancellations | Rules vary here, so read up |
| No-Shows | Refer to guidelines for specifics |
| Refund Requests | File within 7 days post-trip on Recreation.gov or whenever through a call center |
Being geared up with your Yosemite reservations means smoother adventures, letting you soak up the breathtaking scenes and unique moments in the park. Get more insider info by hitting up our Yosemite camping spots or see what else is cooking at Yosemite’s top attractions.
Wilderness Permits
So, you’re itching for some quality time with Mother Nature in Yosemite’s backcountry? Gotta snag a wilderness permit first. Here’s the lowdown on getting your hands on one and making sure you’re all set for the great outdoors.
Permit Availability
Bagging a wilderness permit for Yosemite camping is like scoring VIP tickets to the great outdoors. But don’t worry, the system’s got your back. Sixty percent of those golden tickets go up for grabs 24 weeks ahead. Those of you who get itchy feet spontaneously, the other forty percent of tickets hit the release stage a week before lift-off (National Park Service). This way, whether you’re a planner or a fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants adventurer, you’ve got a fair shot.
| When They’re Available | Percentage of Permits |
|---|---|
| 24 Weeks Before | 60% |
| 1 Week Before | 40% |
Yosemite’s got you covered all year, although permits are snagged up quick between May and October. Just pop over to Recreation.gov and set things up (National Park Service).
Permit Reservation Fees
Nabbing a Yosemite wilderness permit ain’t free, but it’s worth every penny. To throw your hat in the ring, you drop $10 for processing each application. Once you’ve got a spot, it’s $5 a head. No backsies—these fees aren’t coming back to you or your buddy (National Park Service).
| Fee Style | Price Tag |
|---|---|
| Application Process | $10 |
| Permit Fee Per Person | $5 |
Permit Pickup
Right, with that permit secured, it’s time to get it in your hand. Either you or a trusty sidekick need to swing by a wilderness center to pick it up. Do it the day before or on outing morning from 8 am to 11 am (National Park Service). Don’t try to cowboy it with just the reservation email—Yosemite’s wilds demand the real-deal permit.
For the heads-up on stomping around, peek at our guide on yosemite hiking trails. And hey, read more about visiting Yosemite National Park and camping near Yosemite National Park to nail down your epic plans.
There you go, all geared up for the untrampled beauty that lies beyond Yosemite’s regular roads. Get out there and make some wild memories!
Cancellation Policies
Heading to Yosemite National Park is a blast, but you’ve got to know the ins and outs of canceling your camping reservations. Being savvy about refunds and flips can take the stress out of your Yosemite adventure.
Refund Requests
Let’s say plans change—it’s life, right? You can put in for a refund through your Recreation.gov account within a week after your booking wraps up. If you forgot to handle things before leaving the campsite, just hit up the call center anytime after your vacation for a refund.
| Way to Refund | When You Can Do It |
|---|---|
| Recreation.gov Account | Within 7 days post reservation |
| Call Center | Anytime after your trip ends |
Heads up, your credit card bill will show “Recreation.gov 877-444-6777 NM.” Always check the specific place’s policies because local rules can override what’s on Recreation.gov.
For more detailed steps on canceling and refunds, peek at the Yosemite camping page.
Reservation Changes
Need a tweak in your booking—date switch or extended stay? Make sure it’s sorted before the deadline in your reservation confirmation. Here’s the scoop on how changing reservations shake out:
- Before You Arrive: Feel free to adjust stuff based on available spots and campground rules.
- Making Last-Minute Changes: Could get pricey or be hit-or-miss on availability.
This handy table breaks down when and how to shift your plans:
| Type of Change | When to Do It | Extra Charges |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Arrival | Check your booking details | Usually free (but read the fine print) |
| Post-Arrival | Harder, depends on space | Maybe extra fees |
Don’t forget, each spot might have its own set of rules. Check the unique guidelines of each facility. For vibes on how Yosemite’s weather (yosemite weather) could play a part in your escapade, and to see what’s open depending on the season, swing by our piece about camping near Yosemite National Park.
Knowing how to roll with Yosemite’s reservation switch-ups lets you keep plans fluid. Dive deep into Yosemite Valley experiences and take in jaw-dropping sites like Yosemite Glacier Point and Yosemite El Capitan. Enjoy the ride!
RV and Trailer Information
Planning to head out to the granite-filled charm of Yosemite? Well, when you’re getting your Yosemite camping reservations in order, there’s one big piece of the puzzle you don’t wanna overlook: how big your RV or trailer can be. Knowing the sizes allowed can mean the difference between a stellar adventure and doing a mid-vacation scramble.
Campsite Size Limits
Every Yosemite campsite has rules about how long your RV or trailer can be. They didn’t just make these numbers up for fun; they’re based on practical stuff like how tight the roads are and if you’ll need to turn a three-point K turn into a ten-point mess. You might technically be able to squish that big rig onto a site that’s not quite a fit, but let me tell ya—trying your luck may not end well (NPS Yosemite).
Some sites are known as “RV nonelectric,” meaning they’re kind of the sweet spot for both RVs, trailers, and yes, your cozy tent. Just don’t plan on pitching a tent somewhere you’re not supposed to, cause once you’re there, no site-swapping magic wand will make a new spot appear (NPS Yosemite). Sorry RV folks, tent-only sites are a no-go—don’t try sneaking in there unless you wanna risk a ticket.
| Campsite Type | Max RV Length (ft) | Max Trailer Length (ft) |
|---|---|---|
| North Pines | 35 | 24 |
| Upper Pines | 35 | 24 |
| Lower Pines | 40 | 35 |
| Wawona | 35 | 27 |
| Hodgdon Meadow | 27 | 24 |
| Crane Flat | 35 | 27 |
| Bridalveil Creek | 27 | 24 |
RV and Trailer Lengths
When you’re making those sweet Yosemite reservations, the length of your RV or trailer is a make-it-or-break-it deal. The max lengths are pinned down by site features like road width and how much elbow room you need for maneuvering. Anytime you nab a spot, double-check your RV or trailer’s dimensions because trust me, they matter.
| Campground | Maximum RV Length (ft) | Maximum Trailer Length (ft) |
|---|---|---|
| North Pines | 35 | 24 |
| Upper Pines | 35 | 24 |
| Lower Pines | 40 | 35 |
| Wawona | 35 | 27 |
| Hodgdon Meadow | 27 | 24 |
| Crane Flat | 35 | 27 |
| Bridalveil Creek | 27 | 24 |
Pushing your luck with a bigger RV or trailer than allowed ain’t worth the hassle or risk. Stick to the recommended lengths so you can just kick back and enjoy the epic views (NPS Yosemite).
Rolling your way to Yosemite National Park is gonna be one for the books. Just knowing the lay of the land for RVs and trailers can help make your dream trip a blast. Need more handy hints on where to pitch your tent—or park your wheels—farther out? Peek at our guide on camping near Yosemite National Park.
Campground Availability
High Demand Factors
Yosemite’s got quite the fan club. It’s one of those national parks that draws in millions yearly, making snagging a campsite a bit like winning a small lottery. Thanks to the wonders of the internet, as soon as those campground spots open up for booking, there are thousands of folks hitting ‘submit’ at the same time, fingers crossed (NPS Yosemite).
Imagine this: over 12,000 hands simultaneously trying to grab a handful of campground spots in the first moments they’re released. This mad dash means that, especially during the buzzy summer months and holidays, spots can vanish faster than snacks at a family barbecue.
| Timeframe | Average Requests per Second |
|---|---|
| Reservation Release Times | 12,000+ |
To up your chances of landing a spot, think about heading out there when the crowds have thinned out a bit. And if you’re feeling lucky, try out the early access lottery system, if it’s on offer.
Spring Floods Impact
Come spring, Yosemite’s snow-capped peaks start to melt, turning tranquil streams into flood-prone rivers, and potentially putting a damper on your camping plans. Those lower spots in the park can get soggy pretty fast, maybe closing down or cutting back on available spots during the wettest times.
To avoid a waterlogged surprise, keep tabs on how the park’s conditions evolve (campground availability) and stay updated on Yosemite weather and Yosemite national park road conditions. Smart planning means no soggy sleeping bags.
Get more handy tips for cracking the code on campground bookings and keeping your plans on track by visiting yosemite camping.
Additional Campground Tips
Feeling lost in the jungle of snagging a spot at Yosemite? Don’t fret—I’ve got some handy tips to help you land that primo campsite for your adventure.
Early Access Lottery
Want a shot at nabbing a spot at popular hangouts like North Pines Campground? Go for the early access lottery on Recreation.gov. Toss your hat into the ring anytime between November 28 and December 12, 2023. If luck’s not on your side, don’t worry! Whatever spots are left over get released five months before your dream date rolls around. This goes for spots at the Upper and Lower Pines too.
Early Access Lottery Timeline:
| What You Need | Important Dates |
|---|---|
| Early Access Application | Nov 28 – Dec 12 |
| General Reservation Release | Five months ahead |
Specific Campground Reservations
Each campground has its own quirks when it comes to getting a reservation. Take Camp 4, for instance—it’s got a cult following among Yosemite’s climbers. You can snag one of these coveted spots one week ahead on Recreation.gov from April 13 to October 27. For the rest of the year, it’s show up and try your luck.
Camp 4 Reservation Details:
| Reservation Type | Dates |
|---|---|
| Advance Reservations Needed | Apr 13 – Oct 27 |
| Roll the Dice | Oct 28 – Apr 12 |
Year-Round Campgrounds Information
Hodgdon Meadow Campground, hugging Highway 120, welcomes campers all year round. But don’t wait till the last minute—securing a reservation opens five months to the day on the 15th of each month. Locking in early is key to guaranteeing your little slice of paradise in busy times.
Year-Round Campground Reservation Timeline:
| Campground | Reservation Throwdown |
|---|---|
| Hodgdon Meadow Campground | Five months prior on the 15th of each month |
Get started with more tips and insider tricks over at our Yosemite camping section. And for a little weather wisdom to pick the prime time to experience the park, scout out our Yosemite weather page.
Take some time to brush up on those Yosemite entrance fees so you’re not caught off guard on your epic trip. Happy camping!
