Campgrounds Near Yosemite National Park Iconic Waterfalls
Yosemite National Park is one of America's most treasured wilderness destinations, featuring dramatic granite cliffs, thundering waterfalls, ancient giant sequoias, and pristine alpine meadows. El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls draw millions of visitors annually to experience the Sierra Nevada's breathtaking beauty. RV camping near Yosemite provides the perfect base for exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site while enjoying comfortable accommodations.
From intimate campgrounds within the valley floor to full-service RV resorts in surrounding gateway communities, Yosemite area campgrounds cater to every camping style. The region offers easy access to famous attractions like Glacier Point, Mariposa Grove, and Tuolumne Meadows. Whether you're planning an extended Sierra Nevada adventure or a weekend escape, discover the perfect RV campground for your Yosemite vacation.
Ready to explore Yosemite National Park by RV? Browse available rentals to start your Sierra Nevada adventure and secure the perfect vehicle for your camping trip.
Best Campgrounds Near Yosemite National Park
We've curated 12 outstanding campgrounds near Yosemite National Park, ranging from scenic national park sites to full-service RV resorts. Each campground offers unique amenities and convenient access to Yosemite's world-famous attractions and Sierra Nevada wilderness.
Lower Pines - Yosemite National Park
These featured campgrounds near Yosemite National Park have been selected for excellent facilities, convenient locations, and exceptional Sierra Nevada experiences. Each property provides reliable amenities for comfortable RV stays.
Lower Pines - Yosemite National Park
Valley floor camping near iconic attractions
Lower Pines Campground offers prime camping in the heart of Yosemite Valley, walking distance from Yosemite Village, the Visitor Center, and trailheads to Mirror Lake and Vernal Falls. Sites accommodate RVs up to 40 feet with no hookups but dump station access nearby.
The campground provides flush toilets, drinking water, fire rings, picnic tables, and bear-proof food lockers. Perfect for families and nature enthusiasts seeking an immersive Yosemite Valley experience with stunning views of Half Dome and surrounding granite cliffs.
In Yosemite Valley, walking distance to village and trails
North Pines - Yosemite National Park
Riverside camping near Mirror Lake trailhead
North Pines Campground is situated along the Merced River in Yosemite Valley, offering direct access to the Mirror Lake trail and close proximity to Curry Village amenities. Sites accommodate RVs up to 40 feet with no hookups.
Amenities include flush toilets, drinking water, fire rings, picnic tables, and bear boxes. The riverside setting provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities and a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by towering pine trees and granite walls.
In Yosemite Valley along the Merced River
Crane Flat - Yosemite National Park
Elevated forest camping near Big Oak Flat
Crane Flat Campground sits at 6,200 feet elevation on the Big Oak Flat Road, offering a forested mountain camping experience away from Yosemite Valley crowds. Sites accommodate RVs up to 35 feet with no hookups.
The campground features flush toilets, drinking water, fire rings, and bear boxes. Excellent base for exploring Tuolumne Grove of giant sequoias and accessing Tioga Road attractions. Perfect for visitors seeking quieter camping with convenient park access.
16 miles from Yosemite Valley at 6,200 ft elevation
Hodgdon Meadow - Yosemite National Park
Year-round camping near Big Oak Flat entrance
Hodgdon Meadow Campground is located near the Big Oak Flat entrance, making it ideal for late arrivals and early departures. Sites accommodate RVs up to 35 feet with no hookups but convenient access to the park.
Year-round operation (with limited winter services) makes this campground popular for shoulder-season visitors. Features flush toilets, drinking water, fire rings, and bear lockers. The meadow setting offers wildlife viewing and peaceful mountain atmosphere.
Near Big Oak Flat entrance, year-round access
Tuolumne Meadows - Yosemite National Park
High country camping at 8,600 feet elevation
Tuolumne Meadows Campground offers spectacular high Sierra camping in one of the largest subalpine meadows in the Sierra Nevada. Located at 8,600 feet elevation along Tioga Road, sites accommodate RVs up to 35 feet.
This seasonal campground (July-September) provides flush toilets, drinking water, fire rings, and bear boxes. Excellent access to premier backpacking trailheads, granite domes for climbing, and pristine alpine scenery. Perfect for adventurous campers seeking true high country wilderness.
55 miles from Yosemite Valley on Tioga Road
Bridalveil Creek - Yosemite National Park
Secluded camping near Glacier Point Road
Bridalveil Creek Campground offers a peaceful forested retreat near Glacier Point Road, providing easy access to Glacier Point's panoramic valley views. Sites accommodate RVs up to 35 feet with no hookups.
The campground features flush toilets, drinking water, fire rings, and bear boxes. Also includes equestrian camping facilities. Perfect for visitors seeking quieter camping while exploring Glacier Point, Sentinel Dome, and Taft Point viewpoints.
25 miles from Yosemite Valley near Glacier Point
Porcupine Flat - Yosemite National Park
Primitive camping along scenic Tioga Road
Porcupine Flat Campground offers rustic primitive camping along Tioga Road at 8,100 feet elevation. This first-come, first-served campground accommodates smaller RVs up to 24 feet on a rough access road.
Basic amenities include vault toilets and fire rings with no water available. Ideal for self-sufficient campers seeking solitude and authentic wilderness experience. Located near trailheads to North Dome and Yosemite Creek for stunning valley rim views.
38 miles from Yosemite Valley, primitive camping
White Wolf - Yosemite National Park
Intimate lodgepole forest camping
White Wolf Campground offers intimate camping in a beautiful lodgepole pine forest at 8,000 feet elevation. This small campground accommodates RVs up to 27 feet with no hookups.
Features flush toilets, drinking water, fire rings, and bear boxes. Near White Wolf Lodge for additional amenities. Excellent trailhead access to Lukens Lake and Harden Lake. Perfect for visitors seeking a quieter, more intimate camping experience away from valley crowds.
31 miles from Yosemite Valley on Tioga Road
Tamarack Flat - Yosemite National Park
Secluded tent camping off Tioga Road
Tamarack Flat Campground offers secluded primitive camping accessed via a rough 3-mile dirt road off Tioga Road. Not recommended for RVs or trailers due to difficult access road conditions.
Basic amenities include vault toilets and fire rings with no water available. Near the trailhead to El Capitan via Yosemite Creek trail. Best suited for tent campers with high-clearance vehicles seeking solitude and wilderness atmosphere.
23 miles from valley, rough road access
Yosemite Lakes RV Resort
Full-service resort near Big Oak Flat entrance
Yosemite Lakes RV Resort is a premier private campground located just 5 miles from the Big Oak Flat entrance, offering full hookups with 30/50 amp service, water, and sewer connections. Spacious pull-through sites accommodate large RVs with ease.
Resort amenities include swimming pool, playground, general store, laundry facilities, WiFi, and hot showers. Direct access to the Tuolumne River for fishing and swimming. Perfect for families seeking resort-style camping with convenient Yosemite access.
5 miles from Big Oak Flat entrance with full hookups
Yosemite Pines RV Resort and Family Lodging
Family-friendly resort with pool and activities
Yosemite Pines RV Resort offers family-friendly camping with full hookups including 30/50 amp service, water, and sewer. Pull-through sites accommodate big rigs, and the property features extensive recreational amenities.
Resort facilities include swimming pool, mini golf, fishing pond, playground, general store, laundry, and WiFi. Family activities and events throughout summer season. Ideal for families with children seeking fun-filled camping with easy Yosemite access.
22 miles from Big Oak Flat with resort amenities
Indian Flat RV Park
Closest full hookups to Arch Rock entrance
Indian Flat RV Park offers the closest full-hookup RV camping to Yosemite's Arch Rock entrance, just 8 miles from the park boundary on Highway 140. Full hookups with 30/50 amp service, water, and sewer connections.
Amenities include hot showers, laundry facilities, general store, propane, and WiFi. Pull-through sites available for large RVs. The riverside location along the Merced River provides a scenic setting. Perfect for RV travelers seeking convenient Yosemite access with full amenities.
8 miles from Arch Rock entrance with full hookups
RV-Friendly Campgrounds Near Yosemite National Park
These featured RV parks offer premium amenities for comfortable extended stays, with full hookups and modern facilities specifically designed for RV travelers. Perfect for families and long-term visitors seeking maximum comfort and convenience while exploring Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada foothills.
Yosemite RV Resort
These premium RV parks offer exceptional amenities for comfortable extended stays, featuring full hookups, spacious sites, and modern facilities designed specifically for large RVs and long-term Sierra Nevada camping.
Yosemite RV Resort
Full hookups with 70-foot pull-throughs
Yosemite RV Resort in Coarsegold offers premium RV camping with full hookups including 30/50 amp service, water, and sewer. Big rig friendly with pull-through sites up to 70 feet and excellent maneuverability for large motorhomes.
Resort amenities include swimming pool, hot tub, clubhouse, playground, general store, laundry, and WiFi throughout. Year-round operation with comfortable facilities. Perfect for extended-stay RV travelers seeking resort-quality amenities with reliable Yosemite South entrance access.
18 miles south of South entrance with resort amenities
High Sierra RV Park
Convenient Oakhurst location with full hookups
High Sierra RV Park in Oakhurst provides full-service RV camping just 14 miles from Yosemite's South entrance. Full hookups with 30/50 amp service, water, and sewer connections at all sites.
Amenities include hot showers, laundry facilities, WiFi, and pet-friendly policies. The Oakhurst location offers convenient access to restaurants, grocery stores, and services. Ideal for RV travelers seeking comfortable base camp with easy South entrance access.
14 miles from South entrance in Oakhurst
Yosemite Ridge Resort
Mountain resort with pool and dining
Yosemite Ridge Resort in Groveland offers upscale RV camping with full hookups including 30/50 amp service, water, and sewer. Pull-through sites accommodate large RVs with beautiful Sierra Nevada foothill views.
Resort features include swimming pool, hot tub, on-site restaurant, general store, WiFi, and hiking trails. The elevated mountain setting provides cool temperatures and scenic atmosphere. Perfect for travelers seeking resort-style RV camping with premium amenities.
25 miles from Big Oak Flat with resort dining
Mammoth Mountain RV Park
Eastern Sierra gateway with full amenities
Mammoth Mountain RV Park provides full-service RV camping in the stunning Eastern Sierra, perfect for travelers exploring Yosemite via Tioga Pass. Full hookups with 30/50 amp service, water, sewer, and big rig friendly sites.
Amenities include playground, general store, showers, laundry, and WiFi. Prime location for accessing June Lake Loop, Devils Postpile, and Mono Lake. Seasonal operation (May-October) coincides with Tioga Pass opening. Ideal for Eastern Sierra adventures.
30 miles east of Tioga Pass in Mammoth Lakes
Yosemite Lakes RV Resort
Premier riverside resort near Big Oak Flat
Yosemite Lakes RV Resort combines full-service RV camping with direct Tuolumne River access, just 5 miles from Yosemite's Big Oak Flat entrance. Full hookups with 30/50 amp service ensure comfortable extended stays.
Resort amenities include swimming pool, playground, river beach access, general store, laundry, and WiFi. Fishing, swimming, and gold panning activities on the Tuolumne River. Year-round operation makes this an excellent base for any season of Yosemite exploration.
5 miles from Big Oak Flat with river access
How Far Are Campgrounds From Yosemite National Park?
Yosemite area campgrounds range from within the park to approximately 30 miles away, with options near each of the park's four main entrances. In-park campgrounds in Yosemite Valley are located at the heart of attractions like Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and El Capitan, providing immediate access to iconic sites.
Gateway communities like Groveland, Mariposa, and Oakhurst offer private RV parks with full hookups within 8-25 miles of park entrances. These locations provide reliable amenities while maintaining convenient park access. The Big Oak Flat Road (Highway 120) and Highway 140 through El Portal offer the most direct routes to Yosemite Valley.
For visitors planning Tioga Road exploration, consider campgrounds near the Big Oak Flat entrance or Eastern Sierra options near Mammoth Lakes. Note that Tioga Road typically opens late May through early November, affecting access to high country campgrounds like Tuolumne Meadows.
Why Yosemite National Park Is a Popular Camping Destination
Yosemite National Park draws over 4 million visitors annually as one of America's most spectacular wilderness destinations. The park's dramatic landscape features 3,000-foot granite cliffs, ancient giant sequoia groves, thundering waterfalls, and pristine alpine meadows. El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls are among the most photographed natural landmarks in the world.
The park offers world-class outdoor recreation for all skill levels: over 800 miles of hiking trails from easy valley walks to challenging wilderness routes, world-renowned rock climbing on El Capitan and Half Dome, scenic drives along Tioga Road and Glacier Point, and wildlife viewing including black bears, mule deer, and diverse bird species. Yosemite's wilderness provides bucket-list experiences accessible to all visitors.
RV camping near Yosemite enables flexible, budget-friendly exploration of these wonders. Extended stays allow time for multiple hiking adventures, photography at golden hours, and visiting attractions on your schedule without rushing between hotels. Yosemite's diverse campground network and surrounding gateway communities make it ideal for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking authentic Sierra Nevada wilderness experiences.
Best Time of Year to Camp Near Yosemite National Park
Peak season (May-September) offers warm weather, full waterfall flow in spring, and access to all park roads including Tioga Road. However, expect significant crowds at popular attractions and campgrounds, with reservations often selling out months in advance. Yosemite Valley can experience summer temperatures above 90 degrees, while high country provides cooler relief.
Shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) provide excellent value with pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and better campground availability. Spring brings peak waterfall season as snowmelt swells Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall. Fall offers golden meadows, lighter crowds, and comfortable temperatures for hiking. These periods often provide the best experience-to-crowding ratio for RV travelers.
Winter camping (November-March) is possible at select campgrounds and offers unique opportunities for snow-dusted valley views, ice climbing, and cross-country skiing. Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road close for winter, limiting access to valley-area attractions. Lower elevation campgrounds and gateway communities remain accessible for winter Sierra Nevada adventures.
RV Camping Tips for Visiting Yosemite National Park
Reservations & Booking
- Book 5-6 months in advance for summer Yosemite Valley campgrounds as sites sell out quickly
- Consider first-come, first-served campgrounds like Porcupine Flat for spontaneous trips
- Private RV resorts near park entrances often have better availability than in-park sites
RV Size Considerations
- Most Yosemite campgrounds limit RVs to 35-40 feet with no slideout restrictions
- Full hookups are only available outside the park at private RV resorts
- Dump stations are available near Yosemite Village and at several campgrounds
Road & Navigation Tips
- Highway 140 through El Portal is the most RV-friendly route to Yosemite Valley
- Big Oak Flat Road (Highway 120 West) has moderate grades suitable for most RVs
- Tioga Road has narrow sections and sharp curves challenging for large RVs
Wildlife & Food Storage
- All food must be stored in bear-proof containers or lockers provided at campsites
- Never leave food, coolers, or scented items in vehicles as bears can break into cars
- Report all bear sightings to rangers and keep safe distances from all wildlife
Campgrounds vs RV Parks Near Yosemite: What's the Difference?
Campgrounds
- National Park Service facilities within Yosemite boundaries
- No hookups available but dump stations and water fill stations provided
- Lower cost with nature-focused camping and proximity to attractions
- Ideal for visitors prioritizing location over amenities
RV Parks
- Full-service private facilities with complete hookups (water, sewer, 30/50-amp electric)
- Modern amenities including pools, hot tubs, laundry, WiFi, and general stores
- Higher cost with comfort-focused experience and resort-style services
- Perfect for extended stays and families seeking maximum convenience
Using an RV as a Basecamp Near Yosemite National Park
RV camping near Yosemite enables a strategic day-trip exploration approach, establishing a comfortable home base while taking daily excursions throughout the park. This approach provides significant cost savings compared to in-park lodging while maintaining comfort, flexibility, and control over meals and schedules.
From gateway community campgrounds, plan day trips to different park areas: Yosemite Valley for waterfalls and iconic views, Glacier Point for panoramic vistas, Mariposa Grove for giant sequoias, and Tuolumne Meadows for high country exploration. Arriving early avoids parking challenges at popular trailheads during peak season.
Plan 5-10 day camping stays to fully experience Yosemite's highlights while justifying setup time. Multiple day trips allow visiting different park areas, hiking at various elevations, and improving photography opportunities during golden hours. Evening campfire relaxation outside the park creates memorable vacation experiences compared to crowded in-park camping.
Nearby Areas Worth Camping Instead
The Eastern Sierra offers spectacular alternative camping along the scenic Highway 395 corridor, accessible when Tioga Pass is open. Mammoth Lakes, June Lake Loop, and Mono Lake provide stunning volcanic landscapes, excellent fishing, and fewer crowds than Yosemite proper. These areas make excellent additions to extended Sierra Nevada RV adventures.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, located 120 miles south, offer similar Sierra Nevada grandeur with the world's largest trees by volume. Giant Forest and Grant Grove provide iconic sequoia experiences with typically better campground availability than Yosemite. Combined trips exploring multiple Sierra Nevada parks create comprehensive California wilderness adventures.
FAQ: Camping Near Yosemite National Park
- When should I book my campground reservation near Yosemite National Park?
Yosemite campground reservations open 5 months in advance on the 15th of each month at 7 AM Pacific time. Popular valley campgrounds like Lower Pines and North Pines often sell out within minutes. For summer visits, book exactly 5 months ahead. Private RV parks in gateway communities typically have more availability and can often be booked 1-2 months in advance.
- Can I get full hookups inside Yosemite National Park?
No, Yosemite National Park campgrounds do not offer electrical, water, or sewer hookups at individual sites. Dump stations are available near Yosemite Village and at several campgrounds. For full hookups, choose private RV parks in gateway communities like Groveland, Mariposa, or Oakhurst, which offer complete RV amenities within 8-25 miles of park entrances.
- What size RV can I bring to Yosemite campgrounds?
Most Yosemite campgrounds accommodate RVs up to 35-40 feet depending on the specific site. Lower Pines and North Pines in Yosemite Valley accept RVs up to 40 feet. High country campgrounds like Tuolumne Meadows limit RVs to 35 feet. Primitive campgrounds like Porcupine Flat have 24-foot limits. Always verify length restrictions when making reservations.
- Which entrance is best for RVs visiting Yosemite?
Highway 140 through El Portal and the Arch Rock entrance is considered the most RV-friendly route with gentler grades and wider lanes. Big Oak Flat Road (Highway 120 West) is also suitable for most RVs. Highway 41 from Fresno has some steep grades. Avoid Tioga Road with very large RVs due to narrow sections and sharp curves.
- Is bear safety really necessary at Yosemite campgrounds?
Yes, Yosemite has one of the highest concentrations of black bears in the Sierra Nevada. All food, coolers, toiletries, and scented items must be stored in provided bear lockers or bear-proof containers. Bears regularly break into vehicles, causing significant damage. Fines up to $5,000 can be issued for improper food storage. Take bear safety seriously.
- When is Tioga Road open to access Tuolumne Meadows?
Tioga Road typically opens late May to early June and closes with the first significant snowfall, usually in November. The exact dates vary annually based on snowpack. High country campgrounds like Tuolumne Meadows, White Wolf, and Porcupine Flat are only accessible when Tioga Road is open. Check current road conditions before planning high country visits.
- Are pets allowed at Yosemite campgrounds?
Pets are allowed at most Yosemite campgrounds but are prohibited on nearly all hiking trails, in wilderness areas, and in public buildings. Dogs must be on leash at all times and cannot be left unattended at campsites. Private RV parks outside the park typically offer more pet-friendly policies with designated dog areas and fewer restrictions.
- What is the weather like for summer camping near Yosemite?
Yosemite Valley summer temperatures typically reach 80-95 degrees with warm, dry conditions. High country areas like Tuolumne Meadows stay cooler at 70-80 degrees during the day with nights dropping to 40-50 degrees. Afternoon thunderstorms occur occasionally in July and August. Pack layers for temperature variations between valley and high elevations.
Ready to start your Yosemite National Park RV adventure? Browse our selection of RV rentals today and find the perfect vehicle for exploring California's most iconic national park and experiencing world-class Sierra Nevada camping.