Yosemite National Park is a true gem of the American West, offering breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. For RV enthusiasts, the park’s campgrounds provide the perfect base to explore this natural wonder. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the details of Yosemite’s RV campgrounds, helping you plan your perfect RV getaway.
Navigating Yosemite’s RV Campgrounds
Yosemite National Park boasts 13 campgrounds, 10 of which can accommodate RVs and trailers. Reservations are required for all campgrounds from approximately April through October, and some campgrounds have reservations available two weeks in advance from around July to mid-October.
Campground Specifications
While there are no electric, water, or sewer hook-ups in Yosemite, the RV campgrounds do have potable water and toilet facilities nearby. A dump station is available at Upper Pines Campground all year, and additional dump stations are available at Wawona Campground and Tuolumne Meadows Campground during the summer.
The maximum vehicle length for RVs and trailers varies by campground:
| Campground | RV Length | Trailer Length |
|---|---|---|
| Upper Pines, Lower Pines, North Pines | Up to 35 feet | Up to 24 feet |
| Wawona | Up to 35 feet | Up to 35 feet |
| Hodgdon Meadow, Crane Flat, White Wolf, Tuolumne Meadows | Up to 35 feet | Up to 35 feet |
| Bridalveil Creek | Up to 35 feet | Up to 24 feet |
It’s important to note that RV camping in Yosemite is only allowed in designated campsites, and generators are only permitted during limited hours. Additionally, RV and tent sites are intermingled to minimize the impact on tent campers.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
While Yosemite’s RV campgrounds offer a unique and immersive experience, there are also RV resorts and campgrounds near the park in Mariposa County that may provide more amenities and availability.
Nearby RV Resorts and Campgrounds
- Indian Flat Campground: Located along Highway 140, this campground has 25 RV sites with water and sewer hookups, and a small number with full hookups.
- Summerdale Campground: Situated along Highway 41, this campground offers RV sites with water, picnic tables, grills, campfire rings, and vault toilets, but no hookups.
These nearby options may be worth considering if you’re looking for more RV-friendly amenities or have trouble securing a reservation within Yosemite itself.
Driving Safety and Bear Awareness
When RVing in Yosemite, it’s crucial to be aware of the park’s unique driving conditions and the presence of black bears. The winding roads and steep inclines can be challenging for larger RVs, so it’s important to drive cautiously and be prepared for potential delays.
Additionally, hundreds of black bears call Yosemite home, and proper food storage is essential to protect both humans and bears. Be sure to follow all park regulations and guidelines regarding food storage and bear-safe practices.
Conclusion
Yosemite National Park’s RV campgrounds offer a truly unique and immersive experience for outdoor enthusiasts. By understanding the campground specifications, nearby options, and important safety considerations, you can plan the perfect RV adventure in this stunning natural wonder. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an adrenaline-filled exploration, Yosemite’s RV campgrounds are sure to leave a lasting impression.