Ultimate Guide to Yosemite National Park: Best Times, Campgrounds, Hikes & Packing Tips
Yosemite National Park is one of the most breathtaking destinations in the United States. Spanning nearly 750,000 acres—95% designated as wilderness—it’s a haven for nature lovers. From sparkling streams and ancient sequoias to iconic granite cliffs like El Capitan and Half Dome, Yosemite’s wonders will stay with you long after your visit.
Based on extensive research and our own week-long exploration of the park, this guide shares proven tips for planning an unforgettable trip to Yosemite National Park in California.
Best Time to Visit Yosemite
Yosemite is open 24/7 year-round, but the ideal time depends on your preferences and activities.
For warm weather, swimming in streams, and ice cream by the water, head there in July or August.
To enjoy waterfalls and hikes with fewer crowds, opt for May-June or September.
Winter enthusiasts should watch for Badger Pass Ski Area openings in mid-December.
Book Far in Advance
With over 4 million annual visitors, secure your travel, lodging, campsites, or tours early—regardless of season.
How to Get to Yosemite
Nearby airports include San Francisco, Fresno, Reno, Merced, Oakland, and Sacramento. Rent a car and camping gear, or try a JUCY Campervan like we did. For limited time, join guided day tours covering key sights with hiking and relaxation.
Where to Stay in Yosemite
Top Campgrounds in Yosemite Valley
For Valley camping, prioritize these spots. (Tip: Check for walk-ins or last-minute cancellations online, as we did for Upper Pines.)
Upper Pines Campground
The park’s second-largest site at the valley’s east end. Open year-round with 238 sites featuring fire rings, picnic tables, food lockers, restrooms, drinking water, and flush toilets. No hookups.
Cost: $26/night
North Pines Campground
81 sites across the Merced River from Lower Pines—one of the valley’s finest. Includes fire rings, picnic tables, food lockers, restrooms, water, and flush toilets. No hookups.
Cost: $26/night
Lower Pines Campground
60 sites south of the Merced River, west of Upper Pines, with stunning Half Dome views. All standard amenities except hookups.
Cost: $26/night
Top Campgrounds Outside Yosemite Valley
Pine Mountain Lake Campground (near Groveland)
Gated community ~1 hour from the Valley. 44 sites with fire rings, picnic tables, restrooms, water, showers; 11 RV hookups.
Cost: $26/night
Yosemite Lakes Campground
Full-service, 1 hour from Valley, 5 minutes from west entrance. Offers RVs, yurts, cabins, tents; 231 full hookups but no campfires.
Cost: $50/night
Wawona Campground
50 minutes from Valley at 4,000 ft elevation, 1 mile from Wawona town. 93 sites with fire rings, tables, food lockers, water facilities. Group sites year-round.
Cost: $26/night ($18 Oct-Apr); groups $50
Bridalveil Creek Campground
Along Glacier Point Road, 45 minutes from Valley. 112 popular sites near the creek with tables, fire rings, lockers; flush toilets and water nearby.
Cost: $18/night
Other Lodging Near Yosemite
Yosemite View Lodge
8 miles from the park entrance. Mid-range with restaurant, bar, and pool.
Craftsman Cottage
3 miles from Badger Pass. Luxe chalet for groups: 3 bedrooms, kitchen, dining.
Best Day Hikes in Yosemite
Vernal & Nevada Falls Trail
Iconic waterfalls via Mist Trail up and John Muir Trail down (or reverse loop).
Half Dome
Challenging day hike (permit required) rewarding 360° summit views.
Mirror Lake
Easy 2-mile round trip. Paved left side (accessible); lush right side preferred for lake views.
Sentinel Dome
Panoramic summit views of El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and more.
Yosemite Packing Essentials
Sun Protection: Sunglasses and sunscreen year-round.
Day Hike Gear: Hiking shoes/socks, reusable water bottle, bug spray, light jacket, headlamp.
First Aid: Kit and portable water filter.
Bear Safety: Bear box (or use campground-provided).
