Yosemite Valley, CA
Yosemite National Park
Twelve campgrounds and vast wilderness across granite valleys, alpine meadows, and giant sequoia groves.
Yosemite National Park spans nearly 1,200 square miles of granite cliffs, waterfalls, meadows, and wilderness in California's Sierra Nevada. One of America's most iconic protected lands, Yosemite draws visitors year-round to experience towering peaks, deep valleys, and the vast backcountry that makes it a premier destination for camping and backpacking.
The park holds twelve campgrounds spread across different elevations and regions: Bridalveil Creek Campground, Camp 4, Crane Flat Campground, Hodgdon Meadow Campground, Lower Pines Campground, North Pines Campground, Porcupine Flat Campground, Tamarack Flat Campground, Tuolumne Meadows Campground, Wawona Campground, White Wolf Campground, and Yosemite Upper Pines Campground—plus a designated wilderness area for backcountry travel. Each campground offers distinct access to different sections of the park, from valley floors to high alpine terrain.
Yosemite's landscape includes ancient giant sequoias, alpine lakes, and granite formations shaped by glaciers over millennia. The park is open year-round, though snow and seasonal road closures can affect access to higher elevations during winter months.
Experiences
Camping
Explore 12 camping locations in Yosemite National Park.
Bridalveil Creek Campground
Camp 4
Crane Flat Campground
Hodgdon Meadow Campground
Lower Pines Campground
North Pines Campground
Porcupine Flat Campground
Tamarack Flat Campground
Tuolumne Meadows Campground
Wawona Campground
White Wolf Campground
Yosemite Upper Pines Campground
Experiences
Wilderness Areas
Explore 1 wilderness areas location in Yosemite National Park.
Common Questions
What visitors most often want to know about Yosemite National Park.
Do I need a permit to visit Yosemite National Park?
No permit is required to visit Yosemite National Park. You can enter the park freely, though you will need a reservation to camp at one of the park's 12 campsites.
What campgrounds are available in Yosemite?
Yosemite has 12 campsites including Bridalveil Creek Campground, Camp 4, Crane Flat Campground, Hodgdon Meadow Campground, Lower Pines Campground, North Pines Campground, Porcupine Flat Campground, Tamarack Flat Campground, Tuolumne Meadows Campground, Wawona Campground, White Wolf Campground, and Yosemite Upper Pines Campground. Each offers a different experience depending on location and elevation within the park.
Does Yosemite have a wilderness area?
Yes, Yosemite contains a wilderness area within its nearly 1,200 square miles. This vast wilderness offers backcountry exploration for those seeking solitude in the High Sierra.
What can I see and do in Yosemite besides camping?
Yosemite is known for its waterfalls, deep valleys, grand meadows, and ancient giant sequoias. The park's diverse landscape and wilderness area provide opportunities for hiking, sightseeing, and exploring the Sierra high country.
How long has Yosemite been protected as a park?
Yosemite was first protected in 1864, making it one of the earliest efforts to preserve a significant natural area. This historic protection laid the foundation for the modern national park system.