Yosemite National Park Camping in an RV or in a Tent – A Great Destination Either Way

Within Yosemite National Park, RV camping opportunities abound. Whether you’re camping in a tent or RV, with your family or a large group, in Yosemite Valley or the backcountry there’s a place for you. There are traditional campgrounds and a variety of tent cabin options. The one constant factor is to plan ahead. Check out all of the possibilities, and then make your reservations early.

Traditional Campgrounds
Thirteen campgrounds are spread out among three different areas in the park. The most popular are the four in Yosemite Valley, three of which require reservations during the summer. Only Camp 4’s 35 sites are first-come, first-served. There are two campgrounds in the southern part of the park and seven ranged along Tioga Road (California 120) as it crosses the park from east to west. Of these, Wawona and Hodgdon Meadow are open all year and require summer reservations. When planning your trip, check the Yosemite National Park camping website for opening and closing dates, RV restrictions and water availability.

Housekeeping Camp
This unusual Yosemite National Park RV park area sits right on the Merced River in Yosemite Valley. The 266 units have three concrete walls, a concrete floor, and a canvas roof; the fourth wall is a curtain which opens to a covered patio. Inside the cabin are two single bunks, a double bed, table and chairs, and electric light and outlets. Outside on the patio you’ll find a picnic table and bear-proof food locker. Visitors may supply their own bedding or rent it for an additional charge. Housekeeping Camp may have units available when the campgrounds are full.

Canvas Tent Cabins
Yosemite National Park camping choices include two areas with canvas tent cabins with wood framing, doors, and raised floors. One of these is Curry Village, right in the heart of Yosemite Valley. Here each 2 to 5-person tent is equipped with cot-style beds, but no cooking is allowed so campers should plan meals accordingly. At White Wolf Lodge in the high country on Tioga Road 24 tent cabins (and two regular cabins) make a nice base for high country hiking, trail rides, or rock climbing.

Article by Adam O’Connor
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