Where to Stay in Yosemite with RV: Your Comprehensive Guide

Your Ultimate Guide to RV Camping in Yosemite National Park

Planning an RV adventure to Yosemite National Park is a dream for many, and for good reason. The towering granite cliffs, giant sequoia trees, and breathtaking waterfalls offer an unforgettable experience. But the crucial first step is figuring out where to park your home on wheels. This guide will break down the best options for where to stay in Yosemite with an RV, providing you with the details you need for a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Yosemite Valley Campgrounds: The Heart of the Action

If you want to be immersed in the iconic Yosemite Valley, these campgrounds are your prime candidates. Be aware that these are highly sought after and require reservations far in advance.

Upper Pines Campground

Location: Yosemite Valley, along the Merced River.
RV Size Limits: RVs up to 35 feet are generally permitted, but always double-check the specific site details.
Amenities: Flush toilets, potable water, picnic tables, fire rings, bear-proof food lockers. No hookups (electricity, water, sewer).
Highlights: Walking distance to Yosemite Falls, Mirror Lake, and the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center. Excellent access to hiking trails and shuttle bus stops.
Reservations: Required and often book up within minutes of becoming available, typically five months in advance on Recreation.gov.

Lower Pines Campground

Location: Yosemite Valley, also along the Merced River.
RV Size Limits: Similar to Upper Pines, with a general limit of 35 feet.
Amenities: Flush toilets, potable water, picnic tables, fire rings, bear-proof food lockers. No hookups.
Highlights: Offers a slightly more secluded feel than Upper Pines while still being incredibly central. Close to shuttle stops and scenic views.
Reservations: Mandatory and managed through Recreation.gov, with the same aggressive booking window.

North Pines Campground

Location: Yosemite Valley, on the north side of the Merced River.
RV Size Limits: Generally up to 35 feet.
Amenities: Flush toilets, potable water, picnic tables, fire rings, bear-proof food lockers. No hookups.
Highlights: Another excellent option for Valley immersion, with good access to trails and a quieter atmosphere than Upper Pines.
Reservations: Essential and booked via Recreation.gov.

Important Note for Valley Campgrounds: All Valley campgrounds are popular for a reason. They offer unparalleled access to the park's most famous sights. However, be prepared for crowds and the necessity of using the park's free shuttle system, as parking can be extremely limited.

Campgrounds Outside the Valley: More Options, Different Experiences

If you can't secure a spot in the Valley or prefer a slightly different experience, several other campgrounds within Yosemite National Park welcome RVs.

Wawona Campground

Location: Southern Yosemite, near the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias.
RV Size Limits: RVs up to 35 feet are generally accommodated.
Amenities: Flush toilets, potable water, picnic tables, fire rings, bear-proof food lockers. Some sites may have limited electrical hookups (rare and highly sought after).
Highlights: A more relaxed atmosphere than the Valley. Excellent for exploring the giant sequoias and the historic Wawona Hotel. Offers access to hiking and fishing.
Reservations: Required and available on Recreation.gov.

Hodgdon Meadow Campground

Location: Near the Big Oak Flat Entrance (Highway 120 West).
RV Size Limits: Typically up to 35 feet.
Amenities: Flush toilets, potable water, picnic tables, fire rings, bear-proof food lockers.
Highlights: A good option if you're entering the park from the west. It's a bit of a drive to Yosemite Valley (about an hour), but offers a more tranquil setting and access to trails in the western part of the park.
Reservations: Required and booked via Recreation.gov.

Tuolumne Meadows Campground (Seasonal)

Location: High country along Tioga Road (Highway 120 East).
RV Size Limits: Generally up to 35 feet, though some sites are more limited.
Amenities: Flush toilets, potable water, picnic tables, fire rings, bear-proof food lockers.
Highlights: This campground is only open when Tioga Road is open, typically from late May/June to October/November. It offers access to stunning alpine scenery, hiking in the high country (like Lembert Dome and Lyell Canyon), and a completely different Yosemite experience from the Valley.
Reservations: Required and available on Recreation.gov.

Seasonal Closures: Be mindful that Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road (which also has campgrounds) are closed seasonally due to snow. Always check the park's website for current road conditions and opening/closing dates.

Campgrounds Outside the Park: Convenience and Amenities

If you're having trouble finding a spot inside the park or prefer more amenities, there are several private campgrounds and RV parks located just outside the park entrances. These can be a great alternative, offering full hookups, laundry facilities, and often more availability.

Near Yosemite Valley (South Entrance - Highway 41/41):

Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite: While primarily a lodge, they do offer RV parking with hookups, though it's limited and pricey.
Various Private Campgrounds: Search for RV parks in towns like Oakhurst and Bass Lake. These will require driving into the park each day.

Near Yosemite Valley (West Entrance - Highway 120 West/Big Oak Flat):

KOA Campgrounds: Several KOA locations exist in and around Groveland, offering full hookups and amenities.
Various Private Campgrounds: Look in Groveland and surrounding areas.

Near Yosemite Valley (East Entrance - Highway 120 East/Tioga Pass - Seasonal):

Limited options directly on the east side that can accommodate RVs. Most people heading to this entrance will find options further west before entering the park or plan to stay within the park if Tioga Road is open.

Pros of Staying Outside the Park: More reliable availability, often better amenities (full hookups, Wi-Fi, pools), and sometimes more space for your RV. Cons: You'll need to drive into the park each day, which can add significant travel time and require paying the park entrance fee daily if you don't have a pass.

RV Specific Considerations for Yosemite

Yosemite is a wild and beautiful place, and it has specific regulations for RVs to ensure everyone's safety and to protect the park's environment.

RV Length Restrictions: Many roads within Yosemite, especially in Yosemite Valley, have strict length limits for vehicles. While most standard RVs (under 35 feet) can navigate these roads, larger motorhomes and trailers may find it difficult or impossible to access certain areas. Always check the park's website for the most up-to-date information on vehicle restrictions.
No Hookups in Most Campgrounds: Be prepared for "dry camping" in most Yosemite campgrounds. This means you'll need to be self-sufficient with water, power, and waste disposal. Bring extra water, a generator (with quiet hours respected), and a full black and gray water tank. Dump stations are available in some locations.
Bear Safety: Yosemite is bear country. All food, scented items, and anything with a smell must be stored in a bear-proof food locker provided at each campsite. Never leave food in your RV.
Reservations are Paramount: We can't stress this enough: book your campsites as early as possible. Popular campgrounds fill up months, and sometimes even a year, in advance. Set reminders for reservation opening dates on Recreation.gov.
Generators: If you plan to use a generator, be aware of the strict quiet hours (usually 10 PM to 6 AM). Many campers prefer to rely on solar power or battery systems to avoid generator noise.

Planning Your Yosemite RV Trip

A successful RV trip to Yosemite involves meticulous planning. Here are a few final tips:

Visit the Official NPS Website: For the most current information on campground status, road closures, regulations, and reservation windows, the National Park Service (NPS) Yosemite website is your go-to resource.
Download the NPS App: The official NPS app can provide offline maps and important information, which is incredibly useful in areas with spotty cell service.
Consider the Time of Year: Yosemite is stunning year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Spring brings powerful waterfalls, summer offers access to all areas (weather permitting), fall boasts beautiful foliage, and winter offers a serene, snow-covered landscape (with limited access).

By understanding your options and planning ahead, you can ensure your RV adventure in Yosemite National Park is everything you've dreamed of. Happy camping!

Frequently Asked Questions About RV Camping in Yosemite

How far in advance do I need to book an RV campsite in Yosemite?

You need to book your RV campsite in Yosemite as far in advance as possible. For the most popular campgrounds in Yosemite Valley, reservations typically become available five months in advance and often sell out within minutes of release on Recreation.gov. For less popular campgrounds or those outside the Valley, booking several months ahead is still highly recommended, especially for peak season travel.

What are the RV size restrictions in Yosemite National Park?

Most campgrounds within Yosemite National Park have RV length restrictions, typically around 35 feet for motorhomes and 40 feet for trailers. However, some specific campsites may have shorter limits, and certain roads within the park have even stricter restrictions for vehicles over 30 feet. Always check the specific campground details and park road regulations before your trip.

Can I get full hookups for my RV in Yosemite campgrounds?

No, full hookups (electricity, water, and sewer) are extremely rare in Yosemite National Park campgrounds. Most park campgrounds are "dry camping" sites, meaning you'll need to be self-sufficient with your water and power. Dump stations are available in various locations for waste disposal. Private RV parks outside the park are more likely to offer full hookups.

Why is it so difficult to get an RV campsite in Yosemite?

It is so difficult to get an RV campsite in Yosemite due to extremely high demand and limited availability. Yosemite is one of the most visited national parks in the United States, and the number of RV sites within the park is restricted. The stunning scenery, iconic landmarks, and the unique experience of staying within the park draw millions of visitors each year, leading to intense competition for the available camping spots.