How to spend 2 Amazing Nights Camping in Yosemite
We got to enjoy 2 amazing nights camping in Yosemite in August.
Camping in Yosemite is VERY competitive. However, we found it completely necessary to camp in Yosemite National Park due to the lack of affordable accommodations in the area and to become fully immersed in nature.
In order to book our camp reservation for August, we had to check the Yosemite National Park’s website to see when campsite reservations would be available.
Overall, we loved the 2 nights of Camping in Yosemite. View our Gallery for photos from the trip or watch our Yosemite YouTube Video!
There are 13 campsites at Yosemite National Park that are grouped into 3 section
- Yosemite Valley
- South of Yosemite Valley
- North of Yosemite Valley – our favorite
What we learned from 2 nights of camping in Yosemite:
Yosemite Valley
The campsites within Yosemite Valley are the most sought after because you are close to Yosemite Falls, Half Dome Trail, and the Merced River.
In my opinion, this would be convenient if you want to be right next to the happening spots. However, I was very happy that we did not camp here. Mainly due to the heavy smoke accumulation in the morning from local wildfires.
South of Yosemite Valley
We spent about 3 hours here when we were leaving the National Park to head back to San Fransico. We greatly enjoyed walking through Mariposa Grove (the Giant Sequoias are here). Although seeing the trees was a life-changing experience, I would not enjoy camping in this location because the drive to Yosemite Valley and Tiago Pass is very long.
North of Yosemite Valley is where we camped for 2 nights. We absolutely enjoyed our experience!
There are 7 campsites located in North Yosemite Valley.
Specifically, we camped at Hodgdon Meadow Campground, campsite # 67.
Since reserving a campsite is super competitive, we took what we could get when trying to reserve a campsite. We ended up having the best experience ever!
We read bad reviews about this campsite; however, campsite #67 was perfect. Not too far from the bathroom, pretty level surface, enough space between campsites and on the outside edge of the campsite, which equaled quietness!
The one potential negative about this campsite was that it is about a 45-minute drive to the Valley floor; however, the drive is beautiful and totally worth it.
When camping in Yosemite, please be courteous of others:
Yes, bear boxes are loud but so important to save the life of a bear. As many say, a fed bear is a dead bear.
Yes, people get up early to go hiking or climbing. It will be noisy before the sun rises.
and please LEAVE NO TRACE! To learn more about how to camp safely and how to leave no trace, check out this article.
When visiting or camping in Yosemite National Park (or anywhere outside) it is important to remember the 7 Leave No Trace Principles:
1) Plan Ahead and Prepare
2) Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
3) Dispose of Waste Properly
4) Leave What you Find
5) Minimize Campfire Impacts
6) Respect Wildlife
7) Be Considerate of Other Visitors
For the safety of yourself and wildlife, please be sure to keep a safe distance. If you have the urge to get up close, be sure to think twice and bring binoculars or a telephoto lens.
At Alpine Basin, we hope to inspire Relaxation and a deeper appreciation for Nature!
We hope you will also experience 2 amazing nights camping in Yosemite!
