Yosemite van camping

Essential Yosemite van camping facts

Yosemite rewards preparation. Almost all overnight stays must happen in reservable campgrounds, and popular valley sites book quickly. Sleeping in a vehicle outside a campsite is not allowed in pullouts, trailheads, or parking lots. Food storage rules are strict to protect black bears, so treat any scented item as food and use bear lockers where provided. Expect limited cell service in the Valley and on high country roads, so download maps and reservation details before arrival.

Reservations for Yosemite Valley campgrounds typically open months ahead on Recreation dot gov with high demand right at release time. On select peak dates, the park may require timed entry or peak hours reservations for day access, which is separate from your campsite booking. Fuel stations are scarce inside the park, winter can bring chain controls, and summer heat often gives way to cool nights. A simple plan goes a long way.

Where to camp in and around Yosemite

Classic campgrounds inside the gates

In the Valley, Upper Pines, Lower Pines, and North Pines put you close to trailheads and shuttle stops. Sites are compact, so keep your footprint tidy and respect quiet hours. Camp 4 is a storied climber camp that is walk in only, so it is not suitable for van camping. Outside the Valley, Wawona near the South Entrance offers river access and a quieter vibe, while Hodgdon Meadow near the Big Oak Flat Entrance serves the northwest side. Tuolumne Meadows in the high country is a summer only option at elevation when it is open, with cooler temperatures and star filled nights. Check current status for any seasonal closures or ongoing renovations before you commit.

Generator hours vary by campground and are typically limited to daytime windows. If you rely on battery power, expect tree shade in many sites that affects solar intake. Quiet hours are enforced and ranger presence is consistent, especially in the Valley core.

Public lands near the boundary

When park campgrounds sell out, national forest lands just outside the gates can save a trip. To the west, Stanislaus National Forest near Groveland and Sierra National Forest near Fish Camp offer developed campgrounds and permitted dispersed camping where allowed. On the east side, the Lee Vining approach gives access to Inyo National Forest with scenic options when Tioga Road is open. Follow local fire restrictions, use existing spots, pack out all waste, and keep your van off fragile meadows. Many forest roads are rough and narrow, so scout ahead on foot if a route looks questionable.

Reservations, permits, and rules

Campground reservations occur on Recreation dot gov with blocks released well in advance. Be online before release time, have backup dates ready, and consider shoulder seasons for better availability. A campsite reservation does not guarantee general park entry during dates with peak hours reservations, so always confirm current policy on the park website. If you change plans, cancel early to free space for others and avoid no show penalties.

Overnight parking outside campgrounds is prohibited. Trailhead or day use lots are for day use only. Food storage is non negotiable. Use bear lockers where available and keep coolers and scented items out of your vehicle when parked at camp. Dump stations are limited, commonly at Upper Pines in season and at select entrances, so manage tanks and water carefully. Showers are limited to specific concession areas when offered, so plan for rinse gear or a rest day in a gateway town.

Vehicle restrictions and road tips

Yosemite roads have length, width, and tunnel height constraints, but typical camper vans fit most corridors. The Wawona Tunnel requires care with mirrors and roof gear. Tioga Road is a high elevation route that opens seasonally, usually late spring or early summer through fall, depending on snowpack. In winter or shoulder seasons, carry chains when required and check the daily road report. Brakes can heat on long descents, so use lower gears and give your van plenty of time to cool if you smell hot pads.

Season, weather, and gear planning

Spring brings peak waterfalls and cooler nights, ideal for hikers who do not mind occasional rain. Summer is crowded yet predictable, with warm afternoons that push many travelers to dawn trail starts and evening strolls. Fall brings crisp air, lower river flows, and more campsite turnover. Winter rewards patience with quiet days, icy roads, and the need for real insulation and heat in your rig.

Shade and granite walls can limit solar harvest in the Valley at any time of year. Plan for alternator charging, shore power when available, or a larger battery bank if you expect to linger without driving. Nights are often cooler than the forecast suggests due to cold air pooling in the Valley, so bring warm bedding even in summer. Keep a packed bear box routine, a laminated campsite checklist, and a leave no trace mindset.

Build a van that thrives in Yosemite

If Yosemite is on your calendar year after year, a purpose built camper van simplifies every decision. Thoughtful insulation quiets granite walls after dark. High output alternator charging keeps batteries happy on shaded sites. Ventilation and heat management handle shoulder seasons with ease. Storage systems keep food and scented items bear safe yet easy to reach, and compact gear racks make tight Valley sites effortless to live in.

When you are ready to shape a rig for mountain grades, cold nights, and narrow roads, browse our recreational vans, explore a custom build van, or review finance friendly mainstream vans. We build for real use, then hand off your keys with a sendoff that lets you hit the Valley with confidence.

Strong trips begin with smart planning and a van that fits the place. Share your travel style and we will map the build that fits Yosemite and everywhere else you roam.

• For broader build inspiration, visit recreational vans • See how we tailor cabins at custom build van • Browse available platforms at mainstream vans

Tell us how you camp, cook, and move. We will translate your Yosemite routine into a quiet, efficient cabin that handles shade, elevation, and long days on the shuttle. Start your plan today.