Yosemite National Park Upper Pines Campground

Upper Pines sits in the heart of Yosemite Valley at 4,000 feet elevation, surrounded by iconic granite monoliths including Half Dome and Glacier Point. The 238 sites accommodate tents and RVs up to 40 feet, with flush toilets, drinking water, fire rings, and bear boxes at every site. This is one of three reservation-only campgrounds on the Valley floor, booking solid from April through October within minutes of availability windows opening.

Access via paved Valley Loop Road makes this suitable for any vehicle, though finding parking during peak season requires patience. Black bears are extremely active here — expect nightly visits and strict food storage enforcement. Sites are close together with minimal privacy, but the trade-off is walking distance to Vernal Fall, Nevada Fall, and Half Dome trailheads. Winter camping available with reduced facilities November through March.

Valley floor camping beneath Half Dome's granite walls