Best Season for Camping in Yosemite National Park (2025 Guide)
Yosemite Season Finder
Select what matters most to you for your Yosemite camping trip to find your ideal season.
Your Ideal Season:
Did you know Yosemite National Park sees over 4million visitors each year, but only a fraction of its campsites are booked during the cooler months? Choosing the right time to pitch your tent can mean the difference between a crowded, noisy night and a peaceful sunrise over granite cliffs.
Yosemite National Park is a protected wilderness area in California’s Sierra Nevada, famous for its towering cliffs, waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems. Established in 1890, the park spans 1,200square miles and offers more than a dozen campgrounds ranging from river‑side sites to high‑altitude backcountry loops.
Understanding Yosemite’s Climate
Yosemite sits at elevations between 2,000ft (valley floor) and over 13,000ft (High Sierra). That vertical spread creates distinct weather patterns:
- Winter (Dec-Feb): Snow blankets the higher elevations, while the valley stays chilly (30-50°F). Snowfall can make some roads impassable, but the scenery is dramatic.
- Spring (Mar-May): Temperatures climb to 60°F, waterfalls hit peak flow, and wildflowers start popping up.
- Summer (Jun-Aug): Warm days (70-90°F) attract the biggest crowds. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, especially in July.
- Fall (Sep-Nov): Cooler evenings (40-70°F), fewer visitors, and brilliant foliage in October.
Because temperature and crowd size shift so dramatically, the “best” season depends on what you value most: solitude, scenery, wildlife, or ease of access.
Season‑by‑Season Breakdown
Below is a quick snapshot of each season’s pros and cons.
| Season | Typical Temp (°F) | Crowd Level | Wildlife Activity | Road/Trail Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | 30‑50 | Low | Hibernating mammals, occasional mule deer | Tioga Road closed; valley roads open |
| Spring | 45‑65 | Medium | Bear activity rises, bird migrations | All major roads open by late May |
| Summer | 70‑90 | High | Black bears active, abundant insects | All roads open; some fire restrictions |
| Fall | 40‑70 | Low‑Medium | Bear foraging, elk rut in October | Tioga Road reopens mid‑Oct, then closes Nov 1 |
Booking Tips and Reservation Timing
All Yosemite campgrounds, except a few first‑come‑first‑served sites, are booked through Recreation.gov. The system opens reservations 5 months in advance for most sites. Here’s how to improve your odds:
- Mark the exact release date on your calendar (e.g., March1 for summer sites).
- Create an account and save your payment details beforehand.
- Log in at least 10minutes early; the site experiences heavy traffic.
- If a site is sold out, check the “waitlist” option-cancellations happen frequently.
For winter trips, many campgrounds (like Upper Pines) accept walk‑ins, but you’ll still need a permit for fire rings in the valley.
Best Campgrounds for Each Season
Not all campgrounds are created equal. Pick the one that matches your season and activity preferences.
- Winter: North Pines and Upper Pines stay open year‑round. Snowshoe or cross‑country ski from these sites for a quiet, frost‑kissed experience.
- Spring: Lower Pines offers a short walk to the Merced River when the snow melt is high. The nearby Sunset Campground (near Glacier Point) is perfect for flower‑hunting.
- Summer: Upper Pines and North Pines are the most popular, but book early. For a less crowded vibe, try Camp 4 (first‑come‑first‑served) or Tuolumne Meadows (high‑altitude).
- Fall: Wawona near the historic hotel feels like a small town in autumn. Bear Valley offers cooler nights and brilliant foliage.
All of these sites have basic amenities: a fire ring, picnic table, and vault toilets. If you need showers, Upper Pines and Wawona have communal facilities.
What to Pack for Yosemite’s Varying Weather
Pack smart, not heavy. Here’s a quick packing list for each season:
- Winter: insulated sleeping pad, four‑season tent, thermals, crampons or microspikes for icy trails, and a portable snow shovel.
- Spring: waterproof jacket, gaiters (muddy trails), layered clothing for fluctuating temps, and a headlamp for early sunrise hikes.
- Summer: sun hat, sunscreen, lightweight breathable clothing, plenty of water (at least 3L per person), and a mosquito net for evening meals.
- Fall: warm hat, gloves for early mornings, sturdy boots for leaf‑covered paths, and a portable stove for hot meals.
Don’t forget a park map, a basic first‑aid kit, and a reusable water bottle-Yosemite’s refill stations are plentiful in the summer but can be seasonally closed.
Why Yosemite camping Is Worth the Planning
When you finally sit by the fire and hear the distant roar of waterfalls, the effort of booking a site feels worth it. Whether you chase the spring bloom, the fall colors, or the quiet of winter snow, Yosemite offers a unique experience each season.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do Yosemite campground reservations open for the summer season?
Reservations for most summer campgrounds open exactly five months before the start date. For example, a July1 reservation becomes available on February1.
Are any campgrounds open during winter?
Yes. North Pines, Upper Pines, and Lower Pines remain open year‑round. Some high‑altitude sites, like Tuolumne Meadows, close when snow accumulates.
Do I need a fire permit to camp in Yosemite?
Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings at most valley campgrounds. No separate permit is required, but be aware of seasonal fire bans during dry summer months.
What's the best way to get to Yosemite if I’m coming from San Francisco?
Driving is the most flexible option - take I‑580 east, then I‑205 and I‑5 north to CA‑120 east. The drive takes about 4‑5hours depending on traffic. During winter, check road closures for Tioga Pass.
Can I camp in Yosemite without a reservation?
A few first‑come‑first‑served sites, like Camp 4 and some backcountry loops, allow walk‑ins. Arrive early (before 10am) to increase your chances.
Yo fellow Americans, Yosemite is our backyard and we gotta claim those campsites come winter! The snow‑covered cliffs are a true test of true‑blue grit. If you’re scared of a little cold, pack a four‑season tent and show the park who’s boss. Don’t let those tourists steal the view, get there early and lock that spot. This is how real patriots enjoy the great outdoors!