Lower Pines Campground at Yosemite, California (Guide + Reviews)
Overview
North Pines Campground sits at the confluence of the Merced River and Tenaya Creek in Yosemite Valley, close to trailheads, shuttle stops, and Curry Village amenities (food, market, showers for a fee). Expect valley-floor convenience, towering cliffs all around, and classic Yosemite vibes.
What Campers Are Saying
Overall vibe: “This is the Yosemite experience.” Super convenient for sunrise hikes, evening walks along the river, and quick hops to Curry Village. It’s lively in peak season, but generally well-managed and family-friendly.
Highlights this season
- Walkability & shuttle: easy access to Mist/Mirror Lake, trailheads, and the free Valley shuttle.
- Clean facilities: flush toilets, regular maintenance, potable water; bear lockers at every site.
- Riverside setting: many loops are close to water; evening strolls are a favorite.
- Curry Village nearby: pizza deck, market essentials, and paid showers within a short walk.
Frictions to plan around
- High demand: reservation windows can sell out quickly; cancellations do appear if you’re flexible.
- Less privacy than backcountry: sites can feel close; quiet hours are enforced but expect dinner-time chatter.
- No hookups: RVs rely on batteries/solar; dump station + potable water available in the Valley.
- Strict food storage rules: everything scented lives in the bear box—always latch it.
Timing & crowds
- Quiet(er) windows: midweek in spring/fall and early/late in the day year-round.
- Summer realities: parking fills early; bikes/shuttle are the move; start hikes before 9 a.m.
What to pack (camper-driven)
- Compact food bins to fit the bear locker; small soft cooler works well.
- Bikes or scooters for quick intra-Valley trips; headlamps for late returns.
- Dust mat & camp shoes; afternoons can kick up grit.
Who tends to love North Pines
- Great for: first-time Yosemite visitors, hikers focusing on Valley trailheads, families wanting services nearby.
- Less ideal for: anyone seeking solitude—consider shoulder-season dates or upper-elevation campgrounds.
Camper quotes
“The river walk at dusk is magic. We parked once and used bikes the whole stay.”
“Clean, organized, and close to everything. Bear boxes are huge—use them.”
“Busy at dinner time but quiet by night. Book early or watch for cancels.”
Campsites & Amenities
- Sites: mix of tent/van/RV pads; some loops tent-only.
- At each site: picnic table, fire ring, bear locker (Yosemite-standard metal box).
- Facilities: flush toilets, potable water; no site-level hookups.
- Nearby: paid showers at Curry Village; free Valley shuttle at nearby stops.
Booking & Availability
Reservations: Typically via Recreation.gov on a rolling window. Create/verify your account in advance; be ready at release time. If sold out, monitor for cancellations.
Tip: Always check the specific site’s max vehicle or trailer length—Valley pads vary and can be shorter than you expect.
Best North Pines Campsites
- Quiet(er) feel: interior loops away from high-traffic edges.
- Riverside ambience: loops near the river for evening walks and ambient water sounds.
- Families: pick sites near restrooms and water spigots for convenience.
Site layouts can shift with seasonal maintenance. Confirm driveway length and site specifics before booking.
Nearby Campgrounds in Yosemite Valley
- Upper Pines: year-round, close to shuttle and Curry Village.
- Lower Pines: seasonal; some riverside feel.
- Camp 4 (walk-in): tents only; climber vibe; separate daily lottery in peak season.
Map & Directions
Enter Yosemite via Hwy 140 (Merced), Hwy 41 (Fresno), or Hwy 120 (Manteca). Follow signs to Yosemite Valley and the Pines campgrounds.
Address: Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
GPS: TBD, TBD
North Pines FAQ
Are there hookups?
No—there are no electric, water, or sewer hookups at sites. Valley dump station and potable water are available.
Do sites have bear boxes?
Yes—every site has a metal food locker. Keep all food and scented items inside and latched 24/7.
Where can I shower?
At Curry Village (paid). It’s a short walk or quick shuttle ride from camp.
What vehicle lengths fit?
Varies by site. Always check the individual site’s max length on the reservation page before booking.
When do reservations open?
Release windows are handled via Recreation.gov and can sell out fast. Set reminders and be logged in ahead of time.
Is the shuttle convenient?
Yes—the free Yosemite Valley shuttle serves nearby stops and connects you to major trailheads and visitor areas.
Is North Pines open in winter?
North Pines is typically seasonal; check current dates on the official listing. Upper Pines is the year-round option in the Valley.
What are the chances I’ll see Bigfoot?
Officially: slim. Unofficially: campers swear “someone” was watching their s’mores. Keep your camera handy and your snacks secured—just in case 🦶😉.
