Tuolumne Meadows Campground at Yosemite National Park, California (Guide + Reviews)
Overview
Tuolumne Meadows Campground sits in Yosemite’s high country along Tioga Road (Hwy 120), surrounded by polished granite domes, airy lodgepole pines, and the slow curves of the Tuolumne River. At ~8,600 feet, days feel crisp and nights glow with bright Sierra stars. It’s the launchpad for Lembert Dome, Pothole Dome sunsets, Tenaya Lake dips, and alpine trailheads galore.
What Campers Are Saying
Overall vibe: “Alpine, adventurous, and peaceful.” Campers love the access to granite domes and lakes, cooler weather than Yosemite Valley, and wide meadows full of wildflowers mid-summer.
Highlights
- Trailhead central: Cathedral Lakes, Gaylor Lakes, Lembert/Pothole Dome nearby.
- River & meadows: lazy bends for picnics and mellow wading when flows are safe.
- Starry nights: thin, clear air for Milky Way viewing.
- Tenaya Lake: a short drive for cold, blue alpine swims.
Frictions to plan around
- Short season: opens only when Tioga Road is open; weather/snow dictate timing.
- Altitude: 8,600' — hydrate, take it easy day one.
- No hookups: dry camping; cool nights = happy fridges, but bring power solutions.
- Bear safety: strict food storage rules; use provided lockers.
Camper Quotes
“Woke up to alpenglow on granite domes — unreal.”
“Cooler than the Valley, and the trailheads are minutes away.”
“Bring layers — even July nights can be brisk.”
“Bear lockers at every site kept food storage simple.”
Campsites & Amenities
- Sites: tent and RV-friendly pads (best for small–mid rigs); no hookups.
- Facilities: restrooms, potable water (seasonal), picnic tables, fire rings, and bear lockers at each site.
- Access: along Tioga Road; near store/grill (seasonal) and ranger programs when offered.
- Pets: leashed in campground and paved areas; not allowed on most trails.
Booking & Availability
Reservations: released in advance and highly competitive during the brief summer window. Some years include limited first-come options; details vary by season and operations.
Tip: Target midweek dates, set alerts for cancellations, and consider shoulder weeks right after opening or before closing (weather permitting).
Best Spots
- Perimeter loops near meadow/river: airy views and quick walks to evening alpenglow.
- Shaded lodgepole pockets: quieter pads with afternoon hammock potential.
- Cul-de-sacs: lower traffic for families and early sleepers.
Because availability is tight, prioritize shade & proximity to trailheads over chasing a specific number.
Nearby Campgrounds
- Porcupine Flat (Yosemite): primitive high-country option along Tioga Road.
- Tamarack Flat (Yosemite): more rustic feel off a rougher access road.
- Tioga Lake/Lee Vining Canyon (Inyo NF): just east of the park with alpine views and more last-minute potential.
Map & Directions
From Yosemite Valley, follow Big Oak Flat or El Capitan Road to CA-120/Tioga Road and drive east toward Tuolumne Meadows. From the east side, take US-395 to Lee Vining and climb Tioga Pass (CA-120) west into the park. Campground entrances are signed along Tioga Road.
Nearby reference: Tuolumne Meadows, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
Tuolumne Meadows FAQ
When is the campground open?
Only when Tioga Road is open and facilities are staffed — typically summer; exact dates vary with snow and operations.
Are there hookups?
No. It’s dry camping with seasonal potable water and restrooms.
How cold does it get?
Even midsummer nights can dip into the 30s–40s °F. Bring warm sleep systems and layers.
Do I need a bear canister?
Bear lockers are provided at each site and must be used for all food and scented items. Canisters are still required for many backcountry trips.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes, with easy meadow strolls and domes; keep an eye on kids near the river and be altitude-aware.
What are the chances I’ll see Bigfoot?
If you spot huge prints in the pumice, that’s just Bigfoot scouting sunrise on Cathedral Peak. 👣⛰️
