Upper Pines Campground at Yosemite, California (2025 Guide + Reviews)
Overview
Upper Pines Campground sits at the east end of Yosemite Valley (elev. ~4,000 ft) under Half Dome and Glacier Point. It’s the largest of the three Valley campgrounds and stays open year-round, with paved loops, flush toilets, potable water, and the free Yosemite Valley shuttle stopping at the entrance. Showers are available nearby at Curry Village (for a fee).
What Campers Are Saying (2025)
Overall vibe: iconic Yosemite experience in a busy valley setting — extremely convenient for hikes and sunrise/sunset missions; weekends and peak holidays are lively but well-managed.
Highlights this season
- Walkability & shuttle: many trailheads are walkable/bikeable; the free shuttle stops at the campground entrance.
- Clean, stocked facilities: flush toilets, sinks, and regular maintenance even at high occupancy.
- Bear lockers at each site: standard metal lockers are roomy and easy to use (keep them latched).
- Proximity to Curry Village: paid showers, pizza/deck, market, and evening programs within a short walk.
Frictions to plan around
- High demand: reservations open 5 months ahead and can sell out in minutes; last-minute cancellations do pop up.
- Little privacy: sites are closer together than backcountry or upper-elevation campgrounds; expect neighbor noise at dinner time.
- No hookups: RVs rely on batteries/solar; dump station + potable water available nearby.
- Wildlife rules are strict (for good reason): anything scented must be in bear lockers 24/7 — even when you’re at camp.
Timing & crowds
- Best “calm” windows: winter, shoulder season, and midweek spring/fall; first and last light are always quieter.
- Summer realities: parking fills early; use bikes/shuttle and plan hikes for pre-9am starts.
What to pack (camper-driven)
- Extra food containers to fit the bear box; small soft cooler fits well.
- Bike or folding scooter for intra-Valley runs; headlamps for late returns.
- Dust mat & camp shoes; afternoon breezes can kick up grit.
Who tends to love Upper Pines
- Great for: first-timers, hikers targeting Mist/Mirror Lake/Half Dome area, families who want amenities nearby.
- Less ideal for: campers seeking solitude — consider winter, shoulder season, or upper-elevation campgrounds instead.
Campsites & Amenities
- Sites: ~238 total (mix of tent/van/RV; some tent-only and some RV-only loops).
- Each site: picnic table, fire ring, bear locker (≈35″D × 43″W × 28″H).
- Facilities: flush toilets, potable water; no site-level hookups.
- Dump station: free for campers, with potable water fill.
- Shuttle: free Valley shuttle at campground entrance; showers at Curry Village (fee).
Booking & Availability
Reservations: release 5 months in advance on the 15th at 7:00 a.m. Pacific and sell out quickly. Create/verify your Recreation.gov account beforehand, and watch for 7-day “short-notice” releases from cancellations.
Tip: If your rig is long, read the specific site length limits before booking — most Valley sites are far shorter than the absolute park maximums.
Best Upper Pines Campsites
- Quiet(er) feel: interior loops away from busier road edges.
- Trail access: east-side loops shorten the walk to Mist/Mirror Lake starts.
- Shade: most sites have tall pines/cedars; some edges get more afternoon sun (handy for solar).
Note: Site layouts change with seasonal maintenance. Always confirm driveway and vehicle lengths on the individual site page before booking.
Nearby Campgrounds in Yosemite Valley
- Lower Pines: seasonal; some longer pads; close to river.
- North Pines: seasonal; riverside feel; lottery or standard window depending on year.
- 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 for Yosemite Valley and the Pines campgrounds.
Address: 9024 Southside Drive, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
GPS: 37.73604, −119.56350
Upper Pines FAQ
Are there hookups?
No. There are no electric, water, or sewer hookups at sites. Use the dump station with potable water.
Do sites have bear boxes?
Yes — every site has a metal food locker (about 35″×43″×28″). Keep all food and scented items inside 24/7.
Where can I shower?
At Curry Village (paid). It’s a short walk or a quick shuttle ride from Upper Pines.
What vehicle lengths fit?
Upper Pines accommodates a range of lengths, but most pads are shorter than the Valley maximums. Always check the individual site’s max RV/trailer length before you book.
When do reservations open?
On the 15th of each month at 7:00 a.m. Pacific, for arrival dates 5 months out (e.g., Jan 15 opens May 15–Jun 14).
Is the shuttle convenient?
Yes — the free Yosemite Valley shuttle stops at the campground entrance and connects trailheads, visitor centers, and day-use areas.
Is Upper Pines open in winter?
Yes, Upper Pines is typically open all year, though some loops may be closed in mid-winter depending on snow.
Is there anything special I should know about bears?
Yosemite bears are smart. Lockers must be latched; never leave coolers/food in vehicles or unattended. Rangers enforce storage rules strictly for everyone’s safety.
