Lower Pines Campground

Star4.43
688 reviews
9024 Southside Drive
Scenic ViewsGreat Hiking

Quick Facts

4,000 ft

Price

$36 - $60/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

70 campsites

Season

Open June 15 to Octo...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Lower Pines Campground
$36.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates range from $36 for standard nonelectric sites to $60 for RV nonelectric sites during peak season. Rates may vary depending on the site...
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Standard Site Fee$36.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
(209) 372-8502
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What Campers Say

4.43

Recommended

Based on 688 reviews

219 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsspaciouslocationhiking

Some mention

noise

"Lower Pines Campground receives high praise for its stunning location in Yosemite Valley, close to major attractions like Half Dome and the Merced River. It is considered a top choice for both RV and tent campers due to its centrality and natural beauty. However, some issues like noise from neighbors, difficulty securing reservations, and complaints about restroom maintenance detract from the experience for some visitors."

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Campground Map

9024 Southside Drive

Lower Pines Campground

9024 Southside Drive

Driving directionsTake Highway 41 north from Fresno, Highway 140 east from Merced, or Highway 120 east from Manteca into Yosemite National Park. Follow signs to Yosemite Valley and the campgrounds.
Accessible via paved roads. Road conditions can change due to weather; visitors are advised to check conditions before arrival.
Nearby places
Fresno (~93 miles, ~2 hours), Merced (~85 miles, ~2 hours), Manteca (~120 miles, ~2.5 hours)
Nearby supplies
Curry Village (~0.5 miles): General store, restaurants, showers (for a fee). Yosemite Village (~1 mile): Grocery store, gear rental, and visitor services.

Best Time to Camp at Lower Pines Campground

Summer days in Lower Pines unfold with gentle warmth, as temperatures climb to a comfortable 70–85°F—perfect for hiking and exploring. As the sun sets behind the granite peaks, the mountain air cools to a refreshing 35–50°F, ideal for campfire stories and stargazing. Autumn transforms the campground into a peaceful retreat, with crisp air, golden light, and far fewer visitors sharing the valley's splendor.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Warm 70–85°F days ideal for activities; very busy and high demand in summer.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5
Top 5% in CA

Quieter than summer with stunning foliage and good conditions per seasonal notes.

Spring(Mar-May)
Not recommended

Lower Pines operates primarily June 15–Oct 19; spring season not applicable for this loop.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed in winter; peak season June 15–Oct 19.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: June 15–October 19.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open June 15 to October 19 (peak season).
  • Current Alerts: Peak-hours reservations are required for park entry on certain days until September 1.

About Lower Pines Campground

Nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley, Lower Pines Campground serves as your basecamp for exploring some of nature's most spectacular masterpieces. Wake up to the sight of Half Dome towering above, spend your days chasing waterfalls at Vernal Falls, and cool off in the crystal-clear waters of the Merced River—all just a short walk from your campsite. This reservation-only campground welcomes both tent campers and RV adventurers with thoughtfully designed sites featuring paved roads, modern flush toilets, fresh drinking water, sturdy picnic tables, campfire rings for evening gatherings, and bear-proof food storage lockers to keep your provisions safe.
Lower Pines Campground offers various camping accommodations, including tent sites, RV sites, and double sites. The campground is popular for its central location in Yosemite Valley and proximity to key attractions.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in begins at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out ends at 10:00 AM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit at this campground between May 1 and September 15.

Amenities available

Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Lower Pines Campground provides visitors with access to a wide range of recreational activities in Yosemite National Park. These include hiking, biking, fishing, rock climbing, wildlife viewing, and boating on the Merced River. The campground's proximity to iconic trails and landmarks makes it a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
HikingLower Pines Campground is located near several popular hiking trails, including the easy two-mile round-trip walk to Mirror Lake and the challenging 14-16 mile trek to Half Dome. These trails offer opportunities for hikers of all skill levels.
ClimbingClimbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.
FishingFishing is permitted in the Merced River, which runs near the campground. The river provides a scenic backdrop for anglers.
SwimmingSwimming is accessible in the Merced River, located near the campground. Many visitors enjoy cooling off in the river during warm summer days.
BikingYosemite Valley is bike-friendly, with trails connecting major landmarks. Reviews recommend bringing or renting bikes for efficient and enjoyable travel around the park.
BoatingBoating activities, such as rafting, are available on the Merced River when water levels permit. Raft rentals are accessible within the park.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBear activity requires strict food storage rules. Seasonal flooding may affect access.
Active AlertsPeak-hours reservations are required for park entry on certain days until September 1.
Food Storage RequiredFood lockers (35"Dx43"Wx28"H) are provided at every site to prevent bear encounters. All food and toiletries must be stored securely.

Weather at Lower Pines Campground

Reviews

4.4
688 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Lower Pines Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Lower Pines Campground receives high praise for its stunning location in Yosemite Valley, close to major attractions like Half Dome and the Merced River. It is considered a top choice for both RV and tent campers due to its centrality and natural beauty. However, some issues like noise from neighbors, difficulty securing reservations, and complaints about restroom maintenance detract from the experience for some visitors.
Review Summaries
Based on 688 reviews

What Campers Love

- "Spectacular views of Half Dome and the Merced River." - "Central location near hiking trails, Curry Village, and the shuttle bus." - "Spacious campsites with picnic tables and fire pits." -...
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Based on 688 reviews

Common Concerns

- "Restrooms sometimes lack soap, toilet paper, and proper lighting." - "No showers on-site; visitors must use Curry Village facilities." - "Noise from nearby campers can be an issue, especially with...
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Based on 688 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- "Bring your own soap and hand sanitizer as restrooms may lack these." - "Secure a reservation as early as possible; sites fill up quickly." - "Consider bringing a bike for easy travel around the...
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Based on 688 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months are busy, with warm weather and high demand for campsites. Fall offers quieter conditions and stunning foliage, while spring features flowing waterfalls and mild temperatures. Off-peak...
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Based on 688 reviews

Camper Quotes

- "Bring your bikes or rent some during your stay; having a bike makes getting around the valley quick and incredibly enjoyable." (Sterling Witty) - "Camping at Lower Pines Campground in June brought...
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Based on 688 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

- Site 40: "Close to the bathroom/water and had an excellent view of Half Dome. The river was also just right across the way from our site." (Sterling Witty) - Site 55: "Located next to the trash...
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Based on 688 reviews

Accessibility Features

Campsites are described as generally accessible, with accessible flush toilets. However, some reviews highlight maintenance issues such as poorly lit restrooms.
Based on 688 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Lower Pines Campground is pet-friendly. Dogs are allowed, but they must remain leashed at all times. Some reviewers noted ticks in certain areas, so pet owners should remain vigilant.
Based on 688 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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