How much does camping cost at Lower Pines Campground?

Camping fees at Lower Pines Campground range from $36-$60/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Lower Pines Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Lower Pines Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Lower Pines Campground before I book?

Yes! Lower Pines Campground has 7 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Lower Pines Campground?

Lower Pines Campground is open April 21 to October 18. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Lower Pines Campground?

Lower Pines Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Lower Pines Campground have?

Lower Pines Campground has 70 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Lower Pines Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Lower Pines Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Lower Pines Campground?

Lower Pines Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Lower Pines Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Lower Pines Campground?

Fire policies at Lower Pines Campground: Don't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.42

688 reviews

9024 Southside Drive

Top 2% in CAFall

Scenic ViewsGreat Hiking

Featured in:Yosemite#3 Camping Near Yosemite National Park

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

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

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

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

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Lower Pines Campground

$36.00 - $60.00 / night

Campsite Fees

RV NONELECTRIC-Double sites: $60.00; RV NONELECTRIC: $36.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $36.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online...

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(209) 372-8502

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Lower Pines Campground

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Campground Map

9024 Southside Drive

Lower Pines Campground

9024 Southside Drive

Nearby places

Fresno (~93 miles, ~2 hours), Merced (~85 miles, ~2 hours), Manteca (~120 miles, ~2.5 hours)

Weather at Lower Pines Campground

Current alerts(9)

Bears and other wildlife live here! Food and toiletries must be stored 24 hours/day. Dispose of garbage immediately in bear-proof dumpsters.
Food storage lockers are provided in all campsites and measure 35 inches deep x 43 inches wide x 28 inches high). Absolutely no food stored in vehicles.
Help Yosemite be a Zero Landfill park! Leave excess packaging at home. Use refillable water bottles, food containers and travel mugs. Place all of your recyclable waste in designated recycling containers. For more information go to: https://www.nps.gov/yose/getinvolved/zlf.htm
If arriving one or more days late , call (209) 372-8502; your reservation will be cancelled if we do not hear from you within 24 hours of your arrival date.

Best Time to Camp at Lower Pines Campground

Best season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of comfortable weather, thinning crowds, and spectacular valley light — daytime highs typically range from the mid-50s to mid-70s°F in September and October, with nights cooling to the 30s–40s°F. Trails are quieter after the summer rush, making hiking to Vernal and Nevada Falls or biking around Yosemite Valley more pleasant, and the lower-angle autumn sun enhances views of Half Dome and El Capitan. Waterfalls are still flowing early in the season, while oak and a Peak months: September, October, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

Top 2% in CA

Fall is the 'sweet spot'—cooler temps, thinner crowds, great foliage and continued access to trails.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 21 to October 18. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open June 15 to October 19 (peak season).

About Lower Pines Campground

Lower Pines Campground sits in Yosemite Valley with direct views of Half Dome and the Merced River. Operated by the National Park Service, this mid-sized campground serves as a base for exploring Yosemite's iconic trails and waterfalls. Campers have access to flush toilets, potable water, and the valley shuttle system, with Curry Village and major trailheads within easy reach.

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.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of comfortable weather, thinning crowds, and spectacular valley light — daytime highs typically range from the mid-50s to mid-70s°F in September and October, with nights cooling to the 30s–40s°F. Trails are quieter after the summer rush, making hiking to Vernal and Nevada Falls or biking around Yosemite Valley more pleasant, and the lower-angle autumn sun enhances views of Half Dome and El Capitan. Waterfalls are still flowing early in the season, while oak and a Peak months: September, October, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation4000 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe Merced River winds through the campground's eastern edge, close enough to hear from many sites. Half Dome and the valley's massive granite walls dominate the skyline. Campers get direct views of the cliffs that define Yosemite, especially striking at sunrise and sunset. California black oak, ponderosa pine, white fir, and incense-cedar provide varying levels of shade depending on your site. The campground sits at 4,000 feet elevation on the valley floor, surrounded by the Sierra Nevada's glacially carved landscape.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodges within Lower Pines Campground itself, but nearby Curry Village offers alternatives like cabins and other accommodations.

Programs & ActivitiesYosemite Valley offers ranger-led educational programs, guided tours, and workshops at locations like the visitor center and Curry Village.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit at this campground between May 1 and September 15.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Standard site capacity: varies. Group size and tent/RV limits depend on site specifications.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov (website or app) or by calling the contact center.

AccessibilityLower Pines Campground offers accessible campsites and accessible flush toilets, making it a suitable option for campers with mobility challenges.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size, accommodating both tents and RVs. Some sites are large and spacious, while others are closer together, offering less privacy.

PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some sites are open and close to neighbors, while others offer better seclusion. Center sites generally provide more privacy compared to those near the main road.

Total Campsites70 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites closer to the campground center for more privacy and quieter surroundings. Avoid sites near dumpsters and restrooms if possible.

Best CampsitesSite 18 gets the most mentions for its proximity to the Merced River and direct Half Dome views. Site 36 sits in a sunny spot near Curry Village. Reviewers recommend avoiding sites along the main road if you want more privacy and less noise from neighbors.

Need help booking Lower Pines Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Lower Pines Campground in Yosemite National Park offers visitors a range of essential and convenient amenities. These include paved roads, parking spurs, flush toilets, drinking water, picnic tables, fire rings, and food storage lockers at each site. Although showers are not available on-site, visitors can access showers for a fee at nearby Curry Village, which is within walking distance. The campground is serviced by the Yosemite free shuttle bus, and Curry Village also offers additional services like a general store, restaurants, and a bar.

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

RV details

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.

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

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.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyDon't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.

Trash & RecyclingBear-proof trash and recycling bins are located throughout the campground, and proper waste disposal is enforced to protect the local wildlife.

Cell CoverageCell phone service is generally limited in Yosemite Valley. Some reviews mention limited or no reception within the campground, but service may be available at locations like Yosemite Village.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.4

688 reviews

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

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 688 reviews.

Site 40Loved
- Site 40: "Close to the bathroom/water and had an excellent view of Half Dome.
Site 39Loved
Close to neighbors but had nice neighbors so it worked out." (Sam Pletten). - Site 39: "Perfect and right on the water.
Site 47Loved
Close to the bathroom." (Chase Parker). - Site 47: "No shade at all, but otherwise, a great site." (Emilia G)
Site 55Issues noted
The river was also just right across the way from our site." (Sterling Witty). - Site 55: "Located next to the trash cans; avoid due to noise and pests."…

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." -...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want a central Yosemite Valley location with river access and easy connections to iconic hikes like Vernal and Nevada Falls.

Skip if

You need quiet, secluded sites or want to avoid campfire smoke and neighboring campground noise.

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North Pines Campground sits in Yosemite Valley near the Merced River, operated by the National Park Service as one of the valley's largest campgrounds. The mid-elevation forest setting puts hikers within walking distance of Mist Trail, Yosemite Falls viewpoints, and valley shuttle stops. Summer brings warm days and cool nights, with full access to swimming holes, backcountry trailheads, and all park services during the seasonal operating window.