North Pines Campground

Star4.47
656 reviews
9024 Southside Drive
Scenic ViewsGreat HikingSwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

4,000 ft

Price

$8 - $48/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

151 campsites

Season

North Pines Campgrou...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens Yosemite 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
North Pines Campground
$8.00 - $48.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $8 per person for tent sites to $48 for premium tent-only sites during peak season. Additional fees for reservation services apply.
Standard Site Fee$36.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$48.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$8.00
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

4.47

Recommended

Based on 656 reviews

277 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulhikingwell-maintained

Some mention

noisereservation

"North Pines Campground receives widespread praise for its stunning location in Yosemite Valley, close proximity to iconic trails, and the serene Merced River. However, its popularity makes acquiring reservations highly competitive, and some campers noted issues like crowded sites, noise, and limited privacy."

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Campground Map

9024 Southside Drive

North 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.
The campground is accessible by paved roads from multiple major highways (Highway 41, Highway 140, and Highway 120). Seasonal road conditions may apply; call (209) 372-0200 for updates.
Nearby places
Fresno (approx. 80 miles, 1.5 hours), Merced (approx. 75 miles, 1.5 hours), Manteca (approx. 100 miles, 2 hours)
Nearby supplies
Curry Village (general store, restaurants, bar, showers), Yosemite Village (groceries, souvenirs).

Best Time to Camp at North Pines Campground

Summer days at North Pines unfold in perfect comfort, with temperatures climbing to a pleasant 75°F—ideal for hiking and exploration. As evening descends, the mountain air cools to a crisp 50°F, perfect for gathering around the campfire under a canopy of stars. Autumn brings a painter's palette of colors and refreshingly cool temperatures, while spring visitors should note that snowmelt can transform the peaceful Merced into a powerful force, occasionally limiting campsite availability as nature reclaims portions of the campground.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5
Top 14% in CA

Ideal summer temps (~75°F) and full access to activities; however it's peak, very crowded.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall brings fewer crowds and pleasant conditions; still excellent scenery and access.

Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring offers lush greenery and flowing waterfalls but flooding can impact sites.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

North Pines is closed in winter months (open Jun 15–Oct 29).

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: June 15 - October 29.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: North Pines Campground is open from June 15 to October 29 during peak season.
  • Current Alerts: Flood warnings may be issued in spring due to snowmelt. Visitors should check road conditions and alerts before arrival.

About North Pines Campground

Imagine waking up to the majestic silhouette of Half Dome greeting you through towering pines—this is the magic of North Pines Campground. As one of Yosemite Valley's three coveted reservation-only campgrounds, North Pines places you at the heart of one of America's most breathtaking natural theaters. The gentle murmur of the Merced River provides a constant soundtrack to your stay, while sheer granite cliffs frame the sky above. From here, adventure beckons in every direction—whether you're setting out on legendary trails or simply soaking in the splendor of the valley from your campsite.
North Pines Campground caters to a variety of campers, including those using tents, RVs, and group sites. Primitive camping and glamping options are not available.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
10:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Visitors may stay up to 7 consecutive nights during a visit.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Flush toilets
Dump station
Fire rings
Food storage lockers

Activities you can enjoy

North Pines Campground provides easy access to Yosemite's renowned outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, rock climbing, and fishing. Water-based activities like rafting and wildlife viewing are also popular due to the campground's proximity to the Merced River.
HikingNumerous hiking trails are accessible from the campground, ranging from the easy two-mile Mirror Lake trail to the challenging 14-16 mile trek to Half Dome. Many popular trailheads are within walking distance.
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 near the campground. Specific details about fish varieties or regulations were not provided in the source.
SwimmingThe Merced River near the campground offers opportunities for swimming, especially during summer months. Campers describe it as refreshing and ideal for cooling off.
BikingMany paved and scenic biking trails are accessible from the campground, making it ideal for cyclists to explore the valley floor.
Wildlife viewingRegular sightings of squirrels, deer, Stellar Jays, and even black bears are reported. Campers are advised to use bear-proof lockers and follow wildlife safety rules.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWildlife (especially bears and squirrels) present safety concerns. Seasonal flooding may impact campsites near rivers. High-altitude sickness may affect some visitors.
Active AlertsFlood warnings may be issued in spring due to snowmelt. Visitors should check road conditions and alerts before arrival.
Food Storage RequiredBear-proof lockers are available at each site, measuring 43 x 28 x 35 inches, sufficient for all food and scented items.

Weather at North Pines Campground

Reviews

4.5
656 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
North Pines Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
North Pines Campground receives widespread praise for its stunning location in Yosemite Valley, close proximity to iconic trails, and the serene Merced River. However, its popularity makes acquiring reservations highly competitive, and some campers noted issues like crowded sites, noise, and limited privacy.
Review Summaries
Based on 656 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers love the close proximity to hiking trails, the beautiful setting near the Merced River, and the well-maintained facilities. Many describe the campground as 'magical,' 'peaceful,' and an ideal...
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Based on 656 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include the difficulty of obtaining reservations, campsites being too close together, noise from generators and other campers, and lack of soap in the bathrooms. Some campers also disliked...
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Based on 656 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Arrive early before check-in to maximize your day. If possible, bring bikes for easier access to valley attractions. Consider earplugs for light sleepers and a portable tub for dishwashing as no...
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Based on 656 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, but it also sees high crowds and competition for campsites. Spring offers lush greenery and flowing waterfalls, though flooding can impact some sites. Fall brings...
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Based on 656 reviews

Camper Quotes

'You can’t beat a view of Half Dome over breakfast!' - Naomi G. 'Very relaxing campground right by the river.' - Tim G. 'It’s Yosemite, how can you go wrong?' - Charles B. 'The most magical camping...
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Based on 656 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 111 is praised for its proximity to the river and amazing views. Site 305 is noted for being overgrown and less maintained. Campers recommend avoiding site 401 due to its lack of shade and noisy...
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Based on 656 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible sites and restrooms are appreciated, but some users noted a lack of clear signage or difficulties with certain payment systems (e.g., QR codes for backpackers' campsites).
Based on 656 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but campers caution about bears and ensure pets do not disturb wildlife. Some campers noted that pets are restricted on many trails.
Based on 656 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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