Upper Pines Campground

Star4.35
1.1K reviews
9024 Southside Drive
Scenic ViewsGreat Hiking

Quick Facts

4,000 ft

Price

$36/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

238 campsites

Season

Year-round

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
Upper Pines Campground
$36.00 - $36.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees are $36 per night for all site types, including standard nonelectric, tent-only nonelectric, and RV sites. Reservation fees are additional ($8...
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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

4.35

Recommended

Based on 1.1K reviews

598 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewswell-maintained

Some mention

noise

"Upper Pines Campground is highly rated for its location in Yosemite Valley, close to major trailheads and attractions. Campers appreciate the natural beauty and accessibility, but many expressed concerns about overcrowding, noise, and outdated restroom facilities."

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Campground Map

9024 Southside Drive

Upper 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 year-round by paved roads leading into Yosemite Valley. Road conditions can change due to weather, especially in winter, requiring chains. Call for updated road conditions before arrival.
Nearby places
Fresno: 65 miles (~1.5 hours)
Merced: 70 miles (~1.5 hours)
Manteca: 130 miles (~2.5 hours)
San Francisco: 170 miles (~3.5 hours)
Nearby supplies
Curry Village general store provides food, camping supplies, and showers (for a fee). Fuel stations are available outside Yosemite National Park.

Best Time to Camp at Upper Pines Campground

Experience Yosemite's dramatic seasonal transformations from your campsite. Winter blankets the valley in pristine snow, creating a wonderland that feels worlds away from summer's gentle 65°F days. Spring arrives with spectacular fanfare as snowmelt swells the waterfalls to their most powerful flows, while autumn paints the valley in golden hues. Each season offers its own magic, from crisp winter mornings that demand a warm campfire to perfect summer evenings ideal for stargazing.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Warm (~65°F) and fully accessible; excellent activities but very crowded and busy.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Mild weather and fewer crowds make fall a very good time to visit.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.5 / 5
Top 7% in CA

Waterfalls (Vernal/Nevada) peak in spring; mild temps and great natural displays draw visitors.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5

Winter is quiet and snow-draped but requires winter prep and some services are reduced.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: June 15 - December 31 (peak season pricing applies).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open year-round; reservations available five months in advance.
  • Current Alerts: Road closures and flooding may occur during extreme weather events. Call ahead for current conditions.

About Upper Pines Campground

Nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley at 4,000 feet, Upper Pines Campground serves as your basecamp for exploring one of America's most treasured landscapes. As the valley's largest reservation campground, you'll find yourself perfectly positioned between towering granite monoliths and rushing waters. Wake up to views of Half Dome catching the morning light, spend your days hiking to thundering Vernal Falls, and end your evenings beside the melodic Merced River—all just steps from your tent.
Upper Pines Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, from tent camping to RVs, but does not offer luxury glamping or cabin options.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in starts at 10:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
  • Up to 7 nights between May 1 and September 15
  • 2 reservations allowed per transaction.

Amenities available

Potable water
Flush toilets
Dump station
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Upper Pines offers a wide range of activities within Yosemite National Park, such as hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. It is ideally located for accessing many of Yosemite's famous trails and landmarks.
HikingHiking trails are a primary attraction, with access to iconic trails like Mist Trail, Vernal Falls, Nevada Falls, and Mirror Lake. Trails range from easy lakeside paths to challenging ascents like Half Dome.
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 opportunities are available in the nearby Merced River, though reviews provide little detail on the quality or types of fish.
SwimmingThe nearby Merced River offers swimming opportunities during warmer months. However, campers should be cautious about water levels and currents.
BikingThe campground is biking-friendly, with easy access to Yosemite's paved trails and roads. Many reviewers recommend bringing bikes to avoid crowded shuttle services.
Wildlife viewingWildlife is abundant, including deer, squirrels, and occasional bear sightings. Campers noted frequent encounters with smaller animals, such as squirrels, which can be a nuisance.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWildlife encounters include bears and squirrels. Food storage in bear lockers is required. Snow and icy conditions may limit accessibility in winter.
Active AlertsRoad closures and flooding may occur during extreme weather events. Call ahead for current conditions.
Food Storage RequiredLockers measure 35 inches deep x 43 inches wide x 28 inches high. Mandatory for all food and toiletries.

Weather at Upper Pines Campground

Reviews

4.4
1.1K reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Upper Pines Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Upper Pines Campground is highly rated for its location in Yosemite Valley, close to major trailheads and attractions. Campers appreciate the natural beauty and accessibility, but many expressed concerns about overcrowding, noise, and outdated restroom facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 1072 reviews

What Campers Love

Campground is well-maintained, located near popular trails, and offers stunning views of Half Dome and other landmarks. Many campers praised the helpfulness of rangers and the proximity to Curry...
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Based on 1072 reviews

Common Concerns

Overcrowding, lack of privacy, noisy neighbors, and outdated restrooms are common complaints. The absence of on-site showers is a frequent criticism.
Based on 1072 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

1. Book early as sites sell out quickly. 2. Bring bikes to avoid shuttle crowding. 3. Use bear boxes for all food storage. 4. Prepare for cold weather if camping in winter.
Based on 1072 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter camping is quieter but requires preparation for snow and cold. Summer is busy, with crowded trails and shuttle services. Spring and fall offer a balance of mild weather and fewer crowds.
Based on 1072 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Great centrally located camping spot in the valley.' - Devin Bunch. 2. 'Honestly this is a great campsite, even tho squirrels here ate my bread.' - Stephanie Medina. 3. 'Great for groups or...
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Based on 1072 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 182: Spacious and private. Site 94: Close to amenities but noisy due to proximity to restrooms. Site 211: Quiet and near a creek.
Based on 1072 reviews

Accessibility Features

Restrooms are heated in winter and accessible. Campground is flat, aiding mobility.
Based on 1072 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and campers found the campground dog-friendly with ample areas for walking.
Based on 1072 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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