How much does camping cost at Upper Pines Campground?

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

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

Upper 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 Upper Pines Campground before I book?

Yes! Upper Pines Campground has 13 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.

What is the best time to visit Upper Pines Campground?

Upper Pines Campground is open January 01 to December 31. 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 Upper Pines Campground?

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

How many campsites does Upper Pines Campground have?

Upper Pines Campground has 238 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Upper Pines Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Upper 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 Upper Pines Campground?

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

Upper Pines Campground

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

Fire policies at Upper 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. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.34

1.1K reviews

9024 Southside Drive

Top 3% in CASpring

Seasonal ranking by Open-Meteo.com, licensed under CC BY 4.0, processed by Outdoorithm.

CReport Card

Scenic ViewsGreat Hiking

Featured in:Yosemite Camping Near Yosemite National Park Hiking Camping California

Quick Facts

4,000 ft

Price

$36/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

238 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Recreation.gov Official Website

Get Directions

Elevation by Open-Meteo.com, licensed under CC BY 4.0, processed by Outdoorithm.

Quick Facts

4,000 ft

Price

$36/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

238 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Recreation.gov Official Website

Get Directions

Elevation by Open-Meteo.com, licensed under CC BY 4.0, processed by Outdoorithm.

Upper Pines Campground

$36.00 / night

Campsite Fees

RV NONELECTRIC: $36.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $36.00; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $36.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9...

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

This campground gets 89 cancellations/wk on average — set an alert, we'll notify you instantly.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(209)372-8502

I manage this campground

Ask Camp Sage about Upper Pines Campground

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Campground Map

9024 Southside Drive

Upper Pines Campground

9024 Southside Drive

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)

Weather at Upper Pines Campground

Current alerts(9)

Bears and other wildlife live here! Food and toiletries must be properly stored 24 hours/day. Food storage lockers are provided in all campsites (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 propane bottles, water bottles, food containers and travel mugs. Place all of your recyclable waste in designated recycling containers.
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.
Resale or auction of advance reservations is prohibited.

Best Time to Camp at Upper Pines Campground

Best season: spring. Spring delivers the most dramatic Yosemite experience — waterfalls are at their fullest from April through May and wildflowers and fresh green meadows make the valley vibrantly photogenic, with daytime temperatures typically 45–70°F. Many popular hikes (Vernal/Nevada Falls, Mist Trail, Panorama Trail) are at their peak for scenery and wildlife viewing, though some higher routes may still have snow early in the season. Expect increased crowds on weekends and holidays, so reserve Upper Pines as早as Peak months: May, April, September, October

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

5.0 / 5

Top 3% in CA

Spring is best — waterfalls at full flow, wildflowers and vibrant meadows; highly recommended.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.

Weather data by Open-Meteo.com, licensed under CC BY 4.0, processed by Outdoorithm.

About Upper Pines Campground

Upper Pines sits in Yosemite Valley among towering pines and granite walls, operated by the National Park Service with tent and RV sites. The very large campground offers flush toilets, potable water, and a dump station, with close access to Curry Village and trailheads leading to Vernal Falls, Nevada Falls, and the Mist Trail. Rangers maintain the grounds and assist campers throughout the peak-season operating window.

Upper Pines Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, from tent camping to RVs, but does not offer luxury glamping or cabin options.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: spring. Spring delivers the most dramatic Yosemite experience — waterfalls are at their fullest from April through May and wildflowers and fresh green meadows make the valley vibrantly photogenic, with daytime temperatures typically 45–70°F. Many popular hikes (Vernal/Nevada Falls, Mist Trail, Panorama Trail) are at their peak for scenery and wildlife viewing, though some higher routes may still have snow early in the season. Expect increased crowds on weekends and holidays, so reserve Upper Pines as早as Peak months: May, April, September, October

Elevation4000 ft above sea level

Weather data by Open-Meteo.com, licensed under CC BY 4.0, processed by Outdoorithm.

Natural Features and SceneryCalifornia black oaks, ponderosa pines, incense-cedars, and white firs create dense tree coverage throughout the campground, with whiteleaf manzanita filling the understory. The canopy provides some screening between sites but doesn't eliminate the sense of proximity. Yosemite's granite cliffs rise in all directions beyond the trees. The Merced River runs nearby, offering a constant water soundtrack and access for riverside relaxation. Half Dome and North Dome are visible from certain sites.

Lodging & AccommodationsLodging is not available directly within the campground, but Curry Village nearby provides hotel-style accommodations and cabins.

Programs & ActivitiesYosemite Valley offers ranger-led talks, educational workshops, and guided tours, often accessible from the campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Up to 7 nights between May 1 and September 15
2 reservations allowed per transaction.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Max of 6 guests per site.

Groups

No designated group sites were noted
the campground primarily serves individual and family campers.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations made via Recreation.gov (online, app, or call center).

AccessibilityAccessible campsites and restrooms are available. Restrooms include features such as accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges, and the campground is relatively flat, aiding in navigation.

Site SizeCampsites are varied in size, accommodating small tents to larger RVs. Some sites are described as spacious, while others feel cramped.

PrivacyPrivacy is limited as campsites are close together. Dense tree coverage provides some natural screening, but many campers noted the proximity of neighbors and limited seclusion.

Total Campsites238 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites on outer loops for more privacy and quieter surroundings. Avoid sites directly next to restrooms for reduced foot traffic.

Best CampsitesSite 182 offers more space and seclusion, close to restrooms. Site 9 has views of North Dome. Site 225 is generous in size, near the Happy Isles trailhead and creek. Reviews mention that site size varies widely. Some feel spacious, others cramped.

Need help booking Upper 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

There are no electric, water or sewer hook-ups available at individual campsites. A free dump station is located on-site along with potable water.

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Upper Pines Campground

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.

Hiking5.0/5Top 3% in California

Direct access to Mist Trail, Vernal & Nevada Falls and Mirror Lake — iconic hikes from campground.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Abundant deer, squirrels and occasional bear sightings reported around the campground.

Winter Activities2.0/5

Winter camping is possible but requires snow prep; not a dedicated winter-sports hub.

Cultural and Educational Programs

Water Sports

Signature experiences

Photography5.0/5Close proximity to Half Dome, waterfalls and valley vistas makes it a top photography basecamp.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Food Storage RequiredLockers measure 35 inches deep x 43 inches wide x 28 inches high. Mandatory for all food and toiletries.

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. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available throughout the campground. Campers are instructed to use bear-proof trash bins to minimize wildlife interactions.

Cell CoverageMixed reviews on cell phone service. Some campers reported poor reception, especially for AT&T, while others mentioned slightly better service for Verizon, particularly near the Visitor Center.

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

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Good to know

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, and timing, compiled by Outdoorithm from public reviews and operator information.

Reviews

Rate Upper Pines Campground

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From Booking Sources

4.3

1.1K reviews

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

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 1072 reviews.

Site 182Loved
Site 182: Spacious and private.
Site 211Loved
Site 211: Quiet and near a creek.
Site 94Issues noted
Site 94: Close to amenities but noisy due to proximity to restrooms.

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...

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...

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

Reviews on Outdoorithm

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Upper Pines Campground

$36.00 / night

Campsite Fees

RV NONELECTRIC: $36.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $36.00; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $36.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9...

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

This campground gets 89 cancellations/wk on average — set an alert, we'll notify you instantly.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(209)372-8502

Go if

you want trailheads and valley icons within walking distance and can request a quieter site like 211 near the creek or spacious 182

Skip if

you want solitude, quiet nights, or modern bathroom facilities, since sites near restrooms like 94 stay noisy and the whole campground fills up fast

Nearby alternatives

Three hand-reasoned picks from nearby campgrounds — one per reason you might prefer it over this spot.

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4.1

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Pines Stanislaus sits in the Stanislaus National Forest foothills near Groveland, a convenient base for exploring Yosemite and the surrounding backcountry. Operated by American Land and Leisure, this small campground offers tent and RV sites with vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Campers hike nearby trails, fish and swim in local waterways, and enjoy a quieter alternative to busier parks during the fall shoulder season.

9 miles east of Groveland on Old Highway 120, just east of the Groveland District office.

Pines Campground sits in the Stanislaus National Forest foothills near Groveland, a short drive from Yosemite's western entrance. Operated by American Land and Leisure, the campground offers tent, RV, and group sites with vault toilets, potable water, fire rings, and picnic tables. Visitors use it as a base for hiking and exploring the Little Golden Forest, drawn by its quiet atmosphere and proximity to Yosemite.

Pines Group Stanislaus

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Pines Group Stanislaus is a small group campground in Stanislaus National Forest near Groveland, operated by American Land and Leisure. Set in the Sierra foothills, it accommodates groups up to 50 people with vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings. The location provides access to hiking, fishing, swimming, and climbing, with proximity to Yosemite National Park making it a convenient base for multi-day wilderness trips.

Junction Campground, CA

Junction Campground sits at 9,600 feet in Inyo National Forest, where Highway 120 meets Saddlebag Lake Road near Yosemite's Tioga Pass entrance. The campground's 12 sites occupy a pine-covered stretch with grass understory alongside Lee Vining and Mine Creeks. Sites 1-5 accommodate RVs up to 40 feet, while sites 6-13 take single vehicles no longer than 18 feet. Fees run $10-25 per night.

$10.00 - $25.00 / night

Upper Sage Flat sits at 8,500 feet in Inyo National Forest near Big Pine, offering high-elevation alpine camping along Big Pine Creek. This small campground provides tent and RV sites with flush and vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Reviewers consistently praise the exceptionally clean facilities and attentive camp hosts who maintain raked, tidy sites ideal for hiking the Big Pine Trail system, fishing alpine streams, and wildlife viewing.

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Big Pine Canyon sits at 7,500 feet in Inyo National Forest, serving as the trailhead camp for climbers and hikers bound for the Palisade Glacier and high alpine lakes. This small, seasonally operated campground offers tent and group sites with vault toilets, potable water, and bear-proof lockers. Reviewers praise the clean facilities, helpful hosts, and immediate access to Big Pine Creek trails.

Tioga Lake Campground

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Tioga Lake Campground sits at 9,700 feet on the west side of its namesake alpine lake, three miles from Yosemite's Tuolumne Meadows entrance. The 12-site loop fills quickly in summer but remains quieter than lower-elevation alternatives. Sites cost $22–30 per night and accommodate tents or small RVs under 20 feet. Each has a picnic table, fire ring, and bear locker. The latter mandatory in this active bear habitat, with fines starting at $150 for unsecured food.

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Campgrounds

Yosemite National Park

Upper Pines Campground

Camper Report Card

How campers graded it

Rated higher than 21% of graded campgrounds

Graded on what 648 campers actually wrote - graded on 14 things that make or break a trip. Each topic is graded against every other campground on it - A is among the best, C about average. No star ratings.

Strengths

Grade A+.Getting there
Grade B+.Safety
Grade B.Bugs & weather

Watch-outs

Grade D.Crowds & noise
Grade C-.Booking
Grade C-.Belonging

Every grade - tap to see what campers said

Each topic is graded against every other campground on it; a topic campers liked never grades below C−. ± shows the 95% confidence range from the sample size.

How we grade →See how California grades overall

About Yosemite National Park

Context for the broader area surrounding Upper Pines Campground, sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

Not just a great valley, but a shrine to human foresight, the strength of granite, the power of glaciers, the persistence of life, and the tranquility of the High Sierra. First protected in 1864, Yosemite National Park is best known for its waterfalls, but within its nearly 1,200 square miles, you can find deep valleys, grand meadows, ancient giant sequoias, a vast wilderness area, and much more.

Directions

You can drive to Yosemite year-round and enter via Highways 41, 140, and 120 from the west. Tioga Pass Entrance (via Highway 120 from the east) is closed from approximately November through late May or June. Hetch Hetchy is open all year but may close intermittently due to snow. Please note that GPS units do not always provide accurate directions to or within Yosemite.

Featured in these camping guides

Upper Pines Campground appears in our curated guides. Explore more top-rated campgrounds for the same activities and regions.

Upper Pines Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Upper Pines Campground

Campground Map

Weather at Upper Pines Campground

Current alerts(9)

Best Time to Camp at Upper Pines Campground

Planning Tips

About Upper Pines Campground

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Upper Pines Campground?

Amenities available

RV details

Things to do at Upper Pines Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Get Notified When Available

Go if

Skip if

Nearby alternatives

North Pines Campground

Bridalveil Creek Campground

Tamarack Flat Campground

How campers graded it

Every grade - tap to see what campers said

Directions

Featured in these camping guides

Ask Camp Sage about Upper Pines Campground

Current alerts(9)

Best Time to Camp at Upper Pines Campground

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Upper Pines Campground?

Amenities available

Things to do at Upper Pines Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Nearby alternatives

North Pines Campground

Bridalveil Creek Campground

Tamarack Flat Campground