Wawona Campground

Star4.31
1.2K reviews
PO BOX 577, Yosemite National Park, CA, 95389, USA
SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

4,000 ft

Price

$36 - $75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

93 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
Wawona Campground
$36.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard campsites are priced at $36/night, and group tent areas cost $75/night. Fees do not include taxes or discounts. Additional charges apply for...
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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$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
209-375-9535
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What Campers Say

4.31

Recommended

Based on 1.2K reviews

232 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewspeacefulcleanlocation

Some mention

noise

"The Wawona Campground generally receives positive reviews for its serene setting, river access, and proximity to Yosemite's attractions. Some campers noted noise from nearby roads and the lack of showers as drawbacks."

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Campground Map

PO BOX 577, Yosemite National Park, CA, 95389, USA

Wawona Campground

PO BOX 577, Yosemite National Park, CA, 95389, USA

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 Wawona. The campground is located 8 miles north of the South Entrance station on Highway 41, and 27 miles south of Yosemite Valley.
Road access is good, with paved highways leading to the park via multiple routes (Highway 41, 140, and 120). Seasonal traffic and weather conditions might affect accessibility, especially during peak times or winter months.
Nearby places
Fresno - approximately 1.5 hours
Merced - approximately 2 hours
Manteca - approximately 2.5 hours
Yosemite Valley - 45 minutes (27 miles).
Nearby supplies
General supplies, firewood, and gas are available at the Wawona Store, located about a mile south of the campground. Additional supplies available in Yosemite Valley or nearby towns like Oakhurst.

Best Time to Camp at Wawona Campground

Summer transforms Wawona into a sun-dappled paradise where daytime temperatures climb to a comfortable mid-80s—perfect for river wading and afternoon hikes. As darkness falls, the mercury dips into the crisp 40s, creating ideal sleeping weather under a canopy of stars. Winter brings a completely different magic, with occasional snowfall dusting the pines and transforming the landscape into a wonderland for the hardy few who brave the cold. Spring awakens the wildflowers and fills the river with snowmelt, while autumn paints the surrounding forest in golden hues, both seasons offering moderate temperatures that many consider the perfect camping weather.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer noted as sun-dappled, mid-80s, ideal for river wading and hikes though busy.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Should offer pleasant weather and quieter crowds; less direct data than other seasons.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring praised for lush scenery and flowing waterfalls; good season for visits.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5

Open year-round; winter is quieter with snow/rain photo ops but limited amenities.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 1 to September 15.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open year-round; reservations available for peak season (May 1 to Sept 15).
  • Current Alerts: Seasonal flooding may occur during snowmelt periods. Construction and renovations might affect facilities.

About Wawona Campground

Nestled in the southern reaches of Yosemite National Park, Wawona Campground beckons adventurers to experience the quieter side of this iconic wilderness. At 4,000 feet elevation, this riverside retreat spreads across 93 thoughtfully arranged campsites through three distinct loops—A, B, and C—each offering its own character and charm. The gentle murmur of the South Fork Merced River provides a natural soundtrack as it winds past your tent, while families gather around evening campfires and equestrians settle their horses for the night. Just minutes away, the ancient giants of Mariposa Grove stand sentinel, making Wawona the perfect basecamp for those seeking both tranquility and adventure in America's most treasured national park.
The campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including tent camping, RVs, and group camping options.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in is 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum 7 nights during peak season (May 1 to Sept 15).

Amenities available

Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

Wawona Campground offers a variety of recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination in Yosemite National Park. Activities include hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing, with the scenic Merced River flowing alongside the campground and providing tranquil spots for sunbathing and relaxation.
HikingNumerous hiking trails are accessible from the campground, including the Wawona Meadow Loop, Swinging Bridge Loop, Alder Creek, and Chilnualna Falls. Trails vary in difficulty, offering options for both casual walkers and experienced hikers.
FishingFishing in the South Fork of the Merced River is noted as a pleasant activity, though some reviews indicated variable success among anglers. Trout fishing is particularly popular.
SwimmingSwimming in the Merced River is a favorite activity during warmer months, with private areas available for sunbathing or floating downstream on inner tubes.
BikingThe area near the campground offers several bike-friendly paths, including routes to the Wawona History Center and Mariposa Grove.
Wildlife viewingThe campground is home to diverse wildlife, including deer and birds. Reviews highlight the tranquil environment as ideal for observing nature.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsAn amphitheater located in Loop B hosts ranger-led programs, including evening talks on local history and wildlife.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBear activity is common; campers must store all scented items in lockers provided. Mosquitoes are prevalent during warmer months. Sloping ground at some campsites can pose challenges for tents.
Active AlertsSeasonal flooding may occur during snowmelt periods. Construction and renovations might affect facilities.
Food Storage RequiredLarge bear-proof lockers are available at all campsites, measuring 35"Dx43"Wx28"H.

Weather at Wawona Campground

Reviews

4.3
1.2K reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Wawona Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Wawona Campground generally receives positive reviews for its serene setting, river access, and proximity to Yosemite's attractions. Some campers noted noise from nearby roads and the lack of showers as drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 1172 reviews

What Campers Love

Guests appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, clean facilities, and scenic location near the Merced River. Many reviews highlight the friendly staff and the variety of nearby activities, including...
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Based on 1172 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints include the lack of showers, uneven or sloped campsites, and proximity to the road causing noise at some sites. Some sites were also criticized for being too close together,...
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Based on 1172 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

It's recommended to book reservations well in advance due to high demand. Campers suggest bringing a pop-up canopy for shade and water shoes for river activities. Arriving early to secure parking in...
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Based on 1172 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months are busy, with reservations filling up quickly. Winter offers a quieter experience but limited amenities. The spring season is noted for its lush scenery and flowing waterfalls.
Based on 1172 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The sound of the river at night was so peaceful." - Joanna M. "Loop B is serene and secluded with great access to the river." - Ann Y. "Bring bug spray; mosquitoes can be annoying during summer...
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Based on 1172 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Reviews frequently mention Loop C for its proximity to the river and relative privacy. Site 31 in Loop B is noted for its location near the amphitheater and facilities. Some Loop A sites closer to...
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Based on 1172 reviews

Accessibility Features

Limited information is available, but some reviews mention paved areas and clean restrooms as beneficial for accessibility.
Based on 1172 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The campground is described as pet-friendly, with ample space for walking dogs. However, pets must be leashed at all times.
Based on 1172 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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