Not many places in the United States are more grand than Yosemite National Park. Its vast wilderness, ranging from deep valleys to grand meadows, attracts millions of visitors each year who are drawn in by its breathtaking views and adventure-filled outdoor activities.
While Yosemite National Park has ten RV campgrounds, it can be difficult to snag a reservation. Luckily, that doesn’t have to put an end to your Yosemite camping dreams.
Camping outside of Yosemite at an RV resort can give you incredible views, easy access to must-see sites, and amenities to make your stay extra comfortable— without the huge crowds that you’ll see in the park.
What to Consider When RVing Outside of Yosemite
When choosing a place to park your RV outside Yosemite, consider the following factors.
1. Know your Yosemite entrances.
There are five entrances to Yosemite National Park. When booking an RV site, be sure that your RV park is near an entrance that will be open when you visit.
- South Entrance (via Highway 41): Open year-round.
- Arch Rock Entrance (via Highway 140): Open year-round.
- Big Oak Flat Entrance (via Highway 120 from the west): Open year-round.
- Hetch Hetchy Entrance: Open year-round from 7 am to 9 pm with intermittent closures due to snow.
- Tioga Pass Entrance (via Highway 120 from the east): Closed from November through late May or June.
Remember, being close to the park as the crow flies doesn’t necessarily mean easy access to the park. Always be sure to route distances on a map app or GPS.
2. Consider proximity to popular Yosemite sites like Half Dome, Mariposa Grove, and more.
Yosemite National Park covers nearly 1,200 square miles of the Sierra Nevada! That means that there will be some amount of driving involved, no matter what you want to see in the park.
That said, if you have some must-sees on your list, you should account for their proximity to your campsite.
Some popular park attractions include:
Mariposa Grove
Home to over 500 giant sequoias, Mariposa Grove is a majestic forest that includes the Grizzly Giant and the California Tunnel Tree. It is a must-visit for those looking to immerse themselves in ancient woodland. Distance to Mariposa Grove from Yosemite RV Resort: 27 miles
Wawona
Wawona is a tranquil area within Yosemite that captivates visitors with its charming meadows and historic sites. It serves as a quieter retreat from the more frequented areas of the park, ideal for those seeking serenity and scenic beauty. Distance to Wawona from Yosemite RV Resort: 29 miles
Tunnel View
Tunnel View is one of the most famous vistas in Yosemite National Park. It offers a stunning snapshot of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall all in one frame, especially striking at sunset or after winter snow. Distance to Tunnel View from Yosemite RV Resort: 49 miles
El Capitan
Towering more than three Eiffel Towers above Yosemite Valley, El Capitan is a massive granite monolith renowned for its imposing presence and challenging climbs. Distance to El Capitan from Yosemite RV Resort: 56 miles
Yosemite Falls
Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls on the continent, cascades spectacularly over 2,425 feet. Its dramatic plunge attracts visitors from around the globe, especially during the peak flow in late spring. Distance to Yosemite Falls from Yosemite RV Resort: 57 miles
Glacier Point
Glacier Point offers a jaw-dropping overview of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra. Accessible by car, it is a popular spot for sunrise and sunset, providing visitors with some of the most spectacular views in the park. Distance to Glacier Point from Yosemite RV Resort: 58 miles
Half Dome
Half Dome is an iconic granite dome that rises nearly 5,000 feet above Yosemite Valley. This natural marvel is famous for its challenging hike and the breathtaking views from the summit. Distance to Half Dome from Yosemite RV Resort: 59 miles
Hetch Hetchy
Known for its stunning reservoir and less crowded hiking trails, Hetch Hetchy offers a tranquil retreat with waterfalls, wildflowers, and panoramic views similar to those of Yosemite Valley but with far fewer visitors. Distance to Hetch Hetchy from Yosemite RV Resort: 87 miles
3. Look at the RV resort’s amenities.
Not all RV parks and resorts are created equal, and the amenities they offer can make or break your camping experience.
When choosing your base outside Yosemite, consider what is essential for your comfort and convenience. Many resorts offer basic amenities like water, electricity, and sewage hookups, which are a must for long stays. However, more extensive amenities such as Wi-Fi and on-site convenience stores can make your stay even more comfortable.
Some resorts (like Yosemite RV Resort) will even have pools, playgrounds, picnic areas, and communal fire pits to add to the fun!
4. Think about other things to do nearby.
The Yosemite region is more than just the park! Beyond the park’s boundaries, there is a rich tapestry of activities worth exploring.
Wanting to go wine tasting along the Madera Wine Trail, try your luck at the Chukchansi Gold Casino, or hop aboard the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad for a quaint sightseeing adventure? Make sure your RV resort is close to all of these things to do!
What to Keep in Mind When Yosemite RVing
If you’re staying outside of Yosemite, there are a few additional things to keep in mind.
Yosemite Permits and Reservations
Yosemite is popular! Because of this, a reservation is required to drive through or into the national park on select days from April 13 through October 27, 2024.
- April 13 through June 30: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
- July 1 through August 16: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm daily.
- August 17 through October 27: You’ll need a reservation from 5 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
If you are planning your trip between these dates, be sure to obtain a reservation— even if you just plan on making a day trip to do some sightseeing.
Getting Around
To manage the limited parking within Yosemite, the National Park Service recommends using Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) buses to get into the park. Once inside, free shuttles and paid tours can help navigate the park’s main attractions.
If you do decide to take your RV into the park, think about what roads you’ll be traveling. While most Yosemite roads can accommodate RVs, certain areas like Glacier Point, Mariposa Grove, and Hetch Hetchy have roads with restrictions.
Keep in mind that limited parking makes early arrival a must, especially in summer. Large vehicles like class A and C RVs can park at Curry Village and near Yosemite Falls. Smaller class B RVs have spots in Yosemite Village and west of Yosemite Valley Lodge.
Plan Ahead of Time to RV Yosemite
Places around Yosemite book up quickly during peak season, so be sure to take the time to plan your trip ahead of time! Start the process by booking your stay at Yosemite RV Resort.
Its convenient location along Highway 41 in Coarsegold makes it easy to get to the park, as well as other nearby attractions and activities. Beautiful RV sites with all of your must-have amenities— plus some!— will ensure you have a quiet, comfortable stay.
Happy travels!
