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Yosemite National ParkSnowy Half Dome
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Yosemite National Park
Campground Regulations

These are some of the camping regulations that apply throughout the park. Additional regulations may apply at each campground. Violation of these regulations may result in a fine and/or revocation of your camping permit.

  • You must keep your food properly stored from bears 24 hours per day. Find out more about bears and food storage.

  • In Yosemite Valley, campfires are permitted only between 5 pm and 10 pm from May through September. At other times of the year and in out-of-Valley campgrounds, fires are permitted at any time. Fires must always be attended and put out completely with water when not attended (do not let them smolder). Firewood collection (including pine cones and pine needles) is not permitted in Yosemite Valley. We discourage visitors from bringing firewood from more than 50 miles away to prevent spread of forest pests. You can purchase firewood at stores near most campgrounds.

  • Camping or sleeping in vehicles is permitted only in designated campsites. Sleeping in vehicles is not permitted anywhere else in Yosemite.

  • A maximum of six people (including children) are allowed per campsite. There is no limit on the number of tents (as long as they all fit into the campsite).


  • A maximum of two vehicles are allowed per campsite. Both vehicles must be parked on the parking pad. Additional parking is available near each campground for no additional charge.

  • There is a 30-day camping limit within Yosemite National Park in a calendar year; however, May 1 - September 15, the camping limit in Yosemite is 14 days, and only seven of those days can be in Yosemite Valley or Wawona.

  • Pets are permitted in all campgrounds except Camp 4, Tamarack Flat, Porcupine Flat, and all group campsites. Pets must be on a leash and should not be left unattended. Find out more about pet regulations.

  • Quiet hours are from 10 pm to 6 am; generators may be used sparingly during daylight hours.

  • Camp wastewater must be disposed of in designated utility drains. Sewage must be disposed of at designated dump stations (Yosemite Valley, Wawona, and Tuolumne Meadows).

  • Electrical extension cords may not be connected to campground restroom outlets.
Train traveling along the Merced River to Yosemite National Park.  

Did You Know?
Starting in 1907, the Yosemite Valley Railroad brought passengers bound for Yosemite Valley up the Merced River canyon to El Portal. From there, they would take stagecoaches to the Valley. Some of the old train cars are now on display in El Portal.

Last Updated: July 09, 2009 at 01:43 EST