Last updated: September 6, 2022
Article
Bridalveil Creek Campground Water Distribution System in Yosemite National Park to be Rehabilitated through GAOA Funds
NPS / Matt Outhier
The Bridalveil Creek Campground is the only campground on Glacier Point Road and serves nearly 40,000 visitors each year during its 90-day season. It has 108 campsites, two group camp sites, four comfort stations, and a horse camp. A major trailhead at the campground serves many popular backpacking and day hikes.
Project at a Glance: This $3.8 million project will replace the campground's existing water distribution system, groundwater treatment vault, chlorination system, and the non-code compliant underground drinking-water tank. The project will bring the campground water system into federal code and state compliance so the campground can continue providing necessary quantities of safe water for visitor drinking and sanitation.
What are the Benefits: The Bridalveil Creek Water System averages 2,000 gallons of water use per day and only has a daily maximum production of 5,400 gallons. This will be replaced with a new, 10,000 gallon, above ground tank that will provide water storage to meet the peak daily demands of the campground and its visitors. It will ensure clean water to downstream users of the river and will feed into the Bridalveil Falls. The falls become part of the immediate environment and the protected Wild and Scenic Merced River. The updated water system will eliminate over $3 million of deferred maintenance and repairs and eliminate costly unplanned or emergency work on the aging system.
Project Purpose and Goals
This project ensures that the potable water system supporting the Bridalveil Creek Campground visitors meets federal code requirements and regulatory requirements of the California State Water Quality Board. This project will:
- Remove the risk of permit violations and public health exposure to pathogens
- Replace the current rusted tank with an above ground water tank that will provide increased water storage for peak daily demand
- Install five new water meters that allow staff to monitor usage and water loss in the system and determine when water conservation measures are required
- Replace water mains and laterals to all campground facilities
- Mitigate the risk of water service disruptions due to age or system failure from old piping materials and outdated equipment
- Install several new potable water spigots to improve camper access
- Ensure the campground will continue to provide the necessary quantity and quality of safe water for drinking and sanitation to visitors
NPS / Matt Outhier