If you’ve tried and failed before, Yosemite camping reservations may seem like an impossible task to accomplish. One of America’s most beloved national parks draws more people than its facilities can handle. However, don’t lose hope. Instead, utilize this guide to gain valuable tips and strategies to increase your chances of securing that coveted spot.

When Do You Need Yosemite Camping Reservations?

From March 15 through November, a reservation is necessary for drive-in campgrounds in Yosemite Valley. Additionally, reservations are required during summer and fall for Hodgdon Meadow, Crane Flat, Wawona, and parts of Tuolumne Meadows.

The maximum total days for Yosemite camping per year is 30. During the period of May 1 to September 15, one stay is limited to seven days in Yosemite Valley and 14 days elsewhere.

How to Make Yosemite Camping Reservations

Housekeeping Camp and the tent cabins at Curry Village operate under a different reservation system compared to other campgrounds in Yosemite. They are the only campgrounds with showers as well. Reservations can be made online with fewer restrictions than those described below.

Yosemite camping reservations for the rest of the national park are released one month at a time, five months in advance, specifically on the 15th of each month. For instance, if you wish to camp between July 15 and August 14, count back five months from the start of that period (not from your desired camping date). This means you can begin reserving for any date between July 15 and August 14 on March 15. Check the reservation calendar on the Yosemite website.

Do not hesitate. Reserve promptly on the 15th at 7:00 a.m. for the best selection of campsites.

Yosemite camping reservations can be made via telephone at 800-44-6777 or 518-885-3639 for those calling from outside the United States and Canada. The online reservation system can be frustrating; thus, an old-fashioned phone call may be preferable.

If you encounter difficulties using the online reservation system, don’t despair. Consider reserving multiple sites, each for different dates. If you aim to stay several days, start your search with just one night and explore your options.

If your desired reservation isn’t available, consider using the service Campnab. For a small fee, they will monitor the reservation system for up to four months, alerting you when openings arise. Their checks occur every five minutes to an hour, depending on your chosen service level.

Getting Ready to Make Yosemite Camping Reservations

You must act quickly to secure your desired campsite when your reservation window becomes open. Here’s what to prepare ahead of time, so you’re ready to click at 7 a.m.

Utilize the campground guide to determine optimal campground choices prior to diving into the reservations system. Select two or three campgrounds of interest and review maps to identify which campsites suit your preferences best. Being organized will expedite your reservation process, especially over the phone.

Clarify how many sites you require. Yosemite camping sites accommodate a maximum of six individuals (children included) and two vehicles. Reservations are limited to two per phone call or online transaction; therefore, if you need more, enlist assistance from a friend.

Opt for smaller campgrounds, as they tend to fill up first and provide a more pleasant, less congested atmosphere during the evening. If one is your top choice, reserve it first to secure your spot.

You Can Camp at Yosemite Without Reservations

Many individuals mistakenly believe that reservations are required for all Yosemite campsites and must be made well in advance. However, this is not entirely accurate. If you are flexible, you may still find a site at the last minute—provided you understand how the system operates.

Approximately 400 Yosemite camping sites are available during summer on a “first come, first served” basis without the need for reservations. In winter, half of the 500 sites open during that season do require prior reservations.

If you aim for a first-come, first-served campsite, arrive early. The Park Service suggests reaching by noon on weekdays and mid-morning on weekends from spring through fall, but arriving by 9:00 a.m., an hour prior to checkout, is advisable—or even earlier.

Especially for Camp 4 or Tuolumne Meadows, arriving significantly earlier may be necessary. Additionally, first come, first served campsites are particularly limited in May and June before Tioga Pass Road opens and additional spaces become available. Recorded availability can be checked at 209-372-0266. Find more details on the Yosemite website, including a list of campgrounds without reservation requirements.

From fall through early spring, securing spots becomes easier. During the middle of the week, open sites can often be found even at campgrounds requiring reservations; however, if traveling from afar, it is wise not to take unnecessary risks.

Checking In

Should you arrive late on the first day of your reservation, your campsite assignment will be posted at the entry kiosk. If you arrive the following morning, your reservation will be canceled by 10:00 a.m.

For instance, if your reservation starts on the 5th and you arrive at 11:00 a.m. on the 6th, it will be too late. If you anticipate being late, arrange for accommodations by calling 209-372-4025.