Camping at North Pines Campground in Yosemite Valley

Destinations West California Yosemite Valley

Camping at North Pines Campground in Yosemite Valley

Camping at North Pines Campground in Yosemite Valley is a quintessential outdoor experience, offering campers a chance to immerse themselves in one of the most scenic sections of Yosemite National Park. Renowned for its breathtaking surroundings and proximity to top attractions, this location provides access to stunning landscapes, serene rivers, and unparalleled stargazing opportunities. Its central location underscores its importance as an iconic camping hub for adventurers visiting Yosemite Valley.

### Adventure Guide to Camping at North Pines Campground

1. Prime Location Along Merced River

North Pines Campground is located along the Merced River, providing campers with serene views and the relaxing sound of running water. Sites closest to the river are particularly sought after for their picturesque atmosphere. Visitors can also enjoy fishing opportunities or take in the river’s beauty during a morning walk.

2. Access to Iconic Yosemite Hikes

This campground is minutes away from world-class trails such as the Mist Trail (trailhead is approximately a 10-minute drive). Whether you're tackling a trek to Vernal Falls or opting for the more challenging path up Nevada Falls, staying at North Pines ensures you're not far from these celebrated hikes.

3. Well-Equipped Camping Experience

North Pines offers a range of amenities, including fire pits, picnic tables, and a dump station. Restrooms are equipped with flush toilets, but no showers are available on-site. Campsites accommodate both tents and RVs (up to 35 feet), making it suitable for different types of campers. There’s also easy access to Yosemite Valley's shuttle system, offering no-hassle transportation to nearby landmarks like Half Dome Village.

Local Insights

North Pines Campground is one of Yosemite's three reservation-only campgrounds in the valley, making it highly competitive during peak seasons. Locals recommend booking through the Recreation.gov platform six months in advance, as sites fill up quickly. In spring, melting snow causes the Merced River to swell, creating dramatic, must-see views.

Visitor Tips

Best Times: Late spring to early fall for optimal weather.
What to Bring: Bear-proof storage containers (provided but required for food), layered clothing, flashlights, and firewood (purchase locally).
Directions: From Yosemite Village, North Pines is a 10-minute drive southeast. Follow Southside Drive, then signs for the campground.

Adventure Map

Reviews

Randy Kielan5 months ago

Always an absolute joy and amazing experience. Every year we try to get reservations for at least a few days of camping in Yosemite Valley but as soon as they release the campsites we try to grab them but they are taken within minutes of the release. This year we were blessed with a week stay in North Pines Campground in July, which is a total miracle. We always have a great time sharing our camping experiences with my wife’s family. This year was so great having our campsite for those with tents and my Sister in law had an RV at their site. We had the Grill and Upright Stove which worked best for some of the meals and the RV accommodated the other venues. We enjoyed swimming in the Merced River for refreshment. The Trams were running from Curry Village to Yosemite Village and the rest of the normal Valley Destinations. They were still working on construction for the Campground destinations. Curry Village and Yosemite Village always have any grocery items that you would want if you forgot them or just simply ran out. There are plenty of hiking trails for all levels of hiking that you and your family and friends can enjoy. I recommend having All Trails App and the preloaded trails to assist you in navigating your hiking along with bringing plenty of water please. Already missing Yosemite and looking forward to our next trip.

Leigh Fitz2 months ago

I've been going to Yosemite for years and this was my favorite campsite. Great views all the way around, we were right on the Merced and the camp host was very good at keeping things quiet.

Chris Schnaufer3 months ago

My family, friends and I Usually spend time in Yosemite a couple times or more each year. That said, we usually stay in Upper Pines campground as is typically easier to get a reservation. So, staying in North Pines was a welcome treat. Very clean facilities. No load, late night parties. Mostly larger than average, Yosemite valley size camp sites. It was a very pleasant stay, looking to spend more nights at North Pines!🤙

Christian Clermont7 months ago

Nicely located in the Valley. There is water and toilets near each loop, but 20 min walk to get to the showers (Curry village). We were able to see a lot using our bikes from this campground. Nice views (half dome) and access to Merced River. The sites are close one to each other.

Teal DuPré4 months ago

Beautiful campground, great for families. Clean bathrooms but bring your own hand soap, no showers available but you can use pay showers at Curry Village. Dog friendly but even on Labor Day weekend people were good about keeping their dogs under control. Fire pits are available but can only be used from 5pm-10pm. The river was low and slow, great for small kids playing safely, but still had plenty of deep spots if you wanted to get fully submerged on a hot day. Quiet hours were better observed at North Pines than across the river at Lower Pines where they were having a raucous time and big fires even at midnight. Despite the very large crowds for the holiday, it was still an enjoyable stay.