Explore Yosemite National Park in Your RV

There is a place where large sequoia trees spread across the landscape, exotic wildlife roam the forests, and waterfalls flow down rocks. This magical, remote wilderness is known as Yosemite National Park, and it attracts visitors from all over the world for its natural beauty. If you are thinking about taking a trip to Yosemite National Park, then here is your complete guide. In addition, there are many other places you can explore in California, such as Joshua Tree National Park or a variety of beach wineries, before or after Yosemite.

Know Before You Go

Yosemite National Park has an entrance fee that lasts for seven days. Visitors can also obtain a National Park Pass for 2024 if they plan on visiting multiple parks. From both April 13 to June 30 and August 17 to October 27, reservations are required on weekends and holidays. From July 1 to August 16, reservations are required daily. Both Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road open either late May or in June.

Things to Do

Did you know that 94% of Yosemite National Park remains untouched? Most visitors venture to the Yosemite Valley, where most of the iconic sights and adventures can be experienced. While here, you may spot wildlife, such as the Sierra Nevada Red Fox, mule deer, and black bears. In addition, get ready to explore marvelous waterfalls and majestic sequoia trees, get unreal views of California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, and so much more.

Hike the Half Dome

This famous rock in the park rises 8,800 feet above sea level and 5,000 feet above the valley. As one of  the most iconic adventures in the entire park, Half Dome attracts hikers for its daring ascent and breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley, Vernal and Nevada Falls, and more. This 14- to 16-mile day is not for the faint of heart, but is a worthy adventure for those who are up for the climb. Toward the end of the hike, climbers will hold onto cables to ascend the last 400 feet to the summit. Although intimidating to some, most will say it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Walk Through Mariposa Grove

Have you ever stood under a tree so tall and wide that you couldn’t believe it was real? If not, then you should definitely walk through Mariposa Grove while visiting the park. It’s home to over 500 sequoia trees, such as the famous Grizzly Giant, the oldest one in the park. These ancient trees bring so much life to the park that it would be a shame to miss out on experiencing their magic.

Explore El Capitan

Located on the west end of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan is a popular attraction for climbers, photographers, and hikers alike. This giant granite wall sits 3,000 feet above the valley and is one of the world’s greatest challenges for rock climbers. For those who do not dare to climb it, there is a challenging hike to the top that can be done in a single day.

View Yosemite Falls

As one of the world’s tallest waterfalls, Yosemite Falls is a must-see waterfall in the park. It’s divided into three sections: Upper Yosemite Fall, the middle cascades, and Lower Yosemite Fall. You can hike a mile to the lower falls for an up-close view of this breathtaking body of water. For those who prefer a little more of a challenge, there is also a 6.6-mile hike to the upper falls via Upper Yosemite Falls Trail.

Where to Stay

There are 10 campgrounds in the park that allow RVs and trailers, but there are no hookups available at any sites inside of the park. The maximum RV length allowed is 40 feet and maximum trailer length is 35 feet. From April to October, all campgrounds in the park require a reservation. Campsites fill up fast, so it’s recommended that you make a reservation as early as possible. 

Inside of the Park

• Upper Pines — open year round
• Lower Pines
• North Pines
• Wawona Campground — open year round
• Bridalveil Creek Campground
• Hodgdon Meadow — open year round
• Crane Flat Campground 
• White Wolf Campground
• Porcupine Flat Campground
• Tuolumne Meadows Campground — closed until 2025

Outside of the Park

• McClure Point Campground — hookups available 
• Bagby Campground — hookups available 
• Barrett Cove Campground — hookups available 

Yosemite National Park is truly a paradise for nature lovers. Plus, it’s only a few hours from San Francisco, meaning you can also take a trip to popular destinations in that area as well, such as the Golden Gate National Recreation Area or Redwood National and State Parks. No matter what, you’re guaranteed to have an incredible trip.

See you on the road!