🏕 Campground
Lower Pines Campground (Yosemite Valley)
About This Permit
Lower Pines is Yosemite Valley's smallest campground, nestled between the Merced River and Tenaya Creek. Its 73 riverside sites are among the most competitive recreation.gov bookings in the country — the Merced River sites are exceptional and the campground sits within walking distance of Mirror Lake and the Half Dome trailhead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Lower Pines different from Upper Pines?
Lower Pines is smaller (73 vs. 238 sites) and sits right on the Merced River and Tenaya Creek confluence — the riverside sites are among the most scenic campsites in the Valley. It's generally slightly more competitive than Upper Pines due to the smaller inventory.
Is Lower Pines open year-round?
No — Lower Pines typically closes for winter (approximately November through March), unlike Upper Pines which maintains limited year-round availability. Exact seasonal dates vary; check recreation.gov for current availability.
What can I do from Lower Pines Campground?
Mirror Lake and the Tenaya Creek canyon are a short walk. The Valley stables are adjacent. Half Dome trailhead (Happy Isles) is a short bike ride or Valley Shuttle stop away. The Village with showers, groceries, and restaurants is 10 minutes on foot.
Key Facts
- State
- CA
- Season
- April – October (seasonal closure in winter)
- Sites
- 73 sites (tent and RV)
- Access
- Yosemite Valley via Hwy 140, 41, or 120; east end of Pines area
- Reservation Window
- Reservations open on the 15th of each month, up to 5 months in advance, at 7:00 AM PT on recreation.gov
- Difficulty to reserve
- 5/5(Nearly impossible)
Get an SMS the moment a cancellation opens — we scan every 60 seconds.
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