Camping in Yosemite Just Got a Whole Lot Better
For the first time in six years, Yosemite National Park will have all 13 of its official campgrounds open by the end of summer 2025—a major win for those who crave nights under Sierra stars. If you’ve struggled to secure a campsite in recent years, this news might just open the door to your dream summer adventure.
At Sierra Rec Magazine, we’ve been following Yosemite’s campground availability closely for years. Between renovations, staffing shortages, and shifting reservation systems, Yosemite has seen limited capacity since 2019. But now, the full list of park campgrounds is returning—including White Wolf, Tamarack Flat, and Yosemite Creek, which are set to reopen in phases this June and July.
“We’re very excited to have these campgrounds open to the public as we enter the busy summer season,” said Acting Yosemite National Park Superintendent Ray McPadden. “Camping in this park is truly a magical experience, and we want to provide the opportunity for as many visitors as possible.”
What’s Opening and When?
Here are the key campground reopenings along Tioga Road—some of the most scenic and remote spots in the park:
- White Wolf Campground
Opening: June 20
Reservation Access: Begins June 15 at 7 a.m. PT
Details: Portable toilets only, no drinking water - Tamarack Flat Campground
Opening: June 23
Reservation Access: Begins June 15 at 7 a.m. PT
Details: Vault toilets, no drinking water - Yosemite Creek Campground
Opening: July 1
Reservation Access: Begins June 17 at 7 a.m. PT
Details: Vault toilets, no drinking water
Note: Reservations are managed through Recreation.gov, and each site becomes available exactly two weeks in advance of your intended stay. This rolling release model reduces site crashes and gives last-minute travelers a better chance.
Still to Come: High Country Favorites
While we now have confirmed dates for White Wolf, Tamarack Flat, and Yosemite Creek, the opening dates for Bridalveil Creek, Porcupine Flat, and Tuolumne Meadows are still pending. But based on Yosemite’s latest press release and internal schedules, expect announcements on these within the next two weeks.
Charlie’s Tip:
Tuolumne Meadows Campground has been undergoing major upgrades and will feature RV-friendly sites when it reopens. It’s still a rustic experience, but ideal for those chasing starlit riverside evenings and alpine hikes.
Why This Matters
Opening all campgrounds adds more than 500 new campsites to the reservation pool—significantly easing access for families, first-time visitors, and those planning late-summer trips. More importantly, a campground reservation acts as your vehicle entry pass, which is required for day-use visitors from June 15 through August 15.
If you secure a spot at a campground like White Wolf or Yosemite Creek, you won’t need a separate day-use reservation—a crucial advantage during peak summer visitation.
Booking Yosemite Campgrounds: What to Know
- All reservations are online:
Visit Recreation.gov and search by campground name. - Rolling two-week windows:
You can only book sites 14 days in advance of your arrival date, released daily at 7 a.m. PT. - Campground amenities vary:
Several high-country campgrounds—especially those along Tioga Road—do not have drinking water, so bring filtration or extra supply. - Campground stays = Park entry covered:
A confirmed campground reservation includes your park access for the duration of your stay.
Your Summer Camping Advantage
“If you’ve never camped at Tuolumne Meadows or White Wolf, this summer could be your chance. Picture pulling out your camp chairs by the river, watching stars reflect off granite, with the scent of pine in the air—it doesn’t get better than that in the Sierra.”
— Charlie Pankey, Sierra Rec Now Podcast
While many families already have summer trips booked, these new openings will give spontaneous travelers, local adventurers, and savvy campers a rare opportunity to stay inside the park. And for those looking to avoid the Yosemite Valley crowds, the Tioga Road campgrounds offer alpine peace, wildlife encounters, and trailheads just outside your tent flap.
Next Steps: How to Plan
- Mark Your Calendar:
- June 15 — Reservations open for White Wolf and Tamarack Flat
- June 17 — Reservations open for Yosemite Creek
- Rolling releases continue every day for future dates
- Set Your Alarm:
Log in to Recreation.gov by 6:55 a.m. PT for the best chance at grabbing a site. - Watch for Announcements:
We’ll update you as soon as Tuolumne Meadows, Bridalveil Creek, and Porcupine Flat release official opening dates.
Looking Ahead at Sierra Rec Magazine
We’ll be covering more Yosemite camping hacks, gear reviews, and even dispersed camping locations just outside the park in the coming weeks. Our July backpacking trip to McCabe Lake will also be featured in an upcoming trail-tested story and podcast episode.
Until then, check out our current Yosemite planning resources, including:
- Hidden Hikes of the High Sierra
- How to Camp Without the Crowds
- Best Summer Gear for Sierra Conditions
Have questions or need help planning?
Drop a comment on our YouTube channel or shoot us a message via SierraRecMagazine.com. We’re here to help you #DiscoverMoreSierra this summer.
