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Yosemite National ParkSnowy Half Dome
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Yosemite National Park
Campground Regulations

These are some of the camping regulations that apply throughout the park. Additional regulations may apply at each campground. Violation of these regulations may result in a fine and/or revocation of your camping permit.

  • You must keep your food properly stored from bears 24 hours per day. Find out more about bears and food storage.

  • In Yosemite Valley, campfires are permitted only between 5 pm and 10 pm between May 1 and October 1. At other times of the year and in out-of-Valley campgrounds, fires are permitted at any time. Fires must always be attended and put out completely with water when not attended (do not let them smolder). Firewood collection (including pine cones and pine needles) is not permitted in Yosemite Valley; you can purchase firewood at stores near the campgrounds.

  • Camping or sleeping in vehicles is permitted only in designated campsites. Sleeping in vehicles is not permitted anywhere else in Yosemite.

  • A maximum of six people (including children) and two vehicles are allowed per campsite. Both vehicles must be parked on the parking pad.

  • There is a 30-day camping limit within Yosemite National Park in a calendar year; however, May 1 - September 15, the camping limit in Yosemite is 14 days, and only seven of those days can be in Yosemite Valley or Wawona.

  • Pets are permitted in all campgrounds except Camp 4, Tamarack Flat, Porcupine Flat, and all group campsites. Pets must be on a leash and should not be left unattended. Find out more about pet regulations.

  • Quiet hours are from 10 pm to 6 am; generators may be used sparingly during daylight hours.

  • Camp wastewater must be disposed of in designated utility drains. Sewage must be disposed of at designated dump stations (Yosemite Valley, Wawona, and Tuolumne Meadows).

  • Electrical extension cords may not be connected to campground restroom outlets.
American Indians use traditional ignition methods on a prescribed fire project  

Did You Know?
The indigenous people of Yosemite Valley have used fire as a tool for thousands of years. Fire was used to encourage the growth of plants used for basket making and to promote the growth of the black oak--a sun loving species--and a staple food source for American Indians from this region.

Last Updated: April 16, 2008 at 19:13 EST