About Upper Pines Campground — Yosemite NP (Alternate)
The largest and most centrally located campground in Yosemite Valley, Upper Pines is the premier base for
experiencing the valley's world-famous granite walls, waterfalls, and meadows. Trailheads for Half Dome, Mist
Trail, and the John Muir Trail all start nearby.
Highlights
- Half Dome Cable Route permit hike (7 miles)
- Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls
- John Muir Trail southern terminus connection
- Happy Isles Nature Center adjacent
- Valley shuttle stop at campground
Directions & How to Get There
From San Francisco: Take I-580 E to I-205 E to CA-120 E through Manteca, approximately 3.5 hours. Enter
Yosemite via Big Oak Flat Entrance (CA-120) or Arch Rock Entrance (CA-140). Upper Pines is at the east end of
the valley, near Happy Isles.
Nearby Attractions
- Mist Trail to Vernal Falls (0.5 mi)
- Happy Isles Nature Center (0.5 mi)
- Half Dome (8.5 miles one-way)
- Mirror Lake (1.5 mi)
- Valley View overlook (3 mi drive)
Insider Tips
- Half Dome cables require a day-use permit obtained by lottery — apply in March for summer dates
- Bears are extremely active here — mandatory food storage in bear boxes
- Valley floor gets very crowded midday — take the shuttle to trailheads
- Sunrise and sunset light on El Capitan and Half Dome is world-famous photography
Best Time to Visit
Best months: May–September, early October
Season: March–November
Access difficulty: Easy access
What to Pack for California Camping
- Navigation: downloaded offline maps, compass, and GPS device
- Water: at least 3 liters per person per day (more in desert parks)
- Food: bear canister or use provided bear boxes where required
- Shelter: 3-season tent, rain fly, and ground tarp
- Clothing: moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layer, waterproof shell
- First aid kit: including blister treatment, pain reliever, and any personal medications
- Sun protection: SPF 50 sunscreen, wide-brim hat, UV-blocking sunglasses
- Lighting: headlamp with extra batteries, lantern for camp
- Safety: whistle, emergency bivy, and knowledge of your emergency exit route