Category: Campgrounds

Camp 4 Campground, located in the heart of Yosemite Valley at 4,000 feet elevation, is a historic and iconic campground in Yosemite National Park, renowned as a mecca for rock climbers and a budget-friendly option for adventurers. With 35 shared tent-only sites accommodating up to six people each, Camp 4 operates on a first-come, first-served basis year-round, with a lottery system during peak season (May 22–September 30). Its compact, walk-in layout and communal atmosphere set it apart from the reservation-based Upper, Lower, and North Pines campgrounds. Situated near Yosemite Falls, Camp 4 offers a unique blend of history, affordability, and proximity to the valley’s iconic landmarks, though its lack of privacy and limited amenities may not suit everyone. Below is a detailed review of its setting, amenities, accessibility, and overall experience, paired with a vivid description of the Yosemite Valley floor.

Description of Yosemite Valley Floor

Yosemite Valley, the stunning backdrop for Camp 4, is a glacial-carved wonder stretching roughly 7 miles long and 1 mile wide at 4,000 feet elevation. Framed by towering granite cliffs, the valley floor is a breathtaking tapestry of natural beauty. The Merced River winds gently through its center, reflecting the surrounding peaks and adding a serene ambiance. Iconic landmarks define the landscape: Half Dome’s sheer granite face rises dramatically to the east, El Capitan’s massive monolith looms to the west, and Yosemite Falls, one of North America’s tallest waterfalls, cascades with peak flow in spring, its roar audible from Camp 4.

The valley floor blends dense forests of Ponderosa pine, California black oak, and white fir with open meadows like Cooks Meadow, which burst with wildflowers in spring and early summer. These meadows attract wildlife, including mule deer, squirrels, and occasionally black bears, adding to the valley’s allure. Approximately 12 miles of paved bike paths and hiking trails crisscross the flat terrain, ideal for exploration by foot or bike. Landmarks like Glacier Point, accessible by a short drive, offer panoramic views of Half Dome, Clouds Rest, and the Sierra Nevada. The valley’s beauty shifts with the light—golden hues illuminate the cliffs at sunset, while morning mists create a mystical atmosphere. Summer crowds, however, can congest trails and shuttle stops, especially near Yosemite Village.

Campground Details

Location and Accessibility

Camp 4 is located on the north side of Yosemite Valley, near the Yosemite Valley Lodge and the base of Yosemite Falls, making it a prime spot for climbers tackling nearby routes like El Capitan and Swan Slab. The campground is reachable via Highway 41 from Fresno, Highway 140 from Merced, or Highway 120 from Manteca, with clear signage guiding visitors to Yosemite Valley. A free shuttle bus stops nearby at the Yosemite Valley Lodge, connecting campers to key attractions like Curry Village, Yosemite Village, and trailheads, reducing the need for driving. The campground is a short walk from the Lower Yosemite Fall trailhead, offering easy access to one of the park’s most popular hikes.

As a walk-in campground, Camp 4 requires campers to park in a shared lot and carry gear a short distance (50–100 yards) to sites. There are no designated wheelchair-accessible sites, and the uneven terrain and lack of paved paths may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. Restrooms are accessible, but the campground’s rustic nature limits overall accessibility compared to Upper, Lower, or North Pines.

Amenities

Each of Camp 4’s 35 sites includes a fire ring with grill, a shared bear-proof food storage locker (33”D x 45”W x 18”H), and access to picnic tables in communal areas. The campground provides flush toilets and drinking water but lacks showers, laundry facilities, or hook-ups for RVs, as it is tent-only. Showers are available at Curry Village or Housekeeping Camp, a 15–20-minute walk or short shuttle ride away. A general store, restaurants, and an activities desk at Yosemite Valley Lodge or Curry Village meet additional needs, such as groceries or tour bookings. A free dump station is available near Upper Pines, about a mile away, though irrelevant for Camp 4’s tent-only setup.

Campsite Layout and Privacy

Camp 4’s sites are arranged in a compact, walk-in layout within a forested area of Ponderosa pines, offering shade but minimal privacy. Sites are shared, with up to six people per site, often strangers, fostering a communal, social atmosphere. “It’s like a climber’s hostel—expect to make friends,” noted a reviewer (The Dyrt, 2021). Sites are closely spaced, with little separation between tents, and noise from neighboring campers or nearby Yosemite Falls can be noticeable. Some sites near the perimeter offer slightly more space, but the overall layout prioritizes efficiency over seclusion. The campground’s historic vibe, with boulder-strewn grounds and climbing gear strewn about, adds to its unique charm.

RV and Tent Camping

Camp 4 is exclusively for tent camping, with no RV or trailer accommodations. Each site allows up to six people, with gear carried from the parking lot to the site. The parking lot accommodates two vehicles per site, with overflow parking available nearby at Yosemite Valley Lodge. Generator use is irrelevant, as the campground caters to a low-tech, tent-based experience.

Reservation and Cost

Camp 4 operates on a first-come, first-served basis year-round, with a daily lottery system during peak season (May 22–September 30). From 8:30 AM, campers register at the kiosk for a lottery drawn at 9:00 AM, assigning sites for that day. The cost is $6 per person per night, making it one of Yosemite’s most affordable options. Outside peak season, sites are first-come, first-served without a lottery, but arriving early (by 6–7 AM) is essential, as spots fill quickly. “We lined up at 5:30 AM and still barely got a site,” reported a camper (Yelp, 2025). A waitlist is available at the kiosk for cancellations, but patience is required. The campground remains open in winter, with fewer sites available due to snow.

Activities and Attractions

Camp 4’s location is a climber’s paradise, with bouldering opportunities and climbing routes like Swan Slab and Glacier Point Apron nearby. The Lower Yosemite Fall trail, a 1-mile roundtrip, is a short walk away, and trails to Upper Yosemite Fall (7.2 miles roundtrip) and Glacier Point are accessible by foot or shuttle. The valley’s 12 miles of paved bike paths make cycling a popular way to explore, with rentals available at Yosemite Valley Lodge or Curry Village. Rafting on the Merced River is an option in summer, and ranger-led programs, including climbing talks and naturalist walks, are offered nearby. Yosemite Village, a short shuttle ride away, houses a museum, art center, and visitor center. The campground’s historic significance—listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its role in climbing culture—adds a unique draw, with climbers often sharing stories around communal fire rings.

Wildlife and Safety

Yosemite Valley is rich with wildlife, including black bears, mule deer, and raccoons, requiring strict food storage protocols. All food, toiletries, and scented items must be stored in shared bear-proof lockers, not vehicles or tents, to prevent bear encounters. “Bears are active here—don’t skip the lockers,” warned a camper (Campendium, 2023). Rangers enforce compliance with citations, and bear sightings are common, especially at night. Trash must be disposed of in bear-proof dumpsters, and recycling stations support the park’s zero-landfill goal. The 4,000-foot elevation may affect those sensitive to altitude, and weather ranges from warm summers (70–90°F) to cold spring and fall nights (30–50°F), with snow possible in winter. Check forecasts, as rain or early snow can impact tent camping.

Campground Map

Camper Feedback

Positives

• Location: Campers love Camp 4’s proximity to Yosemite Falls and climbing routes. “It’s a climber’s dream—steps from bouldering and trails,” said a reviewer (Hipcamp, June 2025).
• Affordability: At $6 per person per night, it’s a budget-friendly option. “Cheapest way to stay in the valley,” noted a camper (The Dyrt, 2021).
• Community: The shared-site setup fosters a unique social vibe. “Met amazing climbers from all over the world,” shared a reviewer (Yelp, 2025).
• Scenery: The forested setting and views of Yosemite Falls are highlights. “Falling asleep to the sound of the falls is unreal,” said a camper (Tripadvisor, 2024).

Negatives

• Crowding and Noise: The shared sites and compact layout mean zero privacy. “You’re basically camping on top of strangers,” complained a camper (The Dyrt, 2020). Noise from climbers or Yosemite Falls can disrupt sleep.
• No Reservations: The first-come, first-served system is stressful. “Waiting in line at 5 AM for the lottery is brutal,” noted a reviewer (Campendium, 2023).
• Limited Amenities: No showers or laundry on-site and shared lockers can be inconvenient. “You’re roughing it here,” said a camper (Yirono
• Bear Activity: Frequent bear visits require vigilance. “A bear got into a neighbor’s tent—use the lockers!” warned a reviewer (The Dyrt, 2021).

Tips for Campers

• Arrive Early: Line up by 5–6 AM for the lottery or off-season first-come, first-served sites, especially in summer. Bring a warm drink for the wait.
• Pack Light: Walk-in sites require carrying gear, so minimize heavy equipment. A cart or backpack is helpful.
• Bear Safety: Store all scented items in shared lockers and consider a padlock for security. Never leave food unattended.
• Bring Bikes: Bikes are ideal for navigating the valley’s paved paths. “Biking saved us from crowded shuttles,” said a reviewer (Tripadvisor, 2025).
• Plan for Weather: Pack for variable weather, including rain gear and warm layers for cool nights, especially in spring, fall, or winter.
• Embrace the Vibe: Be prepared for a social, communal experience. Bring earplugs for noise and a friendly attitude for shared sites.

Overall Experience

Camp 4 Campground offers a unique, budget-friendly Yosemite experience steeped in climbing history and communal spirit. Its location near Yosemite Falls and climbing routes, combined with stunning valley views, makes it a favorite for adventurers willing to embrace its rustic, social setup. The lack of privacy, limited amenities, and competitive site acquisition are drawbacks, but the affordability and vibrant atmosphere make up for it for many. “It’s not for everyone, but it’s the heart of Yosemite’s climbing culture,” summed up a camper (The Dyrt, 2021). With early arrivals, bear safety diligence, and an open mindset, Camp 4 delivers an unforgettable stay in one of the world’s most iconic landscapes.

Sources: Recreation.gov, Yosemite.com, NPS.gov, The Dyrt, Yelp, Tripadvisor, Hipcamp, Campendium, PerfectCamp, CampsitePhotos.com