Tuolumne Meadows Campground, located in the high country of Yosemite National Park at 8,600 feet elevation along Tioga Road, is the park’s largest campground, offering 304 single-family sites for tents, RVs, and trailers up to 35 feet, seven group sites, four horse sites, and 21 backpacker sites. Following a major $26 million rehabilitation project funded by the Great American Outdoors Act, it reopened in August 2025 after being closed since 2022. Open seasonally from approximately July to late September (weather permitting), half the sites require reservations through Recreation.gov, while the other half are first-come, first-served. Nestled among lodgepole pines near the Tuolumne River and surrounded by granite domes and alpine meadows, the campground provides a serene base for exploring the Tuolumne Meadows area. Its high elevation, lack of hook-ups, and bear activity require preparation, but its proximity to trails and scenic vistas makes it a favorite for hikers and nature lovers. This review details the campground’s setting, amenities, accessibility, and overall experience, paired with a description of the Tuolumne Meadows area.
Description of the Tuolumne Meadows Area
Tuolumne Meadows, the heart of Yosemite’s high country, is a vast subalpine meadow at 8,600–9,000 feet elevation along Tioga Road, about 5 miles west of the Tioga Pass Entrance Station. Unlike the bustling Yosemite Valley, this area offers a serene, open landscape of sprawling meadows, granite domes, and peaks, dotted with wildflowers in summer and framed by the Cathedral Range, Lembert Dome, and Mount Dana. The Tuolumne River meanders through, creating tranquil spots for picnicking or wading, while nearby Tenaya Lake and alpine lakes like Elizabeth and Cathedral Lakes shimmer against rugged backdrops. The area’s cooler climate (highs of 65–75°F, lows of 30–50°F in summer) and high elevation provide crisp air and spectacular stargazing, with minimal light pollution.
Wildlife thrives here, including black bears, marmots, pikas, deer, and Clark’s nutcrackers, with occasional bighorn sheep in higher elevations. The meadows are a hub for hiking, with trails like the John Muir Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and shorter routes to Soda Springs, Parsons Lodge, and Elizabeth Lake (4.8 miles roundtrip) starting nearby. Rock climbing on Stately Pleasure Dome and fishing in the Lyell Fork are popular, and the free seasonal shuttle connects to Tioga Pass and Olmsted Point. Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center and Wilderness Center offer maps, permits, and ranger-led programs, while the Tuolumne Meadows Store and Grill provide basic supplies and meals. Less crowded than Yosemite Valley, the area embodies the pristine beauty of the Sierra Nevada, ideal for those seeking solitude and adventure.
Campground Details
Location and Accessibility
Tuolumne Meadows Campground is located on Tioga Road (Highway 120), 55 miles (1.5–2 hours) northeast of Yosemite Valley and 5 miles from the Tioga Pass Entrance Station. From Lee Vining, take Highway 120 west for 12 miles; from Yosemite Valley, take Big Oak Flat Road to Tioga Road, a 40-mile drive. The campground entrance, just east of the Tuolumne Meadows Store and Visitor Center, is well-marked with a ranger kiosk. A seasonal free shuttle stops at the campground entrance, connecting to Tioga Pass, Olmsted Point, and Tenaya Lake, reducing the need to drive.
The campground features paved roads and parking spurs, with six wheelchair-accessible sites (Loop B: 37, 38, 39; Loop C: 1, 89, 90) offering extended picnic tables and nearby accessible restrooms. The terrain is relatively flat but rocky in areas, and the high elevation may challenge those with mobility or respiratory issues. No cell service or Wi-Fi is available, so bring a printed or screenshot reservation confirmation. Each vehicle must show proof of reservation and the reservation holder’s ID at the park entrance. Check-in is required within 24 hours of arrival to avoid cancellation; call (209) 372-4025 or (209) 372-8502 if delayed.
Amenities
Each campsite includes a picnic table, fire ring with grill, and a bear-proof food storage locker (35”D x 43”W x 28”H; group sites have five lockers). Flush toilets and drinking water are available, but there are no showers, laundry, or electric/water/sewer hook-ups. A dump station is located on Tioga Road just west of the campground. The Tuolumne Meadows Store, a short walk away, sells groceries, firewood, and supplies, while the Tuolumne Meadows Grill offers meals and ice cream. Laundry and showers are available in Yosemite Valley at Curry Village (55 miles away). Trash and recycling collection are provided, with bear-proof dumpsters to protect wildlife. The campground is generator-free, ensuring a quiet atmosphere.
Campsite Layout and Privacy
The campground spans 140 acres across seven loops (A–G), with sites nestled among lodgepole pines and granite outcrops near the Tuolumne River. Loop A sites (e.g., 1–50) are closest to the river and Lembert Dome, offering scenic views but less privacy due to proximity to the store and trails. “Loop A was great for river access but felt busier,” noted a camper (Hipcamp, 2025). Loops B and C provide more seclusion, with sites like 37–39 and 89–90 praised for shade and space. Group sites accommodate up to 30 people, and horse sites include corrals. The backpacker section, for wilderness permit holders ($6 per person, cash only), is walk-in with no reservations. Privacy varies; some sites are close together, but tree cover helps. “Quiet, full of trees, and not nearly the crowds of the valley,” said a reviewer (The Dyrt, 2025).
RV and Tent Camping
The campground accommodates tents, RVs, and trailers up to 35 feet, though not all sites fit larger vehicles—check site details on Recreation.gov. Horse sites support trailers up to 27 feet. Two vehicles are allowed per site (trailers excluded), with overflow parking available. The generator-free policy ensures tranquility, and heavy tree cover may limit solar panel use. “Our site in Loop C was shaded but tight for our 30-foot trailer,” shared a camper (Campendium, 2025). The Elizabeth Lake trailhead at Loop B provides easy hiking access, and the river offers wading spots, though campfires may be restricted during dry conditions (check NPS.gov).
Reservation and Cost
Half the sites (148) require reservations from July to late September, available up to five months in advance on Recreation.gov, opening on the 15th of each month at 7:00 AM PST. The other half are first-come, first-served, with lines forming by 7 AM. Single-family sites cost $36–$75 per night, group sites $50, horse sites $30, and backpacker sites $6 per person. Demand is high, with sites often booked within minutes. “Log in at 7 AM sharp or stalk cancellations,” advised a camper (Reddit, 2025). A $35 vehicle entrance fee (valid for 7 days) is separate, and day-use reservations may be required from June 15 to August 15, 2025, between 6 AM and 4 PM. Cancellations incur a $10 fee, with additional charges if within 48 hours (individual) or 14 days (group).
Activities and Attractions
The campground is a hub for Tuolumne Meadows’ outdoor activities. The Elizabeth Lake Trail (4.8 miles roundtrip) starts in Loop B, leading to a glacier-carved lake. Other trails include Cathedral Lakes (7 miles), Lyell Canyon via the John Muir Trail, and Soda Springs/Parsons Lodge (1.5 miles), all showcasing alpine scenery. Tenaya Lake, 8 miles away, offers swimming, kayaking, and picnicking. Rock climbing on Stately Pleasure Dome and fishing in the Lyell Fork are popular, and ranger-led programs, like bird walks and campfire talks, are offered daily. “The ranger-led bird walk was a highlight,” shared a camper (Campendium, 2025). The free shuttle connects to Olmsted Point and Tioga Pass, and Yosemite Valley (2 hours) offers additional trails like the Mist Trail and attractions like the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center.
Wildlife and Safety
The area hosts black bears, marmots, deer, and pikas. All food, toiletries, and scented items must be stored in bear-proof lockers to prevent bear encounters; bear spray is prohibited in Yosemite. “Bears visited nightly—use the lockers!” warned a camper (Tripadvisor, 2025). Rangers enforce compliance with citations, and bear-proof dumpsters are provided. The 8,600-foot elevation may cause altitude sickness, so hydrate and rest upon arrival. Weather ranges from warm days (65–75°F) to cold nights (30–50°F), with thunderstorms possible in July and August. “A storm rolled in fast—bring a tarp,” noted a camper (The Dyrt, 2025). Tioga Road closes from November to May/June due to snow. Bring warm layers, rain gear, and a water filter as a backup.
Campground Map
Camper Feedback
Positives
- Scenic Beauty: The high-country setting is a highlight. “The meadows and domes are breathtaking,” said a reviewer (The Dyrt, 2025). Loop A’s river proximity is popular.
- Trail Access: Easy access to hikes like Elizabeth Lake and Cathedral Lakes is praised. “Trails start right from camp—perfect for hikers,” noted a camper (Hipcamp, 2025).
- Quiet Atmosphere: Less crowded than Yosemite Valley. “So peaceful compared to Upper Pines,” shared a reviewer (Tripadvisor, 2025).
- Amenities: Clean flush toilets and nearby store are appreciated. “The grill’s ice cream was a treat,” said a camper (Yelp, 2025).
Negatives
- Privacy: Some sites lack seclusion. “Our Loop A site was too close to neighbors,” complained a camper (Campendium, 2025).
- Reservations: Booking is competitive. “Sites were gone in minutes,” noted a reviewer (Reddit, 2025).
- Site Quality: Some sites are uneven or rocky. “Our site was sloped and rocky—no room for two tents,” said a camper (Hipcamp, 2025).
- No Showers: The lack of on-site showers frustrates some. “Driving to Curry Village for showers was a hassle,” noted a reviewer (The Dyrt, 2025).
Tips for Campers
- Book Early: Reserve on Recreation.gov at 7 AM PST, five months in advance, or arrive by 7 AM for first-come, first-served sites. Check cancellations daily.
- Choose Shady Sites: Request Loops B or C for more privacy and shade when checking in, as site assignments are not site-specific.
- Bring Water: Pack extra water (1 gallon per person per day) and a filter as a backup, especially late season when creek flow is low.
- Bear Safety: Store all scented items in bear lockers and use a padlock. Never leave food unattended.
- Weather Prep: Pack for cold nights and potential thunderstorms. A tarp or rainfly is essential for July–August.
- Acclimatize: Rest upon arrival to adjust to the 8,600-foot elevation. Stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.
- Explore Early: Hike trails like Elizabeth Lake or visit Glacier Point (1 hour away) at sunrise to avoid crowds.
Overall Experience
Tuolumne Meadows Campground is a premier high-country camping destination in Yosemite, offering a serene escape amid alpine meadows and granite domes. Its proximity to trails, the Tuolumne River, and attractions like Tenaya Lake and Glacier Point makes it ideal for hikers and nature enthusiasts, while its quieter vibe contrasts with Yosemite Valley’s crowds. The 2025 renovations have modernized facilities, but the lack of showers, competitive reservations, and variable site privacy require planning. “Tuolumne Meadows is Yosemite’s hidden gem—perfect for unplugging,” summed up a camper (Hipcamp, 2025). With early booking, careful site selection, and bear and altitude precautions, this campground delivers an unforgettable high-country experience under a star-filled sky.
Sources: Recreation.gov, NPS.gov, The Dyrt, Tripadvisor, Hipcamp, CampsitePhotos.com, Yosemite.com, Campendium, Reddit