Photo Tour of Yosemite National Park

Hotels & Camping

Accessibility
Visitors with disabilities can get an information packet and vehicle wheelchair-emblem placard (for special driving and parking privileges) at entrance stations and information stations.

Lodging
Lodging, eating facilities, and stores are available in the park. Reservations.

Camping
Campgrounds are throughout the park; some are open all year. Most require reservations. Camping is allowed in designated campgrounds only. Staying overnight on roadsides or in parking areas is prohibited. You must register for first-come, first-served campsites; follow instructions posted at campground entrances. There are camping fees and limits on length of stay. For more information, call 209-372-0200.

Campfires
Campfires are permitted only at designated campsites and at existing fire rings in the wilderness. Check local regulations when camping in Yosemite Valley. Burn only dry wood to minimize smoke pollution. Extinguish fires with water before leaving. Smoldering campfires that burn into the ground can travel great distances and burn back to the surface.

Firewood
Gathering firewood is prohibited in Yosemite Valley, in giant sequoia groves, and at elevations above 9,600 feet. It is allowed elsewhere. Gathering anything but dead and down-on-the-ground wood is prohibited.

Cautions
Serious injuries and fatalities occur with frightening frequency. Causes vary, but a common denominator is that victims underestimated the potential danger.

Bears are attracted to human food. In trying to get food and garbage, bears cause hundreds of thousands of dollars in property damage each year. Do not leave food or scented items in your car after dark. Use the food storage lockers when available. Improper food storage is a violation subject to fine.

Mountain lions live in Yosemite National Park. Lion attacks are rare but avoid hiking or running alone. Do not let children run ahead on the trail. If you encounter a lion, do not run or crouch down. Pick up children. Wave, shout, throw stones! If attacked, fight back.

Do not feed wildlife, including birds, coyotes, or squirrels. Your food threatens their survival. While animals may look tame, they can inflict serious injury. It is illegal to feed or approach park wildlife.

Rivers, streams, and waterfalls can be treacherous at all times, especially when water levels are high. Approach them cautiously and be alert for undercut banks and slippery rocks. Fast currents and cold water make a deadly combination. Do not swim or wade above waterfalls or in swift water.

Stay on trails when hiking. Rock climbing and cross-country hiking are for the experienced. Routes are often more difficult than they appear, even a short fall can cause serious injury or death. For safety, horses and mules have the right of way on trails; stand quietly at trailside until they pass.

Do not leave valuables unattended. Store them securely and lock your vehicle. If you camp, place all equipment inside your tent or vehicle when you leave your campsite. Report thefts promptly.

Bicycles are allowed only on paved public roads, in parking areas, and on designated paved bikeways. Pedestrians and wildlife share bikeways, so please ride slowly. Keep right of the center line except to pass. Bicycles are prohibited on trails.

Pets must be kept on a leash and are not allowed on trails, beaches, in public buildings, or the back country. Pets are only allowed in a few campgrounds. There is a boarding kennel at the Yosemite Valley stable in summer.

Fishing is permitted with a California license, which can be purchased in the park. State rules apply for season and catch. Local regulations apply in Yosemite Valley.