Yosemite Family Camping Adventure: An Unforgettable Weekend Under the Stars

Yosemite National Park. Just the name conjures up images of towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and giant sequoia trees. For years, my family – myself, my husband, and our two young children (ages 4 and 6) – had dreamed of experiencing this natural wonder firsthand. Finally, we took the plunge and planned a family camping trip to Yosemite. Was it easy? No. Was it worth it? Absolutely! This is our honest review of camping in Yosemite with kids, the highs, the lows, and everything in between. If you're considering a similar adventure, read on for our hard-earned wisdom and tips for creating your own unforgettable Yosemite family camping adventure.

Finding Our Way to Curry Village (and Back Again!)

Securing a campsite in Yosemite is notoriously difficult. Reservations open months in advance, and spots fill up within minutes. After many failed attempts, we finally snagged a reservation at Curry Village, a partially tent-cabin and partially tent-only campground located in the heart of Yosemite Valley.

GPS Coordinates: 37.7359° N, 119.5727° W

The drive itself was an adventure. We came from the west, taking Highway 140, also known as the El Portal Road. This route follows the Merced River and offers breathtaking views. Be warned, though: the road is winding and narrow in places, so take your time and drive carefully. Road conditions were generally good, but be prepared for potential delays due to construction or rockslides, especially during peak season. Plan for around 6-7 hours drive from San Francisco bay area.

Scenic Viewpoints: Keep an eye out for pull-offs along Highway 140. "Valley View" offers a classic panorama of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and the Merced River. It’s a perfect spot to stretch your legs and capture some stunning photos.

Setting Up Camp: Our Canvas Home in Curry Village

Curry Village is unique. It offers a mix of canvas tents and some traditional campsites. We opted for a canvas tent, thinking it would be easier with the kids. Each tent has beds (a double and a single), a small table, and a bear-resistant food locker.

The campsites themselves are relatively close together, but the towering trees provide a decent amount of privacy. The ground was mostly sandy and flat, making it easy to set up our camp chairs and unpack our gear. Make sure to bring a mallet if you are bringing your own tent as well.

Natural Surroundings: Being in the heart of Yosemite Valley, we were surrounded by stunning scenery. El Capitan loomed large in the distance, and the sound of the Merced River was a constant, soothing presence. We loved waking up to the sight of granite cliffs bathed in the morning sun.

Rules of the Road (and Campground): Bear Aware!

Yosemite takes its campground rules seriously, and for good reason. Bears are a constant presence, and it's crucial to follow all food storage regulations. All food and scented items must be stored in the provided bear-resistant lockers. This rule was strictly enforced, and rangers regularly patrolled the campground to ensure compliance.

Campground Rules: The campground rules were clearly posted at the entrance and throughout Curry Village. Quiet hours were from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM, and generators were prohibited. These rules, while sometimes inconvenient (especially with early-rising children!), definitely enhanced our experience by creating a peaceful and safe environment. The bear safety talks by the rangers were very informative and necessary.

Bathroom Bliss (or Blues): A Necessary Evil

Let’s be honest: campground bathrooms are rarely luxurious. The bathrooms in Curry Village were adequate but not exactly spa-like. They were cleaned regularly, but they could get crowded, especially in the mornings and evenings.

Shower Facilities: Showers were available for a fee. Hot water was plentiful, but the showers themselves were basic. We found it easier to shower the kids using wet wipes and quick rinses at the campsite.

Adventures Await: Hiking, Biking, and Stargazing in Yosemite

Yosemite offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. With young children, we focused on shorter, easier hikes that were still rewarding.

Hiking Trails:

• Lower Yosemite Fall Trail: This paved, 1-mile loop is perfect for families with strollers or small children. The views of Yosemite Falls are spectacular.

• Mirror Lake Trail (partial): We only hiked a portion of this trail, as the full loop is 4 miles. The section we did was relatively flat and offered stunning reflections of Half Dome in the lake (when the water level is high enough).

• Cook's Meadow Loop: Another easy, paved trail with incredible views of Yosemite Valley icons like Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and Sentinel Rock.

Biking: We rented bikes from the Curry Village bike rental stand and enjoyed a leisurely ride along the paved bike paths. This was a great way to see more of the valley without tiring out little legs.

Stargazing: Yosemite's dark skies are perfect for stargazing. We brought a blanket and lay on the meadow near our campsite, marveling at the Milky Way. It was a truly magical experience.

Other Activities: Yosemite Valley has something for everyone. We saw families rafting on the Merced River, rock climbing, and taking ranger-led programs. Be sure to check the park's website for a schedule of events.

The Verdict: A Resounding Yes (with Caveats)

Based on our experience, we would absolutely recommend Yosemite National Park to other families seeking outdoor adventures. However, it’s important to be prepared.

Who is Yosemite Camping Best Suited For? Yosemite camping is best suited for families who are comfortable with basic amenities, are prepared for crowds, and are willing to follow strict campground rules. It’s also ideal for families who enjoy hiking, biking, and exploring nature. Families new to camping might prefer a canvas tent as it provides basic amenities.

Highlight of the Trip: The highlight of our trip was simply being surrounded by Yosemite's incredible scenery. Waking up to the sight of El Capitan, hiking beneath giant sequoia trees, and stargazing under the Milky Way were all unforgettable experiences.

What Could Have Been Better? The crowds were definitely a challenge. Yosemite is a popular destination, and it can feel overwhelming at times. It would have been nice to have a bit more space at our campsite, and the bathroom facilities could have been cleaner. Booking a shuttle bus ticket can also be confusing and they tend to sell out quickly. We had to set our alarm to catch the shuttle ticket release a day prior to when we need them, and they were sold out within minutes.

Tips for a Successful Yosemite Family Camping Trip

• Book your campsite well in advance. Reservations open months ahead of time, and they fill up quickly.
• Pack for all types of weather. Yosemite's weather can be unpredictable, even in the summer. Bring layers of clothing, rain gear, and sunscreen.
• Be bear aware. Follow all food storage regulations and never leave food unattended.
• Bring plenty of water. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when hiking.
• Plan your activities in advance. Yosemite is a large park, so it's helpful to have a plan for what you want to see and do.
• Embrace the crowds. Yosemite is a popular destination, so be prepared to share the trails and viewpoints with other visitors.
• Download maps and information before you go. Cell service can be spotty in Yosemite. Download offline maps and important information before you arrive.
• Bring insect repellent. Mosquitoes and other insects can be a nuisance, especially in the evenings.
• Leave no trace. Pack out everything you pack in and help keep Yosemite clean for future generations.

Ready to Plan Your Yosemite Family Camping Adventure?

Yosemite National Park is a truly special place. While camping with kids can be challenging, the rewards are well worth the effort. With a little planning and preparation, you can create your own unforgettable Yosemite family camping adventure. We are already planning our return trip!

Now it's your turn! Have you ever been to Yosemite National Park? What were your favorite activities? What are your must-have camping essentials? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!