Crane Flat Campground – Yosemite National Park, California

Crane Flat Campground sits atop a forested ridge near the geographic center of Yosemite National Park, offering a cooler, quieter camping environment away from the congestion of Yosemite Valley. Surrounded by tall pines, sweeping meadows, and easy access to major park roads, Crane Flat is an ideal basecamp for visitors who want a peaceful retreat while still staying within convenient driving distance of Yosemite Valley, Tuolumne Meadows, and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias.

Location & Setting

Located along Big Oak Flat Road just a few miles from the Big Oak Flat Entrance, Crane Flat sits at approximately 6,200 feet in elevation in a high Sierra forest of sugar pines, firs, and incense cedars. Its central location makes it uniquely positioned for exploring the park in multiple directions. Yosemite Valley is about a 30-minute drive to the southeast, while the road to Tioga Pass and Tuolumne Meadows begins just a few minutes away. This blend of accessibility and forest seclusion makes Crane Flat a strategic and scenic location for campers looking to see as much of the park as possible.

Campground Overview

Crane Flat is a sizable campground with multiple loops offering sites for tents, trailers, and RVs. Sites are generally set among dense forest, providing shade and privacy throughout the day. While there are no dramatic cliff or river views here, the peaceful forest ambiance, cooler temperatures, and central placement within the park give Crane Flat a charm all its own. The terrain is gently rolling, and campsites tend to be well spaced, creating a quiet, laid-back camping environment compared to busier valley campgrounds.

Amenities

Campsites include picnic tables, fire rings, and bear-resistant food lockers. The campground offers restrooms with flush toilets and multiple potable water stations. There are no electrical hookups or showers, but the basics are more than covered for a comfortable stay. Because of its elevation and forest setting, nights can be cool even in summer, and campers often appreciate the dense tree cover during the day. Fuel and supplies are available at the Crane Flat gas station and market located just minutes down the road.

Activities & Nearby Access

Crane Flat’s biggest advantage is its central access to the park’s most iconic destinations. Yosemite Valley—featuring El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and the Mist Trail—is a scenic drive to the southeast. To the northeast, Tioga Road leads to high-country highlights such as Olmsted Point, Tenaya Lake, and Tuolumne Meadows. To the south, the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias offers some of Yosemite’s most inspiring old-growth trees. Closer to camp, short forest walks and meadows provide peaceful opportunities for wildlife viewing, photography, and stargazing.

Summary

Crane Flat Campground is an excellent choice for visitors who want a quiet, forest-based camping experience with unbeatable access to all corners of Yosemite National Park. With its shaded sites, modern restrooms, and central location near major junctions, it serves as a comfortable and strategic basecamp for exploring both Yosemite Valley and the Tioga Pass high country. For travelers seeking convenience without giving up tranquility, Crane Flat delivers a balanced and highly rewarding Yosemite camping experience.