Hodgdon Meadow Campground – Yosemite National Park, California

Hodgdon Meadow Campground is a forested campground located near the Big Oak Flat Entrance of Yosemite National Park. Set at a lower elevation than Yosemite Valley, this campground offers a quieter, more wooded setting while still providing access to the park’s iconic granite landscapes. Its location makes it a convenient choice for visitors entering from the west.

Location & Setting

Situated along Highway 120 near the Big Oak Flat Entrance, Hodgdon Meadow sits at approximately 4,900 feet in elevation. The campground is surrounded by mixed conifer forest and seasonal meadow terrain, giving it a peaceful and shaded atmosphere. Because it is outside the busy Yosemite Valley area, the campground tends to feel less congested while still remaining within reasonable driving distance of the park’s major attractions.

Campground Layout

Hodgdon Meadow Campground features a loop-style layout with campsites suitable for tents, vans, and RVs. Many sites can accommodate trailers and larger motorhomes, though individual site lengths vary and should be reviewed in advance. The sites are arranged among tall trees, providing shade and moderate privacy. Due to its elevation and forested setting, temperatures here are often cooler than in Yosemite Valley during peak summer months.

Amenities

Campsites include picnic tables and fire rings. Flush toilets are typically available during the operating season, and potable drinking water is provided. There are no electrical hookups or showers within the campground. As with all Yosemite campgrounds, proper food storage is required, and bear-proof food lockers are provided at each site to help protect wildlife.

Recreation & Nearby Access

From Hodgdon Meadow, visitors can access Yosemite Valley, Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias, and numerous hiking trails throughout the park. The campground’s proximity to Highway 120 makes it particularly convenient for those exploring Yosemite’s western regions or continuing east toward Tuolumne Meadows. Wildlife viewing, photography, and scenic drives are all easily accessible from this location.

Summary

Hodgdon Meadow Campground offers forested camping near Yosemite’s western entrance with convenient access to the park’s iconic landscapes. Its shaded setting, cooler elevation, and quieter atmosphere make it an appealing alternative to the busier campgrounds in Yosemite Valley.