Lower Pines Campground – Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park

Lower Pines Campground is one of Yosemite Valley’s most sought-after camping areas, offering a rare chance to stay among towering granite walls, ponderosa pines, and the flowing waters of the Merced River. Located near Curry Village and within walking distance of iconic Yosemite Valley landmarks, it provides an ideal balance of scenery, convenience, and classic national park camping.

Location & Access

The campground sits on the eastern end of Yosemite Valley, just south of the Merced River and close to trailheads, shuttle stops, and major viewpoints. Yosemite Valley’s loop road passes directly beside the campground area, giving campers quick access to sites like Mirror Lake, Happy Isles, and the base of Half Dome. Lower Pines’ central location makes it one of the most convenient basecamps for exploring Yosemite’s world-famous granite landscape.

Campground Overview

Lower Pines is a medium-sized campground with approximately 90+ sites suitable for tents, trailers, and smaller to mid-sized RVs. The sites are arranged in several loops with a mix of shaded and open locations, many offering excellent views of Glacier Point, Half Dome, or surrounding cliffs. Because of its position along the Merced River corridor, some sites are just a short walk from the riverbank, while others sit among tall pines and meadows. The campground’s layout feels open yet cozy, with easy access to restrooms, bear-proof food lockers, and pedestrian paths throughout the valley.

Amenities

Campsites at Lower Pines include picnic tables, fire rings, and mandatory bear-resistant storage lockers at each site. Restrooms with flush toilets and potable water are located throughout the campground, and showers are available nearby at Curry Village. Dump stations are located at the entrance to Yosemite Valley campgrounds, though sites within Lower Pines do not offer hookups. The campground sits along multi-use paths, making it easy to bike or walk to Half Dome Village, the Visitor Center, and many trailheads without needing to move your vehicle.

Activities & Nearby Trails

Lower Pines offers immediate access to many of Yosemite’s most popular trails and scenic areas. From the campground, you can walk to the trailheads for Mirror Lake, Vernal and Nevada Falls via the Mist Trail, and the John Muir Trail. Ranger programs, stargazing events, and photography opportunities are abundant. In summer, the Merced River offers relaxing beaches and wading areas nearby, while elk, mule deer, and black bears occasionally wander through the meadows. Whether hiking, sightseeing, or simply enjoying Yosemite Valley’s dramatic walls glowing at sunset, the campground offers a front-row seat to it all.

Summary

With its central location, classic campground atmosphere, and proximity to world-class trails and views, Lower Pines Campground is one of the most desirable places to stay in Yosemite National Park. It blends convenience with unforgettable scenery, offering campers a chance to immerse themselves directly in the heart of Yosemite Valley. For those looking to explore waterfalls, granite domes, and historic sites without long drives, Lower Pines is an exceptional basecamp.