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Camp 4 Yosemite

4.5
·143 reviews·YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK, United States

Historic walk-in campground in Yosemite Valley, famed for its climbing legacy and social vibe. Prime access to iconic granite walls and trails.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the crowds & heat

CrowdMedium
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Camp 4 - Image 1

Camp 4 Yosemite

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the crowds & heat

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic walk-in campground in Yosemite Valley, famed for its climbing legacy and social vibe. Prime access to iconic granite walls and trails.

4.5
(143 reviews)

"It's a really cool place, and it's easy to make friends during my stay, we actually met two new friends and explored Yosemite together."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Reservations ASAP

Camp 4 sites are walk-in and highly competitive. Book exactly at 7 AM PT on Recreation.gov a week in advance. :ticket:

🚗 Park & Walk to Site

Cars are not allowed directly at campsites. You'll need to park and walk a short distance to your site. :car:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Climbing Culture

Historic Climbing Culture

Camp 4

Immerse yourself in the legendary rock climbing history of Yosemite. This is where iconic climbs like 'Midnight Lightning' are located.

Instagram+1
Proximity to Yosemite Icons

Proximity to Yosemite Icons

Yosemite Valley

Wake up to stunning views and enjoy easy access to trailheads for El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and the Mist Trail.

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Social Campground Vibe

Social Campground Vibe

Camp 4

Connect with fellow adventurers! Camp 4 is known for its friendly atmosphere, making it easy to meet new people and share stories.

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Planning Your Visit

Secure Your Spot Early

Camp 4 is a highly sought-after walk-in campground. Reservations are essential and typically open a week in advance at 7 AM PT on Recreation.gov. Be ready to book precisely at that time, as sites fill up incredibly fast. InstagramReddit

Pack for Variable Weather

Even in summer, Yosemite's mountain climate can bring unexpected temperature drops. Pack layers, including extra clothing or blankets, as reported temperatures can be warmer than actual conditions. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Beat the crowds & heat
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Campfire stories & stars
Crowd
High
When
Fall
Why
Beautiful foliage, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Fall in yosemite 🍁 #carcamping #yosemite #yosemitevalley #california
@lacey_spalding
522.6K likes • 5.1M views

🎯 Book Reservations ASAP

Camp 4 sites are walk-in and highly competitive. Book exactly at 7 AM PT on Recreation.gov a week in advance. InstagramReddit :ticket:

🚗 Park & Walk to Site

Cars are not allowed directly at campsites. You'll need to park and walk a short distance to your site. Reddit+1 :car:

You should definitely rent bikes from Curry Village or the Main Village while traveling to Yosemite! 🚲 It is so worth it. #yosemitenationalpark #yosemite #curryvillage #tamarockflat #fyp #biking
@cookedbymanda
216.4K likes • 1.7M views
Camp 4. Yosemite National Park, California. Campground. #viajesnaturaleza #camp4 #yosemitecamping #yosemite #yosemitevalley #yosemitenationalpark #yosemitefalls #yosemitenps #campingcalifornia #campingyosemite #campground #campgrounds
viajando_ala_naturaleza
99 likes • 5.7K views

🧥 Pack Extra Layers

Mountain weather is unpredictable. Bring warm layers, even in summer, as temperatures can drop significantly at night. Reddit :cloud:

🤝 Embrace the Community

Camp 4 is a shared campground. Be respectful of others, maintain quiet hours, and enjoy meeting fellow campers. Reddit :peopleholdinghands:

🏕️ Why Camp 4 in Yosemite NEEDS to be on your 2025 bucket list: 🌟 Historic Vibes: Famous for its rock climbing culture and outdoor legends. 🌲 Prime Location: Wake up to iconic Yosemite views and easy access to epic trails like Upper Yosemite Falls and El Capitan. 🤝 Community Feel: Share stories, tips, and laughs with fellow adventurers in this walk-in-only campsite. 🧭 Find It Fast: Easily locate ...
allstays_apps
18 likes • 1.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Reservations ASAP

Camp 4 sites are walk-in and highly competitive. Book exactly at 7 AM PT on Recreation.gov a week in advance. InstagramReddit :ticket:

🚗 Park & Walk to Site

Cars are not allowed directly at campsites. You'll need to park and walk a short distance to your site. Reddit+1 :car:

🧥 Pack Extra Layers

Mountain weather is unpredictable. Bring warm layers, even in summer, as temperatures can drop significantly at night. Reddit :cloud:

🤝 Embrace the Community

Camp 4 is a shared campground. Be respectful of others, maintain quiet hours, and enjoy meeting fellow campers. Reddit :peopleholdinghands:

💧 Check Shower Availability

Shower facilities have been closed intermittently. Confirm their status before your visit, as you may need to drive to find showers. Reddit :shower:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(143 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Camp 4 is lauded for its incredible location in Yosemite Valley, offering easy access to iconic sights and a vibrant, social atmosphere perfect for meeting fellow campers. While its historic climbing roots and community feel are major draws, some visitors note the intermittent closure of shower facilities and the competitive nature of securing reservations. Reddit+1

"I stayed at Camp4 on August 4th and 5th. It’s a really cool place, and it’s easy to make friends during my stay, we actually met two new friends and explored Yosemite together. The bathrooms are clean, and parking is convenient, though cars are not allowed directly at the campsites; you need to park and walk a short distance to your site. Since it’s a shared campground, maintaining silence and respecting others is important. Overall, a great experience for social campers and outdoor enthusiasts!"

Mahesh S R

"We spent two nights in camp 4 on August 13 and 14th. The campsite was assigned by the ranger. The weather app reported the temperature warmer than it actually was. Please prepare extra clothing or blanket or warmer sleeping bed just in case. I visited two years ago, and they had shower rooms. This time the shower rooms are closed, it was kind of disappointed. And I couldn’t find it in the map no more . Does it mean that the shower room will not be open for everyone ? There are dozen of campsites was closed due to maintenance. Camp 4 campsites were full, and I would recommend to reserve them online ahead of time."

Lily Li

"Camped here in October 2024 and it was great. It’s a climbing historic campground and sites are relatively primitive and without much frills. Also you need to walk into the sites from
Your car (no parking at site). Still it has all
You need for a camping night of sleep in the park. And you get to be woken up by climbers heading out to take on big walls at 2 through 4 am. I loved that aspect of the camp ground but others might be annoyed so buyer beware."

Greg P

What People Like

Prime Yosemite Valley location
Social and friendly atmosphere
Historic climbing heritage

What People Dislike

Competitive reservation system
Intermittent shower closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Camp 4 is located in Yosemite Valley, near the base of granite cliffs close to Yosemite Falls. It's centrally located and accessible from all park roads. Instagram You can drive to the Yosemite Valley floor and then park your car to walk to your campsite. InstagramReddit

While there isn't direct public transport to Camp 4 itself, Yosemite Valley offers a free shuttle service that can take you to various points of interest, including trailheads and visitor centers near Camp 4. TikTok Renting bikes from Curry Village or the Main Village is also a popular and convenient way to get around the valley. TikTok

You'll drive into Yosemite Valley and then find parking. Remember that cars are not allowed directly at the campsites; you'll park and walk a short distance to your site. InstagramReddit

No, cars are not allowed directly at the campsites in Camp 4. You will need to park your vehicle in the designated parking area and walk to your site. Reddit+1

Camp 4 is a walk-in campground, meaning it's designed for tents and smaller vehicles that can be parked nearby. RVs and trailers are generally not accommodated directly at Camp 4 campsites. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Reservations for Camp 4 are essential and must be made online through Recreation.gov. They typically open a week in advance at 7 AM PT and fill up extremely quickly. InstagramReddit

Camp 4 is a campground and is open year-round, but reservations are required. Check-in and check-out times are generally around 12:00 PM. Reddit

Yes, there is an entrance fee for Yosemite National Park. This fee is separate from your camping reservation. You can purchase it at the park entrance or online in advance. TikTok

Camp 4 operates on a reservation system and is extremely popular. It is highly unlikely to secure a campsite without a reservation, especially during peak season. InstagramReddit

The cost of camping at Camp 4 can vary, but it's generally an affordable option for camping within Yosemite Valley. Check Recreation.gov for the most current pricing. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Camp 4 offers clean bathrooms and convenient parking nearby. Fireplaces are shared among campsites. Reddit Historically, shower rooms were available but have been closed intermittently, so confirm their status before your visit. Reddit

Yes, campfires are generally allowed at Camp 4, provided there are no fire restrictions in place due to dry conditions. Fireplaces are shared among campsites. TikTokReddit

Camp 4 has a unique, historic vibe, especially known for its rock climbing culture. It's a social campground where it's easy to meet fellow campers and share experiences. InstagramReddit

Camp 4 can be suitable for families, especially those who enjoy the outdoors and a communal camping experience. However, it's important to note the proximity to climbing areas and the potential for early morning activity from climbers. Instagram

As with any Yosemite campground, you might encounter wildlife such as squirrels, deer, and various birds. Always store food properly in bear-resistant containers to protect both yourself and the animals. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Camp 4 itself does not have dining facilities. You'll need to bring your own food and cooking supplies. Nearby Yosemite Valley lodges and stores offer dining options. TikTok

Many campers at Camp 4 enjoy grilling, cooking over campfires, or preparing simple meals. Bringing pre-made meals or easy-to-cook ingredients is recommended. TikTok

There are general stores located within Yosemite Valley, such as the Yosemite Valley Store, where you can purchase groceries and camping supplies. TikTok

Popular camping meals include grilled meats and vegetables, pasta dishes, and hearty stews. Many visitors enjoy Korean BBQ-style meals cooked over charcoal. TikTok

Yes, there are picnic areas available throughout Yosemite Valley, which can be a convenient option for meals if you don't want to cook at your campsite. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Camp 4 offers incredible photo opportunities with views of El Capitan and Yosemite Falls. The surrounding Yosemite Valley is a photographer's paradise, especially during sunrise and sunset. TikTokInstagram

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting for photographing the granite cliffs and valley. Midday can be harsh, but offers good opportunities for capturing the scale of the formations. TikTok

Yes, Camp 4 is a hub for climbers, and you'll often see them tackling routes. Be respectful of their space and focus, but capturing the action can make for dynamic photos. Instagram+1

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grand landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details on the cliffs or wildlife. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions. TikTok

The immediate vicinity of Camp 4 offers views of El Capitan and the base of Yosemite Falls. For broader valley views, short walks or the park shuttle can take you to iconic spots like Tunnel View or Sentinel Meadow. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Camp 4 can be a fun base for families exploring Yosemite Valley, offering a chance to connect with nature and other campers. The proximity to iconic sights like Yosemite Falls and the valley floor makes it convenient for day trips. TikTokInstagram However, families should be aware that it's a walk-in campground, so packing light and efficiently is key. Reddit The communal nature means teaching children about respecting quiet hours and sharing spaces is important. Reddit Consider bringing activities for downtime, as the focus is on outdoor exploration. TikTok

🧗 Climbers and Outdoor Enthusiasts

For climbers, Camp 4 is practically a pilgrimage site. Its legendary status, proximity to world-class bouldering and big wall routes like 'Midnight Lightning' and El Capitan, makes it the ultimate basecamp. Instagram+1 The walk-in sites and shared fireplaces are perfect for meeting fellow climbers and sharing beta. Instagram+1 Be prepared for the early morning buzz of climbers heading out to the crags. InstagramReddit

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the unparalleled access to hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and the general ambiance of being immersed in Yosemite's grandeur. TikTokInstagram The social aspect of Camp 4 can lead to impromptu adventures and shared experiences with like-minded individuals. Reddit

🚗 Budget Travelers

Camp 4 offers an incredibly affordable way to stay within Yosemite Valley, especially compared to lodges or hotels. TikTok+1 While reservations are competitive, the cost per night is significantly lower, making it ideal for those looking to maximize their park experience without breaking the bank. Reddit Remember to factor in the cost of food and any gear you might need, as amenities are basic but functional. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legendary Climbing History of Camp 4

Camp 4 is more than just a campground; it's a cornerstone of Yosemite's climbing legacy. Since the mid-20th century, it has been the primary gathering spot for climbers drawn to the park's monumental granite walls. It's famously known as the birthplace of many iconic boulder problems, including the legendary 'Midnight Lightning,' a V8 route first climbed by Ron Kauk in 1978. Instagram+1 The campground itself has a unique walk-in setup, fostering a strong sense of community among climbers who share stories, tips, and the camaraderie of facing Yosemite's challenging ascents. Instagram+1

This rich history means you'll often be woken by climbers heading out before dawn, a characteristic that some find exhilarating and others might find disruptive. Reddit The atmosphere is palpable with the spirit of adventure, attracting generations of climbers from around the globe. It’s a place where legends were made and continue to be forged on the sheer rock faces. Instagram+1

For those interested in the climbing scene, Camp 4 offers an unparalleled opportunity to be immersed in the heart of it all. Even if you're not a climber, the energy and history of the place are captivating. Instagram

Navigating Camp 4 Reservations

Securing a campsite at Camp 4 is notoriously challenging due to its popularity and limited walk-in sites. The primary method for booking is through Recreation.gov, and it operates on a strict reservation system. InstagramReddit Reservations typically open a week in advance, and you must be ready to book precisely at 7 AM Pacific Time. Many visitors report needing to try multiple times or have several people attempting to book simultaneously to succeed. Reddit

It's crucial to have your Recreation.gov account set up and payment information ready to go before the booking window opens. Be prepared for the site to show as 'unavailable' very quickly. Persistence is key, and sometimes cancellations do occur, so checking back periodically might yield results. Instagram The campground is a walk-in site, meaning you park your car in a designated lot and carry your gear to your tent site, so pack accordingly. InstagramReddit

Understanding the reservation process and being prepared is the most critical step to experiencing Camp 4. Don't underestimate the demand; it's a testament to the campground's prime location and historic significance. Instagram

Camp 4 Amenities and Practicalities

Camp 4 provides essential amenities for a comfortable camping experience, though it's important to manage expectations regarding certain facilities. The campground features clean, well-maintained bathrooms, which are a significant plus for campers. Reddit Parking is conveniently located nearby, but remember that cars are not permitted directly at the campsites; you'll need to carry your gear a short distance. InstagramReddit

Fireplaces are available and are shared among adjacent campsites, fostering a communal atmosphere. Reddit However, shower facilities have been a point of inconsistency. While some visitors recall showers being available in the past, recent reviews indicate they have been closed intermittently or removed. It's advisable to check the current status of shower availability before your trip and be prepared to drive to other park facilities if needed. Reddit

Given its walk-in nature and shared facilities, respecting quiet hours and fellow campers is paramount. The campground's layout and amenities contribute to its unique, social camping environment. Reddit

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