Camp 4 Yosemite
Historic walk-in campground in Yosemite Valley, famed for its climbing legacy and social vibe. Prime access to iconic granite walls and trails.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Camp 4 Yosemite
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat

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.
"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."
🎯 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:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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.

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.

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.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Secure Your Spot Early
Pack for Variable Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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:🧥 Pack Extra Layers
Mountain weather is unpredictable. Bring warm layers, even in summer, as temperatures can drop significantly at night.
:cloud:🤝 Embrace the Community
Camp 4 is a shared campground. Be respectful of others, maintain quiet hours, and enjoy meeting fellow campers.
:peopleholdinghands: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.
: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:🧥 Pack Extra Layers
Mountain weather is unpredictable. Bring warm layers, even in summer, as temperatures can drop significantly at night.
:cloud:🤝 Embrace the Community
Camp 4 is a shared campground. Be respectful of others, maintain quiet hours, and enjoy meeting fellow campers.
: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.
:shower:What Travellers Say
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.
"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
What People Dislike
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.
You can drive to the Yosemite Valley floor and then park your car to walk to your campsite.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.
Renting bikes from Curry Village or the Main Village is also a popular and convenient way to get around the valley.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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Camp 4 offers clean bathrooms and convenient parking nearby. Fireplaces are shared among campsites.
Historically, shower rooms were available but have been closed intermittently, so confirm their status before your visit.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.
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.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
There are general stores located within Yosemite Valley, such as the Yosemite Valley Store, where you can purchase groceries and camping supplies.
Popular camping meals include grilled meats and vegetables, pasta dishes, and hearty stews. Many visitors enjoy Korean BBQ-style meals cooked over charcoal.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🧗 Climbers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the unparalleled access to hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and the general ambiance of being immersed in Yosemite's grandeur. The social aspect of Camp 4 can lead to impromptu adventures and shared experiences with like-minded individuals.
🚗 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legendary Climbing History of Camp 4
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. 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.
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.
Navigating Camp 4 Reservations
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. 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.
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.
Camp 4 Amenities and Practicalities
Fireplaces are available and are shared among adjacent campsites, fostering a communal atmosphere. 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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit