High Sierra Camp - Merced Lake

Overview

Merced Lake High Sierra Camp is the elder statesman of Yosemite’s High Sierra Camps—established in 1916 and tucked beside a serene lake at about 7,150 feet. It’s the most remote of the bunch, which is exactly why people love it: a true backcountry feel with a touch of comfort when the camp operates.

What makes it special

• Lakeside downtime is the move here—swimming, fishing, and unwinding after a big day on trail. Many hikers also tack on day trips to nearby Washburn Lake.
• Being at a lower elevation than other HSCs, Merced Lake often has a longer shoulder season when snow lingers elsewhere.

2025 status

All High Sierra Camps, including Merced Lake, are closed for the 2025 season due to unavailable potable water and toilet utilities. Operators have indicated a plan to run a 2026 lottery window for the supported-camping experience. If you still want to go in 2025, you can backpack and use the adjacent designated backpacker area with a wilderness permit.

Getting there

Expect a serious haul however you slice it. It’s roughly 14 miles of steep hiking from either Yosemite Valley (via Little Yosemite Valley) or from the Tuolumne side. Many backpackers break the journey by staging a night at Sunrise or Vogelsang before dropping to Merced Lake.

Amenities (when operating) and what’s open now

• Lodging: Canvas tent cabins with bunks at the HSC in normal years.
• Meals: Family-style breakfasts and dinners for overnight guests; backpackers have historically been able to purchase meals.
• Restrooms: Composting toilets at the HSC sites.
• Showers: Not at Merced Lake; showers are only offered at May Lake and Sunrise when water systems are running.
• 2025 reality: With the HSCs closed, don’t count on meals, bedding, or any front-of-house services. The adjacent backpacker camp provides bear boxes and toilets; bring your own shelter and treat water as required by current conditions.

Trails, conditions, and wildlife

This is classic high-country terrain. Recent notes have mentioned muddy, rocky, even washed-out sections east of Little Yosemite Valley (Lost Valley), plus lingering early-season snow above 7,000 feet. Around the lake, expect deer sightings; black bears are common in the area—proper food storage is non-negotiable.

Best time to visit

• Seasonality: Merced Lake’s lower elevation makes it accessible earlier and later than the higher camps, but early season can still bring snow and runoff-swollen crossings.
• Access caveat: Your timing may depend on when Tioga Road opens if you’re starting from Tuolumne trailheads.
• Crowds: The remoteness naturally keeps numbers lower than frontcountry hot spots; you’ll feel the solitude especially midweek.

Permits and planning

• Wilderness permits are required for any overnight trip to the backpacker area or if you’re camping along the way, with trailhead quotas in effect.
• Bear canisters are generally required unless you’re camping exactly where bear boxes are provided; plan conservatively and verify current guidance before relying on boxes.
• A smart strategy is to acclimate a night or two in Tuolumne Meadows before taking on the longer legs.
• Expect no cell service; pack out all trash and practice strict Leave No Trace.