Lower Pines Campground

Overview

Lower Pines sits at 4,000 feet on the east end of the Valley, tucked among black oaks and pines with glimpses of granite walls and Half Dome. It’s an easy base for big-name hikes and mellow river time—the Merced flows right by—and the free Valley shuttle stops at the entrance so you can park once and forget about traffic.

What You’ll Find

• 73 sites on paved loops with flush toilets and potable water.
• Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, and a bear-resistant food locker (use it—bears are active here year-round).
• No hookups anywhere in the Valley campgrounds; use the dump station at nearby Upper Pines. Showers are not in the campground, but you can pay to shower at Curry Village.
• An amphitheater hosts occasional programs in season.

Why Camp Here

Location, location. You’re a short walk or shuttle ride from Curry Village services (showers, dining, store) and trailheads for Mirror Lake/Meadow and the Mist Trail corridor toward Vernal and Nevada Falls. In good water years, rafting the Merced is a summer highlight. Views and early sun make slow coffee at camp pretty great.

Reservations & Rules (Read This First)

Sites release five months out on the 15th at 7:00 a.m. Pacific and go fast—often in minutes. There’s no first‑come, first‑served camping in the Valley during the main season. Generators have limited hours, and seasonal fire rules apply in the Valley (evenings only in summer; out by 10 p.m.). Always store all food and scented items in the bear lockers 24/7 and use bear‑proof dumpsters.

RVs, Trailers, and Site Selection

A handful of sites here accommodate larger rigs (up to about 40' RV/35' trailer), but many do not—check individual pad and vehicle length limits when booking. Early season can bring high water; some sites may close or feel soggy in wet springs, so read site notes and recent photos before you commit.

Activities Nearby

From camp you can hike or bike the Valley floor, tackle the Mist Trail, or set off early for bigger objectives (Half Dome requires a permit). Expect easy access to photography spots, ranger programs, and summer rafting when flows allow.

Wildlife

Bears, deer, and bold ground squirrels all make the rounds. Meticulous food storage is non‑negotiable, and keeping a clean camp helps you (and the wildlife) avoid bad encounters.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring: Waterfalls roar, but watch for occasional flood‑related site closures. Cool nights, crisp mornings.
• Summer: Peak convenience and services; hottest temps and biggest crowds—arrive midweek if you can and use the shuttle.
• Fall: Quieter, golden light, and pleasant days. Campfire evenings are prime for stargazing.

Handy Notes

Cell service can be spotty; expect better coverage near Curry Village. Fires are tightly regulated in summer; buy and burn local wood only.