Pros & cons
PROS
- Free, 24/7 Level 2 charging (courtesy of Yosemite Hospitality)
- Four J1772 ports in a central Tuolumne Meadows lot
CONS
- Can be competitive during busy summer periods
- J1772 only—no DC fast charging; bring an adapter if needed
Overview
If you’re running the high country with an EV, this is the handy top‑up you want. The Tuolumne Meadows EV Charging Station sits in the parking lot just west of the Tuolumne Meadows Store (the former gas station site). It offers four Level 2 J1772 ports, open 24/7 and free to use—simple setup, no frills.
What to Expect
- First‑come, first‑served. Charging spaces can be tight in peak season; move your car when you’re done.
- J1772 connectors only—bring the right adapter if your vehicle uses a different inlet.
- High elevation and cold temps can slow charging, so build a little buffer into your plan.
- The charger area is a basic parking lot—use nearby Tuolumne Meadows facilities when they’re in season.
Best Time to Visit
- Early mornings or evenings on weekdays offer the best odds of an open port.
- Summer weekends see more competition; aim for off‑peak hours rather than midday.
Backup Options (In and Near the Park)
- Yosemite Valley: Multiple free Level 2 J1772 ports at Yosemite Valley Lodge, The Ahwahnee, Curry Village, and Yosemite Falls Parking.
- Wawona: Additional Level 2 ports have been added in recent seasons.
- East side: Lee Vining has several Level 2 options; Tesla Superchargers are farther east in Mammoth Lakes and Bishop.
- West side: Groveland has Rivian DC fast charging useful before heading over the pass.
Setting
You’re charging in a gorgeous subalpine meadow zone—granite country shaped by uplift, erosion, and glaciation. It’s an easy place to stretch your legs and soak up the big‑sky scenery while your battery ticks upward.
Where it is
37.8736, -119.3579Tuolumne Meadows EV Charging Station
Tips for Tuolumne Meadows EV Charging Station
- 01Bring a J1772 adapter if your vehicle uses a different inlet.
- 02Plan around peak summer midday demand; go early or late for better odds.
- 03Move your car when charging is complete to keep spots available.
- 04Have backups: Yosemite Valley or Lee Vining if Tuolumne is full.
- 05Expect slower charge rates in cold high‑elevation weather.
Amenities
Near Tuolumne Meadows EV Charging Station
All places →All trails →
0.1 mi awayTuolumne Meadows GrillQuick, no-frills grill for burgers, wedges, and soft serveFood · Restaurant
0.1 mi awayMeadow GrillCasual Curry Village taqueria and grill with outdoor seatingFood · Restaurant
0.1 mi awayTuolumne MeadowsHigh-country meadows, domes, and easy walks off Tioga RoadTrailhead · Parking
0.1 mi awayTuolumne Meadows StoreSeasonal high-country resupply for snacks, ice, and trail basicsStore · Restroom
0.2 mi awayElizabeth Lake TrailClassic Tuolumne climb to a quiet, postcard-perfect alpine lake.Moderate · 4.6 mi · 3 hr
0.4 mi awayDog Lake to Lembert DomeShort loop to a quiet lake and a granite dome with big viewsModerate · 5 mi · 2.5 hr
0.4 mi awayYoung Lakes via Dog Lake TrailThree-lake High Sierra gem with views, altitude, and real effort.Challenging · 14 mi · 7 hr
0.7 mi awayGlen Aulin Trail to Tuolumne Falls & White CascadeClassic meadow-to-cascade trek with rewarding pools and big Sierra views.Moderate · 13 mi · 8 hr
