Wawona Campground

Overview

Tucked in the park’s south end at about 4,000 feet, Wawona Campground trades Yosemite Valley bustle for a more relaxed, forested vibe. The South Fork of the Merced River runs right by many sites, so you’ll fall asleep to water sounds and spend warm afternoons by the bank. It’s a smart base if you plan to split time between Mariposa Grove’s giant sequoias, local Wawona hikes, and occasional forays into the Valley (about a 45‑minute drive).

Campsites & Layout

Expect a classic national park campground feel: pines and cedars, mixed shade, and relatively close spacing. Loops B and C tend to have better river access and more shade, with pleasant white noise from the water. Loop A sits nearer the road and can have more exposure and traffic noise. Not every pad is perfectly level—some sites are sloped—so choose carefully if you’re in a tent or a longer rig.

Amenities & What’s Here (and Not)

• At each site: picnic table, fire ring, and bear-proof food locker (use it 24/7).
• Facilities: flush toilets and potable water; paved roads and parking spurs.
• What’s not here: showers and any kind of hookups (electric/water/sewer).
• Dump station: about a mile south; potable water at the dump is typically summer-only.
• Supplies: a general store and gas are roughly a mile south—handy for firewood and basics.
• Connectivity: cell service is limited; some campers report spotty Verizon and little to none on other carriers.

Nearby Things to Do

• Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is a short drive away—hit Grizzly Giant and the California Tunnel Tree.
• Walk history at the Pioneer Yosemite History Center in the Wawona district.
• Local trails include Chilnualna Falls, Wawona Meadow Loop, and the Swinging Bridge area.
• The South Fork Merced offers mellow swimming and tubing in summer when flows are safe, plus fishing for those with a valid California license.
• Glacier Point is a scenic drive from here, and Yosemite Valley’s marquee sights are about 27 miles/45 minutes away.

Wildlife & Campcraft

This is active bear country. Keep every crumb, cooler, and toiletry in the bear locker, day and night—rangers do check. Buy firewood inside the park to avoid spreading pests, and keep a clean camp to deter critters.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer: long days and swimmable river temps (warmest late afternoon); book early.
• Spring: gorgeous, but river flows can be swift—use extra caution.
• Fall: generally calmer crowds and crisp nights.
• Weekends see heavier traffic at the South Entrance; weekday arrivals tend to be smoother. If you’re Valley-bound, go early, then retreat to the river for an afternoon cool-down.

Reservations & Practical Planning

• Reservations release five months out on the 15th at 7:00 a.m. PT and often sell out in minutes—be logged in and ready.
• RVs/trailers up to about 35 feet can be accommodated in select sites; verify site-specific length limits before booking.
• No showers onsite; plan a camp shower or rinse in the river only when appropriate and safe.
• Download maps and plans offline—don’t count on cell service.