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Yosemite First come first served sites

Does anyone know the realites about the "first come first serve" sites in Yosemite and Sequoia? We are going there for a couple of nights at the beginning of April and the campgrounds we want do not take reservations. I will have my kids with me and will need to know we have a place to stay. Anyone have any advice? ie that time of year a site will be easy to get or make sure you have a hotel reserved just in case. Also want to go this summer and need to know if there is a day of the week which will more likely ensure me a spot (Bridal Veil Falls is where I want to camp this summer)

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Donna DeBenedictis on April 14, 2010 at 10:44pm

We loved to go to Yosemite when we lived in CA, but overnight w/out reservations could be difficult. we did it a few times, but it was during heavier summer months. Can't wait to hear about your adventure!

Permalink Reply by Laurene on June 17, 2010 at 4:05pm

I'm kind of late on this discussion, but the Yosemite NPS website gives good info. on getting a "first-come first-serve site." "In May and June, you're very unlikely to find a first-come, first-served campsite (until later in June, when additional campgrounds open)." They also give a number to call for daily campground availability (recording) on this page...

http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/nrcamping.htm

Also this number is for Valley campgrounds 209-372-8502, but it's not a recording and they're good about returning calls. I've found that rangers are very matter-of-fact with information and would be a good source or finding out what the likelyhood of getting a site in your campground of choice would be.

Permalink Reply by Lois Ewing on June 17, 2010 at 10:33pm