Camp 4
4.31565 reviewsPO BOX 577, YOSEMITE, CA, 95389, USA
Camp 4
$10.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fee ranges from $10 per person per night, with discounts available for America the Beautiful Senior or Access Pass holders. Peak season rates vary from $10-$60 per night depending on site type.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley, Camp 4 stands as a legendary walk-in campground where generations of climbers have gathered to share stories beneath towering granite walls. Just moments from the thundering cascade of Yosemite Falls, this historic site offers a unique communal camping experience that has shaped the very soul of American rock climbing culture.
Camp 4 is a walk-in, tent-only campground with shared sites. It is particularly popular among climbers and hikers due to its proximity to Yosemite Falls and other iconic trails.
Historical SignificanceCamp 4 pulses with the heartbeat of climbing history, where pioneering adventurers of the 1950s and 60s revolutionized rock climbing and created techniques still used today. This hallowed ground, now preserved as a testament to Yosemite's climbing heritage, continues to inspire new generations of climbers who pitch their tents where legends once dreamed of impossible ascents.
Weather and SeasonsFrom November through May, a hushed blanket of snow transforms Camp 4 into a winter wonderland, while summer brings warm days perfect for scaling nearby cliffs. The campground awakens each spring as the last snows melt between March and May, with October through May bringing refreshing rains that feed the valley's spectacular waterfalls.
ElevationPerched at 4,000 feet on the valley floor, Camp 4 offers a perfect balance of accessibility and mountain atmosphere. Winter visitors should come prepared for crisp temperatures and potential snowfall, while the elevation provides welcome relief from summer heat and spectacular star-filled nights throughout the camping season.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering California black oaks and aromatic ponderosa pines create a natural cathedral above Camp 4's tent sites, their branches framing views of sheer granite cliffs that have captivated visitors for over a century. The musical rush of the nearby Merced River mingles with the distant roar of Yosemite Falls, while morning light paints the surrounding rock faces in shades of gold and amber.
Geological RegionCamp 4 rests in the dramatic embrace of Yosemite Valley, where ancient glaciers carved a masterpiece from Sierra Nevada granite millions of years in the making. This geological wonderland showcases soaring cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and thriving forests of California black oak and ponderosa pine that create a living tapestry against the valley's iconic stone monuments.
Campsite details
AccessibilityCamp 4 includes two wheelchair-accessible sites with nearby accessible parking and paths leading to the campsites. Restrooms are wheelchair accessible, but the rest of the campground has rough dirt paths.
Sites SizeStandard-sized campsites suitable for multiple tents.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are shared and closely spaced, lacking privacy. Visitors frequently comment on close proximity to neighbors with minimal separation.
Total Campsites61 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOpt for sites away from the road to minimize noise. Sites near restrooms may experience brighter lighting and traffic.
Best CampsitesSites near Yosemite Falls trailhead are highly rated for convenience and views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
08:30 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of seven nights total during peak season (May 1 - September 15).
Guests Allowed Per Site
Six people allowed per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutShared sites accommodating up to six people, featuring picnic tables, bear boxes, and fire pits.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round with reservations required from April to October. First-come, first-served during winter months.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability from November to April; limited spots during winter months.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made 48 hours or more in advance incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations lose the first night's camping fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Camp 4 is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering proximity to iconic hiking and climbing spots in Yosemite Valley. Visitors can engage in activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and photography. The campground is particularly well-known among rock climbers due to its historical significance.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are abundant, including the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail and other nearby trails such as Mirror Lake. Trails range from easy to challenging, providing options for all skill levels.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing is allowed in nearby areas, including the Merced River, but specific details about fish species and quality of fishing are not mentioned.Swimming
Swimmers can enjoy the Merced River, which flows near the campground. However, water levels may vary seasonally.Biking
Biking is a popular activity, with trails and paths accessible from the campground. Yosemite Valley is equipped with bike rentals for visitors.Boating
Boating, particularly rafting on the Merced River, is an option during summer months when water levels are adequate.Wildlife viewing
Campers frequently encounter wildlife such as squirrels, coyotes, and bears. Proper food storage is emphasized to prevent bear encounters.Cultural and Educational Programs
Yosemite Valley offers guided tours, museums, ranger-led programs, and art workshops. However, specific events at Camp 4 are not detailed.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as cross-country skiing and photography are popular in Yosemite Valley. Camp 4 remains open during winter, though only 25 sites are available.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like rafting and kayaking are popular in nearby areas, such as the Merced River, during the summer months.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires restricted to specific hours during summer; wood fires allowed year-round.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 06:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include black bears, steep terrain near cliffs, and variable weather conditions.
Active alertsPeak-hour reservations may be required for park entry during busy holiday weekends.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 36%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 12.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include Yosemite Medical Clinic (2 miles away), Yosemite Valley Fire Station, and the National Park Service ranger station.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 18 - October 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling stations are available, with bear-proof dumpsters provided to help prevent wildlife interactions, particularly with bears.
Proximity to water featuresClose to the Merced River and Yosemite Falls.
Common complaintsComplaints include shared campsite arrangements, crowded conditions, noisy neighbors, and inconsistent cleanliness of bathroom and shower facilities.
HostRangers manage kiosk check-ins and enforce quiet hours and food storage regulations.
Campground Map
PO BOX 577, YOSEMITE, CA, 95389, USA
Driving directionsUpon entering Yosemite Valley, turn left onto Sentinel Drive, then left onto Northside Drive. Camp 4 will be on your right after approximately 1.25 miles.
Camp 4 is accessible year-round via paved roads within Yosemite National Park. Seasonal changes may affect road conditions due to snow or flooding. Call (209) 372-0200 for road and weather updates.Nearby places
Nearby cities include Yosemite Village (2 miles, 5 minutes drive), El Portal (14 miles, 20 minutes drive), and Mariposa (37 miles, approximately 1 hour drive).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available at Yosemite Valley Lodge and Yosemite Village within a 2-mile radius.
Camper Reviews
4.3
565 reviews
Camp 4 is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Camp 4 is widely regarded as a historic and vibrant campground in Yosemite Valley, with a mix of positive and negative feedback. Visitors appreciate its unbeatable location and access to hiking and climbing areas but often criticize the lack of cleanliness in restrooms and showers, the crowded and noisy atmosphere, and unclear reservation policies.
Review Summaries
Based on 565 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praise Camp 4's proximity to iconic trails, its affordability ($10 per person per night), and its historic significance as a climber's campground. Many also appreciate the addition...
Based on 565 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include unclean bathrooms and showers, insufficient privacy due to shared campsites, noise from the nearby road and other campers, and confusing reservation or check-in processes....
Based on 565 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring earplugs and a sleeping mask due to noise and light from neighboring campsites and nearby roads. Use the provided food storage lockers to prevent wildlife encounters, and consider a cart to...
Based on 565 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews highlight that Camp 4 is busiest during peak summer months, with complaints about noise, crowding, and bathroom cleanliness more frequent during this time. Winter reviews are generally...
Based on 565 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Camp 4 is the perfect base camp to explore Yosemite Valley. The views are worth it, but bring earplugs for the noise." - User, 2021. "Bathrooms were dirty, but the location made up for it." - User,...
Based on 565 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #19 was noted for being far from parking and facilities, while site #50 was criticized for being near noisy bathroom doors. Visitors suggest requesting sites away from these areas if possible.
Based on 565 reviewsAccessibility Features
Reviews from users with disabilities highlight the accessible sites and restrooms but mention that the dirt paths can be challenging to navigate.
Based on 565 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Camp 4 does not allow pets, which some users found limiting. Service animals are an exception, as per National Park Service policies.
Based on 565 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025