Hodgdon Meadow Campground
3.90531 reviewsPO BOX 577, Yosemite National Park, CA, 95389, USA
Hodgdon Meadow Campground
$36.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$36.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The campground charges $36 per night for standard and tent-only nonelectric sites and $75 per night for group tent-only sites. Additional fees include a $10 cancellation fee for individual sites, and forfeiture of the first night's use fee for late cancellations within 48 hours.
About this campground
Escape the crowds and discover your own slice of wilderness at Hodgdon Meadow Campground, a tranquil haven nestled 25 miles northwest of bustling Yosemite Valley. Here, towering Red firs mingle with aromatic incense-cedars while majestic Ponderosa and Lodgepole pines create a natural cathedral overhead. Whether you're seeking solitude with family or planning a group adventure, this hidden gem offers the perfect basecamp for those who prefer their Yosemite experience with a side of serenity.
Hodgdon Meadow Campground accommodates a variety of camping preferences, including tent and group camping. The sites are well-suited for families and small groups, though the terrain and layout may pose challenges.
Historical SignificanceYour tent sits on storied ground within Yosemite National Park, where generations of adventurers have traced ancient paths and marveled at nature's grandeur. From here, you can follow in the footsteps of early explorers to the engineering marvel of Hetch Hetchy Reservoir or venture into the high country toward Tuolumne Meadows, where John Muir once wandered in reverent wonder. Every trail tells a story, every vista frames a piece of American heritage.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives like a welcome friend at Hodgdon Meadow, bringing sun-drenched days perfect for exploration and crisp, star-filled nights that demand a cozy campfire. As autumn approaches, the air turns electric with change, while winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland that may close access roads. The sweet spot? June through October, when wildflowers dance in meadow breezes and every trail beckons with promise.
ElevationPerched at 4,875 feet above sea level, Hodgdon Meadow offers a refreshing retreat from valley heat. This sweet spot elevation delivers the best of both worlds: warm enough for comfortable camping yet high enough to catch cooling mountain breezes and provide gateway access to stunning sub-alpine meadows where wildflowers paint the landscape in seasonal splendor.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to a symphony of birdsong filtering through a diverse tapestry of conifers, where shafts of golden light pierce the canopy to illuminate carpets of forest duff below. Step beyond your campsite to discover meadows awash with seasonal wildflowers, their colors rivaling any artist's palette. The crown jewels await nearby—the ancient monarchs of Tuolumne and Merced Groves, where Giant Sequoias stand as living monuments to time itself.
Geological RegionImmerse yourself in the heart of the Sierra Nevada, where Hodgdon Meadow Campground serves as your portal to Yosemite's geological wonders. This dynamic landscape showcases nature's artistry through dense forests of mixed conifers that give way to sun-dappled meadows and distant views of iconic granite cliffs. Here, the very bones of the earth tell stories millions of years in the making, from ancient volcanic activity to the patient sculpting of glaciers that carved this magnificent wilderness.
Campsite details
AccessibilityLimited information is available on specific accessibility features, but the campground has paved roads and parking spurs, and some sites are relatively close to restrooms.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with some offering enough space for a 10' x 10' tent. Many sites are uneven or sloped, making it difficult to set up tents or RVs.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers limited privacy as campsites are closely spaced. Walk-in sites may offer a bit more seclusion, but overall privacy is minimal.
Total Campsites100 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites on the outer edge for privacy and quieter settings. Avoid sites 13-21 due to steep inclines.
Best CampsitesSite recommendations include campsite 19 for privacy, sites 1 and 2 for secluded settings near the road, and site 57 for proximity to bathrooms.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights during a visit from May 1 to September 15.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guests per site are not explicitly stated in the source.
Groups
Group sites are spacious and designed for tent camping only. They include fire rings, picnic tables, and bear lockers. Sleeping in vehicles is not allowed.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops and includes both walk-in and drive-up sites. Sites are generally close together, with some offering more privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from June 20 to October 26, 2025. Peak season falls between June 15 and October 26.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is limited, especially during peak season when sites often fill up quickly.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation of individual site reservations incurs a $10 service fee. Late cancellations within 48 hours of arrival also forfeit the first night's use fee. Group site cancellations within 14 days forfeit the first night's use fee as well as the $10 service fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Hodgdon Meadow Campground offers easy access to Yosemite's extensive recreational opportunities. Popular activities include hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and exploring nearby attractions such as giant sequoia groves.
Hiking
The campground is close to several hiking trails, including the 2.5-3-mile roundtrip trails to the Tuolumne and Merced Groves of Giant Sequoias. These hikes are popular and provide opportunities to see ancient trees.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the nearby rivers and streams, though no additional details are provided about fish species or quality of fishing.Wildlife viewing
Campers often enjoy spotting wildlife such as deer and birds. However, bears are also active in the area, making proper food storage critical.Cultural and Educational Programs
Yosemite National Park offers ranger-led programs, guided tours, and educational activities, though specific programs at Hodgdon Meadow Campground are not detailed.Winter Activities
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular winter activities in Yosemite, though information specific to Hodgdon Meadow is unavailable.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are common in Yosemite, but not specifically near Hodgdon Meadow Campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings at each site. Firewood should be sourced locally to prevent the spread of pests.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsCamping in bear habitat requires strict food storage guidelines. Sloped sites may pose challenges during rain, leading to potential flooding.
Active alertsThere are no current active alerts mentioned.
Weather forecast
85
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 25%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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 are Yosemite Medical Clinic in Yosemite Valley, approximately 25 miles away. Ranger stations are located nearby in Yosemite Valley.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 15 to October 26, 2025.
Trash and recyclingBear-proof dumpsters are available for trash disposal. Recycling facilities are provided as part of Yosemite's Zero Landfill initiative.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Merced River for rafting and Tuolumne Groves of Giant Sequoias. Crane Flat gas station and store are nearby.
Common complaintsSloped and uneven campsites, crowded layout, and lack of showers or potable water spigots distributed throughout the campground.
HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful. They enforce quiet hours and assist with campsite guidance.
Campground Map
PO BOX 577, Yosemite National Park, CA, 95389, USA
Driving directionsTake Highway 41 north from Fresno, Highway 140 east from Merced, or Highway 120 east from Manteca into Yosemite National Park. Hodgdon Meadow Campground is located 1/2 mile from the Big Oak Flat Entrance Station (Hwy 120 from the west), and is 25 miles (45 minutes) northwest of Yosemite Valley.
The campground is accessible via paved roads with direct access from Highway 120. It is located near the Big Oak Flat Entrance Station. The road conditions are generally good, but winter conditions may affect accessibility.Nearby places
- Yosemite Valley: 25 miles, 45 minutes drive
- Crane Flat: 8 miles, approximately 15 minutes drive
- Groveland: Approximately 30 miles, 45 minutes drive
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found at Crane Flat, 8 miles away, which offers a gas station and a small general store.
Camper Reviews
3.9
531 reviews
Hodgdon Meadow Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are mixed. While some campers appreciate the peaceful forest setting and proximity to Yosemite attractions, others criticize the sloped campsites, lack of privacy, and poorly maintained facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 531 reviews
What Campers Love
Many visitors praise the serene setting, proximity to Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows, and friendly staff. Several group sites and shaded areas are highly recommended.
Based on 531 reviewsCommon Concerns
Frequent complaints include sloped and uneven campsites, overcrowding, dirty restrooms, lack of showers, and limited water access. Noise and lack of enforcement of quiet hours are also concerns.
Based on 531 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest arriving early to select better sites, bringing water containers for transport, and preparing for cold nights. Sites 1, 2, 19, and those on the periphery are recommended for privacy...
Based on 531 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer sees the highest occupancy, often leading to overcrowding and noise issues. Spring and fall offer quieter stays but may still face issues with sloped sites and limited amenities.
Based on 531 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Hodgdon Meadow is a bit of an overflow camping site for those who weren’t successful securing a spot in Yosemite Valley." - Beau Glover. "The campsites are cramped in and a constant stream of people...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 19 is noted for its privacy and flat ground, while sites 13-21 are heavily sloped. Group sites are spacious but lack privacy.
Based on 531 reviewsAccessibility Features
Reviews do not highlight specific accessibility features, though the terrain and slope may pose challenges for some visitors.
Based on 531 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed in standard sites but not in group sites. Some users report issues with barking dogs disrupting quiet hours.
Based on 531 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025