Tamarack Flat Campground
4.38121 reviewsTamarack Flat Campground
$24.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
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
The nightly fee for all sites is $24 during the peak season (June 23 - October 12). Fees do not include taxes or incremental charges. Reservation fees vary based on the platform used for booking.
About this campground
Escape the crowds and discover Tamarack Flat Campground, a hidden gem tucked three miles off Tioga Road where the wilderness beckons and simplicity reigns. This reservation-only sanctuary offers an authentic back-to-basics camping experience with tent-only sites nestled among towering conifers. Each site comes equipped with the essentials—a sturdy picnic table for memorable meals under the stars, a fire pit for evening gatherings, and bear-proof food lockers to keep your provisions safe. Vault toilets provide basic facilities, but leave your expectations of modern amenities at the trailhead. With no cell service, internet, running water, or showers, Tamarack Flat invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature's rhythms.
Tamarack Flat Campground offers tent-only, primitive camping. It is not designed for RVs, trailers, or group camping.
Historical SignificanceTamarack Flat stands as your personal basecamp to some of Yosemite's most treasured historical wonders. From here, adventurous souls can journey to the Tuolumne and Merced Groves, where ancient giant sequoias have stood sentinel for millennia, their massive trunks bearing witness to centuries of natural and human history. These living monuments connect today's visitors with the indigenous peoples who first walked these paths and the early conservationists who fought to preserve this irreplaceable wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature paints Tamarack Flat with dramatic seasonal brushstrokes throughout the year. Winter's heavy hand blankets the landscape in pristine snow from November through May, transforming the forest into a crystalline wonderland inaccessible to most. As summer emerges from June through October, azure skies stretch endlessly above while warm days invite exploration. Yet at 6,300 feet, the mountain air carries a refreshing chill once the sun dips below the granite peaks—pack that extra layer for stargazing sessions around the campfire.
ElevationPerched at 6,300 feet where the air grows thin and crisp, Tamarack Flat offers a true mountain camping experience. This lofty elevation brings a special alpine magic—morning mists that dance through the forest canopy, afternoon breezes scented with pine and fir, and evening temperatures that plunge dramatically, reminding you that you're camping in the high country where nature sets the thermostat.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the whisper of wind through a dense coniferous cathedral where Douglas firs and pines create a natural amphitheater around your campsite. Granite monoliths peek through the forest canopy, hinting at the geological wonders that define Yosemite's legendary landscape. A seasonal creek murmurs nearby when snowmelt feeds its flow, while well-worn trails beckon hikers toward iconic destinations—follow the path to Cascade Creek's tumbling waters or embark on the challenging trek to stand beneath the sheer face of mighty El Capitan.
Geological RegionTamarack Flat rests within the heart of Yosemite National Park, cradled by the ancient Sierra Nevada range—a geological masterpiece millions of years in the making. This dramatic landscape tells the story of fire and ice, where molten granite cooled deep underground before glaciers carved and polished it into today's spectacular formations. The campground sits midway in a vertical world that spans from valley floors at 2,000 feet to alpine peaks soaring above 13,000 feet, offering campers a front-row seat to one of Earth's most magnificent geological theaters where seasonal creeks carve new chapters in stone with each passing year.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has designated wheelchair-accessible sites (21, 22, 23, 24, 38) featuring extended-top picnic tables and accessible vault toilets nearby.
Sites SizeThe campsites are tent-only and vary in size. Many are spacious and offer ample room for tents and other camping setups.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews mention that sites are well-separated, providing more privacy compared to valley campgrounds. However, the level of seclusion varies between sites.
Total Campsites52 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy, site 1; for proximity to creek, site 30; for stargazing, site 32.
Best CampsitesAccessible and preferred campsites include 3, 11, and 52. Site 1 is noted for privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time begins at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
6people maximum (including children) per site.
Groups
No group sites are available at Tamarack Flat Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are spacious and well-separated, offering privacy. The campground includes loops with varying levels of shade and proximity to vault toilets.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen mid-June through mid-October; closed outside of these dates. Specific opening dates depend on Tioga Road conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made through Recreation.gov, either online or via their app.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground is reservation-only. Walk-up or first-come-first-serve sites are not available.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made more than 48 hours prior to arrival incur a $10 transaction fee. Cancellations within 48 hours result in a charge of the $10 fee plus the first night's fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Tamarack Flat Campground offers a variety of recreational activities directly from the site, including hiking and backpacking trails. Nearby Yosemite Valley and Tioga Road provide additional opportunities for fishing, biking, photography, and exploring natural attractions like giant sequoia groves.
Hiking
A trailhead within the campground leads to destinations like Cascade Creek and El Capitan. Many other hiking opportunities are available along the Tioga Road and in Tuolumne Meadows.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.Biking
Biking is a popular activity in Yosemite National Park, with accessible trails located in nearby Yosemite Valley, 45 minutes away.Wildlife viewing
Campers frequently mention the secluded and natural setting, ideal for wildlife observation. Visitors should store food properly to prevent attracting bears.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable, as the campground is closed from mid-October to mid-June due to snow.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not a focus at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Wood and charcoal fires are allowed within fire rings at campsites.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground is in bear country, requiring strict food storage protocols. Additionally, the access road's narrow turns pose challenges for larger vehicles.
Active alertsPeak-hour entry reservations are required to enter Yosemite during summer months (June 15-August 15, August 30-September 1). Camping reservations exempt visitors from this requirement.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.8 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
Crane Flat Gas Station (5 miles): basic supplies and gas. Yosemite Valley Hospital (25 miles): full medical services.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 23 - October 12, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling collection is available, and bear-proof receptacles are provided. Campers are required to dispose of garbage immediately to protect wildlife.
Proximity to water featuresA seasonal creek runs through the campground, but water must be treated before use.
Common complaintsVault toilet odor, lack of potable water, and difficulties with campsite maps at night are frequent complaints from visitors.
HostGary is frequently mentioned as a helpful and professional camp host. Hosts are volunteers.
Campground Map
Driving directionsWhen entering Yosemite from west of the Sierras - Take Highway 41 north from Fresno, Highway 140 east from Merced, or Highway 120 east from Manteca into Yosemite National Park. When Tioga Pass is open, Tamarack Flat can be accessed from the east side of the Sierras - Take HWY 120 east/Tioga Rd. The Tamarack Flat access road is 36 miles west of Tuolumne Meadows. The Tamarack Flat Campground access road is located 5 miles east Crane Flat along the Tioga Rd. The access road itself is 3 miles long and is narrow, single lane and windy. Tamarack flat is 28 miles (45 minutes) northwest of Yosemite Valley.
Road access to the campground can be challenging as it involves a narrow, single-lane road with multiple hairpin turns over a distance of 3 miles. RVs and trailers are strongly discouraged due to the terrain and road limitations. The road is paved and maintained during the campground's open season.Nearby places
Yosemite Valley (25 miles, approx. 45 minutes), Crane Flat (5 miles, approx. 10 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Crane Flat Gas Station (5 miles away) sells food, ice, and some camping gear. For more extensive supplies, Yosemite Village Store, Curry Village Store, and Yosemite Valley Lodge Store in Yosemite Valley offer groceries and camping essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.4
121 reviews
Tamarack Flat Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews praise Tamarack Flat Campground for its secluded and peaceful environment, spacious sites, and proximity to trailheads. Common complaints include the lack of potable water, strong toilet odors, and the primitive nature of facilities. The campground's remote location and challenging access road are also frequently mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 121 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers highlight the campground's tranquility, well-separated sites, stargazing opportunities, and proximity to trails like the one leading to El Capitan. Many appreciated the lack of RVs and...
Based on 121 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The most frequent complaints include the absence of potable water, odors from vault toilets, and difficulty finding campsites at night due to poor signage. Some reviewers also noted the...
Based on 121 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend arriving early to select a good site, bringing ample water, and preparing for cold nights, especially later in the season. Some advise using the creek as a water source after proper...
Based on 121 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer weekends tend to be crowded, and the creek may dry up later in the season. Fall offers cooler temperatures and fewer visitors, but nights can be very cold. The campground is inaccessible in...
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Camper Quotes
"Absolutely loved this area of Yosemite. Only 52 camp sites total, off the beaten path just enough. Very quiet and camp ground overseer is cool." - James Hill Real Estate; "Vault toilets and no...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 3 is frequently praised for its proximity to bathrooms and the entrance, but also for its privacy and spaciousness. Site 13 is noted for being flat and open, while some sites like 41 are...
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Accessibility Features
Campsites 21, 22, 23, 24, and 38 are noted as wheelchair accessible, with extended-top picnic tables and nearby accessible vault toilets.
Based on 121 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times. No specific amenities for pets are mentioned, and users did not provide substantial feedback on pet experiences.
Based on 121 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025