Home Camping Adventures 10 Must-See Places In Yosemite National Park
10 Must-See Places In Yosemite National Park

5 min

September 7, 2023

If you haven’t been to Yosemite National Park, this could be your year! Whether you’re heading to California with a tent, RV, or a cabin rental, Yosemite is likely on the top of your list of things to do. Known for its breathtaking vistas, awesome recreation, stunning waterfalls, and majestic mountains – here are 10 places in Yosemite National Park you don’t want to miss.

Yosemite Falls

The most well-known waterfall in the park, Yosemite Falls stands at a staggering 2,425ft. An easy one-mile loop will bring you to the base of the falls, making this a great hike for families. Or, if you’re up for a challenge, you can tackle the all-day hike to the top. For peak-flow visit in May.

Tuolumne Meadows

This gorgeous area of the park is located along the Tuolumne River. While the waterfalls, mountains, and rock formations are impressive, there’s just something special about an alpine meadow. Explore this section on a day-hike or take in the views on a rafting trip down the river.

Half Dome

The most popular rock formation in the park, the iconic granite Half Dome is impossible to miss on your visit. This beauty rises nearly 5,000 feet above the valley floor. If you’re a thrill seeker, you can hike the dome with the help of cables, just keep in mind it generally takes around 10 hours to get to the summit.

Bridalveil Fall

This is the first waterfall visitors get to marvel at when they enter the beautiful Yosemite Valley. Spring is the best time to visit if you’re hoping for a thunderous sound, but the 620ft waterfall flows all year with peak flow in May. If you want to get up close to Bridalveil, you can hike a short but steep trail that usually only takes a matter of minutes.

Glacier Point

Arguably the most popular viewpoint in the park, Glacier Point sits at an impressive 7,214 feet and offers jaw-dropping views of Yosemite Valley. If you’re looking for prime photo opportunities, this is the place to be.

El Capitan

Feel like a climb? El Capitan is the perfect destination for experienced rock climbers who want to tackle over 3,000 feet of granite. If you’re just here for the views, you won’t be disappointed. You can marvel at El Capitan from various spots in the park.

Mariposa Grove

A trip to Yosemite wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Mariposa Grove. This enchanting area is home to the remarkable giant sequoia tree, the largest living things on the planet. Some of the trees here are more than 3,000 years old. This part of the park has been closed for restoration but it will be reopening on June 15, 2018.

Vernal Fall

You may get your first peek of 317ft Vernal Fall from Glacier Point, but if you want to get closer, a hike is in your future. Vernal Fall Footbridge is a moderate 1.6-mile round-trip hike, but if you’re feeling adventurous, it’s worth it to make your way to the top. After a steep, strenuous hike via the Mist Trail, you will be rewarded with a gorgeous up-close view of the waterfall and Yosemite Valley. Peak flow occurs during late May.

Hetch Hetchy

Nestled in the northwest corner of Yosemite is the awe-inspiring Hetch Hetchy. This hidden gem is the ideal destination for hiking, stunning wildflowers, remote lakes, and spring waterfalls. Situated at 3,900ft, this wilderness area is a must-see in the park.

Tunnel View

This viewpoint, located along State Route 41, is a true treasure of Yosemite National Park. Tunnel View boasts some of the most picturesque views of Yosemite Valley and the gems within – Bridalveil Fall, El Capitan, and Half Dome.

Plan Your Yosemite National Park Camping Trip

Whether you’re searching for a tent site, an RV park, or a luxury cabin – you will discover your perfect California camping destination on Camp Native! Once you’ve found “the spot,” you can easily reserve your campsite online with a click or tap of a button. Start exploring California campgrounds near Yosemite National Park!

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