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Nestled off Tioga Road, a half-hour west of Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite National Park, Porcupine Flat Campground beckons with 52 campsites alongside the serene Porcupine Creek. At an elevation of 8,100 feet, this campground provides a peaceful retreat, surrounded by shaded sites and scenic beauty. Usually open from June or early July to October, weather permitting, Porcupine Flat offers an idyllic escape into nature.
🗺️ Map & Reservations
Top Tips for Campers Camping Here the First Time:
- Bear Safety: Yosemite is home to black bears, so store all food and similar items securely in bear-proof lockers provided at each campsite.
- Reservation Wisdom: Given the high demand, especially from April through October, reservations are essential. Yosemite’s camping system requires booking in advance, with cancellations potentially opening up slots on Recreation.gov.
- Creek Water Use: Since tap water is unavailable at the campground, plan to filter, treat, or boil water from Porcupine Creek before use.
- Maximum Camping Limit: During peak season (May 1 to September 15), there is a 14-night camping limit, allowing campers to enjoy an extended stay.
Top Strategies and Tactics to Get the Most Out of Camping Here:
- Ideal Camping Season: Plan your visit during the camping season, typically from June or early July to October, for favorable weather conditions.
- Reservation Window: Yosemite’s reservation system opens up campsites up to 2 weeks in advance on the 15th of each month at 7:00 a.m. PST. Be prompt to secure your desired dates.
- Morning Exploration: To make the most of your Yosemite experience, plan hikes and activities in the morning, taking advantage of cooler temperatures and avoiding midday crowds.
- Scenic Drive to Tuolumne Meadows: Take the short drive to Tuolumne Meadows for fishing, hiking, sightseeing, and photography, offering a delightful escape from the crowds.
- Generous Generator Use: If you rely on a generator, adhere to the specified operating hours from 7 AM to 9 AM, Noon to 2 PM, and 5 PM to 7 PM.
Recommendations on Camping Gear:
- Bear-Proof Containers: Yosemite regulations require the use of bear-proof lockers for food storage. Ensure you have appropriate containers for the safety of both campers and wildlife.
- Water Filtration System: With no tap water available, bring a reliable water filtration system to make creek water safe for consumption.
- Warm Sleeping Gear: Due to the higher elevation, nights can be chilly even in summer. Pack warm sleeping bags and clothing to stay comfortable.
- Compact Cooking Gear: Opt for compact and efficient cooking gear, considering the limited amenities. Portable stoves and versatile cookware are ideal.
- Explore Our Gearlist: Check our gearlist account for specific recommendations on camp cooking, sleeping systems, overlanding setups, backpacks, and clothing to optimize your camping experience.
Check out our Gearlist for the gear we use for trips like this
Our Gearlist account lists all of the gear we use. Discover our top picks, where to snag them, and stay informed with our regular updates.
Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Yosemite at Porcupine Flat Campground, where the babbling Porcupine Creek provides a soothing soundtrack to your camping adventure. With proximity to Tuolumne Meadows and the captivating attractions of Yosemite Valley, this campground offers an affordable and tranquil haven for nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re captivated by Mirror Lake or drawn to the majesty of Half Dome, Porcupine Flat Campground invites you to embrace the serenity of Yosemite’s pristine landscapes.
