Yosemite National Park

P.O. Box 577
Yosemite National Park, CA  95389
(209) 372-0200 (then dial 3 then 5)

www.nps.govExternal Link

Description

Yosemite is probably the most visited park in the United States and offers the park visitor a wide range of recreational opportunities along with the most spectacular scenery in the world. In planning a trip to Yosemite, that your group will remember for years to come, make sure you contact the park for undated information regarding areas available and things to see and do (even if you have been there a thousand times before). Yosemite is located in the Serria Nevada range of mountains forty-five minutes east of Modesto with several entrances into the park, (accessibility subject to weather and road conditions). Interesting places to visit in Yosemite include the main valley with views of Half Dome, El Capitan, and the Vernal Falls. The Happy Isles nature Center and Ahawhneechee Indian village both are must see exhibits. The valley is a busy place with camping, day-use activities, exhibits & displays, hotel and shopping facilities available. The valley can become a small town during the summer months or a winter wonderland of a snow lover’s delight with few people during the week.

The outlying areas of Yosemite like Wawona, Tuolumne Meadows, Tioga Pass and Big Oak serve not only as entrance points into the park but also offer your group opportunities to explore the history and natural beauty of that particular area. Each area offers information on camping in the immediate area, including trailheads offering the wilderness experience into the backcountry of the park.

The nearby Stansilaus and Toiyabe National Forests offer further possibilities of planning a 30 or 50-mile backpacking trip into even more of the pristine Serria Nevada.

Yosemite can offer your group a very rewarding experience for years to come; however remember these two things. Obey all posted and written park rules and regulations (they really are for your safety and not because someone was bored). Plan ahead for trip details, equipment you’ll be taking and, having fun!

Activities

  • Camping
  • Hiking
  • Backpacking
  • Nature Study
  • Swimming
  • Exhibits & Displays
  • Rock Climbing
  • Horseback Riding
  • Boating
  • Bicycling
  • Photography

Facilities

Fire: see park handout for hours, regulations and permit information.

Wood: See park staff—No wood gathering.

Water: O.K. in the valley—Treat in the backcountry.

Map