1. Yosemite is considered to be one of the most beautiful destinations in California. It is a picturesque landscape, carved out by glaciers and comprised of wondrous valleys, granite rock features, and untamed wilderness. It is no wonder thousands of tourists from around the world come to Yosemite annually to see the many wonders there. Some of the most famous landmarks in Yosemite include Half Dome, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Falls. Whether you are just passing through or have time to stay awhile, Yosemite is an amazing destination for you and your family. If you are looking for a rustic stay, camping is a sure way to really experience this valley. There are many varieties of camping that can be utilized in Yosemite. They include tent cabins, traditional tent camping, and wilderness camping. Choosing the right style of camping depends on the length of your stay, the amount you are looking to spend, and the level of privacy desired.

    Yosemite Tent Cabins Yosemite offers tent cabins for rent in several locations throughout the valley. You can rent these cabins in Curry Village, Housekeeping Camp, Tuolumne Meadows, White Wolf and all of the Yosemite High Camps. Tent cabins are wooden structures, including wood flooring, with a canvas cover. They can include one-two beds, a mirror, and a vanity. There is no running water in the tent cabins. Normally, you must provide your own bedding. The perk of using a tent cabin is that you don’t have to have all of the camping gear to truly camp. If you don’t camp very often, this could be the most economical choice if you want to get the rustic feeling without gouging your wallet to ensure you have all of the necessities. Tent cabins vary in price, depending on season and availability, but on average cost $30 a night. There are group pricing and other discounts available. Depending upon location, you are within walking distance to food, shopping, and nature trails. Curry Village is a fun tourist area, that offers a restaurant, games, campfires, and provides a good social atmosphere. There are flush toilets located centrally in the campgrounds with running water. NOTE: Remember to keep all food and scented items in a bear container. If it has any scent at all, be safe, rather than sorry, and lock it up! Bear containers can be found in all campgrounds.

    Traditional Tent Camping If you are looking for more adventure and a do-it-yourself camping style, traditional tent camping would be a good choice. There are drive-in and hike-in campgrounds, that usually include a fire pit, bear safe cotnainer, and a picnic table (depending upon location). If you are traveling during a peak season (May-August), you need to make a reservation to ensure availability. There are many different campgrounds located in Yosemite. Depending upon your desires while visiting, you may choose to stay in a less inhabited location or to stay centrally near Yosemite Lodge. There are flush toilets located within the campgrounds (depending upon location) and running water for use. Please remember to use camp soap/biodegradable soap and to refrain from dumping it directly onto soil. Also, never leave a campfire unattended. When you are leaving for the day, dump water on your fire pit to ensure the embers are doused. All it takes is a breeze to stir up the embers and start a blaze. For a Yosemite camping map and reservation information, please visit http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/camping.htm.

    Wilderness Camping I would recommend wilderness camping for the most experience campers. Wilderness camping accomodates the most adventureous camper, but can be dangerous if you are not prepared or experienced. There are no designated campgrounds for wilderness camping, but you must obtain a wilderness camping permit. These are usually free of charge and can be found at stations throughout the valley.

    You must have a permit if you are going to be staying over-night. For a day hike, no permit is required. If you are going to be hiking Half Dome, a permit is required, even for a day hike due to conditions. Wilderness camping is dependent upon many conditions, so please check in with a wilderness station before you begin your trip to ensure you are not hiking into any dangers. Wilderness camping requires a reservation to ensure that Yosemite knows how many people are camping and can notify authorities if you do not return from your trip. Reservations are available on first-come, first-serve basis on some trailheads, but are subject to availability. To learn more about reservations, location of wilderness stations, and trailhead locations, please visit http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/.htm/ Depending upon the season, campfire permits may also be required. Some areas do not permit campfires, so be sure that you identify your desired camping region to ensure you can make a fire.

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