What is the best camping spot in Yosemite National Park?

Question

I know I can read about all the sites but I want to know from a real person who knows Yosemite well, someone not bias. We are looking for a tent spot, preferrably not close to other campers, and would like to be very close to some kind of water. We are aware that reservations need to be made far in advance. We are planning for summer of 09'. Anybody? Thanks for the help!

Answer 1

All of the campsites in the valley, upper and lower pines and north pines as well as camp 4 are all crowded, but have the best views ever. Now you can also go to White wolf which is a first come, first serve on the way to toulome meadows. We have never had a problem getting in there as we arrive Sunday morning. Also there are some drive to campsites like porcupine flats that are a lot more in the boonies that are not crowded. Then there is a secret campground near north pines. It is for backpackers and is never crowded. The problem with this one is you are only allowed to stay a day or two. To make reservations for Yosemite next year, you go on line 5 months in advance on the 15 of the month at 7am pacific standard time. I always do this by having the reservation site bookmarked and ready to go before 7am. No matter what, Yosemite is still my favorite camping place in all of California. I don't let the crowds bother me and fine many of them entertaining.

Answer 2

If you're up for backpacking, little Yosemite Valley and anywhere else farther up the John Muir Trial is awesome, plus if you're hiking to Half-Dome or Clouds Rest its a perfect place to spend the night.

If you are not into backpacking, you are not going to find a legal secluded campiong spot away from other campers and near water anywhere accesible by motor vehicle in Yosemite NP, unless you go during a period of unusually horrible weather that turns away the crowds.

Upper Pines is nice if you don't mind the crowds.