This Yosemite Campground Was Ranked the 2nd Best on the West Coast
Yosemite’s beloved Upper Pines Campground has been named the #2 best campground on the West Coast in The Dyrt’s 2025 Best Places to Camp in the Pacific Region—solidifying its spot as one of the most iconic camping destinations in the country.
Located in the heart of Yosemite Valley under a thick canopy of pine trees, Upper Pines offers campers prime access to legendary landmarks like Half Dome, Mirror Lake, and the Mist Trail. With shuttles nearby and year-round reservations required, it’s a coveted spot for visitors looking to immerse themselves in Yosemite’s natural grandeur.
But Upper Pines wasn’t the only California campground to make waves in this year’s rankings. In fact, half of the top 10 campgrounds are located in the Golden State:
- #1. Alabama Hills Recreation Area (Lone Pine) — A jaw-dropping Eastern Sierra desertscape filled with dramatic rock formations and panoramic views of Mount Whitney.
- #4. Jumbo Rocks Campground (Joshua Tree National Park) — A surreal, starry landscape where giant boulders and sunsets collide.
- #7. Sawtooth Canyon Campground (Barstow) — A lesser-known desert gem, popular with climbers and solitude seekers.
- #10. Morro Bay State Park Campground — A coastal retreat near the charming beach town of Morro Bay, perfect for birdwatching and kayaking.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls in Yosemite or watching the stars from a desert canyon, California’s campgrounds continue to offer some of the most diverse and awe-inspiring experiences in the West. Just don’t forget to book early—especially at Upper Pines.
