Yosemite pass and reversation

Question

Good afternoon, I was wondering if anyone can explain to me how enter Yosemite park. We're from the UK and travelling in a RV. I read mixed things about the reservation program changes each year. Ive seen on the website that reservations for the time were want to visit is either 1st April/may.

So my question is: I understand that I need a pass to enter, can I purchase that before I make a reservation? Or is it done at the same time?

Thanks in advance

Answer

Visiting Yosemite National Park in an RV requires understanding the current reservation and entry system, which has changed in recent years. Here’s a detailed explanation to help you plan your trip.

Yosemite uses two main systems for visitors:

Day-use reservation pass: This is required for entering the park during high-traffic periods, typically from late spring through early fall. Reservations are released in advance, often starting around April 1 for the peak season.
Camping or lodging reservation: If you are staying inside the park in a campground or RV site, you need a separate reservation for that, which also often opens months in advance.

Here’s how it works for RV visitors:

You cannot purchase the day-use pass separately without selecting your date and entering the reservation system; it is tied to the specific date you plan to enter.
Typically, the reservation window opens several months ahead (for example, early April for summer visits), and you must book for the date you intend to enter the park.
If you have an RV, you also need to ensure your campsite or overnight parking is reserved, as spaces for RVs are limited.
The pass and the overnight reservation are separate, so you may need two bookings: one for your entry (day-use pass) and one for your campsite.

Tips for planning:

Check the official Yosemite National Park website for the latest information on entry reservation windows and RV-specific rules.
Plan to book as soon as the reservation window opens, as popular dates fill up quickly.
Keep your RV dimensions in mind; some campgrounds have length limits.
Even with a pass, some areas may require additional reservations or permits, especially for backcountry or large RV access.

In summary, you cannot purchase a general entry pass ahead of time independently; it is done as part of the reservation process for your specific date of entry. Make your reservation first, then your pass is effectively confirmed.

Yosemite pass and reversation

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