Background

Housekeeping Camp: Yosemite's Rustic Retreat

Experience Yosemite's beauty with a touch of comfort at Housekeeping Camp, offering rustic lodging and stunning views in the heart of Yosemite Valley.

4.2

Housekeeping Camp offers a unique blend of outdoor camping and basic amenities along the Merced River in Yosemite Valley. Enjoy canvas-roofed, three-sided concrete structures with stunning views of Yosemite Falls and Half Dome, providing a relaxed and affordable Yosemite experience.

A brief summary to Housekeeping Camp

Local tips

  • Bring a padlock for the bear-proof storage locker to secure food and scented items.
  • Rent or bring your own bedding, as it is not provided in the basic units.
  • Take advantage of the free Yosemite Valley shuttle to explore other areas of the park.
  • Be mindful of noise levels, especially during quiet hours (10 PM to 6 AM).
widget icon

Getting There

  • Shuttle

    From anywhere in Yosemite Valley, utilize the free Yosemite Valley Shuttle System to reach Housekeeping Camp. The Valleywide Shuttle (Green Route) serves all major stops, including lodging, food services, and trailheads. Housekeeping Camp is located on Southside Drive, across from the Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center, and is close to shuttle stop 12. The shuttle runs frequently, with buses arriving every 12 to 22 minutes from 7 AM to 10 PM.

  • Walking

    If you are in Yosemite Valley, Housekeeping Camp is accessible by foot. From Yosemite Village, walk approximately 1 mile east along the paved path parallel to Southside Drive. The walk offers scenic views of the valley and surrounding cliffs. Follow signs for Housekeeping Camp, which is located across from the LeConte Memorial.

  • Driving

    If driving, enter Yosemite Valley and follow Southside Drive. Housekeeping Camp is approximately 5 miles east of the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center. Free parking is available near your unit. Be aware that during peak season, parking may be limited. Ensure your vehicle is free of all food and scented items to avoid attracting bears.

Unlock the Best of Housekeeping Camp

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Housekeeping Camp

Housekeeping Camp provides a distinctive Yosemite experience, appealing to those who appreciate the outdoors without the complexities of traditional tent camping. Situated in the heart of Yosemite Valley along the Merced River, the camp features 266 rustic units, each offering a unique perspective of Yosemite's iconic landmarks. Originally established around 1920 as an automobile camp, it evolved to offer camping equipment rentals. In the early 1960s, more permanent lodging units were added, benefiting from the Mission 66 program that invested in national park infrastructure. Today, the accommodations consist of three concrete walls topped with a canvas roof and a curtain for privacy. Each unit includes beds, electrical outlets, and an outdoor patio area with a table, seating, and a fire pit. Guests can relax on the nearby sandy beaches along the Merced River, cook meals outdoors, and enjoy the natural beauty of Yosemite from their own campsite. The camp provides amenities such as a grocery store, laundry facilities, and shower facilities. Keep in mind that guests need to bring their own bedding or rent it from the camp store. Housekeeping Camp allows you to immerse yourself in Yosemite's natural beauty while enjoying a few simple comforts. It's a popular choice, so reservations are highly recommended.

Popular Experiences near Housekeeping Camp

Popular Hotels near Housekeeping Camp

Select Currency