Planning your trip to Yosemite’s High Sierra Camps

There are two ways to snag a spot in Yosemite’s High Sierra Camps: the lottery and cancellations. The lottery is held each fall, typically in September and October. You can get an application by calling (801) 559-4909, writing to Yosemite Reservations, High Sierra Desk, 6771 N. Palm Ave., Fresno 93704 or applying online at https://www.yosemitepark.com/Accomodations_HighSierraCamps.aspx. After mid-February, space, opened through cancellations, can be reserved by calling (801) 559-4909. A list of available dates, updated sporadically, is at https://www.yosemitepark.com/Accommodations_HighSierraCamps_Availability.aspx. Late-spring snow can push back the opening dates, so if you’re applying through the lottery, it’s safest to select dates from mid-July on.

Prices include lodging in shared, four-person tent cabins, dinner, breakfast and the use of showers where available. May Lake, Sunrise and Merced Lake: Adults, $151; children ages 7-12, $91. Vogelsang and Glen Aulin: Adults, $145; children ages 7-12, $87.

By arranging in advance, backpackers can camp nearby and take their meals in the High Sierra Camps. Price for dinner and breakfast is $46 for adults, $23 for children (7-12).

Yosemite operates four- and six-day guided horseback trips of the High Sierra Camp circuit (adults, $1,018 and $1,602, respectively), and five- and seven-day guided hiking trips to the camps (adults, $902 and $1,399, respectively). For information, go to https://www.yosemitepark.com/Accommodations_HighSierra_HowtoApply.aspx.