Yosemite 3-Day Camping Adventure from San Francisco: Guided Camping, Hikes & Sequoias
Leave the city behind for three days of tents, waterfalls and giant sequoias. This guided camping adventure from San Francisco pairs narrated valley drives with hikes into Yosemite’s high country and modern campsites.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring a sleeping bag or reserve one
Operator supplies tents and most camping equipment but not sleeping bags—book or bring one rated to 20°F for cool nights.
Store food properly every time
Use provided bear lockers or bear canisters at camp—do not leave food or scented items in tents.
Hydrate and pace your hikes
Mountain hikes can be longer and steeper than they look—carry 1–2 liters and take steady breaks on climbs.
Footwear matters
Sturdy hiking boots with traction are best for mixed dirt, rock and occasional wet sections.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Tuolumne Grove sequoias (less busy than Yosemite Valley sequoias)
- •Merced River swimming alcoves near Sentinel Beach for cooling off
Wildlife
- •Black bear
- •Mule deer
Conservation Note
Follow Leave No Trace and strict food-storage rules to reduce human–bear conflicts; the operator’s use of biodiesel vans helps lower trip emissions.
The Yosemite Valley was home to the Ahwahnechee people for generations; the landscape seen today was largely shaped by Pleistocene glaciers exposing the Sierra’s granite backbone.
Photographer's Notes
- • Tunnel View for classic valley panoramas
- • Tuolumne Grove base among giant sequoias
- • El Capitan Meadow to watch climbers and capture scale
What to Bring
Sleeping bag (20°F rating)Essential
Nights at Yosemite campsites can be chilly—bring a bag suitable for cold mountain nights.
Sturdy hiking bootsEssential
Good ankle support and grip are useful on rocky, sometimes wet trails.
Daypack (20–30L)Essential
Carry water, layers, snacks and camera for hikes and valley explorations.
Reusable water bottle with filter or tabletsEssential
Reliable hydration is essential; treatments let you refill at potable sources when available.
Common Questions
Do I need prior camping experience?
No—guides provide tents and camp setup instruction; participants help with routine camp duties but no prior experience is required.
Is a sleeping bag included?
Sleeping bags are not provided—note this requirement when booking or bring your own rated for mountain nights.
Are park entrance fees included?
Park entrance is typically included or covered by the operator; confirm on booking and carry your booking confirmation.
What are the age limits or child policies?
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult; check the operator’s booking questions for specific age restrictions.
What facilities are at the campsite?
Campsites used have modern facilities—hot showers and potable water are available, though amenities vary by season.
What happens if the minimum group size isn’t met?
Tours require a minimum number of passengers; if the minimum isn’t met you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 days
Location
Yosemite Valley, California
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderately fit: able to hike 3–8 miles in a day with 500–1,500 ft of elevation gain.
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