Yosemite

[concord_05]

Just got conformation that I received a 7 day pass reservation to Yosemite. We have a 25 foot motorhome A Forest River Forester 2014. It will be almost a 2000 mile trip to just get there. My only plans so far are to stay in Lee Vining for at least 4 nights. And enter on the East side. My thoughts are to then move to the west side for a few days. Ideally would then go to Kings Canyon and Head home from there. My reservations in Yosemite start on September 14. Any suggestions or advice on routes to take, COVID info and areas to see would be greatly appreciated. Age and health issues limit us to just enjoying beautiful scenery..

[vermilye]

2X on a visit to both Mono Lake at sunset for the great light, and Bodie.

[profdant139]

By the way, here is a recent blog post about the Tioga area:

Tioga -- lots of photos

Bear in mind that we were there earlier in the season, when there was still some snow around. By September, there will be almost no snow except on the highest peaks.

[SFVdave]

The "X" on the reservations page are sites not available because the park service has closed 50% of the sites to allow for distancing and avoid overcrowding. Some of the campground sites are right on top of one another. Keep searching for a cancellation as the tend to pop up the more closely you approach the date. They go very fast, within minutes. I have driven Tioga Pass rd about a half a dozen times. Very beautiful, but can be scarey. Take it slow and use the turn outs to view the beauty. We've been up there 60+ times over the past 17 years. Never gets old! We have reservations for next month, but aren't sure we are going. It's my understanding from a friend who visited back in June, that there isn't much mask wearing outside and no social distancing. Because of the shuttles not running, visitors crowd the sidewalks . Masks are required in the store and social distancing required to protect the employees.

[concord_05]

Just curious, I was looking at the NPS site for camping in Yosemite. I know they have been booked for along time. On the availability chart it shows dates as reserved marked with an R. Then some of the sites Show an X on the date but gives no availability to reserve . Then on the same site will show a R on a later date. Very confusing. Also is it possible if you check frequently you might catch an open site after someone cancels.

[KCFDCapt]

If you want to stay at Mono Vista in Lee Vining, be aware they DO NOT ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS. You will need to send a check in the mail. Call them to make your reservations and inquire how to accomplish reservation payment and final payment.

[profdant139]

If you need hookups, I'd recommend Mono Vista RV Park in Lee Vining. If hiking at high altitude is not an option, then definitely plan on driving Tioga Road at least as far as Olmstead Point, stopping frequently at the pullouts to enjoy the views.

You could also do day trips to June Lake, Lundy Canyon, and Virginia Lakes, all fairly near Lee Vining. If you and your vehicle are feeling adventurous, the ghost town of Bodie is north on 395.

Bring warm clothes -- the nights can be very chilly! The stars in the Eastern Sierra are amazing.

[Lwiddis]

The Tioga Highway is a beautiful drive into Yosemite. Lower Lee Vining USFS is a nice campground, close to town and supplies. Saddlebag USFS campground has wonderful views and is also off CA 120 but down a good dirt road. Camp at over 10,000 feet!