Yosemite National Park Camping Trip from San Francisco - 3 days

Yosemite National Park Camping Trip from San Francisco - 3 days -- See for yourself why Yosemite is often referred to as America's "Crown Jewel" of the National Park system. While only a few hours away from the hustle and bustle of San Francisco, immerse yourself in nature and let the sheer magnificence of Yosemite take your breath away.

Let us guide you on a 3 day, 2 night adventure to experience El Capitan, Half Dome, magnificent waterfalls, clear streams, and giant sequoia groves to just name a few. This friendly, fun-filled camping trip with nature hikes, cookouts and campfires is sure to give you memories to last a lifetime.

General Itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 starts with everybody meeting at the corner of Mason and O'Farrell Streets (in front of the Hilton Hotel) in downtown San Francisco by 6:30 am to depart by 6:45 am. Once out of the city, we will stop to purchase fresh food for our duration in the park. We then cross the Central Valley and through the Gold Country on our way into the mountains. On this first day, we will hike down to the Giant Sequoia trees. The hike through the Sequoias is pleasant and shaded and will bring you right up to massive wooden monuments, some of which are over one thousand years old. Continuing into the park by van, experience an 1 1/2 hour guided tour as we descend deep into Yosemite Valley to see some of the world's tallest waterfalls and incredible vistas which were captured in the photographs taken by Ansel Adams. While in the valley, your guide will give you an orientation of the park as well as an explanation of the tour itinerary and options for the next two days. After some free time in Yosemite Valley, we will head for the campsite to set up tents and cook a hearty meal.

Day 2

Rising early, we prepare breakfast and lunch, clean up camp and head off in the van for a fun day in the park full of hiking, sightseeing and exploring. The itinerary can vary depending on the chosen hike for the day but we normally go up into the high country to explore the beautiful alpine lakes, snow melt waterfalls, amazing granite rock formations and trails as high as 11,000 feet. At the end of the day we head back to camp for dinner and unwind by the campfire.

Day 3

Day three is what we call the free day where the exact itinerary is flexible, based on the interests of the group. Normally we head into Yosemite Valley where you can choose one of many great hikes, rent a bike or just relax in the shade by the emerald green Merced River. After another full day in the park, we head back to San Francisco arriving in the city by the bay at around 9:00 pm. You will be dropped off at the Hilton Hotel.

Camping

Camping is easy, but cooperation is important. Don't worry if you've never camped before - many people haven't. We supply the camping and cooking equipment necessary. Everybody is expected to participate in the set up and break down of camp and our professional guides are available to attend to your needs to ensure a positive camping experience. We camp at campsites with modern facilities such as showers. Swimming is usually available nearby.

Food

We provide the food, but we are not the chefs. You guys are the cooks, waiters, dishwashers and of course the guests. Upon leaving San Francisco, we will stop at a supermarket and buy everything we need. The fare is a mixture of chicken, beef and vegetarian.

Transportation

We use comfortable 15 passenger vans with dual air conditioning and stereo sound. Our vans are fueled by eco-conscious biodiesel fuel (vegetable oil-based), to promote the preservation of the environment. All of our vans have large roof racks for luggage and camping equipment.

Things to Bring

On our excursion, you will need to bring your sneakers or hiking boots, shorts, T-shirts, swimwear, sun protection, bug spray, water bottle, flashlight, raincoat or jacket and some warmer clothes in case there is a change in weather. You must also bring your own sleeping bag but if you do not have one, you can rent one for $30.

Weather

June through September in Yosemite is hot and sunny with occasional afternoon showers. May and October days are warm with cooler nights. As with all mountain environments, the weather can drop drastically at night so a layer of warm clothing and jacket would be highly recommended.

Who Goes

Most of our travelers on this tour have been younger, adventure seeking backpackers. Our camping tours are fully guided so no previous camping experience is necessary. Whether traveling on your own, with friends or family, this is a great way to meet others and share incredible memories.

Tour includes camping equipment (except a sleeping bag), six meals (dinner the first day; breakfast, lunch and dinner the second day; breakfast and lunch the third day), all camping fees, park fees, taxes, transportation and professional guide service. Please reserve online, or call us toll-free at 888-814-2305.