Yosemite National Park is one of the most iconic and visited national parks in the United States, attracting over 3 million visitors annually. With its breathtaking granite cliffs, waterfalls, and ancient sequoias, it’s no wonder that demand often exceeds capacity, especially during peak season. To manage crowds and enhance the visitor experience, the National Park Service is continuing the Yosemite National Park entrance reservation system in 2025.
If you’re planning a trip to Yosemite National Park this year, it’s essential to understand the park’s reservation system. This guide will provide all the details on when reservations are required, how to secure one, and how to visit the park even if you don’t have a reservation.
Yosemite National Park Entrance Reservation: What You Need to Know
In 2025, Yosemite National Park entrance reservation will be required to reduce congestion during the busiest months. These reservations will apply between 6 am and 2 pm on select dates throughout the year. Here’s an overview of when you need to make a reservation and when one is not required.
When Yosemite National Park Entrance Reservation Is Required (6 am – 2 pm)
You’ll need a reservation to enter Yosemite National Park during the following dates:
- May 24–26 (Memorial Day Weekend): Reservation required from Saturday through Monday
- June 15–August 15: Reservation required every day
- August 30–September 1 (Labor Day Weekend): Reservation required from Saturday through Monday
When Yosemite National Park Entrance Reservation Is Not Required
Reservations are not required during the following shoulder-season dates:
- May 27–June 14
- August 16–August 29
Even though a reservation is not necessary during these times, expect higher crowds, especially on weekends. Arriving early is recommended to avoid long wait times.
How to Visit without a Yosemite National Park Entrance Reservation
If you don’t have a reservation for Yosemite National Park during peak periods, there are still options to visit the park.
Arrive Outside of Peak Hours
If you arrive before 6 am or after 2 pm, you do not need a reservation. Yosemite National Park gates remain open 24/7, but you will still need to pay the entrance fee.
Important: Do not line up before 2 pm. Rangers will issue citations to vehicles blocking roads or causing unsafe conditions.
Use the Hetch Hetchy Entrance
The Hetch Hetchy entrance, located on the park’s northwest side, is open from sunrise to sunset and does not require a reservation at any time.
- This entrance is ideal for hikers or visitors seeking a quieter park experience.
- Be aware that parking fills up quickly, particularly on weekends.
How to Make Yosemite National Park Entrance Reservation in 2025
If your visit falls within a reservation-required period, it’s important to plan ahead and secure your reservation.
Where and When to Book
All Yosemite National Park entrance reservations must be made through Recreation.gov:
- Initial release: May 6, 2025, at 8 am PDT
- Rolling releases: New reservations become available 7 days in advance, daily at 8 am PDT
For example: If you want to visit on June 22, bookings will open at 8 am on June 15.
Key Booking Tips
- Create a Recreation.gov account before reservation dates.
- Log in early—reservations for popular dates sell out quickly.
- You can book up to two reservations per 3-day period.
- The reservation fee is $2 (non-refundable), in addition to the $35 vehicle entrance fee.
- Photo ID is required; the reservation holder must be present and show ID at the gate.
No Internet? Call to Reserve
If you don’t have internet access, you can make a reservation by calling 877-444-6777. Be ready with your desired entry date and payment details.
What Does Your Yosemite National Park Entrance Reservation Include?
Your Yosemite National Park entrance reservation covers:
- Vehicle access during peak hours (6 am–2 pm) for the dates specified
- The reservation is valid for three consecutive days, starting with your arrival date
What it does not include:
- Camping or lodging reservations (must be booked separately)
- Wilderness permits or Half Dome permits (these require a different reservation)
Skip the Entrance Reservation with Permits & Lodging
If you have a reservation for camping, lodging, or a permit within Yosemite, you do not need an additional Yosemite National Park entrance reservation. You will still be required to pay the $35 per vehicle entrance fee upon arrival (credit card only), unless you have an annual or lifetime pass.
Your reservation for in-park accommodations or permits provides you with 24-hour access to the park for the duration of your stay or for up to three consecutive days, whichever is longer. This means you can enter and exit the park freely, even during peak times, without worrying about securing a timed-entry reservation.
What Reservations Allow You to Skip the Entrance Reservation:
- Yosemite National Park Campgrounds
- Curry Village
- Housekeeping Camp
- Yosemite Valley Lodge
- The Ahwahnee
- Tuolumne Meadows Lodge
- High Sierra Camps
- Private vacation rentals in Wawona, Yosemite West, or Foresta
- Yosemite Wilderness Permit
- Half Dome Permit
With any of these reservations, you do not need a timed-entry reservation to enter the park. Simply show your reservation confirmation and a valid photo ID at the gate for entry at any time during your stay.
General Yosemite National Park Trip Planning Tips for 2025
Planning ahead will help you make the most of your visit to Yosemite National Park in 2025. Here are some additional tips to consider:
Lodging & Campsites
- Inside the park: Book at least 6 months in advance on Recreation.gov.
- Nearby towns: Try Groveland (Hwy 120), Mariposa (Hwy 140), or Oakhurst (Hwy 41) for convenient lodging options.
Transportation
- YARTS bus service offers transportation from nearby towns such as Merced, Fresno, and Mammoth Lakes.
- Arrive early or late to avoid long lines at the entrance.
- Alternate entrances like Big Oak Flat (Hwy 120) or South Entrance (Hwy 41) may offer shorter lines.
When to Visit
- Best weather: June through September
- Best for fewer crowds: Mid-May, late August, and September weekdays
- For real-time alerts, road closures, and trail conditions, check the NPS App or visit nps.gov/yose.
Continue Planning Your 2025 Yosemite Trip
The Yosemite National Park entrance reservation system in 2025 may require extra planning, but it ensures the park’s natural beauty is protected while offering a more enjoyable experience for visitors. By planning ahead—whether that means securing a reservation, entering early, or using alternate access points—you can enjoy all the wonders of Yosemite National Park without the stress of overcrowding. Below are our other resources for Yosemite National Park as well as other general National Park advice.
Ultimate Guide to Yosemite National Park
