Crane Flat Camping Area

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Crane Flat is a popular camping area located in Yosemite National Park, California.


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Summary

It is situated at an elevation of 6,200 feet, and is surrounded by beautiful meadows and forests. Here is a tour guide summary of the Crane Flat camping area.

Surrounding Views:
The area around Crane Flat is filled with stunning views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The campground is located in a forested area with plenty of trees offering shade and privacy. The meadow adjacent to the campground is a great place for a picnic and offers views of Half Dome.

Specific Nearby Points of Interest:
The area has many points of interest that visitors can check out. One of the most popular activities in the area is hiking. The Merced Grove Trail, which leads to a grove of giant sequoia trees, is a must-see for visitors. Other hiking trails in the area include the Crane Flat Lookout Trail, the Tuolumne Grove Trail, and the Yosemite Valley Loop.

Campground Amenities:
The Crane Flat camping area has all the amenities that campers need. There are 166 campsites, with some sites suitable for RVs, and all sites have fire pits, picnic tables, and bear-proof storage lockers. The campground also has restrooms with flush toilets and running water. Firewood is available for purchase onsite.

Interesting Facts about the Area:
The Crane Flat area was named after a group of sandhill cranes that used to migrate through the area. The cranes have not been seen in the area for many years, but the name has stuck. The area is also home to many different species of wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, and coyotes.

Best Time of Year to Visit:
The best time to visit Crane Flat is in the summer months when the weather is mild and there is less chance of rain. The average temperature in July and August is around 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 50 degrees Fahrenheit at night. It is important to note that the campground is only open from late May to early October, and reservations are required.

       

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Camping Essential Practices

Pack It In, Pack It Out
Take all trash, food scraps, and gear back with you to keep campsites clean and protect wildlife.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance, store food securely, and never feed wildlife to maintain natural behavior and safety.
Know Before You Go
Check weather, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and permit requirements to ensure a safe and well-planned trip.
Minimize Campfire Impact
Use established fire rings, keep fires small, fully extinguish them, or opt for a camp stove when fires are restricted.
Leave What You Find
Preserve natural and cultural features by avoiding removal of plants, rocks, artifacts, or other elements of the environment.

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