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Friday, Sep. 25, 2009

Camping regulations in Yosemite

Picturesque Yosemite National Park is hardly a day-trip type of destination. In fact, the grand, rugged beauty that has made Yosemite's natural realm famous throughout the world virtually compels many visitors to stay at the park for several days.

While Yosemite is quite good at accommodating campers with a number of campsites, the National Park Service also has special guidelines for camping, including regulations about the length of a camping stay and the number of people allowed in a camping group.

Before heading to Yosemite, know the following rules governing a stay at Yosemite. If you do not, violation of the park's regulations may result in a fine or the revocation of your camping permit.

Here are some tips:

• Learn beforehand how long you can camp in Yosemite National Park. The park has a 30-day camping limit during a calendar year. For visits between May 1 and Sept. 15, the camping limit is 14 days, and only seven of those days can be in Yosemite Valley or Wawona.

• A maximum of six people in a group, including children, is allowed per campsite. There is no limit however, on the number of tents, provided they fit into the campsite.

• Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.; generators may be used sparingly during daylight hours.

• Campfires are allowed any time at other times of the year and in out-of-valley campgrounds. Fires always must be put out completely with water when not attended.

• Firewood collection is not permitted in Yosemite Valley. Campers can purchase firewood at stores near most campgrounds. Firewood brought to Yosemite from more than 50 miles away can spread unwanted forest pests.

• Camping or sleeping in vehicles is permitted only in designated campsites.

• A maximum of two vehicles are allowed per campsite. Vehicles must park on the parking pad. Additional parking is available near each campground for no additional charge.

• Pets are permitted in all campgrounds except Camp 4, Tamarack Flat, Porcupine Flat and all group campsites. Pets must be on a leash and never left unattended.

• Keep your food properly stored 24 hours per day.

• Dispose of camp wastewater in designated utility drains. Sewage must be disposed of at designated dump stations (Yosemite Valley, Wawona and Tuolumne Meadows).

• Do not connect electrical extension cords to campground restroom outlets.