Yosemite National Park Campground To Be Repaired And Improved Through GAOA Funding

The Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA), which was signed into law on August 4, 2020, has been widely supported by the outdoor recreation industry and is the most significant piece of outdoor recreation legislation in over six decades. GAOA provides up to $1.6 billion a year for five years to help address a multi-billion-dollar deferred maintenance backlog at national parks, on other public lands, and at tribal schools. One of its current projects, which is receiving $20 million in funding, is the modernization of Yosemite National Park's largest campground. The RV Industry Association’s federal affairs team has been working with the Department of the Interior to guarantee that campground modernization would be a priority during GAOA’s implementation and looks forward to continuing their efforts to ensure that campgrounds are up-to-date for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors.

Yosemite National Park’s largest campground is receiving a major overhaul with funding from the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA). The $20 million project will rehabilitate and modernize the Tuolumne Meadows campground which hosts more than 150,000 campers annually.

The campground was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s and expanded in the 1960’s to 140 acres. It’s high elevation setting (8,600’) provides direct access to the Tuolumne Wild and Scenic River, the John Muir Trail, and iconic viewpoints of the surrounding alpine environment.

Project at a Glance: This $20 million dollar project will rehabilitate the 329-site Tuolumne Meadows Campground, including walk-in, drive-in and fully accessible sites designed for RV, tent, backpacker, group, and equestrian use.

What are the Benefits: In a world where more Americans are looking for opportunities to take a break from technology and enjoy the great outdoors, campgrounds are just as relevant today as they were to early twentieth- century campers.

This project will upgrade and improve campground facilities and utility systems, increase the variety of camping options and provide visitors with a unique and affordable way to stay in the park. The work will enhance the visitor experience, fix structures damaged from heavy snowfall, and repair aging, inefficient infrastructure.

Project Details

Anticipated Start Date*: Summer of 2022 

Anticipated Completion*: Summer of 2024

Project Costs*: Approximately $26.2 million

Visitor impact: The campground will be closed until the summer of 2024. 

*These are estimations and subject to change

Read more about the project from the National Park Service here.