Is a trip to Yosemite National Park on your to-do list this summer? You’ll need to do some planning now. The National Park Service has re-instituted a temporary day-use reservations system for Yosemite National Park for visits from May 21-September 30, 2021.
This new process is something we’re all getting used to, so take a look at some common questions and answers below:
Who needs a reservation?
Everyone needs a reservation, including annual and lifetime pass holders. The only exceptions are for guests staying overnight in the park or for special-use permit holders.
How many reservations do I need?
Each reservation is valid for three days. You need one reservation per vehicle and the reservation is valid for everyone inside the vehicle.
How do I get a reservation?
Day-use reservations will be available on Recreation.gov. Release dates vary depending on your desired visit dates (see below). Passes are available starting at 8:00 am Pacific time on release day.
| First Day to Reserve | Visit Dates | |
| April 21 | May 21-June 30 | |
| April 28 | July 1-31 | |
| May 5 | August 1-31 | |
| May 12 | September 1-30 |
What if I don’t get a reservation for my visit dates?
Beginning on May 14, some additional reservations will be available every day at 8:00 am Pacific time for seven days in advance of the arrival date (e.g., make a reservation on September 23 for an arrival date of September 30).
Or you can book one of Tenaya Lodge’s Yosemite Tours! You will not need a day-use pass when you book a tour with us. All you will need to do is to sit back in our exclusive convertible bus and soak in the rich stories of Yosemite from our expert guides.
I have more questions.
Check out NPS.gov or read this helpful FAQ from the Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism Bureau.
We hope to see you at Tenaya Lodge this summer!
Related story – Yosemite National Park to Re-Implement Day-Use Reservations
