May Lake High Sierra Camp is just one of the Yosemite High Sierra camps that comprise a glorious loop of 7 tent cabin compounds situated within the bounds of Yosemite National Park in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. This amazing nest of camps, spaced 6 to 10 miles apart, all have something fabulous to offer in terms of challenge, charm and views. Once a high Sierra lovers hiking secret, they are now are so very popular and getting a reservation requires some serious perseverance. It’s tricky, but worth every bit of effort. More on that below!
Missing out on REAL backpacking in my youth (living on the flat plains of Texas), I’m a lot dubious about my ability to carry everything a backpacker must, and still be able to stand upright the next day, let alone hike another 8 miles or so and actually have fun. So, Yosemite High Sierra Camps! Some might call it “glamping”, I’m going to say no, its not that. It is an amazing option if you can put in the time and effort to hike, but love a wonderful meal, a toilet and a dry tent cabin to sleep in at the end of your efforts!
May lake is the most accessible of all the camps with an uphill, exposed 1.2 mile hike up from the May Lake parking lot (Located off the 120 just past Olmstead Point, coming from the east). I’ve been there 3 times, I’ll go again – exactly because of its accessibility. You get the real backcountry vibe without actually having to hike into backcountry. Each time I go, it’s a unique and difference experience. Great for High Sierra newbies, adventure sharing with friends, families with smaller children and those that just aren’t up to 7 or 8 miles of trekking.
The May Lake parking lot is small and can fill early. If you miss that option, you’re parking along the road leading in/out. Shuttle options can be researched, are available during the camp season and can be a convenient option. The parking lot bear boxes seem to fill early, but I’ve always managed to find room. Make sure to leave anything that smells – not in your car. Lots of folks do this destination as a day hike and with a backpacker’s camp close by, you will see people coming and going. Not a lot of solitude here. One great option if your staying at the camp is to hike up early, drop some of your gear at the mess tent, then continue around the lake and up onto Mt. Hoffman. There you’ll lose the crowds!