Yosemite National Park: Camping in Tuolumne, for the uninitiated
By Mary Forgione
Los Angeles Times Daily Travel & Deal blogger
March 3, 2012, 5:15 a.m.
Want a Yosemite backcountry camping experience without a lot of hassle? The Yosemite Conservancy, a nonprofit organization that supports the national park, offers three-day Family Camping Jamborees in July that take the guesswork out of car camping.
Each trip features three nights at Tuolumne Meadows Campground, a setting at 8,600 feet that's far from bustling Yosemite Valley. This isn't luxury camping, just good old-fashioned tents in the woods -- ideal for families who want their first experience to be a good one. Meals are prepared by guides, so no need to bring cooking gear or food.
By day, go on easy hikes to check out the wildflowers and wildlife; by night, gather 'round the campfire for s'mores and stars. Photographer, author and naturalist guide Dave Wyman leads both trips.
When: Camping jamborees are July 21-24 and July 26-29.
Price: $314 per adult and $135 per child (conservancy members get a discount). This includes guide, activities, campsite and entrance fees, and meals. Tents (you can rent one at REI or another outdoor store) and transportation to and from the park aren't included.
http://www.latimes.com/travel/deals/la-trb-yosemite-camping-20120301,0,2084558.story