Hodgdon Meadow sits right at the Big Oak Flat Entrance, making it the most convenient campground option if you’re coming into Yosemite from the north on Highway 120. The location matters—you’re about 45 minutes from Yosemite Valley, which means easier access without fighting the heaviest traffic, but you’re still close enough for day trips if you want them.

The campground operates year-round, though the booking system changes seasonally. Mid-April through mid-October you’ll need reservations (book online ahead of time), but from mid-October through April it’s first-come, first-served. Sites run $20 a night during peak season and drop to $14 during the quieter months. They accommodate RVs up to 35 feet and trailers up to 27 feet, and there are four group sites if you’re camping with a larger crew.

Traveling with a dog here means understanding Yosemite’s specific pet rules. Dogs must stay leashed at all times and are restricted to paved roads, walkways, and bike paths—no trail access. That’s the real limitation to know going in. The campground itself allows dogs, but you can’t leave yours tied up or unattended anywhere on the property. Bring your own waste bags since the park doesn’t provide them.

The 105 individual campsites give you decent options for finding a spot without feeling crammed in. The meadow itself is pleasant enough for a base camp, especially if your dog enjoys open grassy areas where you can walk on the paved loops. Just manage expectations about where you can actually hike with your dog during your stay—the nearby trails are off-limits, so you’re looking at road walking and the campground grounds themselves. If you’re planning a Yosemite trip and want to bring your dog, this location works well for access, but the pet restrictions are worth factoring into your activity plans.