Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National park in east central California was the very first area of wilderness in the United States to be granted special protection status from commercial interests. It was first set aside for preservation and public use and enjoyment in 1864 and over the years the park has developed into a must see destination. The park is well equipped with RV rental friendly campgrounds which allow for overnight stays, there are also a wide range of educational and entertaining activities for people of all ages.
The first effort to protect this natural treasure was approved by President Abraham Lincoln in 1864. However it took many more years of lobbying by interested parties for full Federal protection to be granted to the area in 1906 by President Theodore Roosevelt. Over grazing and over logging caused vast damage to the region and this inspired early environmentalist to actively seek protection of the remaining areas. In some places the giant Sequoia trees which once blanketed the region now only exist in groves with only a few dozen trees. An RV rental holiday in Yosemite would not be complete without visiting at least one of the three remaining groves of giant Sequoia.
Despite the efforts of several generations of concerned citizens and despite the variety of habitats within the park a number of animal species that once lived here have become extinct. Another 37 species currently have special protection status as endangered species. These species currently face threats such as loss of natural fire regime, exotic species, air pollution, habitat fragmentation and climate change. This is also not helped by the number of road kills each year and the availability of human food. If you are visiting the park in one of our RV rentals we urge you to please observe the speed limit. Although it seems unnecessary to go slow along straight stretches of road, keep in mind that animals can easily dart out onto the road from the forest. In 2007 alone 12 bears where hit by cars.
A visit to Yosemite will give holiday makers an appreciation of the importance of this vast natural treasure. It will also highlight the need for visitors to ensure they act responsibly while visiting the park so it is preserved for future generations to come.
Here is a small taste of the type of holiday activities available in the park :
Mule & Horseback Rides
Perhaps the most relaxing way to experience the scenery Yosemite has to offer is by mule or horseback. There are a number of different stables which offer rides through unique scenery. Why not visit them all for a comprehensive view of the park? Casual rides take between 2 to 4 hours however all day rides are also available. City slickers beware : a day in the saddle can have a serious affect on your ability to sit down the following day. You may need to spend the following day recovering in the comfort of your RV rental.
Guided Tours
There are a wide variety of guided tours available within the park. If your schedule permits we recommend you go on a couple of tours to get an appreciation of the diversity of the park and its special place in the hearts of people who call the area home. Tour guides are mostly locals who have an intimate knowledge of the area and its history.
Golf
The park has a nine-hole par-35 national park golf course which measures just over 3,000 yards and includes two par-5 holes and three par-3 holes. Different tee positions per side provide a par-70 18-hole format. Golfers of every level enjoy the rolling terrain and variety of challenging holes and tranquil setting of this historic golf course.
Evening Programs
Yosemite National Park offers visitors a wealth of fun yet enriching activities which goes beyond mere nature tours and outdoor sports. Visitors learn about the national park's history and legend through a variety of means such as song, story, art and theater. These performances aim to give visitors an understanding and appreciation for what an amazing national treasure the park is.
Rafting & Water Sports
The warm summer days are best spent down by the water. Yosemite has many rivers and lakes which provide fantastic fishing grounds both in front and back country. The river systems also make great places for a variety of recreational activities. Rafts can be rented inside the park for a leisurely cruise down the Merced River. The views from the river are simply breathtaking.
If you would rather stay on dry land, then have a picnic by the water. If you are a keen fisherman try your hand at catching dinner. RV rental holiday makers can easily whip up a delicious meal using the kitchen facilities on board. With all the creature comforts of home you would never need to eat out.
Winter Activities
During the winter months Yosemite is a wonderland of bright sunny days, snowy meadows, icicle laden pines and oaks, alpine sunsets and rainbow fringed waterfalls with snow-capped mountaintops. The winter months in the park provide breathtakingly beautiful views. If you are planning a camper rental holiday during winter please ensure you check with the National Parks Service before you leave to ensure the conditions are suitable for RVs.
