Rules & Regulations
Yosemite National Park is a vast, scenic wonderland, enjoyed by millions each year. In order to preserve and sustain the natural, historical and cultural environment of the Park, specific rules and regulations are in place – many specific to certain activities including camping, climbing, fishing, water activities, and general sight seeing.
During your visit to Yosemite National Park, please adhere to the following rules and regulations:
General Rules
- Do NOT feed or approach wildlife
- Hunting is prohibited
- Do NOT collect reptiles, butterflies and/or any plants (including pine cones)
- Collection of any archeological item is prohibited such as arrowheads
- The use of metal detectors is prohibited
- Drive your vehicle only on designed roadways
- Camp only in designated campgrounds
- Dispose of trash in animal-proof trash cans or dumpsters
- Keep your food and trash from wildlife by storing it properly, day and night
Bicycling
- Ride only on paved roads and trails. No riding off trail, on unpaved trails or in the wilderness areas.
- Bicyclists under 18 years of age must wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet.
Traffic safety
When traveling on park roads protect yourself, other visitors, and park wildlife by observing the following simple rules:
- Please obey posted speed limits. Speeding kills bears & other wildlife!
- Use turnouts to pull completely out of the road to take photos, consult the park map, or simply enjoy the park's scenery and wildlife.
- Wear seatbelts and use child safety seats required for children under six years of age or under 60 pounds in weight.
- All motorcyclists must wear helmets.
- Don't drink and drive.
- Use tire chains when posted as being required (during snowy or icy periods).
Water safety
- Enter and exit the river only at designated launch and removal sites
- Pack out what you pack in
- Supervise children very closely
- Never swim or wade upstream from the brink of a waterfall
- When river rafting, you must wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation device
Visit the Search and Rescue office's website for tips on hiking and climbing safety.
Have a safe and enjoyable vacation in Yosemite National Park and by following the rules and regulations, you will ensure that it will remain pristine for future generations.
