WawonaNews.com - May 2025
Kathie Heringer, July 18, 1948 — March 20, 2025
Kathie Heringer, beloved resident of Wawona in Yosemite National Park, California, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2025, at the age of 76.
Kathie was a cherished daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Born and raised in Dos Palos California, Kathie graduated from CSU Fresno and married Wayne Heringer on the grounds of the Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite. She lived an incredibly full life overseas and in the States with her children and grandchildren.
She is survived by her children Trevor and Mendy, their spouses Jessica and Kevin, and her grandchildren Alejandra, Aaleyah, and Ava. In addition to her family, Kathie had a deep connection to the natural beauty of the Yosemite region. We welcome you to visit Wawona and experience her peace and joy sitting on her porch overlooking the Merced River - that was her greatest daily wish - and she is sitting there in spirit as you read this.
She leaves an incredible legacy of dedication to her friends, family and her charitable causes. She taught her family and friends the undeniable lessons of love, kindness, compassion, generosity and devotion. She was always the first to offer to help paint a friend's house, stop by and listen to a loved one who was having a difficult time, or open her house to travelers who needed a beautiful rest stop and great food. She was known for her handwritten cards and frequent presents hand-picked for each special person. For everyone who was touched by Kathie's presence in their life, we will never forget her laughter and smile; She had a true gift for valuing, seeing and loving all who were fortunate to be a part of her life.
A future private memorial service will be held in her honor in Wawona. Please email her daughter at, [email protected] for further information. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Wounded Warriors Project.
Kathie’s impact in this world is immeasurable. She will be greatly missed, but know she is where she needs to be - laughing, drinking Diet Coke, eating clam dip and M&Ms, sitting in her chair overlooking the river. We love you gobbers.
To see more photos of Kathie in her obituary web page, click here.
Kathie Heringer, beloved resident of Wawona in Yosemite National Park, California, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2025, at the age of 76.
Kathie was a cherished daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Born and raised in Dos Palos California, Kathie graduated from CSU Fresno and married Wayne Heringer on the grounds of the Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite. She lived an incredibly full life overseas and in the States with her children and grandchildren.
She is survived by her children Trevor and Mendy, their spouses Jessica and Kevin, and her grandchildren Alejandra, Aaleyah, and Ava. In addition to her family, Kathie had a deep connection to the natural beauty of the Yosemite region. We welcome you to visit Wawona and experience her peace and joy sitting on her porch overlooking the Merced River - that was her greatest daily wish - and she is sitting there in spirit as you read this.
She leaves an incredible legacy of dedication to her friends, family and her charitable causes. She taught her family and friends the undeniable lessons of love, kindness, compassion, generosity and devotion. She was always the first to offer to help paint a friend's house, stop by and listen to a loved one who was having a difficult time, or open her house to travelers who needed a beautiful rest stop and great food. She was known for her handwritten cards and frequent presents hand-picked for each special person. For everyone who was touched by Kathie's presence in their life, we will never forget her laughter and smile; She had a true gift for valuing, seeing and loving all who were fortunate to be a part of her life.
A future private memorial service will be held in her honor in Wawona. Please email her daughter at, [email protected] for further information. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Wounded Warriors Project.
Kathie’s impact in this world is immeasurable. She will be greatly missed, but know she is where she needs to be - laughing, drinking Diet Coke, eating clam dip and M&Ms, sitting in her chair overlooking the river. We love you gobbers.
To see more photos of Kathie in her obituary web page, click here.
Tioga Road Open May 26
All park roads are open with Tioga Road slated to be opened Monday, May 26 at 8 a.m. Limited services will be available to visitors traversing Tioga Road. Visitors are urged to bring their own appropriate levels of food and water and utilize food lockers if away from their vehicle. Restroom (vaults and portables) along Tioga Road. will be open. No other services will be available along Tioga Road.
All park roads are open with Tioga Road slated to be opened Monday, May 26 at 8 a.m. Limited services will be available to visitors traversing Tioga Road. Visitors are urged to bring their own appropriate levels of food and water and utilize food lockers if away from their vehicle. Restroom (vaults and portables) along Tioga Road. will be open. No other services will be available along Tioga Road.
New Food Service in Wawona
Memorial Day weekend will be Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, & Monday
May 23 menu:
Charbroiled chicken
Served with pilaf rice and flat bread
Charbroiled pork
Served rice pilaf and flat bread
And don’t forget to see what desserts we will have for you.
You deserve to try it all Our way at Pine Tree Market parking lot from lunch til dinner while supply last. So save your appetite!
May 23 menu:
Charbroiled chicken
Served with pilaf rice and flat bread
Charbroiled pork
Served rice pilaf and flat bread
And don’t forget to see what desserts we will have for you.
You deserve to try it all Our way at Pine Tree Market parking lot from lunch til dinner while supply last. So save your appetite!
Sunset at the Vogelsang High Sierra Camp in Yosemite National Park.
Doug Steakley/Getty Images
Yosemite Cancels Beloved Experience Despite Order to Remain 'Open and Accessible'
The National Park Service won't be opening the High Sierra CampsBy Ashley Harrell,
National Parks Bureau Chief
Updated May 14, 2025
The National Park Service won't be opening the High Sierra CampsBy Ashley Harrell,
National Parks Bureau Chief
Updated May 14, 2025
Merced Lake Tents at a High Sierra Campsite in Yosemite National Park.
Charles O'Rear/Getty Images
Established more than a century ago, Yosemite National Park’s High Sierra Camps are one of the most coveted reservations in any national park in America. Guests sleep in glamping tent cabins, dine on high-end meals prepared by specially trained chefs with gourmet ingredients transported by mule, and have access to running water in the middle of the park’s stunning, otherwise untouched wilderness. This summer, the collection of five historic High Sierra Camps was supposed to fully reopen for the first time since 2018. Instead, amid staffing shortages and funding cuts, the posh backcountry stays will remain shuttered, according to an announcement on the park concessioner’s website.
“Unfortunately, the utilities which support the High Sierra Camps — potable water and toilets — will not be available and the camps will not be operated this summer,” the announcement from Yosemite Hospitality, a subsidiary of Aramark Corporation, states. “This decision was made in collaboration with the National Park Service (NPS), which manages the utilities necessary to run the camps.”
“Unfortunately, the utilities which support the High Sierra Camps — potable water and toilets — will not be available and the camps will not be operated this summer,” the announcement from Yosemite Hospitality, a subsidiary of Aramark Corporation, states. “This decision was made in collaboration with the National Park Service (NPS), which manages the utilities necessary to run the camps.”
A backpacker makes her way through Vogelsang Pass while hiking in the Yosemite National Park.
John Elk/Getty Images
Over the past six years, the High Sierra Camps’ tent cabins have opened just once — during the summer of 2024 — and only on a limited basis. Of the five camps, only three welcomed guests, and the last time all the camps opened to visitors was in 2018. Since then, the camps’ 56 total tent cabins have mostly remained shuttered due to heavy snowfall, pandemic restrictions and other operational challenges. There are a mix of opinions, however, on whether the camps should reopen at all.
Critics have long argued that the camps and the mules that transport supplies for visitors degrade the backcountry environment, while advocates counter that the camps are part of an important tradition and make the wilderness experience more accessible.
The five camps are spaced about 8 miles apart along a 50-mile loop across undulating granite, over mountain passes and through yawning canyons. Each camp has room for only 30 to 60 people, and when they do manage to open, it’s only for a couple of months in the summer. Because the camps allow visitors to enjoy the wilderness without carrying a backpacking backpack, they’re extremely popular. Applications for the camps’ long-standing lottery system far outnumber the available spots.
SFGATE first learned of this year’s closure via one of our editors, David Curran, who won the lottery in 2023 and secured the exclusive accommodations for the summer of 2024. That trip got canceled because the camps opened later than expected due to a large snowpack, Curran said, and he received priority in (and again won) the lottery for the summer of 2025. Today, though, he received more bad news in an email from Nick Sponaugle, Yosemite Hospitality’s vice president of operations.
“Unfortunately, we have been notified by the National Park Service that the camps will not open this year,” the email states. “The Park Service needs to prioritize its resources to serve the broadest group of visitors. Consequently, the utilities which support the High Sierra Camps — potable water and toilets — will not be available and the camps will not be operated this summer.”
The closure comes as staffing and funding have been cut at Yosemite and other national parks across the country, triggering a widespread public outcry in support of the park service. It’s unclear whether the closure is in line with Interior Secretary Doug Burgum’s order that national parks remain fully “accessible and open,” requiring any reductions in services to be reviewed by top officials.
Critics have long argued that the camps and the mules that transport supplies for visitors degrade the backcountry environment, while advocates counter that the camps are part of an important tradition and make the wilderness experience more accessible.
The five camps are spaced about 8 miles apart along a 50-mile loop across undulating granite, over mountain passes and through yawning canyons. Each camp has room for only 30 to 60 people, and when they do manage to open, it’s only for a couple of months in the summer. Because the camps allow visitors to enjoy the wilderness without carrying a backpacking backpack, they’re extremely popular. Applications for the camps’ long-standing lottery system far outnumber the available spots.
SFGATE first learned of this year’s closure via one of our editors, David Curran, who won the lottery in 2023 and secured the exclusive accommodations for the summer of 2024. That trip got canceled because the camps opened later than expected due to a large snowpack, Curran said, and he received priority in (and again won) the lottery for the summer of 2025. Today, though, he received more bad news in an email from Nick Sponaugle, Yosemite Hospitality’s vice president of operations.
“Unfortunately, we have been notified by the National Park Service that the camps will not open this year,” the email states. “The Park Service needs to prioritize its resources to serve the broadest group of visitors. Consequently, the utilities which support the High Sierra Camps — potable water and toilets — will not be available and the camps will not be operated this summer.”
The closure comes as staffing and funding have been cut at Yosemite and other national parks across the country, triggering a widespread public outcry in support of the park service. It’s unclear whether the closure is in line with Interior Secretary Doug Burgum’s order that national parks remain fully “accessible and open,” requiring any reductions in services to be reviewed by top officials.
In an email to the park service’s public information office, SFGATE asked whether the decision had been reviewed by the director of the park service and the assistant secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks. We received no response.
Over the phone with SFGATE, a Yosemite National Park spokesman confirmed that the camps would not open due to utilities being unavailable. “Visitors can reserve a wilderness permit to backpack and enjoy a self-guided experience in the area of the camps,” he said.
Sponaugle’s email to Curran states that a full refund will be issued within 14 business days and that impacted guests will receive priority consideration for the 2026 High Sierra Camp lottery. They will still need to submit lottery applications in the fall, however.
Curran and his group will likely do that, he said. Then again, they might just enjoy the savings and backpack the route on their own this summer. Unguided trips cost nearly $200 per adult per night, while guided trips cost $1,400 per adult.
Over the phone with SFGATE, a Yosemite National Park spokesman confirmed that the camps would not open due to utilities being unavailable. “Visitors can reserve a wilderness permit to backpack and enjoy a self-guided experience in the area of the camps,” he said.
Sponaugle’s email to Curran states that a full refund will be issued within 14 business days and that impacted guests will receive priority consideration for the 2026 High Sierra Camp lottery. They will still need to submit lottery applications in the fall, however.
Curran and his group will likely do that, he said. Then again, they might just enjoy the savings and backpack the route on their own this summer. Unguided trips cost nearly $200 per adult per night, while guided trips cost $1,400 per adult.
YOSEMITE-WAWONA ELEMENTARY CHARTER SCHOOL
Board of Directors Regular Meeting
Tuesday, May 13, 2025
5:30 P.M.
Wawona Elementary School
7925 Chilnualna Falls Road
Wawona, CA
MONTHLY ITEMS AND FINANCIAL REPORTS
3.1- Approval of Agenda
3.2– Approval of Minutes of the regular meeting of April 8.
3.3 - Approve Warrants/Payroll
3.4 – Accept Donations to YWECS
ACTION ITEMS
INFORMATION ITEMS
Hearing on the 2025-26 Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP) and the 2025-26 Budget.
There will be 2 meetings in June – one to have a public hearing on the LCAP and proposed Budget – and the other to adopt both
Board of Directors Regular Meeting
Tuesday, May 13, 2025
5:30 P.M.
Wawona Elementary School
7925 Chilnualna Falls Road
Wawona, CA
- CALL TO ORDER
- ROLL CALL
MONTHLY ITEMS AND FINANCIAL REPORTS
- CONSENT AGENDA
3.1- Approval of Agenda
3.2– Approval of Minutes of the regular meeting of April 8.
3.3 - Approve Warrants/Payroll
3.4 – Accept Donations to YWECS
- HEARING OF PERSONS WISHING TO ADDRESS THE BOARD
ACTION ITEMS
- APPROVAL OF P2 ATTENDANCE REPORT
- APPROVAL OF A SCHOOL CALENDAR FOR THE 2025-26 SCHOOL YEAR
- SOLID WASTE REMOVAL RATES
- APPROVAL OF STIPEND FOR RAY EDWARDS FOR ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES ASSUMED DURING THE SO-CAL FIELD TRIP.
INFORMATION ITEMS
- STAFF REPORTS/ CHARTER FUTURE PLANNING UPDATES
- BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS PROJECTS UPDATE
- FUNDRAISING EFFORTS
- BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
- FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Hearing on the 2025-26 Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP) and the 2025-26 Budget.
There will be 2 meetings in June – one to have a public hearing on the LCAP and proposed Budget – and the other to adopt both
- NEXT BOARD MEETING
- ADJOURNMENT
Reopening of Glacier Point Road
Glacier Point Road will open to vehicles on Saturday, May 10, at 8 am. Vault toilets will be available but drinking water will not be available.
THIS THURSDAY & FRIDAY ONLY! 8th, & 9th , GLACIER POINT ROAD in Yosemite National Park is closed to cars and is BIKES ONLY!
CLOSED ROAD ROUTE : 30mi, 3,000ft 1 big climb, windy descent, EPIC VIEWS, it’s challenging for beginners but doable.
ITS THURSDAY AND FRIDAY ONLY, you can ride it after this, but it opens to cars Saturday.
Park at the turn off for Glacier Point Road.
Trails starting from Glacier Point Road are still snowy. Hikers should be prepared for winter travel and have appropriate gear, including GPS with map and compass as a backup, since trails covered in snow will be impossible to locate.
The Four Mile Trail to Glacier Point is currently closed. We may have an update later this week.
Mariposa Grove shuttle service will also begin on Saturday, May 10.
Glacier Point Road will open to vehicles on Saturday, May 10, at 8 am. Vault toilets will be available but drinking water will not be available.
THIS THURSDAY & FRIDAY ONLY! 8th, & 9th , GLACIER POINT ROAD in Yosemite National Park is closed to cars and is BIKES ONLY!
CLOSED ROAD ROUTE : 30mi, 3,000ft 1 big climb, windy descent, EPIC VIEWS, it’s challenging for beginners but doable.
ITS THURSDAY AND FRIDAY ONLY, you can ride it after this, but it opens to cars Saturday.
Park at the turn off for Glacier Point Road.
Trails starting from Glacier Point Road are still snowy. Hikers should be prepared for winter travel and have appropriate gear, including GPS with map and compass as a backup, since trails covered in snow will be impossible to locate.
The Four Mile Trail to Glacier Point is currently closed. We may have an update later this week.
Mariposa Grove shuttle service will also begin on Saturday, May 10.
Wawona Golf Course Update
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Opening: Prior opening of May 9 postponed until further notice.
LIVE IN WAWONA
Musical Nights with TOM BOPP
3 Saturdays, 6pm - 9pm
June 28
August 23
October 18
At The Redwoods Fireside Room & Deck
(no cover charge)
8038 Chilnualna Falls Road, Wawona, California 95389
MY COUNTRY BAKERY & GRILL
will be just outside with delectable offerings to carry in.
BYOB: Wanna drink? Bring what you will - we recommend stopping by the
PINE TREE MARKET
to pick up a beverage or three and any extra goodies (open till 8pm on concert nights)
I'll bring my Yamaha digital piano to serenade you for three hours of
Songs of Comfort from Yon Days of Yore
When you book your room or cabin, let them know you’re coming to hear Tom – maybe the extra room sales will turn into more performance dates!
Thanks, Tom Bopp
Musical Nights with TOM BOPP
3 Saturdays, 6pm - 9pm
June 28
August 23
October 18
At The Redwoods Fireside Room & Deck
(no cover charge)
8038 Chilnualna Falls Road, Wawona, California 95389
MY COUNTRY BAKERY & GRILL
will be just outside with delectable offerings to carry in.
BYOB: Wanna drink? Bring what you will - we recommend stopping by the
PINE TREE MARKET
to pick up a beverage or three and any extra goodies (open till 8pm on concert nights)
I'll bring my Yamaha digital piano to serenade you for three hours of
Songs of Comfort from Yon Days of Yore
When you book your room or cabin, let them know you’re coming to hear Tom – maybe the extra room sales will turn into more performance dates!
Thanks, Tom Bopp
WTPAC /Board of Supervisor Agenda
Submit Written Comments Board of Supervisors, May 6,2025 Regular Agenda Item I. 7.
ISSUE: The County Board of Supervisors has placed the April 4th WTPAC recommendations to the Board of Supervisors related to the NPS-County MOU on its May 6th Regular Agenda for discussion and direction.
WTPAC recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
· Reject the NPS proposed amendments to the MOU that would take away the current guaranteed water and sewer services for Wawona
· Negotiate with NPS to restore the 20-year renewing term of the MOU
· Actively enforce the current MOU provisions
Key Messages to Board of Supervisors
· Please protect the guaranteed water and sewer services to Wawona private properties provided in the County-NPS MOU since 1987.
· Without the protections of this MOU, private properties in Wawona may become stranded with no potable water supply if a well becomes unproductive or parcel constraints do not allow for a well and may not be able to connect to the sewer in the future.
· Neither NPS nor the County has ever analyzed the environmental effects of such actions under NEPA or CEQA. The NPS environmental assessment and subsequent FONSI for the potable water system were predicated on a water system that served all parcels in Section 35. Whether NPS’ retreat from serving all parcels in Section 35 is framed as a modification of the prior MOU or new agreement, it is a determination with the practical effect of encouraging private landowners to increase reliance on pumped groundwater, drill new wells, and potentially install new distribution infrastructure to connect to existing private wells.
· The NPS denial of a connection to existing developed parcels does not comply with current zoning.
· Ensuring adequate potable water is critical to protecting property values and the property tax and transient occupancy tax base in Wawona.
· Recognizing the diminishing single source fresh water supply---to carry out federal missions of protecting River aquatic habitat, building climate resilient infrastructure, and providing adequate fire flows, the Department of Interior must develop an interconnection to another system or a supplemental water source.
· The County negotiated the agreed upon terms and conditions of governance documented in the State Lands Commission Hearings and resultant MOU and has historically defended these rights as an equal sovereign over Wawona.
Ways to Comment
Send an Email to: [email protected]; or
Locate the May 6 Agenda on the Mariposa County website. The menu on the left side of screen has a link to make a comment.
Cut and paste this into your browser and it will take you to the May 6th agenda page.
https://mariposacoca.portal.civicclerk.com/event/759/files/agenda/7555
Property Owners can also deliver verbal comments by appearing or calling in to the meeting.
Your email or your on-line comments need to identify item: Board of Supervisors, May 6, 2025 Regular Agenda Item I. 7. Discussion and Possible Direction Regarding Possible Negotiations to Reinstate the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Between the National Park Service Yosemite National Park (the “Park”) and Mariposa County Relating to Allocation of Responsibilities between Two Jurisdictions in and for the Community of Wawona (Chair Smallcombe).
Submit Written Comments Board of Supervisors, May 6,2025 Regular Agenda Item I. 7.
ISSUE: The County Board of Supervisors has placed the April 4th WTPAC recommendations to the Board of Supervisors related to the NPS-County MOU on its May 6th Regular Agenda for discussion and direction.
WTPAC recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
· Reject the NPS proposed amendments to the MOU that would take away the current guaranteed water and sewer services for Wawona
· Negotiate with NPS to restore the 20-year renewing term of the MOU
· Actively enforce the current MOU provisions
Key Messages to Board of Supervisors
· Please protect the guaranteed water and sewer services to Wawona private properties provided in the County-NPS MOU since 1987.
· Without the protections of this MOU, private properties in Wawona may become stranded with no potable water supply if a well becomes unproductive or parcel constraints do not allow for a well and may not be able to connect to the sewer in the future.
· Neither NPS nor the County has ever analyzed the environmental effects of such actions under NEPA or CEQA. The NPS environmental assessment and subsequent FONSI for the potable water system were predicated on a water system that served all parcels in Section 35. Whether NPS’ retreat from serving all parcels in Section 35 is framed as a modification of the prior MOU or new agreement, it is a determination with the practical effect of encouraging private landowners to increase reliance on pumped groundwater, drill new wells, and potentially install new distribution infrastructure to connect to existing private wells.
· The NPS denial of a connection to existing developed parcels does not comply with current zoning.
· Ensuring adequate potable water is critical to protecting property values and the property tax and transient occupancy tax base in Wawona.
· Recognizing the diminishing single source fresh water supply---to carry out federal missions of protecting River aquatic habitat, building climate resilient infrastructure, and providing adequate fire flows, the Department of Interior must develop an interconnection to another system or a supplemental water source.
· The County negotiated the agreed upon terms and conditions of governance documented in the State Lands Commission Hearings and resultant MOU and has historically defended these rights as an equal sovereign over Wawona.
Ways to Comment
Send an Email to: [email protected]; or
Locate the May 6 Agenda on the Mariposa County website. The menu on the left side of screen has a link to make a comment.
Cut and paste this into your browser and it will take you to the May 6th agenda page.
https://mariposacoca.portal.civicclerk.com/event/759/files/agenda/7555
Property Owners can also deliver verbal comments by appearing or calling in to the meeting.
Your email or your on-line comments need to identify item: Board of Supervisors, May 6, 2025 Regular Agenda Item I. 7. Discussion and Possible Direction Regarding Possible Negotiations to Reinstate the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Between the National Park Service Yosemite National Park (the “Park”) and Mariposa County Relating to Allocation of Responsibilities between Two Jurisdictions in and for the Community of Wawona (Chair Smallcombe).
New Wawona Lot For Sale
1 Koon Hollar Rd LOT 26 Yosemite National Park, CA 95389. Click here for more info.
1 Koon Hollar Rd LOT 26 Yosemite National Park, CA 95389. Click here for more info.
Highway 41 Improvement Project in Fish Camp
Construction on Highway 41 in Fisch Camp will begin May 5. The project consists of road widening in order to install a northbound left turn lane and a southbound right turn lane onto Fish Camp Lane near the post office. Traffic control will be in place from approximately 8:00AM to 5:00PM Monday through Friday for the next two to three months and will result in 5- to 10-minute delays in both directions. (H. Edgecomb)
Construction on Highway 41 in Fisch Camp will begin May 5. The project consists of road widening in order to install a northbound left turn lane and a southbound right turn lane onto Fish Camp Lane near the post office. Traffic control will be in place from approximately 8:00AM to 5:00PM Monday through Friday for the next two to three months and will result in 5- to 10-minute delays in both directions. (H. Edgecomb)
Visitor Park Entrance Reservations Announced
Visitors who plan to enter Yosemite National Park between 6 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Memorial Day weekend, any day between June 15 and August 15, or Labor Day weekend are likely to need a reservation. Visit the Yosemite National Park trip planning website or the NPS App for details, exceptions, and how to make a reservation. This system ensures all visitors, whether they plan in advance or decide last minute, can experience the park each day. It also spreads visitation across the day so that visitors have a better experience.
With this official announcement, many visitors coming in summer 2025 are likely to need a reservation depending on their date of visit.
Reservations will be available on Recreation.gov beginning Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. PDT.
A reservation will be required to drive into or through Yosemite between 6:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. on the following dates.
Reservation Requirements by Date:
May 24 - 26 (Memorial Day weekend): Reservation required daily
May 27 - June 14: No reservation required
June 15 - August 15: Reservation required daily
August 16 - 29: No reservation required
August 30 - September 1 (Labor Day weekend): Reservation required daily
Important: Even if you're only driving through the park during restricted hours, a reservation is still required. Visitors arriving before 2:00 p.m. without a reservation should not queue early — vehicles blocking roadways will be cited.
Reservation Details:
No Vehicle Reservation Required If Visitors:
NPS Yosemite Vehicle Reservation Information
Make a Reservation – Recreation.gov
Visitors who plan to enter Yosemite National Park between 6 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Memorial Day weekend, any day between June 15 and August 15, or Labor Day weekend are likely to need a reservation. Visit the Yosemite National Park trip planning website or the NPS App for details, exceptions, and how to make a reservation. This system ensures all visitors, whether they plan in advance or decide last minute, can experience the park each day. It also spreads visitation across the day so that visitors have a better experience.
With this official announcement, many visitors coming in summer 2025 are likely to need a reservation depending on their date of visit.
Reservations will be available on Recreation.gov beginning Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. PDT.
A reservation will be required to drive into or through Yosemite between 6:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. on the following dates.
Reservation Requirements by Date:
May 24 - 26 (Memorial Day weekend): Reservation required daily
May 27 - June 14: No reservation required
June 15 - August 15: Reservation required daily
August 16 - 29: No reservation required
August 30 - September 1 (Labor Day weekend): Reservation required daily
Important: Even if you're only driving through the park during restricted hours, a reservation is still required. Visitors arriving before 2:00 p.m. without a reservation should not queue early — vehicles blocking roadways will be cited.
Reservation Details:
- Reservations are valid for three consecutive days.
- The standard park entrance fee still applies.
- Guests with in-park lodging, campground reservations, wilderness permits, or Half Dome permits do not need a separate vehicle reservation.
No Vehicle Reservation Required If Visitors:
- Have confirmed overnight lodging or campground reservations inside the park
- Enter before 6:00 a.m. or after 2:00 p.m.
- Arrive via YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System)
- Are part of a commercial tour or paid guided experience
- Hold a wilderness or Half Dome permit
NPS Yosemite Vehicle Reservation Information
Make a Reservation – Recreation.gov
New Wawona Listing 2643 E Bruce Rd, Wawona, 3beds, 2baths, 1,502sqft - $1,100,000. Click here for more info.
Pine Needle Pickup Reminder
JUST A REMINDER. If you are the primary owner on a lot in Wawona, who receives trash and recycling service from Mariposa, you must submit a sign-up sheet by April 18 in order to have your pine needles picked up the week of May 5. THAT'S IN 2 DAYS!
Trish Peterson
March 11, 2025
The Pine Needle Pickup in Wawona is scheduled for the first week of May, beginning May 5, 2025.
To ensure efficient planning and execution, Wawona residents are required to complete a signup sheet. The signup sheet is available online at the following link:
https://www.mariposacounty.org/formcenter/public-works-7/pine-needle-pick-up-program-signup-sheet-73
A printable PDF version is also available and can be completed and mailed in or submitted during the event at the Wawona Library on March 22, 2025.
https://www.mariposacounty.org/DocumentCenter/View/97500/Pine-Needle-Signup-Sheet
Additionally, staff will be on hand to answer questions, provide assistance, and collect completed signup sheets on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 9:00 am to Noon at the Wawona Library.
For the pickup process, pine needle piles must be accessible from the edge of a county or privately maintained roadway and placed in an area free of obstructions such as water valves, utility poles, or landscaping. Woody material accompanying the piles must be incidental, less than an inch in diameter, and no longer than two feet. It's important to note that Mariposa County will not be responsible for any damage to private property obscured by pine needle piles.
Completed signup sheets can be submitted electronically by pressing the "Submit" button on the form, sent via U.S. Mail to the Public Works address provided on the form, or dropped off at the Public Works Department during normal business hours or at the Wawona Library from 9:00 am to Noon on March 22, 2025. All completed forms must be received by April 18, 2025.
Please note that this program applies exclusively to Wawona properties subject to the quarterly solid waste services fee charged by Mariposa County, as administered by the Mariposa County Public Works Department. Completion of the Pine Needle Pickup Signup Sheet is an annual requirement.
Public Works will only collect piles that are accessible from the road and WILL NOT enter private property. Mariposa County is not responsible for any damage to personal property. Please ensure pine needle piles are placed in a clear location, free of obstructions such as water valves.
PILE REQUIREMENTS: Woody material must be incidental to the pile, less than an inch in diameter, and less than two feet long. Woody material is limited to twigs and small branches that will shed with the pine needles.
Samuel Cerveny
Deputy Director, Public Works
Phone 209-966-5356
Email scerveny@mariposacounty.org
Web www.mariposacounty.org
JUST A REMINDER. If you are the primary owner on a lot in Wawona, who receives trash and recycling service from Mariposa, you must submit a sign-up sheet by April 18 in order to have your pine needles picked up the week of May 5. THAT'S IN 2 DAYS!
Trish Peterson
March 11, 2025
The Pine Needle Pickup in Wawona is scheduled for the first week of May, beginning May 5, 2025.
To ensure efficient planning and execution, Wawona residents are required to complete a signup sheet. The signup sheet is available online at the following link:
https://www.mariposacounty.org/formcenter/public-works-7/pine-needle-pick-up-program-signup-sheet-73
A printable PDF version is also available and can be completed and mailed in or submitted during the event at the Wawona Library on March 22, 2025.
https://www.mariposacounty.org/DocumentCenter/View/97500/Pine-Needle-Signup-Sheet
Additionally, staff will be on hand to answer questions, provide assistance, and collect completed signup sheets on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 9:00 am to Noon at the Wawona Library.
For the pickup process, pine needle piles must be accessible from the edge of a county or privately maintained roadway and placed in an area free of obstructions such as water valves, utility poles, or landscaping. Woody material accompanying the piles must be incidental, less than an inch in diameter, and no longer than two feet. It's important to note that Mariposa County will not be responsible for any damage to private property obscured by pine needle piles.
Completed signup sheets can be submitted electronically by pressing the "Submit" button on the form, sent via U.S. Mail to the Public Works address provided on the form, or dropped off at the Public Works Department during normal business hours or at the Wawona Library from 9:00 am to Noon on March 22, 2025. All completed forms must be received by April 18, 2025.
Please note that this program applies exclusively to Wawona properties subject to the quarterly solid waste services fee charged by Mariposa County, as administered by the Mariposa County Public Works Department. Completion of the Pine Needle Pickup Signup Sheet is an annual requirement.
Public Works will only collect piles that are accessible from the road and WILL NOT enter private property. Mariposa County is not responsible for any damage to personal property. Please ensure pine needle piles are placed in a clear location, free of obstructions such as water valves.
PILE REQUIREMENTS: Woody material must be incidental to the pile, less than an inch in diameter, and less than two feet long. Woody material is limited to twigs and small branches that will shed with the pine needles.
Samuel Cerveny
Deputy Director, Public Works
Phone 209-966-5356
Email scerveny@mariposacounty.org
Web www.mariposacounty.org
We Love You, Stacy
By Connie Wylie - It was a gorgeous Spring day outdoors at the Wawona Community Center where many Wawonans, family members, dear friends, students, teachers and their families celebrated Stacy Boydstun's remarkable life.
Ray, Stacy's son, wrote a perfect tribute to honor his mother, his "best friend". Stacy's daughter Delaney read a letter composed by her sister, Austin, who remembered Stacy's love for her children and grandchildren. A touching video, put together by Stacy's 3 children was shown with Stacy playing the guitar and singing "Stand by Me" while we saw photos of her life. And throughout the celebration Stacy’s dog Lucia meandered through the crowd looking for tummy rubs.
Wawona school teachers and administrators spoke highly of Stacy's dedication to her students and her success in helping to mold "good kids", which they see as her legacy to this school. One of her youngest students spoke of the day Stacy became "my friend", not just her teacher. Friends shared memories and a poem by Mary Oliver, "Wild Geese" was beautifully read. People remembered her adventurousness, strength, creativity and her courageous end of life.
Tears and smiles were ample. Wawona school children held each other in their grief and joy to have had a teacher such as this. Food was shared by all and delicious.
We think Stacy would've loved this day. Her spirit will always be present in Wawona in the plants, trees, birds and small animals she loved.
By Connie Wylie - It was a gorgeous Spring day outdoors at the Wawona Community Center where many Wawonans, family members, dear friends, students, teachers and their families celebrated Stacy Boydstun's remarkable life.
Ray, Stacy's son, wrote a perfect tribute to honor his mother, his "best friend". Stacy's daughter Delaney read a letter composed by her sister, Austin, who remembered Stacy's love for her children and grandchildren. A touching video, put together by Stacy's 3 children was shown with Stacy playing the guitar and singing "Stand by Me" while we saw photos of her life. And throughout the celebration Stacy’s dog Lucia meandered through the crowd looking for tummy rubs.
Wawona school teachers and administrators spoke highly of Stacy's dedication to her students and her success in helping to mold "good kids", which they see as her legacy to this school. One of her youngest students spoke of the day Stacy became "my friend", not just her teacher. Friends shared memories and a poem by Mary Oliver, "Wild Geese" was beautifully read. People remembered her adventurousness, strength, creativity and her courageous end of life.
Tears and smiles were ample. Wawona school children held each other in their grief and joy to have had a teacher such as this. Food was shared by all and delicious.
We think Stacy would've loved this day. Her spirit will always be present in Wawona in the plants, trees, birds and small animals she loved.
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Fisher in Wawona
Rare Fisher was spotted in Wawona January 10. According to Google there are about 150 to 300 of these animals left in the Sierras. The game cam has not detected a return since that date.
Rare Fisher was spotted in Wawona January 10. According to Google there are about 150 to 300 of these animals left in the Sierras. The game cam has not detected a return since that date.
YOSEMITE-WAWONA ELEMENTARY CHARTER SCHOOL
Board of Directors Regular Meeting
Tuesday, April 8, 2025
5:30 P.M.
Wawona Elementary School
7925 Chilnualna Falls Road
Wawona, CA
MONTHLY ITEMS AND FINANCIAL REPORTS
3.1- Approval of Agenda
3.2– Approval of Minutes of the regular meeting of March 11.
3.3 - Approve Warrants/Payroll
3.4 – Accept Donations to YWECS
ACTION ITEMS
INFORMATION ITEMS
Board of Directors Regular Meeting
Tuesday, April 8, 2025
5:30 P.M.
Wawona Elementary School
7925 Chilnualna Falls Road
Wawona, CA
- CALL TO ORDER
- ROLL CALL
MONTHLY ITEMS AND FINANCIAL REPORTS
- CONSENT AGENDA
3.1- Approval of Agenda
3.2– Approval of Minutes of the regular meeting of March 11.
3.3 - Approve Warrants/Payroll
3.4 – Accept Donations to YWECS
- HEARING OF PERSONS WISHING TO ADDRESS THE BOARD
ACTION ITEMS
- APPROVAL OF IRS FORM 990 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2023
- APPROVAL OF CHARTER RENEWAL PETITION FOR SUBMISSION TO BASS LAKE ELEMENTARY DISTRICT.
- FIELD TRIP TO SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA APPROVAL
INFORMATION ITEMS
- STAFF REPORTS/ CHARTER FUTURE PLANNING UPDATES
- BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS PROJECTS UPDATE
- FUNDRAISING EFFORTS
- BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
- FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
- NEXT BOARD MEETING
- ADJOURNMENT
Back On The Market
7899 Forest Dr, Wawona, CA 95389 - 3 bd4 ba3,707 sqft $5,995,000. Click here for more info.
7899 Forest Dr, Wawona, CA 95389 - 3 bd4 ba3,707 sqft $5,995,000. Click here for more info.
New Wawona Listing
2646 W Bruce Rd, Wawona, CA 95389 3beds, 2baths, 1,535sqft. Click here for more info.
2646 W Bruce Rd, Wawona, CA 95389 3beds, 2baths, 1,535sqft. Click here for more info.
April 4-6 Schedule
Hi all,
Just wanted to remind you of the busy weekend events coming up.
April 4 WTPAC (Wawona Town Planning Advisory Committee) meeting with NPS and Mariposa County
9am Community Center near Wawona School
****very important to come and support WTPAC, which the County wants to eliminate****
April 5 WAPPOA (Wawona Area Private Property Owners Advocates) meeting
9 am Community Center
******very important to support WAPPOA in advocating for owner rights like water and sewer rights, trash, road repair, pine needle pick up, keeping grants that help get hazard trees and debris removed and home hardening, trying to organize neighborhoods to get Firewise designation for fire safety, supporting local events like the Barn Dances and the History Center, and supporting our local NPS and Firefighters.*****
April 5 Redwoods Homeowners Annual Meeting and dinner
April 6 Celebration of life for Stacy Boydstun, our beloved Montessori teacher who passed away this winter
1:00 - 3:00 Community Center (potluck)
***** see Evite here and reply if you will be there
Misc. Info
The mudslide/rockslide on Hwy 140 is open to traffic, so hopefully, all entrance stations won't be too crowded.
Snow is in the forecast for Sunday and Monday, March 29 and 30 - so carry chains and prepare for winter weather.
Trish Peterson
Hi all,
Just wanted to remind you of the busy weekend events coming up.
April 4 WTPAC (Wawona Town Planning Advisory Committee) meeting with NPS and Mariposa County
9am Community Center near Wawona School
****very important to come and support WTPAC, which the County wants to eliminate****
April 5 WAPPOA (Wawona Area Private Property Owners Advocates) meeting
9 am Community Center
******very important to support WAPPOA in advocating for owner rights like water and sewer rights, trash, road repair, pine needle pick up, keeping grants that help get hazard trees and debris removed and home hardening, trying to organize neighborhoods to get Firewise designation for fire safety, supporting local events like the Barn Dances and the History Center, and supporting our local NPS and Firefighters.*****
April 5 Redwoods Homeowners Annual Meeting and dinner
April 6 Celebration of life for Stacy Boydstun, our beloved Montessori teacher who passed away this winter
1:00 - 3:00 Community Center (potluck)
***** see Evite here and reply if you will be there
Misc. Info
The mudslide/rockslide on Hwy 140 is open to traffic, so hopefully, all entrance stations won't be too crowded.
Snow is in the forecast for Sunday and Monday, March 29 and 30 - so carry chains and prepare for winter weather.
Trish Peterson
Rep. Tom McClintock
Representative Tom McClintock Interview Regarding Yosemite
Mariposa Gazzette,
March 27, 2025
Rep. Tom McClintock didn’t hold back during a wide-ranging interview conducted exclusively last week by the Mariposa Gazette.
McClintock represents the 5th Congressional District of California, which encompasses a wide area of the eastern part of the state, including all of Mariposa County as well as the bulk of Eastern Madera County.
An issue of high interest in the region is Yosemite National Park and what the future holds given the shakeup in the federal government.
For the first time, someone within the federal government did say who the new acting superintendent is at the park. McClintock confirmed that person is Stephanie Burkhart.
Federal officials have not responded to multiple inquiries about who has replaced Cicely Muldoon, who recently retired from the park service.
Mariposa Gazzette,
March 27, 2025
Rep. Tom McClintock didn’t hold back during a wide-ranging interview conducted exclusively last week by the Mariposa Gazette.
McClintock represents the 5th Congressional District of California, which encompasses a wide area of the eastern part of the state, including all of Mariposa County as well as the bulk of Eastern Madera County.
An issue of high interest in the region is Yosemite National Park and what the future holds given the shakeup in the federal government.
For the first time, someone within the federal government did say who the new acting superintendent is at the park. McClintock confirmed that person is Stephanie Burkhart.
Federal officials have not responded to multiple inquiries about who has replaced Cicely Muldoon, who recently retired from the park service.
Acting Superintendent Stephanie Burkhart
According to a 2023 entry on the National Park Service website, Burkhart is the Associate Regional Director, Pacific West Region, based in San Francisco. It had been rumored that she was placed in the interim position of park superintendent, but this was the first official confirmation that happened.
But McClintock said he is focused on getting a new superintendent for Yosemite. He said he was going to attempt to meet with Doug Burgum, the new Secretary of the Interior, this week to discuss the position as well as other Yosemite issues.
“The next superintendent needs to be from the hospitality sector,” said McClintock.
Though he said he had “no names in mind,” he added that will be his message to the secretary.
Another major issue that has been discussed is the lack of information coming out of the federal government concerning various issue about national parks.
“Welcome to my world,” said McClintock, saying he, too, has had trouble getting solid information.
Though he did say the “transition” in the Department of the Interior, which oversees the park service, is part of the issue, he is also hopeful more information will be forthcoming.
He did have a message about Yosemite: “Yosemite is open to the world.”
After his meeting in Oakhurst, McClintock said he believes the local business community needs to have a say in the functioning of the park, including the proposed reservation system. McClintock is opposed to the reservation system and he outlined that in a March 14 letter to Burgum.
McClintock said business owners and community leaders had common-sense solutions to some of Yosemite’s issues.
One, he said, is if the line to get into the park is more than 30 minutes, “wave traffic through.”
Another, he said, is for gate attendants to only take admission fees and hand out literature, not to take time to talk to those entering the park which holds up the line. He said information about the park should be available at a different location. He believes simple solutions like that have fallen on deaf ears at Yosemite.
“We should add (traffic) lanes where we can. We should have been doing that all along,” he said about the park’s entrances.
McClintock also said he was told some 700 vehicles a day were being turned around when there was a reservation system and there were times when the park was not close to being full.
He also questioned the new traffic patterns that have been created in Yosemite Valley, saying it’s possible those are causing more delays and backups in the valley.
McClintock went so far as to say it’s possible that system was designed “deliberately” to cause traffic issues and bolster the argument for a reservation system.
“I am very suspicious with what has gone on with park service employees,” he said.
He called getting a superintendent who has a hospitality background a “new opportunity” and said he is hopeful that can happen.
“Yosemite is a place where all people are welcome,” said McClintock.
He believes a new direction at the park can improve the visitor experience, something he said is critical. McClintock said when there are long lines or people have to get reservations, it makes for a “terrible experience,” and people tell that to their friends and others.
But McClintock said he is focused on getting a new superintendent for Yosemite. He said he was going to attempt to meet with Doug Burgum, the new Secretary of the Interior, this week to discuss the position as well as other Yosemite issues.
“The next superintendent needs to be from the hospitality sector,” said McClintock.
Though he said he had “no names in mind,” he added that will be his message to the secretary.
Another major issue that has been discussed is the lack of information coming out of the federal government concerning various issue about national parks.
“Welcome to my world,” said McClintock, saying he, too, has had trouble getting solid information.
Though he did say the “transition” in the Department of the Interior, which oversees the park service, is part of the issue, he is also hopeful more information will be forthcoming.
He did have a message about Yosemite: “Yosemite is open to the world.”
After his meeting in Oakhurst, McClintock said he believes the local business community needs to have a say in the functioning of the park, including the proposed reservation system. McClintock is opposed to the reservation system and he outlined that in a March 14 letter to Burgum.
McClintock said business owners and community leaders had common-sense solutions to some of Yosemite’s issues.
One, he said, is if the line to get into the park is more than 30 minutes, “wave traffic through.”
Another, he said, is for gate attendants to only take admission fees and hand out literature, not to take time to talk to those entering the park which holds up the line. He said information about the park should be available at a different location. He believes simple solutions like that have fallen on deaf ears at Yosemite.
“We should add (traffic) lanes where we can. We should have been doing that all along,” he said about the park’s entrances.
McClintock also said he was told some 700 vehicles a day were being turned around when there was a reservation system and there were times when the park was not close to being full.
He also questioned the new traffic patterns that have been created in Yosemite Valley, saying it’s possible those are causing more delays and backups in the valley.
McClintock went so far as to say it’s possible that system was designed “deliberately” to cause traffic issues and bolster the argument for a reservation system.
“I am very suspicious with what has gone on with park service employees,” he said.
He called getting a superintendent who has a hospitality background a “new opportunity” and said he is hopeful that can happen.
“Yosemite is a place where all people are welcome,” said McClintock.
He believes a new direction at the park can improve the visitor experience, something he said is critical. McClintock said when there are long lines or people have to get reservations, it makes for a “terrible experience,” and people tell that to their friends and others.
