January in Yosemite

LRL

Senior Member
RV LIFE Pro
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Apr 1, 2016
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Location
Arcata
We’re planning a week in Yosemite in early January. I have a question for those of you who have done this: winterize or not? We are kind of used to the conveniences internal plumbing affords, but of course don’t want to damage anything.

Thanks!
 
If it's questionable I'd at least have a small air compressor to winterize if you need to. We have a $40 Walmart air compressor and had to use it in Texas a few years ago during a cold snap. It only takes a few minutes to both the lines out and then when the weather warms up you can go back to using the plumbing. We also poured a little RV antifreeze in the grey and black tanks.
 
That’s a great idea re: the small compressor. Thanks. I’ve never had to winterize given that we live on the NorCal coast, but it does sound pretty simple.
 
Dumb question: since the water heater stays hot, there’s no reason to include it in the winterizing process, is there? Or am I missing something?
 
Dumb question: since the water heater stays hot, there’s no reason to include it in the winterizing process, is there? Or am I missing something?
Correct. You need to drain it and blow the lines out, but don't fill it with anti-freeze.

Never camped in an RV at Yosemite, but did spend the night there in the back of my pickup with a topper back in the 80's. It gets mighty cold. When we camp like that in our Escape, we avoid using any plumbing and carry water in jugs in the trailer and tow vehicle. We have a composting toilet and don't have to worry about a frozen black tank.
 
We camped in the valley this summer. Remember, you’ll have no electric and no water on site. The restroom at North Pines did have a filtered water dispenser, but unknown if it will be available in winter. Snowfall is unpredictable. There could be none or 5 feet on the ground! Good Luck!
 
I haven't wintered at Yosemite either, but some synapsis at the back of my brain is saying that the road in from the east is generally snowed over and closed for all of winter. I'd expect the west-side road to close around storms too.
 
If you are staying in your trailer while you’re in the valley, the heater should keep the plumbing warm enough.
 
I have stayed in the park lodging during a week in winter. There were small amounts of snow on the ground at our arrival. A bigger storm occurred at the end of our stay. Chains were required to enter the park, those already in the park could leave without chains. No trailer so not sure of those requirements during a snowfall. I am sure the road could have been closed if necessary. Consider carrying a third propane tank for a stay of more than three days or check if there is an operating refill location that can be reached in a snowfall.
 
I have stayed in the park lodging during a week in winter. There were small amounts of snow on the ground at our arrival. A bigger storm occurred at the end of our stay. Chains were required to enter the park, those already in the park could leave without chains. No trailer so not sure of those requirements during a snowfall. I am sure the road could have been closed if necessary. Consider carrying a third propane tank for a stay of more than three days or check if there is an operating refill location that can be reached in a snowfall.
Thanks. Not sure if I’m going to risk pulling the trailer through an area that requires chains on my TV… at least if I have a choice.
 

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