by airrj » Wed May 06, 2009 9:32 pm
For an overnight trip to Half Dome, or any overnight trip in the backcountry, you need a wilderness permit. I think that you need a permit to stay at LYV as well. I have never actaully stayed in LYV, so I don't know about that part. If there is not spots available at LYV, you can setup camp in many places along the trail. I normally camp near the junction of JMT and the half dome trail. Well away from the busy area of LYV. If you stay outside of LYV, you just have to follow the backcountry rules staying off of the trail, have a bear can, etc.
If there are no backcountry permits available starting from the valley, you can start in different locations than the valley. Many people start at Glacier Point and that is a good alternative if you want a permit.
As far as the backpacker camp in North Pines, it is at the back of the campground and you are allowed to use it one night before and one night after your backcountry permit. There is no parking at the campground, you can drive in and part for 10 minutes to unload gear, and then you have to park in trail head parking. There are bear boxes available and there is a bathroom as well. It is a nice quiet little camp spot. The wilderness permit office should be able to lead you in the right direction.
Enjoy.
R.J.