Where to Stay When You Visit Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is well-known for its beautiful granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and diverse animal population. Be prepared for your trip by researching nearby lodging options. All the options are laid out in this article!
You can find lodgings to suit your needs and budget at Yosemite National Park. Here are the main options:
Lodges and Hotels
Lodges and hotels in Yosemite offer relief from a long day of exploration. Here are the options:
Yosemite Valley Lodge
Image from Flickr by Jeremy Thompson
Beautiful views of Half Dome and Yosemite Falls may be seen from the comfortable rooms at this resort. Check out the map here.
Ahwahnee Hotel
Shutterstock Image
The architectural splendor, beauty, and setting of Ahwahnee Hotel is legendary. Ahwahnee Hotel is a terrific (though pricey) alternative, with its iconic stone front, excellent accommodation, and breathtaking vistas of Yosemite Valley. Check out the map here.
Curry Village
Image from Flickr by russellstreet
Located in the park's namesake valley, Curry Village is a picturesque place to stay. Guests can choose from a variety of lovely tent cabins and other lodging options while visiting the park's breathtaking natural attractions.
Campgrounds
Camping in Yosemite is like being in the middle of the wilderness. There are 13 campgrounds to choose from in Yosemite, each offering a unique set of services. Favorite options include:
Upper Pines Campground
A lot of people stay at Upper Pines when they visit Yosemite Valley. It's among several beautiful hiking pathways, and it has a view of the Half Dome to boot. The campground has RV and tent sites, as well as restrooms, picnic tables, and fire pits.
Tuolumne Meadows Campground
This Yosemite campground is located in the higher elevations, providing a more peaceful camping experience. Tents and small RVs are welcome. From here, you may reach both the Cathedral Lakes Trail and the Elizabeth Lake Trail.
Wawona Campground
Wawona Campground is close to the park's southern entrance, and the sequoias of Mariposa Grove. There are restrooms, picnic tables, fire rings, and space for both tents and RVs at this campground.
Options Outside of the Park
Campsites at Yosemite National Park tend to fill up quickly, so it may be necessary to camp elsewhere.
Backpacking and Wilderness Camping
For those adventurous souls, backpacking or wilderness camping can offer an opportunity to experience Yosemite's untamed beauty up close and personal.
Yosemite's backcountry provides numerous trails and routes, ranging from easy overnight trips to multi-day adventures.
Remember to obtain a needed wilderness permit to become familiar with the park’s regulations. Knowledgeable park rangers at visitor’s centers are a good resource.
Flickr by Paxson Woelber
Yosemite's vast backcountry offers a myriad of awe-inspiring destinations, including:
- Cathedral Lakes trail (just over 10 mi out-and-back),
- High Sierra Camps (multiple camps found around Yosemite, requires reservations), and
- John Muir Trail (for those looking for a truly epic adventure)
Vacation Rentals and Cabins
For those seeking a home away from home experience, vacation rentals and cabins provide a comfortable and secluded alternative. Beyond park boundaries, various communities offer options.
Online platforms such as Airbnb and VRBO provide a wide range of vacation rentals and cabins in Yosemite's vicinity. Prices vary depending on location, size, amenities, and demand. Early booking is recommended for peak travel periods.
Choosing the right home base in or around Yosemite National Park is crucial to maximize your enjoyment and create lasting memories. Consider your preferences, budget, and desired comfort level when making a decision.
Whether you opt for a lodge, campground, backpacking adventure, or vacation rental, Yosemite promises overflowing natural beauty and epic outdoor adventure.
When planning your upcoming adventure, be sure to check out our Yosemite National Park Tour! We'll make sure you won’t miss a single thing on your visit.
We hope that we’ve given you all the information you need to make the most of your day. Your vacation is extremely important to us so if you have any questions feel free to reach out at aloha@shakaguide.com.
For more detailed information to help you plan, check out our Yosemite National Park Itinerary and Know Before You Go article.
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