Yosemite Valley Lodging Options
Exploring Yosemite National Park is more than just a tour—it’s an unforgettable adventure. Picking the perfect spot to rest your head can make all the difference in your experience. Here’s the scoop on some fab lodging options in Yosemite Valley that are sure to match your style and needs.
Yosemite Valley Lodge
Got a crew or a big ol’ family? Yosemite Valley Lodge might just be your jam. It’s smack dab near Yosemite Falls and other famous spots in the park. With a bunch of handy perks, it’ll keep your stay comfy and make it easy to hop into the park’s main sights.
| Feature | Outlined Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Right by Yosemite Falls |
| Ideal For | Families, Group Hangs |
| Amenities | Eats on site, Swimming Pool, Gift Shopping |
| Rating | 4.5/5 Stars |
| Price Range | $150 – $300 per night |
Check out more nitty-gritty details and tips on snatching a booking at our Reservations for Yosemite Valley Lodge guide.
Housekeeping Camp
If you’re itching for something a bit different, Housekeeping Camp gives you that rough-around-the-edges vibe with its concrete and canvas shelters. It’s like sorta camping but not really, with killer views of Yosemite Falls and Half Dome as a backdrop.
| Feature | Why It Rocks |
|---|---|
| Location | Just by those stunning Yosemite Falls |
| Ideal For | Nature Lovin’ Folks |
| Structure | Concrete Shelters with Canvas Toppings |
| Rating | 4.0/5 Stars |
| Price Range | $108 per night |
Housekeeping Camp does its thing from April 5th to October 7th, 2024. More details about what to expect and how to book are in our scoop on Yosemite camping reservations.
Wawona Hotel
Wanna mix history with your nature fix? Give Wawona Hotel a shot. It’s got that old-school Victorian vibe going, complete with those picturesque verandas. Plus, it’s a hop away from chill activities like golf and fishing.
| Feature | Why You’ll Love It |
|---|---|
| Location | Wawona Area |
| Ideal For | History Buffs and Retro Vibes |
| Architecture | Victorian Gem |
| Rating | 4.4/5 Stars |
| Price Range | $150 – $300 per night |
Dive deeper into the charm of this place and scope out the area by visiting our guide on hotels near Yosemite National Park.
Sorting out where to crash in Yosemite can take your trip up a notch. Whether you’re going with the family-friendly vibes at Yosemite Valley Lodge, the rustic feel of Housekeeping Camp, or the vintage history at Wawona Hotel, you’ll find a spot that fits your groove. For more awesome takeaways about what to do and when to visit, check our guides on Yosemite attractions and the best time to visit Yosemite.
Campground Accommodations
Headed to Yosemite National Park? Consider camping if you want to really soak in the park’s stunning wilderness. With a bunch of campgrounds to pick from, there’s something for everyone’s style and comfort level.
Camping in Yosemite Valley
Camping smack dab in the middle of Yosemite Valley gives you quick access to postcard-perfect spots like Yosemite Falls and Half Dome. With 13 spots to reserve, it’s perfect for those who want to be at the heart of it all (National Park Service).
- Camp 4:
- This one’s open year-round for the purists who love a good ‘ol tent camping hustle.
- It’s $10 per person per night, and you gotta be quick! First-come, first-served outside of peak times, but during busy seasons, you need to snag a reservation (Up and Away Magazine).
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $10 per person per night |
| Reservation | Necessary during busy periods |
| Type | Tent-only |
| Availability | Year-round |
- Curry Village:
- Perfect for those who want coziness without ditching the adventure. Tent cabins start from $159 a night and it’s a hot ticket, so book a year-ish early (Up and Away Magazine).
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Starting at $159 per night |
| Reservation | Ideally 10-12 months ahead |
| Type | Tent cabins |
| User Rating | 4.0 out of 5 on TripAdvisor |
- Housekeeping Camp:
- Want a good view? Try Housekeeping Camp. It’s got three-sided concrete setups with canvas roofing, facing Yosemite Falls and Half Dome. A neat rustic vibe with a touch of cover (Yosemite Lodging Experience).
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | Concrete nooks with canvas tops |
| Location | Views of Yosemite Falls and Half Dome |
High Sierra Camps
Feeling extra adventurous? High Sierra Camps are your ticket to explore Yosemite’s lesser-seen spots. These places are a trek away but offer epic tent cabins way out in the park’s wild yonder.
- Tuolumne Meadows Lodge:
- Looking for a true wild-west camping feel? This is it! They have canvas tent cabins ready between June 15th and September 15th, 2024. It’s $142 a night and totally worth the wilderness vibe (Up and Away Magazine).
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $142 per night |
| Reservation | Must make |
| Type | Canvas tent cabins |
| Season | June 15th – September 15th, 2024 (weather controlled) |
| User Rating | #3 of 22 Specialty Lodging on TripAdvisor |
Picking a campsite in Yosemite can really bring out your love for the great outdoors. Whether you’re all about the simplicity of Camp 4 or into the rugged charm of Housekeeping Camp, you’re in for a unique Yosemite adventure. Before heading out, do browse through our guides on yosemite camping reservations, yosemite hiking trails, and best time to visit yosemite for a trip that’s more fun, less stress.
Private Lodging Near Yosemite
Want a trip to Yosemite that feels a bit more personal? Look into private lodging options that give you flexibility and intimacy. Let’s gab about hot spots like Foresta, Wawona, and Yosemite West, along with nearby slices of heaven.
Foresta & Wawona
Foresta sits right inside Yosemite’s boundary. It’s famous for cozy cabins perfect for when you want to be near the action but away from the crowds. You might even spot a deer or two sipping their morning joe along with you.
Wawona oozes old-world charm and sits near the magical Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. This is your ticket to less crowded trails like Yosemite Hiking Trails – imagine quietly wandering among giants.
Yosemite West & Surrounding Areas
Yosemite West isn’t far, but you gotta go through the park to reach it. Cozy cabins here make a sweet home base for ticking off bucket-list spots like Yosemite Glacier Point and Yosemite El Capitan.
And don’t skip over places like Fish Camp, Oakhurst, or El Portal. They’ve got loads of setups, from budget digs to posh stays—whatever floats your boat—all just a hop from the park’s entrance (NPS).
| Location | Distance to Yosemite | Types of Lodging |
|---|---|---|
| Foresta | 8 miles | Cabins, Vacation Rentals |
| Wawona | 27 miles | Cabins, Vacation Rentals, Inns |
| Yosemite West | 12 miles | Cabins, Vacation Rentals |
| Fish Camp | 2 miles | Lodges, Hotels |
| Oakhurst | 16 miles | Hotels, Inns, Cabins |
| El Portal | 2 miles | Hotels, Motels |
| Groveland | 24 miles | Hotels, Inns, Vacation Rentals |
Score the best deal by poking around for discounts at Visit Tuolumne County and Yosemite Hotels Careers.
If the thought of pricey, packed lodges in the park makes you wince, staying just outside could be a score. You’re practically neighbors with Yosemite Valley, where places get snagged a year ahead (Yosemite Hotels Careers). But if waking up steps away from Yosemite Waterfalls and Yosemite Tunnel View sounds dreamy, book early.
For more details on where to park your bags and other handy hints, peek at our pages on hotels near Yosemite National Park and camping near Yosemite National Park.
Wilderness Permit for Backpacking
Getting Yourself a Wilderness Permit
So, you’re all set for an unforgettable overnight hike in the breathtaking Yosemite National Park? Well, buddy, you’re gonna need a wilderness permit first. With nearly 95% of this gorgeous park being wilderness, this permit is your golden ticket to a safe and epic outdoor adventure (National Park Service).
Let’s walk through the steps to make sure you snag that permit:
- Pick Your Trailhead:
Before diving into paperwork, figure out where you wanna start your adventure. Yosemite’s got trailheads that make Disney look like a kiddie park, like the ones leading to Yosemite Falls and Glacier Point. - Get in Line for Your Permit:
Time to take action! Permits are up for grabs 24 weeks (or about 168 days) ahead of time. During the hustle-bustle of summer (May through October), make sure to snag a spot using the Yosemite Wilderness Permit Reservations system. - Show Me the Money:
Yep, there’s a price to pay. A $5 no-take-backs fee plus $5 per person. Don’t forget other expenses while you’re in the park. Guess what’s for dinner? Expect about $40 a day for food (Budget Your Trip).
| Reservation Fee | Per Person Fee | Average Daily Food Cost |
|---|---|---|
| $5 | $5 | $40 |
- Swing by to Grab Your Permit:
Once you get the thumbs-up, you gotta haul yourself to a permit station in the park to fetch that permit in person. Aim to do this a day or two before, or bright and early on the day you set off. - Know the Rules:
Brush up on Yosemite’s do’s and don’ts, like the Leave No Trace ways and how to stay chill around bears. This keeps the park’s beauty and your safety intact.
For more scoop on getting that wilderness permit and planning your trek, hit up the National Park Service website. Whether you’re romping through Yosemite Valley or venturing off the beaten path, that permit ensures your trip is nothing less than spectacular.
Internal links:
- Yosemite Valley Lodge
- Camping Near Yosemite National Park
- Yosemite Glacier Point
- Yosemite Weather
- Best Time to Visit Yosemite
Dining Options in Yosemite
Hungry after gawking at those jaw-dropping views of Yosemite National Park? You’re in for a tasty treat! There’s a smorgasbord of dining choices. Whether you fancy grabbing a bite on the go or wanna park yourself down for a full spread, Yosemite Valley has you covered.
Yosemite Valley Dining
Yosemite Valley is a foodie wonderland, boasting eats for every craving and wallet. Peep these awesome spots:
- The Ahwahnee Dining Room: Want to feel like royalty while munching with a view? This elegant spot serves up fancy feasts that’ll make you forget about your calorie count—at least for a night.
- Yosemite Valley Lodge: Perfect for when your stomach’s rumbling for something hearty and satisfying. The Base Camp Eatery dishes out comfort food galore like burgers, sandwiches, and fresh salads you can nosh on without feeling guilty.
- Curry Village Pavilion: Got kids (or just a big appetite)? This is your jam. Quick, inexpensive meals are on offer, from crowd-pleasing pizzas to tasty pastas, keeping everyone in the family full and happy.
- Degnan’s Kitchen: Chill out at this cozy joint smack-bang in Yosemite Valley where you can grab a bite any time—be it a morning coffee with a flaky pastry or a sandwich to fuel your hikes.
Splurging or keeping it low-key? Either way, you won’t leave this place hungry. For more tips on what to do while you’re here, swing by our guide on Yosemite Valley.
Grocery Stores in and Near the Park
If you’re the DIY meal kinda traveler or just need to stock up, there are grocers aplenty around and inside Yosemite. Get your hands on everything from munchies to must-have essentials for that perfect picnic or campsite feast.
| Location | Store Name | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Yosemite Valley | Village Store | Year-Round |
| Wawona | Wawona Store | Year-Round |
| Crane Flat | Crane Flat Store | Year-Round |
| El Portal | El Portal Market | Year-Round |
| Tuolumne Meadows | Tuolumne Meadows Store | Seasonal |
Cheers to the National Park Service for the handy info.
With grocery stores offering things like fresh produce and ready-made meals, keeping your belly satisfied is a breeze. Wherever your feet wander in the park, there’s food around the corner.
For even more tips on nailing your Yosemite adventure, check out our pages on hotels near Yosemite National Park, Yosemite camping reservations, and Yosemite hiking trails.
Enjoy your adventure in Yosemite and dig into the fantastic dining and grocery benefits that come with your national park escapade!
Yosemite Valley Attractions
Yosemite Waterfalls
Yosemite National Park is where you’ll find some seriously amazing waterfalls that could make even the grumpiest person crack a smile. Among all these cascading wonders, Yosemite Falls is the king. Standing tall and proud, it’s not just the tallest in the park but also among the giants worldwide. It’s a sight you’ll definitely want to remember. Although it does take a little break by late summer, you can still chase those jaw-dropping views at other awesome falls:
- Bridalveil Fall – This beauty is as easy to reach as it is stunning. It’s the crowd-pleaser you can visit any day of the year.
- Vernal Fall & Nevada Fall – Found along the Mist Trail, these falls are perfect for those who love a good hike and a good view. It’s like nature’s version of a gym membership, with extra scenery thrown in for free.
- Glacier Point – Okay, not a waterfall, but still worth the trip just for the killer views of various falls, including Yosemite Falls. Your camera will thank you later.
Ready to explore the watery wonders of Yosemite even more? Check out our extra tips on Yosemite waterfalls.
| Waterfall | Height (ft) | Best Viewing Season |
|---|---|---|
| Yosemite Falls | 2,425 | Spring to Early Summer |
| Bridalveil Fall | 620 | Year-Round |
| Vernal Fall | 317 | Year-Round |
| Nevada Fall | 594 | Year-Round |
Main Entrances to Yosemite
Getting into Yosemite National Park is like opening a door to a world that’s way cooler than your regular life. Each entrance gives you a different flavor of what the park has to offer, so picking the right one can make your trip even more awesome.
- Highway 120 West (Big Oak Flat Entrance) – It’s open all year and is just the ticket if you’re coming from the San Francisco area. Plus, this route takes you near Groveland, an old town that’s got some serious cool vibes and outdoor fun waiting for you (Yosemite Hotels Careers).
- Highway 140 West (Arch Rock Entrance) – Another way in all year long, and it’s a pretty one. Your route goes through Mariposa and El Portal, where you can snap some perfect travel pics.
- Highway 41 South (South Entrance) – Your gateway from Fresno, this makes for a nice year-round drive. It also leads you to the giant sequoias over at Mariposa Grove (Yosemite mariposa grove).
- Highway 120 East (Tioga Pass) – This one’s a stunner, but keep in mind it takes a winter break when the snow hits the road. When open, it leads you to Tuolumne Meadows, where every angle is a postcard shot (Yosemite tioga pass).
- Hetch Hetchy Entrance – For those who like their hiking without the crowd, this quieter entrance leads to the Hetch Hetchy area, rich in unique plants and wildlife.
Knowing your way around these entrances means you can plan an epic trip and take in all the park’s glory. Check our map of the Yosemite entrances for the lay of the land.
| Entrance | Highway | Open Year-Round | Nearby Attractions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big Oak Flat | 120 West | Yes | Groveland, Hetch Hetchy |
| Arch Rock | 140 West | Yes | Mariposa, El Portal |
| South Entrance | 41 South | Yes | Wawona, Mariposa Grove |
| Tioga Pass | 120 East | No (Closed in Winter) | Tuolumne Meadows, Summer Hiking |
| Hetch Hetchy | N/A | Yes | Reservoir, Remote Hiking Trails |
For more sage advice on visiting Yosemite, booking a place to stay, and finding the park’s coolest spots, check out our pieces on Yosemite Valley lodging and Yosemite attractions.
Booking Tips and Recommendations
Reservations for Yosemite Valley Lodge
Nailing down a stay at Yosemite Valley Lodge takes a bit of planning. You can snag a spot 366 days ahead, not just the typical 365 (Tripadvisor). Think of it as a small buffer against the booking frenzy, especially during busy times.
Bookings usually go live around 7 am Pacific Time. The system sometimes acts up and reloads a few minutes before showtime (Tripadvisor). So, be ready! Here’s a cheat sheet for when to pounce:
| Time Zone | Booking Time |
|---|---|
| Pacific | 7:00 am |
| Central | 6:30 am |
| Eastern | 8:00 am |
And a heads up—one year ahead doesn’t always mean smooth sailing. Sometimes, longer reservations booked by others steal the best dates. If you’re stuck, try calling the lodge. They might have a line on waitlisting, especially for bigger family rooms (Tripadvisor).
Booking Strategies and Timing
To boost your chances of booking at Yosemite Valley Lodge:
- Early Bird Gets the Worm: Target booking exactly 366 days before your dream stay. So, if July 6, 2018, is the goal, you’re booking by July 5, 2017.
- Go for Morning Glory: Aim to book just as 7 am Pacific Time hits. Logging in early could be your secret weapon.
- Go With the Flow: Flexibility with your dates gives you a leg up on finding open slots.
- Chat ‘em Up: If online tricks you, dial up the lodge. They might save the day with manual bookings or waitlists.
- Think Long: If longer stays got you blocked, tweak your dates or be ready to jump when a spot opens.
Want more scoop on where to crash within the park? Check out our lowdown on hotels near Yosemite National Park and Yosemite camping reservations.
Smart planning and a little strategy will make sure your Yosemite visit is all about the adventure, not the hassle. Check out the wonder that is Yosemite National Park, and soak it in!
