Yosemite National Park is a place of unparalleled beauty, a destination that captures the hearts of all who visit. Having spent considerable time in Yosemite, from living in the Valley to hiking the John Muir Trail, I’ve come to know the park intimately. Returning over the years, most recently last October, I’ve witnessed firsthand the evolving dynamics of visiting this iconic location. One thing remains constant: securing the right accommodation is crucial to a memorable Yosemite experience. If you’re planning a trip to Yosemite between mid-April and mid-October, understanding your lodging options is key. Let’s delve into the realities of where to stay in and around Yosemite.
Lodging within Yosemite Valley itself is famously limited. Your primary choices inside the Valley include Yosemite Valley Lodge, now rightly restored to its original name from my time working there, the distinguished and pricier Ahwahnee Hotel, and the more rustic offerings at Curry Village and Housekeeping Camp, encompassing tent and basic cabins. Venturing just outside the Valley, yet still within the park’s embrace near the Mariposa Grove of giant sequoias, stands the historic Wawona Hotel. It’s worth noting that some rooms at Wawona feature shared bathrooms, adding to its vintage charm but requiring consideration for modern travelers.
Securing a room at Yosemite Lodge for visits between May and September is a feat of planning and persistence. Rooms typically become fully booked the moment reservations open, a staggering 366 days in advance. While cancellations do occur, snagging a room then becomes a matter of luck and constant vigilance, often resulting in fragmented stays of just a night here or there, making longer visits challenging.
The Ahwahnee, Curry Village tent cabins, Wawona, and Housekeeping Camp present slightly more accessible options, generally not booking out a full year ahead. This explains why you might find availability at these locations when Yosemite Lodge is fully booked. It’s important to manage expectations, particularly with Curry Village and Housekeeping Camp. These are far from glamping experiences, offering basic, rustic accommodations. Curry Village boasts an unbeatable location, but if basic lodging doesn’t suit your family, it’s wise to explore other avenues.
A family room at Yosemite Lodge would indeed be an ideal choice for many, but given its popularity, availability is scarce. Therefore, expanding your search beyond Yosemite Valley is a practical approach. Consider the private communities nestled within the park, Yosemite West and The Redwoods. These offer self-catering vacation rentals in cabins and condos, presenting a comfortable option for families. While located a 30-50 minute drive from the valley floor, they provide closer access to attractions like Glacier Point and the Mariposa Grove. Numerous websites list cabins in these areas, with Scenic Wonders being one reputable option. It’s crucial to verify that your chosen cabin is indeed in Yosemite West and not the more distant Bass Lake.
https://www.scenicwonders.com/yosemite-west-lodging
Just outside Yosemite’s southern entrance in Fish Camp, you’ll find Tenaya Lodge, a very appealing lodge. With amenities like a pool, it offers a comfortable stay and its restaurant, at least on past experience, is commendable. Tenaya Lodge stands as a strong contender for lodging just outside the park boundaries.
One piece of advice: avoid staying in Mariposa. Its distance from Yosemite Valley makes it a less convenient base for exploring the park, adding considerable travel time to your daily excursions. Focus your accommodation search closer to or within Yosemite for a more immersive and efficient park experience.
Choosing where to stay in Yosemite requires careful planning and realistic expectations. Whether you aim for the heart of the Valley or the serene outskirts, understanding your options and booking well in advance is essential for a successful Yosemite adventure.
