Yosemite National Park is one of the American classics when it comes to the great outdoors. With the iconic Bridalveil Fall, giant sequoias, and dramatic rock faces of El Capitan and Half Dome, Yosemite is a must-see destination if you're spending time in Northern California. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, this National Park is not near any large city, so accommodation options are somewhat limited. That being said, these four properties are great options for where to stay in Yosemite National Park whether you're staying for one night or a week or more.
Best places to stay in Yosemite National Park
If you're planning a vacation to this world-famous park, here are a few places you'll want to book ASAP because rooms either don't last very long or the prices shoot up really quickly.
The Majestic Yosemite Hotel
Image via Flickr by bryce_edwards
If you're looking to live in luxury, The Majestic Yosemite Hotel (formerly The Ahwahnee) is the place to stay. There are few hotel choices in the park, and to have one where it is, loaded with upscale amenities, restaurants, and services, makes this property quite the treat to stay in.
Set in front of the majestic Yosemite Valley, the charm of its wood and stone architecture is undeniable. Step inside and be treated to a rustic retreat fit for past Presidents and Queens. The price is steep, as you would imagine, but you certainly get what you pay for.
Yosemite Valley Lodge
Image via Flickr by ifan
The alternative to The Ahwahnee, if you're looking to take a less of a hit on your wallet, is Yosemite Valley Lodge. What I like about this property is that it still puts you in the park itself, which makes exploration a cinch because you don't have to spend time commuting in and out of the grounds.
The lodge offers surprisingly cosy, spacious, and comfortable rooms that also come with sweeping views of Yosemite Valley. Due to the popularity of Yosemite Valley Lodge, make sure you book ahead of time especially during high season.
Half Dome Village
Image via Flickr by gufm
For those that are looking for that deeper connection with nature, Half Dome Village (formerly Curry Village) provides the unique experience of being able to stay in either a basic hotel-type room, rustic cabins, or heated/unheated tents. The lodging choices also extends to the plethora of dining options that include a pizza deck, curry pavilion, meadow grill, curry bar, and coffee corner.
This is an attractive accommodation option because you get to experience the camping way of life here and get to do it at a fraction of the cost of a full-service hotel.
Big Trees Lodge
Image via Flickr by Don & Suzan Weller
All of the above properties are located in the central part of Yosemite National Park, which is known as Yosemite Valley. If you're looking to be in an area that is a bit more secluded and away from the high traffic of cars that go through the area, Big Trees Lodge (formerly Wawona Hotel) is somewhere you'll want to consider.
Situated right by the Mariposa Grove Museum and the Wawona Golf Course, you'll love the quaint European style of this hotel and the period pieces that will make it feel like you're walking through a museum. It's worth nothing that only 50 rooms have private bathrooms, while the rest use shared bathroom facilities.
The prices at Big Trees Lodge are quite reasonable and as a bonus, even includes free breakfast.
Looking for more accommodation options in Yosemite?
If you're interested in more alternative accommodations in Yosemite that are just slightly outside of the national park itself? There are actually a lot of holiday homes and cottages that are available to book right by the gate. Here's a few that you should check out.
HOLIDAY HOME
This is a 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath full 2-level home that is a luxury-style cottage that has a fully equipped kitchen, living room with fireplace, tons of open space, comfortable rooms, beautiful deck, and gas grill. This sleeps 8 and is perfect for larger groups.
LUXURY
YOSEMITE LARGE LOFT CONDOMINIUMS
These condos is 30 minutes drive away from Yosemite Village and 15 minutes from Badger Pass Ski Area. These are reasonably priced and has everything that you need – balcony, fireplace, TV, en-suite bathroom, kitchen and bbq facilities.
Are you planning a trip to Yosemite National Park, looking for a place to stay, and have questions about other properties not mentioned here? Just drop a comment below and we'll get to you ASAP.
Jackie says
Hi!
We are thinking of going to Yosemite and want to camp or go in an RV. We are not sure if we can do that there or where we will be able to reserve a spot. Any suggestions?
Thank you,
Jackie
Will Tang says
Hey Jackie, for campground reservations, have you had a chance to take a look at the .gov page here >> https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/camping.htm. Check your dates and see if there is any availability. That’s your best bet right now!
Gaby says
Hi! I’m wondering if you came accross shared accomodations more like for backpackers? Thanks!
Will Tang says
Hi Gaby, Yosemite is a bit more challenging in terms of shared accommodations because of the high prices and low supply. The one hostel you’ll find somewhat close is the Yosemite International Hostel. Have you looked at their availability?
Gaby says
I will check them out. They seem to be in a good location, so thank you for the suggestion :)