Yosemite is one of the most visited parks in the USA, and with good reason. It’s incredibly beautiful, filled to the brim with waterfalls, hikes, wildlife and much more. Visiting for the first time can be overwhelming, to say the least, which is why I wrote up this guide to Yosemite places to stay. I’ve included all the hotels, lodges, and camps inside of Yosemite all in one place.
Before I launch off into the list of the best lodging in Yosemite, I want to persuade you to book a room at the Ahwahnee hotel. Even if you can only afford to stay one night (which is what we did) it’s totally worth it.
10 Reasons to Stay at the Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite Valley
- It’s like staying at a museum (in a VERY good way!)
- You can spend as much time as you like relaxing in the Great Hall.
- The lodge itself is an architectural gem!
- There are tea, cookies and a pianist in the afternoon in the Great Hall. It’s a lovely way to relax.
- The rooms are filled with beautiful prints of John Muir’s botanical specimens (this one is right up my alley!)
- You might very well get to see a bear stroll past! From a safe distance of course.
- The views are stunning so even if you can’t bring yourself to head outdoors you can still take in the scenery.
- The staff is absolutely wonderful…and there’s valet parking (parking in Yosemite can be pretty rough).
- Whether you’re interested in fine dining or casual bar food there’s something for you.
- You have easy access to the entire park via the shuttle bus.
The Ahwahnee
(formerly known as The Majestic Yosemite Hotel)
I hope my top ten list of reasons to stay at the Ahwahnee piqued your interest. Consider the Ahwahnee the crown jewel in the National Park crown. It’s a AAA four-diamond hotel nestled in Yosemite Valley. It’s an architectural gem and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, plus it’s a National Historic Landmark.
About the Property:
The hotel has 123 rooms in a range of sizes and prices. Room types include; a Standard Hotel Room, a Junior Suite, Hotel Parlor, or a Hotel Cottage. Standard rooms have limited views, but if you choose a classic room you can see Glacier Point, Half Dome, or Yosemite Falls. If you feel like really pushing out the boat head over to the Ahwahnee homepage to see what you get with a Junior Suite, Hotel Parlor or Hotel Cottage. Aside from the lovely rooms, the Ahwahnee also has a gift shop, a sweet shop, a cozy bar, and a heated swimming pool.
If staying at the Ahwahnee is too much for your wallet (I can’t say I blame you) you can always make a reservation for dinner at the Ahwahnee Dining Room or stop by for a casual lunch or dinner and a drink in the Ahwahnee Bar. Since you’re already there you may as well stop by the concierge desk to sign up for the Ahwahnee Hotel Tour.
Operating Season: Open all year
Ahwahnee Hotel Rates: $516-$999
Address: Yosemite National Park, 1 Ahwahnee Drive, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
Direct Phone: 888.413.8869
Directions
Curry Village
(formerly known as Half Dome Village)
Tucked in under Glacier Point you will find Curry Village, founded by David and Jennie Curry in 1899. Curry Village offers a wide range of accommodation options including; standard hotel rooms, wood cabins, and canvas tent cabins. Yosemite offers plenty of places to stay, including a wide range of camps that have extra amenities.
About the Property:
Although Curry Village is a little rustic, you still have plenty of amenities including daily housekeeping, fresh towels as needed and extra blankets. When you make your reservation for a cabin make sure to pick one with or without a private bath depending on your preference. Also, keep in mind that some tents are heated while others are not. Each type is clearly marked when you make your reservation.
Beneath the grandeur of Glacier Point, Curry Village is known for the same warm, hospitable feeling that was instilled by its founders, David and Jennie Curry in 1899. Curry Village features standard hotel rooms, wood cabins and canvas tent cabin accommodations. Numerous dining options and activities are available at Curry Village.
Operating Season: April – December 1, 2019 (after check-out), December 13, 2019 – January 1, 2020 (after check-out)
Price: $138-$302
Address: 9010 Curry Village Drive, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389-9907
Direct Phone: +1 855-649-9703
Directions
Wawona Hotel
(formerly known as Big Trees Lodge)
If you’re looking for Victorian-era charm, the Wawona Hotel is for you. The hotel complex is made up of six whitewashed Victorian buildings that were once one of California’s premier mountain resort hotels. The Wawona is located at the southern end of the park, close to Mariposa Grove, home of Giant Sequoias.
About the Property:
The hotel has 50 standard rooms with a private bath and 54 standard rooms with shared bathrooms. The hotel dining room serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and there are often evening performances in the lounge. There is a nine-hole golf course located within the grounds as well as a swimming pool, and riding stable.
Operating Season: April 1, 2019 – December 1, 2019, December 13, 2019 – January 5, 2020
Price: $138-$302
Address: 8308 Wawona Road, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
Direct Phone: +1 855-253-4809
Directions
Yosemite Valley Lodge
If you’re visiting Yosemite with your family or a large group Yosemite Valley Lodge is probably the best pick of the bunch. Not only is the new build close to Yosemite Falls, but it also boasts plenty of other stunning views. The large complex includes 245 accommodations for groups of various sizes. It’s worth noting that rooms do not have air-conditioning, but a fan is provided.
About the Property:
Yosemite Valley Lodge has traditional rooms with 2 double, 1 king or 1 queen=sixed bed. Family rooms have a king-sized bed plus bunk beds. Bunk rooms are perfect for small groups and have a queen-sized bed and a bunk bed.
Operating Season: Open All Year
Price: $249-$1,003
Address: 9006 Yosemite Lodge Dr., P.O. Box 578, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
Direct Phone: +1 855-287-1809
Directions
Housekeeping Camp
Don’t let the name of this spot deter you, Housekeeping Camp is perfect for camping lovers who are not so fond of setting up and taking down camp. Located beside the Merced River these permanent camp structures offer a good balance between rugged camping and glamping.
About the Property:
The sites are three-sided concrete structures with a canvas roof and privacy curtains. Sites have electric outlets, beds, chairs, and a mirror. You can bring your own bed linens or rent them by the night. From your campsite, you will be able to take in views of Yosemite Falls, Half Dome and sandy beaches of the Merced.
Operating Season: April 12 – October 14, 2019
Price: $108
Address: 9005 Southside Dr., Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
Direct Phone: +1 855-271-2969
Directions
White Wolf Lodge
If you’re looking for a more remote camp setting, White Wolf Lodge is the place to go. The camp is roughly thirty miles from Yosemite Valley, making it a little quieter and a lot less crowded than some other spots. Although the campsite is made up of 24 canvas-tent cabins and four traditional wood cabins with private baths, you’ll find this location quiet and tranquil thanks to the nearby meadow, pine trees, and hiking trails.
About the Property:
Like Housekeeping Camp, White Wolf is a great spot for campers who don’t want to deal with the hassle of setting up and taking down your camp. You arrive at a completely set up tent, with wood floors, beds, sheets, blankets, pillows, towels, and a wood-burning stove! Make sure to bring your smores supplies!
Canvas tent cabins have shared showers and restrooms nearby. If you’re looking for a more private space book a traditional cabin that comes with a private bathroom, desk, chair, dresser, and two double beds.
Operating Season: Closed for the 2019 Season
Price: $137+
Address: Highway 120 White Wolf, Yosemite National Park, CA 95379
Direct Phone: (888) 413-8869
Directions
Tuolumne Meadows Lodge
If you’re looking for even more solitude check out the Tuolumne Meadows Lodge. This spot is 60 miles from Yosemite Valley and 8,700 feet above sea level (as in you’re going to need some warmer layers).
About the Property:
The camp includes 69 canvas-tent cabins similar to those described above in White Wolf. Cabins come with plenty of amenities to keep your pack a little lighter or your car a little roomier. Inside the cabins, you’ll find; 4 twin beds or 1 double bed with 2 twins, sheets, pillows, towels, lanterns, a wood-burning stove and firewood for sale nearby. Be sure to check the National Park Service website for conditions, permit availability and season dates.
Operating Season: July 19, 2019 – September 30, 2019. Last night of occupancy is September 29th.
Price: $141+
Address: Yosemite National Park, 9006 Yosemite Lodge Dr, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
Direct Phone: (888) 413-8869
Directions
High Sierra Camps
Once again Yosemite does the heavy lifting for you, literally. The High Sierra Camps are only accessible by foot or by mule, but you won’t have to carry all your heavy gear along the way. Nestled in the backcountry you will find five camps that are roughly 6-10 miles apart from one another.
About the Camps:
When you go to book your trip you can stay at one of the five camps: Glen Aulin, May Lake, Sunrise, Merced Lake, or Vogelsang. Campsites include tent cabins with dormitory-style steel bed frames. Each bed includes a mattress, pillow, three woolen blankets, and a comforter. Be sure to bring your own sleeping bag liner and towel. Each site also has a wood-burning stove (except for Merced Lake). Reservations at High Sierra Camps include access to restrooms, showers, dinner each night, and breakfast each morning. If you want to know more about these camps I highly recommend checking out the High Sierra Camp FAQs.
Operating Season: July 19, 2019 – September 30, 2019. Last night of occupancy is September 29th.
Price: $80-$160
Address: Yosemite National Park, 9006 Yosemite Lodge Dr, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
Direct Phone: (888) 413-8869
Directions
Glacier Point Ski Hut
Wintersport lovers, this is the place for you! Views from the area include Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the Yosemite High Country. This spot is open for the winter season, from December to March. Even if you’re not into skiing you can head to the Yosemite Ski & Snowboard Area for snow tubing, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
About the Property:
If you’re looking for a luxury stay, this isn’t the place for you, but if you want close proximity to snow sports this is the place to be. The lodge has a large bunk area that sleeps 20 people in the same room. Restrooms, comfy sofas, and a rustic dining room are also available if you just want to stop for a meal before heading off the mountain. Rentals are also available at the lodge if you’re considering cross-country skiing.
Operating Season: December 20, 2019 – March 31, 2020 (Open Fridays – Tuesdays weather/conditions permitting)
Price: visit website for rates
Address: Badger Pass, Yosemite, CA 95389
Direct Phone: (888) 413-8869
Directions
Summing Up: Yosemite Places to Stay
Picking the perfect place to stay in Yosemite isn’t easy. After reviewing all of these options you might feel like you can’t make a decision. The best way to move forward might be to head over to the Yosemite lodging website and check all the properties for the dates you would like to visit. It might help you narrow things down and find multiple dates available to land the spot you’re most interested in.
Looking for more places to stay in National Parks? Check out these posts: