The Top Places to Stay in Yosemite

Home > Scenic Wonders Blog > The Top Places to Stay in Yosemite

Where to Stay in Yosemite

Yosemite is an enormous national park, spanning nearly 1,200 square miles of land. The first step in planning your ultimate Yosemite vacation is to determine just where in the park you would like to stay. Each region of the park typically offers multiple types of lodging.

  1. Yosemite West
    Yosemite West is a former logging area that has been converted to a wilderness preserve, located in the southwest region of Yosemite National Park. The giant sequoias once used for logging have grown back and now stand an impressive 80 feet tall in some areas. Yosemite West is also home to the remnants of the largest incline rail system ever built. This area is a private community and is only accessible from inside Yosemite National Park. There are no stores or restaurants, offering an unobstructed view of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The closest gas station is about 20 miles away; be sure to prepare for that!
    Yosemite West is close to the following popular attractions: Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, Badger Pass, Mariposa Grove (home of the Giant Sequoias), and various hiking trails.
    Scenic Wonders offers rustic and modern lodges, cabins, and homes in the Yosemite West area. Many offer propane BBQ’s, satellite TV, fireplaces, and ample parking for your vehicle(s).

  2. Oakhurst/Bass Lake Area 
    Bass Lake is a stunning 3.5 mile lake, encircled by lush pine forests. The area is largely residential, boasting gorgeous waterfront homes with private docks.
    Bass Lake is frequently referred to as the “hidden jewel” of the Sierra National Forest. The lake and surrounding Oakhurst area are family-friendly spots, known best for their endless water activities. Fans of boating, fishing, water skiing, hiking, and mountain biking are encouraged to explore the area. Bass Lake is only 15 minutes from Yosemite’s South Gate, which makes it an uber-convenient spot to lodge. Bass Lake is bit more developed than other regions of Yosemite.  Travelers will find grills, bars, markets, and even a Mexican restaurant in the Bass Lake/Oakhurst area.
    The Bass Lake/Oakhurst area is close to the following popular attractions: Yosemite Valley, Badger Pass, Glacier Point, Wawona Golf Course, and Mariposa Grove.
    Scenic Wonders offers an impressive array of both traditional and contemporary lodges, cabins, and homes in the Bass Lake area. Many offer air conditioning, Wi-Fi, Roku TV, gas stoves, and ample parking for your vehicle(s). 

  3. Wawona
    The Wawona area spans the southern side of Yosemite National Park. It sits only four miles from Yosemite’s South entrance, and is located between Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove of the Giant Sequoias. History buffs will love exploring Wawona’s Pioneer Yosemite History Center, the Wawona Hotel (a National Historic Landmark), and the Wawona Visitor Center at Hill’s Studio.
    Wawona is intersected by the gorgeous South Fork tributary. It is recommended for fans of horseback riding, birdwatching, golfing, and hiking. There is one gas station open year-round in Wawona, and a few spots for bites and drinks.
    The Wawona area is close to the following popular attractions: Wawona Meadow Golf Course & Dining Room, Chilnualna Falls, Mariposa Grove of the Giant Sequoias, and Yosemite Valley. 
    Scenic Wonders offers a multitude of lodges, cabins, and homes in the Wawona area. Many feature BBQ grills, Wi-Fi, satellite TVs, fireplaces, and ample parking for your vehicle(s).

  4. Badger Pass
    Badger Pass is the ultimate California skiing destination! It is located centrally in Yosemite National Park, and offers slopes for both beginner and advanced skiers. Badger Pass was established in 1935 and is home to California’s oldest operating ski area. It’s considered to be a wonderful area for family-friendly downhill skiing, but caters to cross-country skiers, ice skaters, and snowshoers as well. Badger Pass cannot be missed if you or a fellow traveler are passionate about winter sports.
    Scenic Wonders offers a multitude of lodges, cabins, and homes just 15 minutes from the Badger Pass slopes. Many offer propane BBQ grills, fireplaces, central heat, satellite TV, and ample parking for your vehicle(s).

 

Types of Lodging in Yosemite

Once you’ve selected your location, you’ll need to determine your lodging preference. Yosemite National Park is home to a diverse array of lodging options – ranging from full-service hotels to rustic campground accommodations. We’ve outlined the pros and cons of each.

Hotels

Pros:

  • Hotels offer high-quality service, covered or valet parking, and traditional hotel amenities.
  • You’ll find spas, golf courses, gift shopping, restaurants, guided hiking tours, and cocktail lounges available.
  • Hotels offer private rooms, private baths, Wi-Fi, and flat screen TV’s.

Cons:

  • Hotels offer a luxury resort experience, and they’re often not very connected to nature.
  • Not all hotels are large group, pet, and/or family-friendly.
  • If you’re looking to disconnect on your getaway, Wi-Fi access and cable TV will keep you connected.
  • Hotels in Yosemite National Park are usually very glam, and offer standard sized rooms –leaving your group without much space to spread out.
  • Hotels tend to be more expensive lodging, as you won’t be able to cook your own meals, may have to pay for parking, and will likely choose to invest in guided “experiences” during your stay.

 

Cabins, Condos, & Homes

Pros:

  • Cabins, condos, and homes offer both ample space and privacy. You’ll find private baths, beds, and cooking spaces.
  • Rental cabins and condos will give you the ability to cook & eat your own meals in a room with a view.
  • They’re often large group, family, and pet-friendly.
  • Cabins, condos, and homes typically offer private parking.
  • If you plan to camp, these rental spaces allow for a “home base”, even if you’d like to venture out into the wilderness.
  • These stays are flexible on connectedness and may or may not have WiFi, TV, and so forth. You can choose your own adventure!
  • Cabins, condos, and homes in Yosemite are great for a romantic getaway from the world or for a large group reunion.
  • These accommodations are often close to major sights, ski, and snowboard areas.
  • They are safe, and provide the perfect combination of creature comforts with rustic camp staples, like outdoor grills, outdoor gathering space, and gorgeous views.

Cons:

  • You will need to cook your own meals; these accommodations are not full-service.
  • Not all properties have Wi-Fi or TV service.
  • Pricing varies – both lux and more affordable options are available, based on your must-haves.

Scenic Wonders offers quality home, condo, and cabin rentals inside of Yosemite National Park at reasonable prices.  Call 1-888-YOSEMITE (1-888-967-3648) to book your vacation today! 

 

Lodges

Pros:

  • Lodges provide private/enclosed sleeping arrangements.
  • Communal dining areas allow for mingling to meet other travelers.
  • Some lodges have swimming pools or hot tubs.
  • Some lodges have air-conditioning and heat.

Cons:

  • Lodges provide smaller living spaces.
  • Many lodges have communal restrooms and baths.
  • Lodges do not have dining services, so you’ll have to cook your own meals, typically on an outdoor grill or firepit.

 

Camps & Campgrounds

Pros:

  • Camps and campgrounds offer rustic, authentic, connected-to-nature experiences.
  • The lack of service makes it easy to “sign off” during your stay.
  • Open facilities make it easy to meet other travelers.
  • Many offer outdoor grills for cooking

Cons:

  • If you’re safety-conscious, camps and campgrounds lack lockable front doors.
  • Camps & campgrounds traditionally do not offer private restrooms or showers. Many have totally outdoor “natural” facilities.
  • These accommodations (and facilities, if present) are subject to outside temperatures.

 

If you’re looking for Yosemite National Park lodging, call Yosemite’s Scenic Wonders at 1-888-YOSEMITE (1-888-967-3648) to begin planning your memorable vacation. Scenic Wonders offers quality home, condo, and cabin rentals inside of Yosemite National Park at reasonable prices!


Share This Post!