where to stay near yosemite
Whether you’re dreaming of catching the sunrise over El Capitan, trekking the Mist Trail, or simply breathing in the forest air, the place you stay can make your Yosemite experience unforgettable. In 2025, the valley’s lodging landscape is evolving: the iconic Ahwahnee remains a luxury icon, e‑state rentals climb in popularity, and the park’s new cabin‑style Resort (YVCC) offers mid‑range comfort. This guide breaks down the best places to stay right on the trail, and in the surrounding towns—plus a few off‑the‑beaten‑path options for the budget‑savvy explorer.
Pro tip: Book as early as possible. Reservations for the park’s on‑site cabins and hotels open 12 months in advance and often fill within days. Sites outside the park (Groveland, Mariposa, Oakhurst) have a slightly leeway but still recommend booking 3–6 months ahead.
1. Inside the Valley – Since you’re in the heart of it all
| Lodging | Price Range* | Capacity | Highlights | When to Stay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ahwahnee Hotel (Historic | $600–$1,200/night) | 75 rooms | Flagship luxury, mineral‑bath pools, world‑class dining, panoramic views of Half Dome | Peak season (June‑Sept) – rescue any early booking |
| Yosemite Valley Lodge (Standard) | $250–$450/night | 10 cabins + 50 rooms | Spacious 11‑room suites, very close to trailheads, toddlers’ playground | Everything – more availability than Ahwahnee |
| Yosemite Valley Cabins & Comfort (YVCC) | $250–$600/night | 50 cabins | Private kitchens, modern furnishings, communal fireplace | Best for family groups, October–April |
| Yosemite Valley Inn (Former Inn at Yosemite Cabins & Suites) | $300–$500/night | 30 rooms | Modern décor, yoga mats, dog‑friendly | Ideal for solo or couples |
| Yosemite Village Cabins (seasonal | $200–$380/night) | 20 cabins | Rustic, view decks, close to visitor center | Summer & early fall |
*Nightly rate varies by season, room type, and in‑hotel amenities.
Why Stay Inside the Valley?
- Zero commute – you’re within walking distance to all the major sights (Half Dome, Tunnel View, Glacier Point).
- First‑class amenities – the park’s on‑site lodging often includes concierge support and shuttle service to the Tioga Pass/Tunnel View shuttle stops.
- Safety – every establishment follows the Park Service’s stringent winter‑snow safety protocols, a plus if you’re hiking in unpredictable weather.
When the Valley Crowds
If you’re launching your adventure during the summer rush or Thanksgiving, plan to reserve early and consider the YVCC or the newer Yosemite Valley Lodge for better pricing‑to‑value trade‑off. The Ahwahnee is ideal for luxury seekers, but be prepared to pay a premium.
2. Gravity‑Defying Views – Wawona & Tuolumne
| Lodging | Price Range* | Highlights | Neighboring Attractions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wawona Lodge & Comfort (Yong) | $150–$280/night | Second‑largest lodge, views of Mariposa Grove | Mariposa & the Giant Sequoia Groves |
| Wawona Lodge Cabins | $120–$240/night | Cozy 4‑bedroom cabins | Yosemite Valley via Trail 44 |
| Tuolumne Meadows Campground (Seasonal) | $25/night (cars) | Alpine meadow, easy trail access | Tioga Pass, Tioga Road hiking, Wildflower viewing |
Key Points
- Wawona Lodge sits right next to the Big Oak Flat – the pathogen‑friendly gateway to the old‑world glamour of the park. Kids in large families appreciate the quiet, quiet places to have pancakes at dawn.
- Tuolumne Meadows is the place for serious hikers. The high‑alpine campground is only accessible for the summer/hot season and requires a reservation or walk‑in permit for the last few nights.
3. Beyond the Park – 3–15 mi from the Gates
3.1 Groveland
| Lodging | Price Range* | Why Groveland? |
|---|---|---|
| Rancho Sierra | $180–$350/night | Land‑locked 70‑year‑old #1, with a private spa and a private private marina. |
| Old Zoggs Inn | $90–$220/night | Rustic, historic, perfect for local flavor. |
| Crow’s Nest Lodge | $60–$130/night | Backyard golf, 24‑hour onsite facilities. |
Distance to Yosemite ~22 mi (45 min drive via Hwy 41). Groveland is handy for those who prefer a town feel, scenic morning coffee by the highway, and an early‑morning start on day 1.
3.2 Mariposa
The county’s largest town – mount seamless hot‑shot for the western theater of the park.
- Good Now Restaurant & Campers – B&B style with villa‑cabin options. Prices $250–$440/night.
- Mount Kilauea Inn – Hostel‑style bed, $35 per person. Good for budget singles and backpackers.
You’re about 2 mi from the Mariposa Grove parking lot (pre‑book with 2 hr ahead parking slot).
3.3 Oakhurst
Popular because of its proximity to the eastern park entrance.
- Cypress Inn & Suites | $120–$210/night | Lakeside cabins, free Chapel tours. |
- Oakhurst Lodge | $100–$180/night | Rustic cabins, local welcome. |
Why: Affordable family rooms, pool, on‑site tourist shop outside the park – everything for a itinerary that marries Yosemite hiking with Lake Tahoe day trips.
4. Alternative Lodging – Airbnb, Cabins, and Campgrounds
4.1 Airbnb and VRBO
- Large acreage in Mariposa, Groveland, & Oakhurst – offers 2–4 days Airbnb rentals with full kitchen, in‑landscapes. Prices range $120–$250/night (depending on season & house size).
- Tip: Filter for “Entire Place” + “Near Yosemite” + “Verified Host.”
4.2 Wilderness Cabins
- Yosemite West Egret Lodge – Up to 12 beds, open to groups. Seasonal 4–8 Apr 2025.
- Tenaya Lodge – In the forests above Big Oak Flat. It’s a 45 min drive from Yosemite Valley but relatively close to the Tioga Pass.
4.3 Campgrounds
| Campground | Type | Capacity | Hourly/Daily Rate | Reservation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lower Pines (Yosemite) – inside park | Reversible‑gate | 32 | $32/hr (max 6 hr) | Allowed up to 4 hr in season; shift to overnight if needed |
| Tuolumne Meadows RV | RV valid | 140 spots | $30/day | Advanced – limited by seasonal forecasts |
| Groveland RV Park | RV, tent | 70 | $30/night | Book 30‑day each season |
Rule of thumb: Reserve as soon as you confirm your date. The winter months (Nov‑Apr) see fewer bookings, and the campgrounds inside the park have the simplest reservation system.
5. “Best of Both Worlds” – Lodging that Speaks to Everyone
Luxury: Ahwahnee Hotel (Historic) –– for those who want a 5‑star weekend with a hint of old‑world charm.
Mid‑Range: YVCC & Yosemite Valley Lodge –– family‑friendly, with private kitchens, and a view of Yosemite Falls.
Budget: Groveland’s Old Zoggs Inn or Airbnb rentals around Mariposa –– plus a daily breakfast service you can afford.
Accessibility: Yosemite Valley Lodge & YVCC cabins have wheelchair-accessible rooms and areas. Ahwahnee has several rooms with attendants, but check when you book. Oakhurst & Groveland lodging often prefer wheelchair use.
Pet‑Friendly: Ahwahnee, Yosemite Valley Lodge, and YVCC are dog‑friendly (additional cleaning fee). Most hotels outside the park require pets to be in a carrier.
Family‑Friendly: YVCC, Yuní Valley Lodge, and Oakhurst Bed & Breakfast provide large rooms, kitchens, and plenty of snack‑friendly activities for kids.
Off‑Season: Winter is great for ski lovers. Wawona Lodge stays open year round and is a small business—great for a cozy cabin feeling.
6. How to Book in 2025
| Lodging | Platform | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| In‑park hotels & cabins | Yosemite National Park Reservation website | Use Park Service portal for direct rates. |
| Off‑park hotels | Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com | Cross‑compare for same day rates. |
| Airbnb | Airbnb.com | Look for “Short‑term Seasonal” listings that include a “do not disturb” tag. |
| RV & Campgrounds | Recreation.gov | Reserve 30–90 days in advance; track weather closures. |
When You’ve Booked
- Circulate your reservation number and the contact details for the Rental’s office.
- Read the contract thoroughly—especially for cancellation policy (many will charge up to 100% if you cancel in the last 48 hrs).
- Plan for shuttle: In 2025, the park’s shuttle is the fastest and greenest way to get around the Valley from Tuesday‑to‑Friday (six trips a day). Adjust your arrival time accordingly.
7. Insider Checklist, Before You Leave the Hotel
- Book your Outdoor Permit – If you plan to hike in Yosemite, reserve a 3‑day 2‑per‑person permit at https://www.recreation.gov or via the mobile app.
- Check Weather & Trail Status – YP’s website is the most reliable source: https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/additional-information.htm.
- Pack Essentials – Weather can shift from sun to snow within hours—pack layered clothing, a rain jacket, a good pair of hiking boots, and a 4‑suitor.
- Bring Cash for Picnic Stalls – Although most are card‑readers, preparing $20‑$50 in small bills for the informal 48‑hr picnic zone near Mariposa Grove saves time.
- Know the Health & Safety Rules – The park forbids swimming in any water body. Report any wildlife sightings, and keep a safe distance from the bears and squirrels.
Closing Thoughts
Choosing a place to stay near Yosemite isn’t merely about the price tag; it’s about when you want to experience the park, what you’re willing to compromise on, and who your travel companions are. Whether you’re climbing Half Dome right from the Comfort Cabin on the valley floor or stroking a dormer in a cozy Groveland chalet, the scenery will keep you building bigger memories for years to come.
Word of caution: The resurfacing of the Tioga Pass during late fall can shut it in the early frost (mid‑October). Seasonal closures happen sometimes; double‑check the reminders before setting out.
Happy planning, and an eye‑watering stay at Yosemite! 🌄✨
