Yosemite is one of the most spectacular national parks in all of the United States. While it is not possible to stay in many of the national parks, Yosemite has a number of accommodation options. Yosemite has lodges, inns, hotels, private cabins (or holiday homes), backcountry camping, RV camping, and more. Here we will consider Yosemite's lodges and cabins.
Yosemite is perfect for hiking and has hikes for everyone. One of the main attractions in the park is the breathtaking Yosemite Falls that characterizes the valley.
Private Cabins
Most of the private holiday homes are in the village of Wawona. It is a small settlement located not far from the main entrance and close to the Mariposa Grove with the renowned Giant Sequoia grove. This was a village since before it was part of the national park and so one can hire out a cabin in this peaceful village in the park - although it is quite far from the Yosemite Valley.
- Cabins: Mostly In The Village Of Wawona
- Attractions: Attractions By Wawona Include The Mariposa Grove, The Chilnualna Falls, And The Pioneer History Center
Many or most of the private cabins in the park are managed by Redwoods in Yosemite. All of their cabins are located in the national park about 4.5 miles inside the south gate in the town of Wawona. Most visitors just drive right past wanting to get to the valley leaving Wawona as a hidden gem.
Wawona is also the closest community to the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias - the largest such grove in Yosemite National Park. Another attraction is Chilnualna Falls - the second-highest vertical drop waterfall in the park.
- Mariposa Grove: Includes the Grizzly Giant, the California Tunnel Tree, and many more
Cabins range in price from around $250 per night to over $1,000 per night (plus cleaning fees etc.). They are a great option for groups and those who like their own personal space. This way one can have a whole house to one's self and are complete with full kitchen facilities.
Quail Meadow: Quail Meadow is an example of cabin accommodation in Wawona. It comes with three bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and together with foldout beds, it sleeps up to 11 people. While it doesn't have air conditioning, it is well shaded from the sun and doesn't get hot in the summer, it has gas heaters for the winter.
- Sleeps: Up to 11 People
- Includes: Satellite TV and WiFi, Gas BBQ, And Private Deck
- Pets: Pets Are not Permitted
- Cost: From $323 Per Night (Plus $135 Cleaning Fee, $39 Damage Waiver Fee, Country Tax of 13.5%
Yosemite Lodges
Yosemite has a few lodges - most are situated in the awe-inspiring Yosemite Valley.
Wawona Hotel
Wawona Hotel is located in Wawona outside of the valley. It is right next to the historic pioneer village and pioneer wooden bridge of the Pioneer History Center. On the other side, it gazes out over its stunning golf course and the forested mountains of Yosemite.
Wawona Hotel itself is historic being Victorian-era. It was originally established in 1856 and is listed as a National Historic Landmark.
- Location: Wawona - 27 Miles From Yosemite Valley
- Seasonal Amenities: Nine-Hole Golf Course, A Swimming Pool, Riding Stables
- Open: Seasonally
Opening Season:
- 2021: June 10, 2021 - November 29, 2021
- 2022: Scheduled to open for the season March 25, 2022
The hotel consisted of 50 standard hotel rooms with private baths and another 54 standard hotel rooms with shared bathrooms. The hotel offers breakfast, lunch, and diner.
The Ahwahnee
The Ahwahnee is located inside the Yosemite Valley and is famous for its stunning interior design and architecture. It has been called the crown jewel of the national park lodges and was specifically designed to highlight its natural surroundings including Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and Glacier Point.
It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is an upscale hotel. It has a gift shop with an emphasis on local artisans. Unlike Wawona Hotel it is open year-round and like Wawona Hotel it offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Open: All Year
- Amenities: Heated Outdoor Swimming Pool
- Parking: Free Guest Parking
- Note: Stunning Views Of The Valley
Yosemite Valley Lodge
The Yosemite Valley Lodge is a favorite for families and large groups. It is a perfect base for exploring the national park being idyllically situated in the heart of the Yosemite Valley near Yosemite Falls.
Yosemite Valley Lodge's architecture is glass and wood that has been designed to be in unity with the surroundings. It has ample windows to allow the bright alpine sunshine in and to afford breathtaking views of the valley. It includes 245 available accommodations with rooms of varying sizes.
- Open: All Year
- Facilities: Outdoor Swimming Pool, Outdoor Amphitheater