Are you looking for a family-friendly getaway to Yosemite National Park? If you’re looking to take your family on a memorable vacation, consider staying at one of the many fantastic campgrounds, inns, or hotels OUTSIDE of the park.
Often, when visiting our parks, we try to stay within the park boundaries; however, there are many benefits of staying in the parks’ gateway towns…
- Cost: Accommodations and services inside the park tend to be more expensive than those outside the park. Staying outside the park can be a more affordable option for visitors on a budget.
- Availability: Lodging and campsites inside the park can be difficult to book, especially during peak season. Staying outside the park provides more options for lodging and camping.
- Accessibility: Many of the towns outside of Yosemite have their own attractions, restaurants, and shops. This truth provides visitors with more options for entertainment and dining.
- Quieter Atmosphere: Staying outside the park can provide a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere. Yosemite is often busy and crowded during peak season. Visitors who prefer a more peaceful and secluded experience may find that staying outside the park better suits their needs.
- Flexibility: Staying outside the park allows visitors more flexibility (and subtle encouragement) to explore surrounding areas and attractions. For families, this can mean more ease in meeting everyone’s vacation goals!
The truth is, staying outside the park will also mean a longer commute to reach the park’s attractions. Be sure you weigh the benefits and drawbacks based on your family needs.
Fortunately, there are many great options to choose from when looking for lodging outside of Yosemite. You’re sure to find the perfect accommodation for your family.
From luxurious hotels to rustic campgrounds, we’ll give you our top picks to make your trip to Yosemite National Park a memorable one!
Campgrounds
- Indian Flat RV Park: Located in Portal, California and just 30 minutes from Yosemite National Park, Indian Flat RV Park offers a great family-friendly camping experience. This park offers full and partial hook-ups for RV campers. It also offers tent sites and cabins. There is also a pool for summer play.
- Yosemite Pines RV Resort: Yosemite Pines RV Resort is a great option for families who are looking for a west-entrance campground. This large resort sits in Groveland, California and offers a variety of camping options from cabins and covered wagons to RV and tent sites. Amenities include a pool, a petting zoo, and seasonal entertainment.
- Yosemite RV Resort – This RV resort is located just outside the park’s southern entrance and offers a variety of camping options, including RV sites, tent sites, and cabins. With its spacious campsites, modern amenities, and nearby hiking trails, the Yosemite RV Resort is a great choice for families looking for a convenient base camp for their Yosemite adventures.
Inns and Hotels
- The Redwoods In Yosemite: The Redwoods In Yosemite is a fantastic family-friendly inn located just minutes from Yosemite National Park. The Redwoods In Yosemite also offers vacation rentals. With its cozy rooms and excellent amenities, you’re sure to have a comfortable stay here.
- Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite: Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite is a luxurious hotel located just outside of the park. With its spacious rooms and many amenities, this hotel is a great option for families looking for a more luxurious experience.
- The Historic Wawona Hotel: The Historic Wawona Hotel is a charming hotel located just minutes from Yosemite National Park. With its beautiful rooms and excellent amenities, this hotel is a great option for families who are looking for a more intimate and historic experience.
- Evergreen Lodge – This historic lodge is located 40 minutes from Yosemite Valley. It offers a variety of accommodations including family camping cabins costing $345-$625 per night and pre-pitched family tents from $130-$165 per night. With its large pool and nearby hiking trails, the Evergreen Lodge is an ideal choice for families looking for a more luxurious camping experience. Notice that you cannot rent tent sites to pitch your own tent, nor does this facility accommodate RVs.
Whether you’re looking for a rustic camping experience or a luxurious hotel stay, there are many great options for families outside of Yosemite National Park.
So, why not plan your next family vacation to this amazing park and stay at one of the many fantastic accommodations available? With so many great options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect accommodation for your family.
Happy travels!
For more information about family fun in Yosemite and where to HIKE, read THIS article next!
