Restrictions are lifting, and now you want to know, what are the best things to do in Yosemite after lockdown?
Clearly, you stop here because you’re planning to visit Yosemite after a long time in isolation. I know just how you feel! After the lockdown lifted, we headed for this National Park and it was awesome! I feel I just have to share our family itinerary and the favorite things we saw in Yosemite.
Definitely, there is so much to see in this California gem. It’s one of the best National Parks in the USA – probably the world, for that matter. Without a doubt, it’s truly a stunning place and you can see why so many people call it their favorite place to visit, all year round. Yosemite is just picture-postcard-perfect at every turn!
Yosemite Basics
First, you can drive your car in Yosemite, but they usually urge you to use the free shuttle buses in some areas. However, because of COVID, the shuttles were not running.
As a consequences of the current health guidelines, the park is currently allowing only 50% of their average daily attendance (1700 vehicles per day) to register for day-visit permits during the peak summer months. You can grab your day permit at www.recreation.gov.
For these reason a day use reservation system has been implemented for a seven day use pass for all entry into Yosemite National Park. Hence, the initial release of this tickets inventory goes on sale 30 days in advance and after that another batch of tickets is released to purchase two days in advance. Ticket sales open up at 7 AM Pacific Standard Time, and the tickets are usually all gone within a minute or two.
For this reason, I advise you to create an account on recreation.gov before you want to try to get your permit and double up by having someone else who is also trying to buy tickets try to get them at the same time. I’m no geek, but I suggest that the other buyer be on a different network (e.g. on a cell network, while you are on a WiFi network) in case the system thinks duplicate IP addresses on your shared network are the same person, and shuts one out.
The National Park Service encourages you to follow CDC guidance to reduce the spread of COVID-19. These are:
- Practice Social Distancing: stay 6 feet apart from other people.
- Wear a face covering when social distancing cannot be maintained
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
- Stay home if you feel sick
In short, following this protocol will allow you to enjoy the many great things to do in Yosemite with kids and adults. By limiting park visitors and closing campgrounds, it is a magical time in the Valley. It feels like the way you were meant to experience the park! So much beauty, so many fewer people!
Half Dome
First, Yosemite’s most distinctive monument is Half Dome, and it dominates many views in Yosemite Valley. If you want to see it Cook’s Meadow, Sentinel Bridge and Glacier Point are but a few locations where you can admire it.
El Capitan
El Capitan is a massive granite monolith, leaping 3,593 feet from base to summit. People from all over the world have climbed it. It’s a breathtaking natural formation which begs you to take a time out just to stare in admiration.
After we got back home, we watched a movie called The Dawn Wall on Netflix about the first time that people climbed El Capitan just using their hands. Amazing.
What to see in Yosemite – A Yosemite Guide after Lockdown:
1. Wawona Yosemite and Mariposa Grove
First, our adventure in Yosemite started at this area since we stayed the first night by the park’s south entrance. The Grove of Giant Sequoias is one of the largest and oldest on Earth with over 500 mature trees. Many are around 4,800 years old!
It is located 36 miles (1 ¼ hours) south of Yosemite Valley via the Wawona road (highway 41), two miles from the park’s southern entrance. We started our trip in this area the first day.
Wawona trail is a beautiful nature walk with different trails, but there is a boardwalk path on the Mariposa Grove. Big Tree Loop and Grizzly Giant Loop are easy trails.
Keep in mind that Pioneer Yosemite History Center in Wawona is nearby, but it was closed when we visited due to COVID-19. This place is a collection of historic buildings associated with people and events that shaped the national park concept in Yosemite. For sure, we will come back to explore this for sure when is open.
After some research, we opted to do the Wawona Meadow Loop because it is pet friendly. So, this trail begins at Big Tree Lodge, an old lodge which was closed when we visited. The trail is an unpaved fire road which loops around the meadow and returns to Wawona Road.
We found a relaxing and scenic stroll that offers views across the basin and opportunities to see wildlife and wildflowers.
Absolutely, we choose an easy and fun hike but in the Wawona area you can find Swinging Bridge Loop which is a moderate hike, Alder Creek trail, Chilnualna Falls trails, Mariposa Trail to Wawona point hike and Guardian Loop Trail that are strenuous hikes.
2. Stop at Glacier Point and take a look at the View
Our second stop was Glacier Point since we were coming from the south entrance. Glacier Point is an overlook with a commanding view of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and Yosemite’s high country. One of the best views of Yosemite!
Glacier Point is located 30 miles (a one-hour drive) from Yosemite Valley or Wawoma and to get there from either of these places, take the Wawoma Road (Hifghway 41) to Chinquapin, then turn onto Glacier Point Road.
At Glacier Point, a short paved and wheelchair accessible trail takes you to an amazing view 3,200+ feet down to the floor of Yosemite Valley below.
The boys and even our dog were all mesmerized by the power of this view. The trail is stroller and dog friendly.
There is a path that leads you to a Geological Hut with an explanation of how the valley was formed (hint: think gigantic glaciers).
Luckily, most people were following social distancing protocols. Although the view will distract you, in general I noted that people were using face masks when walking down the path because social distance wasn’t always easy to maintain.
Believe it or not, some people hike down from here to the valley following the John Muir Trail or the Mist Trail. It is a rigorous trail, and you’d better not be afraid of heights. Of course, we couldn’t do this with the kids, they’re too young, and dogs are not permitted on unpaved trails. If you are up to this adventure you can a great view of the Nevada Falls.
3. Check the View at Tunnel View
On our way to Yosemite Village we needed to stop at this iconic scenic view and one of the famous awe-inspiring landmarks. It showcases the immensity of the granite walls that ring Yosemite Valley, providing breathtaking views of El Capitan, Cathedral Rock, Sentinel Rock and Bridalveil Fall.
Along Wawona Road, driving the Scenic Drive Hwy 41, you’ll drive through Wawona Tunnel. Right after you exit the tunnel, you find on the side of the road Tunnel View. This is not a hike-in spot; just an amazing viewpoint. DO NOT MISS IT!
When we stopped there, we could see thoe rainbow dancing across Bridalveil Fall. It was magical! Even Apollo (our dog) was excited 😉
It’s a great spot for a family picture. Or a postcard picture! and our dog was trying to chase some squirrels, but we kept him in check.
4. See Bridalveil Fall in Yosemite
The next day, we visited another of the iconic waterfalls in Yosemite, Bridalveil Fall.
Although the main road that leads you to the base of the waterfall was closed for construction, there is a shorter path that lead us to the part of the waterfall. Some people were hiking up to the base, but we were plenty happy with the view we had.
Also, I read that the best time to visit is spring when you can experience the mist from the waterfall. However, it runs all year. We went in June and plenty of water was running, giving us an amazing show.
5. Hike to the Yosemite Falls
This set of waterfalls is one of Yosemite’s top attractions. It is among the tallest waterfalls in North America at 2,425 ft. It is made up of three different falls. Lower Yosemite fall with 320 ft, middle cascade @ 675 ft and upper Yosemite Fall higher @ 1430 ft.
We chose to hike to the Lower Yosemite Falls which is very accessible and pet friendly. It’s a beautiful and easy walk with an incredible waterfall view. About 1.1 mile and just 30 minutes each way.
We began at the lower Yosemite Falls trailhead. There, we didn’t have any problems finding parking, and this short, easy walk gave us the view not only of lower Yosemite Falls but also the Upper Yosemite Falls.
On the way there you can find the old viewpoint where the creek used to run strong but now it is dry since a mudslide diverted the river. However, it is a great place to stop for the view. We were lucky the waterfall wasn’t dry during early summer but it could be dry in late summer. During springtime expect lot of spray standing on the bridge.
The waterfall was running strong, and people were able to get on the rocks to get a closer look. The Upper Yosemite Falls is a strenuous (steep and long) trail of 9.6 miles. We didn’t do it; we had plenty of fun on the Lower Yosemite Waterfall loop. However, if you are up for the challenge make sure to bring enough water and sunscreen because it can be a very exposed trail.
6. Stroll or Bike ride at the Cook Meadows
This flat and scenic path is absolutely stunning. That provides us a beautiful and excellent walk for sightseeing Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, Glacier Point and Royal Arches. It is an open meadow with a 1-mile pet-friendly trail.
Cook Meadow is open year round and provides an excellent view!
At the Sentinel Bridge parking area, walk out to the bridge to enjoy a classic view. The trail there is just a 2.2 mile loop. We did part of this path and stopped at Swinging Bridge for a lovely picnic with the view and some splashing around in the Merced River.
7. Next, have a Picnic and swim during the summer on any of these fabulous beaches
Cathedral Beach and Picnic Area
There are several swimming or floating spots in the summer, which are open year round. And you can either swim during the summer or stroll, have a picnic and enjoy the wildlife at Cathedral Beach with the stunning view of El Capitan.
We stopped here for a family picture with El Capitan in the back and checked out Yosemite waterfalls. The boys enjoyed a mock sword-stick fight as you can see below.
Sentinel Beach
This beach provides a sandy shore with amazing views of El Captain as well as Sentinel falls on the Merced River.
This is a great place to hang out on summer days and frolic in the Merced River. I hear it is a very popular destination in the park, with amazing sights from the nearby Swinging Bridge as well. We were lucky to find it almost empty – thanks, COVID!
This beach has a picnic area as well
Swinging Bridge picnic area NextN
Next, I’m adding this to the list because it is a perfect spot for picnics and of course swimming in the Merced River during summer. I bet is a gorgeous are for picnics on the fall.
8. Visit Mirror Lake Yosemite:
Mirror Lake is a beautiful pool in the Tenaya Creek. You can see the crown of Half Dome reflecting on the lake’s water and it is pretty much as close as you can get to Half Dome on the valley floor.
Following, we hit Mirror Lake on our second day but didn’t brought swimming suits, but the kids really wanted to come back to swim. And we did! this is one of the most popular swimming holes of the Tayana Creek since is full of rocks to jump from.
My kids got to jump a few times, but the water wasn’t super deep this time of the year. It was their favorite spot in the park. We chilled and refreshed and the kids jumped, floated, and played for hours. It was so much fun.
9. Walk or Drive around Yosemite Valley/Half Dome Village
The valley is known for massive cliff faces like El Capitan and Half Dome, its plunging waterfalls and breathtaking meadows. Yosemite Meadow is great places to see wildlife. You’ll have the chance to admire El Capitan from different areas in the Valley. You can explore the Valley by foot or car – we did both!
In Yosemite Village you will find the main Yosemite Visitor Center, Yosemite Museum, a Wilderness Center and the Ansel Adams Gallery
10. Biking in Yosemite Valley
Biking in the valley is such a great idea to be able to see more of the park than from behind glass in a car. Is one of the best ways to do the 13-mile Valley Loop.
The Valley Loop starts at the Lower Yosemite Falls trailhead and follows many of the Valley’s first east-west trails and wagon road. The half loop trail crosses the Valley at El Capitan bridge. Continue on to Bridalveil Fall for the full loop. It is super fun and easy.
The path was not too busy but wearing a face mask helps keep you safe when social distancing cannot be maintained. We wanted to do this but since we brought our dog it wasn’t possible to bike with him around the loop.
Strenuous Hikes
11. Hike to Vernal Falls and Nevada Fall
Vernal Falls is one of the most popular attractions in Yosemite, and one of the most famous Yosemite hikes. It is a 317-foot waterfall on the Merced River us downstream of Nevada Fall. It is a small but powerful one for sure.
This hike is marked as strenuous, but moderate if you only hike the easy portion of the trail. You can find incredible views even on the easy part. The hike to Vernal Falls footbridge is 1.6 miles round trip and the hike to Vernal Falls is 2.4 miles round trip.
You can see Vernal Falls from the footbridge at 0.8 miles. Then, you have two choices of trails to follow, the Mist trail and the john Muir Trail. The Mist trail will send you directly to the top of Vernal Falls after 0.5 mile of granite stairway.
Take plenty of water, sunscreen and pack food in Ziplock bags so the wild animals don’t get attracted to it! Hiking shoes for this trail are a must because it is very slippery. It is a tough climb starting on a paved path but ending up as big steps over rocks.
Nevada Falls is a 594-foot-high waterfall on the Merced River and a 5.4 miles round trip hike. One must first hike to Vernal Falls and keep going along the Mist Trail for 1.3 miles. It can also can be reached via the John Muir Trail (bypassing Vernal Falls). This is the waterfall you can see from Glacier point.
12. Hike the Panorama Trail
This is another way to hike to Vernal Falls. It is 8.5 miles descending from Glacier Point until you connect with the Mist Trail and walk alongside both Nevada and Vernal Falls on your way down the valley.
It is labeled as Strenuous and as its name implies it offers panoramic views of Yosemite Valley. You need to make a reservation and get one-way ticket permit to hike down.
13. Visit Tenaya Lake
This is called the “Jewel of the High Country.” It a popular spot for kayaking, boating, swimming and even sunbathing.
It is located in the high country or alpine region of Yosemite National Park, between Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows. The surface of Tenaya Lake has an elevation of 8,150 feet. This is high on my list to do on our next visit.
14. Visit Tioga Pass
Tioga Road offers 39 miles of scenic vistas, lakes, trails, meadows, picnic spots, and more at over 8,000 ft in elevation. Alpine environments are particularly fragile, make sure to stay on trails and park only in designated parking spots.
15. Explore Tuolumne Grove
These groves are smaller than the more famous Mariposa Grove but are quieter and off limits to vehicles.
I am disappointed we didn’t visit this either but we needed to prioritize our time during our three day visit. This is on my list for our next visit that we hope will be longer for sure – and soon!
16. Visit Tuolumne Meadows
Tuolumne Meadows is the high sierra area of Yosemite with sub-alpine meadows surrounded by even higher granite domes and peaks. We didn’t visit this either on this trip but it is on our list for next visit. It is totally dreamy with numerous hikes you can take like Cathedral Lake, Elizabeth Lake, Lambert Dome, and Tuolumne River through Lyell Canyon.
Traveling to Yosemite
If you are planning to travel to Yosemite, here is what you need to know:
1. Is there a fee to enter Yosemite National Park?
If you’re heading to the home of El Capitan and Half Dome, remember that there’s a fee for entering Yosemite. A park pass costs $35/vehicle at the Yosemite National Park entrance stations and is valid for seven days. You also can purchase the Yosemite Pass for $70 for unlimited visits to the park for 12 months.
Entry to Yosemite is for the reserved date listed on your ticket and for day use only. Your reservation is valid for 7 consecutive days from the date of your reservation.
Visitors must arrive during day use hours on the first date of your 7-day reservation. The hours of admittance are 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. All day use visitors are required to leave the park by 11 p.m. each day visiting.
Be ready to present a printed or digital copy of your reservation at the park entrance station. The reservation holder needs to be in the vehicle at time of entry; photo ID will be required.
Pass holders must provide annual or lifetime pass (if applicable) for validation. If you plan on purchasing your annual or lifetime pass upon arrival, you must come prepared with a credit card.
Cancellations must be at least 72 hours in advance for a refund minus a $2 processing fee. No refunds for no shows or cancellations less than 72 hours in advance.
• Tickets cannot be sold, auctioned or transferred.
• For additional park information, call (209) 372-0200 or visit www.nps.gov/yose
2. How Much Time do I need to visit Yosemite
The number of places you will see in Yosemite depends on how much time you have to spend there.
There are hikes that can take all day. I suggest planning on a trip lasting between 3 and 7 days to have a full experience in Yosemite.
3. Yosemite Entrances
I didn’t know Yosemite has five entrances! After I figured that out, I was able to find lodging about 20 minutes from the south entrance.
Here the entrances:
- Along Highway 120 and Evergreen Road, the Hetch Hetchy Entrance
- On Highway 140 (toward Merced) the Arch Rock Entrance
- Along Highway 41 (toward Fresno) the South Entrance
- And Highway 120 Big Oat Flat Entrances (toward Manteca) the Big Oak Flat Entrance
- Highway 395 Corridor (east Tioga Pass) called the Tioga Pass Entrance
4. Plan Your Yosemite Trip
To plan your trip to Yosemite you need to remember that Yosemite has five entrees. If you don’t stay inside the park, look for accommodations close to the entrance you want to use.
Choose what you want to see and plan your time accordingly. Three days is good if you would like to do all the easy hikes less than few hours. However if you want to explore the longer hikes you should plan on staying closer to a week.
If you would like to stay inside the park, you need to plan months ahead and look for the available in-park lodging at www.recreation.gov
Be aware this is bear habitat! Day users should bring their food with them, but if they have to leave food in their car make sure the doors are securely closed and all food is out of sight when hiking or away from vehicle. For sure don’t leave food in a pickup bed or strapped to the outside of a vehicle.
• Dispose of garbage immediately in bear-proof dumpsters. Garbage receptacles are located in every parking lot in Yosemite Valley.
• Pets must be kept on a leash at all times, may not be left unattended and are not permitted on unpaved trails or roads.
5.What are Yosemite Park restrictions due to COVID?
Due to the ongoing impact of COVID-19, visitor services and access may be affected. For the safety of other visitors and employees, you must comply with social distancing protocols. Check local resources for service hours and trail/facility access. For details, visit www.nps.gov/yose.
- Practice social distancing by maintaining 6 feet of distance between you and others.
- Wear a face covering when social distancing cannot be maintained.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
- Most importantly, stay home if you feel sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
6. Where to Stay
Stay inside Yosemite National Park
The Ahwahnne Hotel
This is a luxury hotel inside Yosemite with an amazing view of El Capitan and close to all amenities. Super comfortable for those who want the luxury experience.
Yosemite Valley Lodge
This rustic glass-and-wood-fronted lodge offering views of Yosemite Falls is a mile from the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center and 4 miles from the El Capitan rock formation. Book this place in advance. Like, a year in advance
Curry Village
Budget property with simple, heated lodge rooms & cabins, plus a free shuttle & a seasonal pool.
White Wold Lodge
No-frills wood and canvas-covered cabins in Yosemite National Park, plus a casual restaurant.
Housekeeping Camp
Located in the Yosemite Valley, Housekeeping Camp is one of the more inexpensive lodging options for visitors to Yosemite National Park. The camp is open from April through October and is one of the most popular places to stay in the valley. Reservations typically fill up on the first day they become available.
Toulumme Meadow Lodge
Seasonal, bare-bones lodge offering canvas cabins, shared bathrooms & a free local shuttle. The Tuolumne Meadows Lodge is located 60 miles from Yosemite Valley at over 8,700 feet above sea level. Here, you’ll find 69 canvas-tent cabins that are available from mid-June to mid-September, conditions permitting. Situated next to the Tuolumne River and near Tuolumne Meadows, it’s the perfect place to settle in after hiking in Yosemite—or before embarking on an extended backpacking trip
Upper Pines Campground
Big campground in Yosemite National Park offering picnic tables, fire rings & food-storage lockers.
North Pines Campaground
National park valley campground open April to October with flush toilets, fire rings & food lockers.
Camp 4
This is temporarily closed. This camp is located on Tioga Pass Rd in Yosemite National Park. It is a campsite with 36 shared walk-in sites for tents only (sleeping in vehicles is not allowed). A parking permit is required from spring through fall. You will receive a free parking permit upon registering. Campsites are available only by daily lottery for late May through early September, one day in advance, via recreation.gov. For more information click here.
Tamarack Flat Campground:
Tamarack Flat Campground is located in Yosemite National Park about 20 miles from the Valley at an elevation of 6,300 feet. There are 52 campsites and all are issued under a first-come first-served basis. There is a 3 mile unpaved road leading from the main road downhill to the campground.
Find more accommodations Lodging here and campgrounds here.
Accommodation Outside Yosemite National Park
Here is an overview of the lodging and accommodations outside Yosemite by entrances and distances.
Highway 140 Corridor
| Name | Water | # Sites | RV Limit | Season | Reservations Accepted? |
| Indian Flat RV Park | showers | 50 | 47 ft. | all year | (209) 379-2339 |
| Dry Gulch (USFS) | no | 4 | not allowed | all year | (877) 444-6777 |
| Dirt Flat (USFS) | no | 5 | not allowed | all year | (877) 444-6777 |
| McCabe Flat (BLM) | no | 11 walk-in 3 vehicle/RV | not allowed 18 ft. | all year | 1st come, 1st serve only |
| Willow Placer (BLM) | no | 9 walk-in 1 Group site | not allowed | all year | 1st come, 1st serve only |
| Railroad Flat (BLM) | no | 3 walk-in | not allowed | all year | 1st come, 1st serve only |
| KOA | showers | 89 | 50 ft. | Mar.-Nov. | (209) 966-2201 / (800) 562-9391 |
| Mariposa County Fairgrounds | showers | 200+ | no limit | all year | 1st come, 1st serve only. Group reservations: (209) 966-2432 |
For additional information:
| Sierra National Forest, Mariposa | (209) 966-7081 |
| Mariposa County Visitor Center | (866) 425-3366 |
| Bureau of Land Management, Briceburg | (209) 379-9414 |
Highway 120 West (from Yosemite) Corridor
| Name | Water | # Sites | RV Limit | Season | Reservations Accepted? |
| Dimond 0 (USFS) | tap | 35 | 48 ft. | May-Sept. | (877) 444-6777 |
| Yosemite Lakes | showers | 30 45 | tents limit only | all year for RVs | (800) 533-1001 / (209) 962-0121 |
| Sweetwater (USFS) | tap | 12 | 22 ft. | May-Sept. | 1st come, 1st serve only |
| Lost Claim (USFS) | hand pump | 10 | 15 ft. | May-Sept. | 877) 444-6777 |
| The Pines (USFS) | tap | 11 | 22 ft. | All year | 1st come, 1st serve only |
| Yosemite Pines | showers | 181 | 45 ft. | all year | (877) 962-7690 / (209) 962-7690 |
| Moccasin Pt. | showers | 78 and 18 w/ hookups | tents only 120 ft. only | all year | (209) 852-2396 |
| Lake Tulloch | showers | 130 | no limit | all year | (800) 894-2267 |
For additional information:
| Stanislaus National Forest, Groveland | (209) 962-7825 |
| Tuolumne County Visitor Bureau, Sonora | (800) 446-1333 |
| Coulterville Visitor Center | (866) 425-3366 |
Highway 41 Corridor
| Name | Water | # Sites | RV Limit | Season | Reservations Accepted? |
| Summerdale (USFS) | tap | 29 | 24 ft. | June-Nov. | (877) 444-6777 |
| Big Sandy (USFS) | no | 18 | 20 ft. | May-Sept. | 1st come, 1st serve only |
| Nelder Grove (USFS) | no | 7 | 20 ft. | May-Oct. | 1st come, 1st serve only |
| High-Sierra RV | tap | 40 | 45 ft | all year | (559) 683-7662 |
| Bass Lake Area (USFS) | tap | 240 | 40 ft. | all year | (877) 444-6777 |
For additional information
| Yo s e m i t e Sierra Visitors Bureau, Oakhurst | (559) 683-4636 |
| Sierra National Forest, North Fork | (559) 877-2218 |
| Sierra National Forest, Oakhurst | (559) 658-7588 |
| Bass Lake Campgrounds | (559) 642-3212 |
Highway 120 East (from Yosemite) Corridor
| Tioga Pass Area | |||||
| Name | Water | # Sites | RV Limit | Season | Reservations Accepted? |
| Tioga Lake (USFS) | tap | 13 | 30 ft. | June-Oct. | 1 come, 1″ serve only |
| Junction (USFS) | no | 13 | 30 ft. | June-Oct. | 1″ come, 1″ serve only |
| Ellery Lake (USFS) | tap | 21 | 30 ft. | June-Oct. | 1st come, 1st serve only |
| Sawmill (USFS) | no | 12 walk-in | not allowed | June-Oct. | 1st come, 1″ serve only |
| Saddlebag Lake (USFS) | tap | 20 1 Group site | 30 ft. not allowed | June-Oct. June-Oct. | 1st come, 1st serve only (877) 444-6777 |
| Lee Vining Canyon | |||||
| Aspen Grove (USFS) | tap | 56 | 40 ft. | May-Oct. | 1″ come, 1″ serve only |
| Big Bend (USFS) | tap | 17 | 30 ft. | May-Oct. | 1″ come, 18t serve only |
| Boulder (USFS) | no | 100 | 30 ft. | may-Oct. | lst come, 1st serve only |
| Cattle Guard (USFS) | no | 16 | 40 ft. | May-Oct. | 1st come, lst serve only |
| Lower Lee Vining (USFS) | no | 54 | 40 ft. _ | May-Oct. | 1st come, 1′ serve only |
| Moraine (USFS) | no | 27 | 40 ft. | May-Oct. | 1st come, 1″ serve only |
| Mono Vista | showers | 60 | no limit | Apr.-Oct. | (760) 647-6401 |
Highway 395 Corridor
| Name | Water | # Sites | RV Limit | Season | Reservations Accepted? |
| June Lake (USFS) | tap | 28 | 20 ft. | May-Oct. | (877) 444-6777 |
| June Lake RV Park | showers | Only RV’s | 50 ft | May-Oct. | (760) 648-7967 |
| Oh! Ridge (USFS) | tap | 144 | 40 ft. | May-Oct. | (877) 444-6777 |
| Reversed Creek (USFS) | tap | 17 | 30 ft. | May-Oct. | 1st come, 1st serve only |
| Silver Lake (USFS) | tap | 63 | 40 ft. | May-Oct. | (877) 444-6777 |
| Silver Lake Resort | showers | 75 | 45 ft | May-Oct. | (760) 648-7525 |
| Crestview Area | ||||
| Big Springs (USFS) | no | 26 | 40 ft. | 1st come, serve only lstMay-Oct. |
| Deadman (USFS) | no | 30 | 45 ft. | June-Oct. 1st come, 1stserve only |
| Glass Creek (USFS) | no | 50 | 45 ft. | May-Oct. 1st come, 1stserve only |
| Hartley Springs (USFS) | no | 20 | 45 ft. | June-Sept. 1st come, 1stserve only |
| Obsidian Flat Group (USFS) | no | 1 Group site | 40 ft. | June-Sept. (877) 444-6777 |
| Reds Meadow Area | |||||
| Agnew Meadows (USFS) | tap | 21/3 Horse sites/4 Group sites | 60 ft./no limit | June-Sept. | 1st come, 1st serve only/ (877) 444-6777 |
| Minaret Falls (USFS) | tap | 27 | 60 ft. | June-Sept. | 1st come, 1st serve only |
| Reds Meadow (USFS) | tap | 52 | 55 ft. | June-Oct. | 1st come, 1st serve only |
| Pumice Flat (USFS) | tap | 17/ 4 Group sites | 60 ft. 58ft | June-Sept. | 1st come, 1st serve only/ (877) 444-6777 |
| Upper Soda Springs (USFS) | tap | 28 | 60 ft. | June-Sept. | lst come, 1st serve only |
Along Highway 140 (toward Merced)
| El Portal (12-22 mi from Yosemite Valley; 25-40 min) | |
| Cedar Lodge | (209) 379-2612 1(866) 875-8456 |
| Yosemite View Lodge | (209) 379-2681 1(888) 742-4371 |
| Yosemite Blue Butterfly Inn | (209) 379-2100 |
| Midpines (36 mi from Yosemite Valley; 1 hr) | |
| Autocamp | (888) 405-7553 |
| Bear Creek Cabins | (209) 966-5253 1(888) 303-6993 |
| SierraScape Vacation Rentals | (209) 966-4945 |
| Yosemite Bug Hostel & Lodge | (209) 966-6666 1 (866) 826-7108 |
| Yosemite Country Cottage | (209) 742-7562 |
| Mariposa (43 mi from Yosemite Valley; 1 1/4 hr) | |
| Best Western Yosemite Way Station Motel | (209) 966-7545 |
| Comfort Inn | (209) 966-4344 1 (300) 691-5838 |
| D&E Digs | (209) 712-5344 |
| Fifth Street Inn | (209) 966-6048 |
| Francisco’s Juniper Crest | (209) 966-7352 |
| Inoian Peak Ranch Mountain Top Hideway | (209) 966-5259 |
| Little Valley Inn | (209) 742-6204 1(800) 889-5444 |
| Mariposa Lodge | (800) 966-8819 |
| Miner’s Inn Motel | (888) 646-2244 |
| Monarch Inn | (209) 966-4288) |
| Mother Lode Lodge | (209) 966-2521 1(800) 398-9770 |
| One Light B&B | (209) 742-4597 |
| Poppy Hill B&B | (209) 742-6273 |
| Restful Nest B&B Resort | (209) 742-7127 1(800) 664-7127 |
| River Rock Inn | (209) 966-5793 1(800) 627-8439 |
| Yo s e m i t e Bed and Breakfast | (209) 742-4018 1(888) 528-9950 |
| Yo s e m i t e Nights B&B | (209) 966-3580 |
| Yo s e m i t e Inn | (209) 742-6800 1(866) 470-7130 |
| Yo s e m i t e-Mariposa B&B Association | (209) 742-7666 |
| Catheys Valley (53 mi from Yosemite Valley 1 1/2 hr) | |
| Rancho Bernardo B&B | (209) 966-4511 1(377) 930-1669 |
Along Highway 41 (toward Fresno)
| Yo s e m i t e West (16 mi from Yosemite Valley; 35 min) | |
| Suite Sunshine | (209) 372-8623 1(888) 372-8989 |
| Yo s e m i t e Four Seasons | (209) 372-9000 1(800) 669-9300 |
| Yo s e m i t e ‘ s Scenic Wonders | (888) 967-3648 |
| Yo s e m i t e ‘ s Top of the Pines | (925) 634-1179 |
| Yo s e m i t e West High Sierra B&B | (209) 372-4808 |
| Yo s e m i t e West Reservations | (559) 642-2211 |
| Wawona (27 mi from Yosemite Valley; 1 hr) | |
| Martin’s Lovely Vacation Homes | (209) 375-6554 |
| The Redwoods in Yosemite | (209) 375-6666 1(866) 628-0772 |
| Fish Camp (41 mi from Yosemite Valley; 1/4 hr) | |
| Apple Tree Inn | (559) 683-5111 1(888) 683-5111 |
| Big Creek Inn | (559) 641-2828 |
| Little Ahwahnee Inn | (559) 683-5052 |
| Narrow Gauge Inn | (559) 683-7720 |
| Owl’s Nest Lodging | (559)683-3484 |
| Sugar Pine at Yosemite | (559)642-69751(877)624-7673 |
| Te n a y a Lodge | 683-6555 |
| Tin Lizzie Inn | (559)641-7731 |
| White Chief Mountain Lodge | (559)683-5444 |
| Oakhurst (50 mi from Yosemite Valley; 11/ hr) | |
| A Bed of Roses B&B | (559) 692-2100 1(888) 264-0733 |
| Evergreen Haus | (559) 641-2220 |
| A Haven of Rest B&B | (559) 642-2617 |
| Americas Best Value Inn | (559) 658-5500 1(800) 658-2888 |
| Chateau Du Sureau | (559) 683-6860 |
| Comfort Inn | (559) 683-8282 1(877) 424-6423 |
| Days Inn | (559) 642-2525 |
| Hounds Tooth Inn | (888) 642-6610 1(559) 642-6600 |
| Mountain Trail Lodge | (559) 479-5698 |
| Oak Cottage B&B | (559) 683-8988 1(866) 683-8988 |
| Oakhurst Lodge | (559) 683-4417 1(800) 655-6343 |
| Pine Rose Inn B&B | (559) 642-2800 |
| Queen’s Inn | (559) 683-4354 |
| Sierra Sky Ranch Resort | (559) 683-8040 |
| Sierra View B&B | (559) 683-7650 |
| Vulture’s View B&B | (559) 683-8470 |
| Yosemite Gateway Inn (Best Western) | (888) 256-8042 |
| Yosemite Skyway | (888) 759-9293 |
| Yosemite Southgate Hotel | (559) 683-3555 1(888) 265-7733 |
| Ahwahnee (58 mi from Yosemite Valley; 1 hr) | |
| Apple Blossom Inn B&B | (559)642-20011(888) 687-4281 |
| Homestead Cottages | (559)683-04951(800) 483-0495 |
| Natures Inn B&B | (559)641-24441(866) 789-0123 |
| Sierra Mountain Lodge B&B | (559) 683-7673 |
| Bass Lake (57 mi from Yosemite Valley; 1 1/2 hr) | |
| The Gaines Burrow | (559) 642-3067 |
| Forks Resort | (559) 642-3737 |
| Pines Resort | (559) 642-3121 |
| Coarsegold (57 mi from Yosemite Valley;1 hr) | |
| Black Hawk Lodge | (559) 868-3596 |
| Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino | (866) 794-6946 |
| )Ravensbrook B&B | (559) 683-4792 |
Along Highway 120 West (toward Manteca)
| Foresta (12 mi from Yosemite Valley; 20 min) | |
| Alpenglow Chalet | (209) 723-1931 |
| Creekside Retreat | (209) 391-1623 |
| Hilltop Cabins | (209) 379-2735 |
| Rockypoint Cabin | (866) 762-5950 |
| Suite Sunshine | (888) 372-8989 |
| Between Park Entrance & Groveland (25-48 mi from Yo s e m i t e Valley; 45 min to 11/2hr) | |
| Big Creek Meadow Ranch | (209) 962-1942 |
| Blackberry Inn | (209) 962-4663 1(888) 867-5001 |
| Buck Meadows Lodge | (209) 962-5821 |
| Evergreen Lodge | (209) 379-2606 1(800) 935-634:: |
| Lillaskog Lodge B&B | (209) 962-1818 1(408) 264-5713 |
| Red Tail Ranc | (209) 962-0863 |
| Sugar Pine Ranch. | (209) 962-7823 |
| Yo s e m i t e Ridge Resort | (209) 962-6877 1(800) 706-3009 |
| Yo s e m i t e Riverside Inn | (209) 962-7408 1(800) 626-7408 |
| Yo s e m i t e Rose B&B | (866) 962-6548 |
| Yo s e m i t e Westgate Lodge | (209) 962-5281 1(800) 253-9673 |
| Groveland (54 mi from Yosemite Valley; 11/4 hr) | |
| All Seasons Groveland Inn | (209) 962-0232 |
| Berkshire Inn B&B | (209) 962-6744 |
| Cub Inn B&B | (209) 962-0403 |
| Groveland Hotel | (209) 962-4000 1(800) 273-3314 |
| Groveland Motel | (209) 962-7865 1(888) 849-3529 |
| Hotel Charlotte | (209) 962-6455 1(800) 961-7799 |
| Old Priest Station Inn | (800) 300-4181 (209) 962-4181 1 |
| Oso Hostel | (209) 962-0365 |
| Sunset Inn Yosemite Guest Cabins | (209) 962-4360 |
| Yo s e m i t e Way Inn | (209) 962-0904 |
| Coulterville (65 mi from Yosemite Valley; 1 Y hr) | |
| Hotel Jeffrey | (209) 878-3471 |
| Penon Blanco Lookout B&B | (209) 878-3675 1(888) 257-4397 |
| Rose Cottage B&B | (209) 878-3478 |
| Yo s e m i t e Gold Country Motel | (209) 878-3400 1(800) 247-9884 |
| Yo s e m i t e Springs B&B | (209) 878-3835 1(877) 808-9111 |
Highway 395 Corridor (east of Tioga Pass)
| Lee Vining (76 mi from Yosemite Valley; 2 hr) | |
| EI Mono Motel | (760) 647-6310 |
| Hess House B&B | (760) 647-6416 |
| Lake View Lodge | (760) 647-6543 |
| Lee Vining Motel | (760) 647-6440 |
| Lundy Lake Resort | (626) 309-0415 |
| Murphey’s Motel | (760) 647-6316 1(800) 334-6316 |
| Tioga Lodge | (760) 647-6423 |
| Tioga Pass | ResorttiogapassresortlIc@gmail.com |
| Virginia Creek Settlement | (760) 932-7780 |
| Yo s e m i t e Gateway Motel | (800)2813929 (760)6476467 |
| June Lake (86 mi from Yosemite Valley; 2 Y hr) | |
| Big Rock Resort | (760) 648-7717 |
| Boulder Lodge | (760) 648-7533 1(800) 695-8284 |
| Double Eagle Resort | (760) 648-7004 1(877) 648-7004 |
| Fern Creek Lodge | (760) 648-7722 1(800) 621-9146 |
| The Four Seasons | (760) 648-7476 |
| Gull Lake Lodge | (760) 648-7516 1(800) 631-9081 |
| The Haven | (760) 648-7524 1(800) 648-7524 |
| Heidelberg Inn | (888) 743-2687 |
| June Lake Lodge | (760) 648-7967 |
| June Lake Motel & Cabins | (760) 648-7547 1(800) 481-3637 |
| June Lake Pines Cottages | (760) 648-7522 1(800) 481-3637 |
| June Lake Villager Motel | (760) 648-7712 1(800) 655-6545 |
| Lake Front Cabins | (760) 648-7527 |
| Reverse Creek Lodge | (760) 648-7535 1(800) 762-6440) |
| Silver Lake Resort | (760) 648-7525 |
| Whispering Pines | (760) 648-7762 1(800) 648-7762) |
| Mammoth Lakes (90 mi from Yosemite Valley; 2Y hr) | |
| Alpenhof Lodge | (760) 934-8558 1(800) 828-0371 |
| Austria Hof Lodge | (760) 934-2764 1(866) 662-6668 |
| Best Western Plus High Sierra | (760) 924-1234 |
| Cinnamon Bear Inn | (800) 845-2873 |
| Crystal Crag Lodge | (760) 934-2436 |
| Davison Street Guest House | (858) 509-3005 I (858) 755-8648 |
| Econo Lodge Wildwood Inn | (760) 934-6855 1(877) 424-6423 |
| Edelweiss Lodge | (760) 934-2445 1(877) 233-3593 |
| Holiday Haus | (760) 934-2414 1(800) 934-5003 |
| Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites | (760) 924-1234 |
| Innsbruck Lodge | (760) 934-3035 |
| Juniper Springs Resort | (866) 686-8423 |
| The M Inn at Mammoth | (760) 934-2710 |
| Mammoth Creek Inn | (760) 934-8634 1(866) 437-4500 |
| Mammoth Mountain Chalets | (760) 934-8518 1(800) 327-3681 |
| Mammoth Mountain Lodging | (800) 626-6684 |
| Mammoth Ski & Racquet Club | (760) 934-7368 1(888) 762-6668 |
| Motel 6 | (760) 934-6660 1(800) 466-8356 |
| Pine Cliff Resort | (760) 934-2447 |
| Quality Inn | (760) 934-5114 |
| Royal Pines Resort | (760) 934-2306 |
| Shilo Inn | (760) 934-4500 1(800) 222-2244 |
| Sierra Lodge | (760) 934-8881 1(800) 356-5711 |
| Sierra Nevada Resort | (760) 934-2515 |
| Sierra Nevada Rodeway Inn | (760) 934-2515 1(877) 424-6423 |
| Swiss Chalet Inn | (760) 914-3452 |
| Travelodge | (760) 934-8892 |
| The Westin Monache Resort | (760) 924-1574 1(866) 716-8132 |
| White Horse Inn | (760) 924-3656 |
Additional Lodging Information Outside Yosemite
For more information about additional or specific lodging accommodations, please contact the following community information centers.
| Along Highway 140 | |
| Mariposa County Visitor Center | (866) 425-3366 |
| California Welcome Center in Merced | (800) 446-5353 |
| Along Highway 41 | |
| Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau | (559) 683-4636 |
| Oakhurst Chamber of Commerce | (559) 683-7766 |
| Bass Lake Chamber of Commerce | (559) 642-3676 |
| North Fork Chamber of Commerce | (559) 877-2410 |
| Along Highway 120 West | |
| Yosemite Chamber of Commerce | (800) 449-9120 |
| Coulterville Visitor Center(866) 425-3366 | |
| Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau | (800) 446-1333 |
| Along Highway 120 East | |
| Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce | (760) 647-6629 |
| Lake Chamber of Commerce | (760) 648-7584 |
| Mammoth Lakes Visitor Bureau | (888) 466-2666 |
7.What to pack for a trip to Yosemite?
- Clothing Layers
- Good socks
- Good hiking shoes for adults and kids
- Water bottle
- A sun Hat
- Sunscreen
- Mosquito repellent
- A first Aid kid
- Binoculars
- Handsanitaizer
- Facemask
- Underwater Camera
- Waterproof phone case
- Hiking poles
- Portable charger
If you want more detailed ideas of what to pack check here!
I hope this help and you have a blast as we did!
Rocio
Recent Comments