Here are the best things to do in Yosemite National Park with kids. Living few hours from Yosemite and visiting pre kids doing it with kids was a must do. We are glad we came back with the kids and was fantastic. Now we have visited in spring and in the fall several times and done so many amazing of the family fiendly hikes and enjoy a wonderful time here. We even brought our dog once!

This guide is for anyone who is planning to visit. I am sharing my family itinerary and best things to do.So, You stop here in the right place if you are planning to visit Yosemite with your kids. I feel I just have to share our family 3 day itinerary and the favorite things we saw in Yosemite.

There is so much to see in this California gem and so little time. Without a doubt, it’s truly a stunning place and just picture-postcard-perfect at every turn! There is a reason why this is one of the best National Parks in the USA – probably the world, and a great place to visit with family all year round.

Contents hide
Yosemite Entree
One of Yosemite’s entrees.

Basics Things about Visiting Yosemite with Kids

Usually you can drive your car in Yosemite, but they encourage you to use the free shuttle buses in some areas.

You don’t need a register day-visit permits during the peak summer months anymore. ind more information at  www.recreation.gov. Day Use Reservations are no longer required to enter Yosemite since October 1, 2022. All Yosemite entry fees and pass sales are collected at the park upon entry.

How to get to Yosemite:

Getting to Yosemite National Park depends on your starting location. Yosemite is located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, and there are several entrances to the park. Here are general directions from different starting points:

From San Francisco:

Distance: Approximately 200 miles.

Time: About 4-5 hours by car.

Take I-580 East to I-205 East. Merge onto I-5 South. Take CA-120 East toward Manteca/Sonora. Continue on CA-120 East to the Big Oak Flat Entrance or Tioga Pass Entrance, depending on the season.

From Los Angeles:

Distance: Approximately 300 miles.

Time: About 6 hours by car.

Take I-5 North. Merge onto CA-99 North. Take CA-41 North toward Fresno. Continue on CA-41 North to the Wawona Entrance.

Top Things to see in Yosemite with Kids – A Yosemite Guide with kids:

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 few locations where you can admire it. 

Yosemite half Dome View
Yosemite with kids – View of Half Dome

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.

Yosemite Capitan View
The view of el Capitan from the highway stop

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.

Top Things to do in Yosemite with Kids

1. Visit Wawona Yosemite and Mariposa Grove

Our adventure in Yosemite started at this area and 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! I strongly recommend it if you are visiting Yosemite with kids.

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. There is a boardwalk path on the Mariposa Grove. Big Tree Loop and Grizzly Giant Loop are easy trails

Wawoma Trail Yosemite
Yosemite with kids- Mariposa Grove

The Pioneer Yosemite History Center in Wawona is nearby. If you are visiting Yosemite with kids is something you would like to check out. This place is a collection of historic buildings associated with people and events that shaped the national park concept in Yosemite. We opted to do the Wawona Meadow Loop a pet friendly trail.

This trail begins at Big Tree Lodge, and old lodge which was closed as well. The trail is an unpaved fire road which loops around the meadow and returns to Wawona Road.

Yosemite Meadow Loop
Yosemite with kids – Meadow Loop

We found a relaxing and scenic stroll that offers views across the basin and opportunities to see wildlife and wildflowers.

Yosemite Wild Flowers
  • Yosemite Wild flowers

After that, we choose an easy and fun hike in the Wawona area. The Swinging Bridge Loop is a moderate hike, Alder Creek trail, Chilnualna Falls trails, Mariposa Trail to Wawona point hike and Guardian Loop Trail that are strenuous hikes. A great and sweet hike is you visit Yosemite with kids.

Meadow Loop Trail
Meadow Loop Trail

2. Stop at Glacier Point and take a look at the View

Coming from the south entrance our second stop was Glacier Point This is an overlook with a commanding view of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and Yosemite’s high country. One of the best views of Yosemite!

Yosemite Glacier Point View
Glacier Point View

Glacier Point is located 30 miles (a one-hour drive) from Yosemite Valley or Wawoma and to get there from either of these places. You have to 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. 

Waterfall from Glacier Point in Yosemite
Waterfall Glacier Point

The boys and even our dog were all mesmerized by the power of this view. The trail is stroller and dog friendly.

Yosemite half Dome view -travel with kids and  Dog after COVID
Boys and dog admiring the view

There is a path that leads you to a Geological Hut with an explanation of how the valley was formed (hint:  think gigantic glaciers).

Sign Glacier Point and Geology Exhibit in Yosemite

Most people follow social distancing and wearing face-mask.

Some people hike down from here to the valley – Believe it or not. They follow the John Muir Trail or the Mist Trail.

It is a rigorous trail, and you’d better not be afraid of heights. 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. This is a great stop if you visit Yosemite with kids.

Yosemite Tunnel view - Travel with kids after COVID
Tunnel View

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!

Tunel View Yosemite family trip
We were able to see the rainbow forming around the waterfall
Beautiful View Yosemite in Tunnel View
Yosemite Tunnel View
Yosemite Tunnel View
Tunnel View

We could see a rainbow dancing across Bridalveil Fall. It was magical! Even Apollo (our dog) was excited 😉

Waterfall View from Tunnel View in Yosemite
Waterfall View by Tunnel View - Yosemite
Yosemite Tunnel View

It’s a great spot for a family picture or a postcard picture!

Bringing a dog can be challenged. Our dog tried 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.

Bridalveil Fall Yosemite

The main road that leads to the base of the waterfall was closed for construction. We found a shorter path that lead us to the part of the waterfall.

Some people were hiking up to the base. We were plenty happy with the view we had.

View of way to Bridalveil Fall in Yosemite
View of way to Bridalveil Fall in Yosemite

It is important to mention the best time to see the waterfall full it is spring. During the time you can experience the mist from the waterfall.

We went in June and plenty of water was running, giving us an amazing show. 

View of Bridalveil Fall
View of Bridalveil Fall

 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.

sign of Yosemite Falls
Yosemite Falls entrance
Visit Yosemite after COVID

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.

Yosemite Family visit after COVID

We began at the lower Yosemite Falls trailhead and we didn’t have any problems finding parking. It is a short and easy walk with a view of lower Yosemite Falls and Upper Yosemite Falls. 

Yosemite with family and dog
Yosemite visit with a dog

On the way there you can find the old viewpoint where the creek used to run strong, but in June is dry since a mudslide diverted the river.

It is a great place to stop for the view. The waterfall wasn’t dry during early summer . This place in springtime has lot of spray standing on the bridge.   

Family visit to Yosemite after lockdown

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.

Make sure to bring enough water and sunscreen. 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 Meadows Yosemite
Cook Meadows Yosemite with kids

Cook Meadow is open year round and provides an excellent view!

View from Cook Meadow in Yosemite

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.

Yosemite Cook Meadow with kids

7. Have a Picnic and swim at the beach

Cathedral Beach and Picnic Area

There are several swimming or floating spots in the summer, which are open year round.

During the summer you can either swim or stroll. Or have a picnic enjoying the view at Cathedral Beach with the stunning view of El Capitan.

Capitan View from Cathedral beach in Yosemite
Cathedral Beach Yosemite
Cathedral Beach

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.

Yosemite with kids

Sentinel Beach

This beach provides a sandy shore with amazing views of El Captain and 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!

Sentinel Beach in Yosemite
Sentinel Beach

This beach has a picnic area as well

View from Sentinel Beach

Swinging Bridge picnic area

This is a perfect spot for picnics and swimming in summer. Great for picnic in the fall.

Picnic at Swinging bridge in Yosemite
Picnic at swinging Bridge Beach

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.

Mirror lake sign Yosemite

We hike to Mirror Lake on our second day but we didn’t bring swimming suits. 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 and is full of rocks to jump from. Another option is to rent a bike and ride pretty much to the entrance.

Here, 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. This was so much fun.

Visit mirror lake in Yosemite with kids
Visit Mirror Lake in Yosemite - Family Itinerary
Mirro Lake

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

A family 3 days itinerary via to Yosemite

10. Biking in Yosemite Valley

You must bring or rent a bike or bring one! It is such a fun experience!

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.

We wanted to do this, but since we brought our dog it wasn’t possible to bike with him around the loop. 

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. During this visit we didn’t do this hike but we returned in October to do it.

Check here if you want to find out more about hiking this waterfall with kids.

What to visit in Yosemite with family
Vernal Falls

Nevada Falls Strenuous Hikes:

This hike is marked as strenuous. Hiking only a portion of the trail it is easy. In the fall I hiked the Nevada falls with my son. You can Check here

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. Up there you can see Vernal Falls from the footbridge at 0.8 miles. Once at Vernal Falls, you have two choices of trails to follow. Either 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. Remember to take plenty of water, sunscreen and pack food in Ziplock bags so the wild animals don’t get attracted to it!

There is water to fill your bottles at the bridge before start hiking up Vernal Fall. Hiking shoes for this trail are a must because it is very slippery . Don’t forget your hiking sticks! It is a tough climb starting on a paved path and 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. 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.

We couldn’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 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 with kids

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 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.

Any Cancellation must be at least 72 hours in advance for a refund minus a $2 processing and there is 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 with kids

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.

If You are looking for a 3 day Itinerary to visit Yosemite check here. It has also suggestions for more days.

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 with kids and family

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.

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.

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. Where to Stay in Yosemite with kids?

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.

3 days family itinerary
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.

3 days Family Itinerary with kids
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. 

Thi is 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
NameWater# SitesRV LimitSeasonReservations Accepted?
Indian Flat RV Parkshowers5047 ft.all year(209) 379-2339
Dry Gulch (USFS)no4not allowedall year(877) 444-6777
Dirt Flat (USFS)no5not allowedall year(877) 444-6777
McCabe Flat (BLM)no 11 walk-in 3 vehicle/RV not allowed 18 ft.all year1st come, 1st serve only
Willow Placer (BLM)no9 walk-in 1 Group sitenot allowedall year1st come, 1st serve only
Railroad Flat (BLM)no3 walk-innot allowedall year1st come, 1st serve only
KOAshowers8950 ft.Mar.-Nov.(209) 966-2201 / (800) 562-9391
Mariposa County Fairgroundsshowers200+no limitall year1st 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
NameWater# SitesRV LimitSeasonReservations Accepted?
Dimond 0 (USFS)tap3548 ft.May-Sept.(877) 444-6777
Yosemite Lakesshowers30 45tents limit only   all year for RVs(800) 533-1001 / (209) 962-0121
Sweetwater (USFS)tap1222 ft.May-Sept.1st come, 1st serve only
Lost Claim (USFS)hand pump1015 ft.May-Sept.877) 444-6777
The Pines (USFS)tap1122 ft.All year1st come, 1st serve only
Yosemite Pinesshowers18145 ft.all year(877) 962-7690 / (209) 962-7690
Moccasin Pt.showers78 and 18 w/ hookups tents only 120 ft. onlyall year(209) 852-2396
Lake Tullochshowers130no limitall 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
NameWater# SitesRV LimitSeasonReservations Accepted?
Summerdale (USFS)tap2924 ft.June-Nov.(877) 444-6777
Big Sandy (USFS)no1820 ft.May-Sept.1st come, 1st serve only
Nelder Grove (USFS)no720 ft.May-Oct.1st come, 1st serve only
High-Sierra RVtap4045 ftall year(559) 683-7662
Bass Lake Area (USFS)tap24040 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
NameWater# SitesRV LimitSeasonReservations Accepted?
Tioga Lake (USFS)tap1330 ft.June-Oct.1 come, 1″ serve only
Junction (USFS)no1330 ft.June-Oct.1″ come, 1″ serve only
Ellery Lake (USFS)tap2130 ft.June-Oct.1st come, 1st serve only
Sawmill (USFS)no12 walk-innot allowedJune-Oct.1st come, 1″ serve only
Saddlebag Lake (USFS)tap20     1 Group site30 ft. not allowedJune-Oct. June-Oct.1st come, 1st serve only (877) 444-6777
Lee Vining Canyon
Aspen Grove (USFS)tap5640 ft.May-Oct.1″ come, 1″ serve only
Big Bend (USFS)tap1730 ft.May-Oct.1″ come, 18t serve only
Boulder (USFS)no10030 ft.may-Oct.lst come, 1st serve only
Cattle Guard (USFS)no1640 ft.May-Oct.1st come, lst serve only
Lower Lee Vining (USFS)no5440 ft. _May-Oct.1st come, 1′ serve only
Moraine (USFS)no2740 ft.May-Oct.1st come, 1″ serve only
Mono Vistashowers60no limitApr.-Oct.(760) 647-6401
Highway 395 Corridor
NameWater# SitesRV LimitSeasonReservations Accepted?
June Lake (USFS)tap2820 ft.May-Oct.(877) 444-6777
June Lake RV ParkshowersOnly RV’s50 ftMay-Oct.(760) 648-7967
Oh! Ridge (USFS)tap14440 ft.May-Oct.(877) 444-6777
Reversed Creek (USFS)tap1730 ft.May-Oct.1st come, 1st serve only
Silver Lake (USFS)tap6340 ft.May-Oct.(877) 444-6777
Silver Lake Resortshowers7545 ftMay-Oct.(760) 648-7525
Crestview Area
Big Springs (USFS)no2640 ft.1st come, serve only lstMay-Oct.
Deadman (USFS)no3045 ft.June-Oct. 1st come, 1stserve only
Glass Creek (USFS)no5045 ft.May-Oct. 1st come, 1stserve only
Hartley Springs (USFS)no2045 ft.June-Sept. 1st come, 1stserve only
Obsidian Flat Group (USFS)no1 Group site40 ft.June-Sept. (877) 444-6777
Reds Meadow Area
Agnew Meadows (USFS)tap21/3 Horse sites/4 Group sites60 ft./no limitJune-Sept.1st come, 1st serve only/ (877) 444-6777
Minaret Falls (USFS)tap2760 ft.June-Sept.1st come, 1st serve only
Reds Meadow (USFS)tap5255 ft.June-Oct.1st come, 1st serve only
Pumice Flat (USFS)tap17/ 4 Group sites60 ft. 58ftJune-Sept.1st come, 1st serve only/ (877) 444-6777
Upper Soda Springs (USFS)tap2860 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 Lodge683-6555
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 with kids?

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

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