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.

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.

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.
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.

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.

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

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.

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!

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.

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).

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.

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!



We could see a 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!
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.

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.

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.

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 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.


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.

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 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. 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.


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 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!

This beach has a picnic area as well

Swinging Bridge picnic area
This is a perfect spot for picnics and swimming in summer. Great for picnic in 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.


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.


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
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.

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.

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.
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
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 with kids?
- 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