Where is the best place to stay when visiting Yosemite National Park?
If you’re planning a trip to Yosemite National Park, one of the first questions you’ll have is: “Where should I stay near Yosemite?” Whether you want to stay inside Yosemite National Park for convenience or just outside the entrance for better value, there are incredible options.
Yosemite is famous for its towering granite cliffs, iconic waterfalls, and scenic valleys — and having the right hotel can make your experience even more magical. There are several Yosemite hotels inside the park, including historic lodges and rustic cabins, plus plenty of charming inns and resorts in gateway towns like El Portal, Mariposa, Oakhurst, and Groveland.
Whether you’re looking for the best hotels in Yosemite National Park for a once-in-a-lifetime luxury getaway, a family-friendly lodge with space for everyone, or even dog-friendly hotels Yosemite so your furry friend can come along, this guide will help you find the perfect place.
Best Hotel in Yosemite National Park
Don’t have time to read the entire article? The best hotel inside Yosemite National Park is the legendary Ahwahnee Hotel (The Majestic Yosemite Hotel) – a National Historic Landmark that combines rustic elegance with jaw-dropping views of Half Dome and Glacier Point.
Yosemite is one of the most popular national parks in California, so reservations for hotels at Yosemite National Park CA fill up quickly – especially in spring and summer. Book as far in advance as possible to secure your top pick.
Table of Contents
My Top 3 Picks: Best Yosemite Hotels
🥇 The Ahwahnee
Best for classic luxury inside the park
Why it’s one of the best: This historic hotel offers stone fireplaces, grand dining, and a central location right in Yosemite Valley – perfect if you want to stay at the most iconic property in the park.
🥈 Rush Creek Lodge & Spa at Yosemite
Best for families & groups
Why it’s one of the best: Located just outside the Big Oak Flat entrance, this lodge has a heated saltwater pool, hot tubs, game room, and a rustic-chic atmosphere that appeals to all ages.
🥉 Tenaya at Yosemite
Best for resort-style amenities
Why it’s one of the best: This full-service resort near the South Entrance has multiple restaurants, a spa, pool, and year-round activities – one of the best Yosemite CA hotels for travelers who want everything in one place.
Comparison of the Top Hotels at Yosemite National Park CA
| Hotel Name | Photo | Location | Why Book (Unique Features) | Rating | Book Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Ahwahnee (Majestic) | | Yosemite Valley | Historic luxury lodge inside the park, stunning views | 9.0 | BOOK NOW |
| Rush Creek Lodge & Spa |  | Big Oak Flat Entrance | Saltwater pool, hot tubs, family-friendly resort vibe | 9.3 | BOOK NOW |
| Tenaya at Yosemite |  | Fish Camp (South Entrance) | Full-service resort, spa, year-round activities | 9.1 | BOOK NOW |
| Yosemite Valley Lodge |  | Yosemite Valley | Best location for Yosemite Falls, rooms with views | 8.5 | BOOK NOW |
| Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite |  | Near Hetch Hetchy | Secluded cabins, great restaurant, nature trails | 9.2 | BOOK NOW |
| Wawona Hotel |  | Wawona (Inside Park) | Victorian-style lodge, historic charm | 8.8 | BOOK NOW |
| Autocamp Yosemite |  | Midpines | Luxury glamping in Airstreams with clubhouse & pool | 9.4 | BOOK NOW |
| Chateau du Sureau |  | Oakhurst | 5-star European-style luxury hotel | 9.7 | BOOK NOW |
| Narrow Gauge Inn |  | Fish Camp | Rustic lodge next to Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad | 8.3 | BOOK NOW |
| Cedar Lodge |  | El Portal | Budget-friendly hotel closest to Arch Rock entrance | 7.9 | BOOK NOW |
Top Picks for Best Yosemite National Park Hotels
| Best For… | Hotel Name |
| Best Luxury Inside the Park | The Ahwahnee (Majestic) |
| Best Family-Friendly Lodge | Rush Creek Lodge & Spa |
| Best Resort-Style Hotel | Tenaya at Yosemite |
| Best Budget Stay | Cedar Lodge |
| Best Unique Stay (Glamping) | Autocamp Yosemite |
Where to Stay for Yosemite National Park
If you’re asking “where to stay when visiting Yosemite National Park”, here’s a quick guide to the main areas:
Yosemite Valley (Inside the Park)
This is where you’ll find Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and El Capitan — the heart of the park.
Stay here if: You want to be as close as possible to the main sights. This is the best area to stay in Yosemite National Park for first-time visitors.
El Portal (Near Arch Rock Entrance)
A small town just outside the park with a few hotels and easy access.
Stay here if: You want to be close to Yosemite Valley but have more affordable options than inside the park.
Fish Camp / Wawona (Near South Entrance)
Close to Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias and home to Tenaya at Yosemite and Wawona Hotel.
Stay here if: You want resort-style amenities or a historic Victorian hotel experience.
Groveland & Big Oak Flat Entrance
Great for Rush Creek Lodge and Evergreen Lodge, plus a few local dining options.
Stay here if: You want a lodge experience, hot tubs, and proximity to Hetch Hetchy.
Midpines / Mariposa
Farther out, but great for unique stays like Autocamp Yosemite.
Stay here if: You like glamping or want more dining and shopping options.
10 Best Hotels in Yosemite National Park, California
1. The Ahwahnee (Majestic Yosemite Hotel)
📍 Address: 9005 Ahwahnee Dr, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
This historic lodge is the crown jewel of Yosemite National Park hotels. Known for its stunning architecture, stone fireplaces, and soaring ceilings, it offers unmatched views of Half Dome and Glacier Point. The on-site dining room is a bucket-list experience for many visitors.
❓ Why stay here? For a bucket‑list stay in Yosemite’s most iconic hotel.
➡️ Click here for the latest prices
✅ The Best Parts: Historic charm, unbeatable location inside Yosemite Valley, fine dining.
❎ The Worst Parts: Expensive and books up months in advance.
✳️ This is the perfect choice for: Visitors seeking the ultimate Yosemite experience and willing to splurge.
➡️ Click here for more information and the latest prices
2. Rush Creek Lodge & Spa
📍 Address: 34001 CA-120, Groveland, CA 95321
A modern lodge just outside the Big Oak Flat entrance. It offers lodge rooms and hillside villas, plus a saltwater pool, hot tubs, and family-friendly activities.
❓ Why stay here? For a lively, family‑friendly resort just outside the park.
➡️ Click here for the latest prices
✅ The Best Parts: Resort-style amenities, perfect for kids, on-site restaurant and tavern.
❎ The Worst Parts: 30-minute drive to Yosemite Valley.
✳️ This is the perfect choice for: Families and groups who want a fun, social atmosphere.
➡️ Click here for more information and the latest prices
3. Tenaya at Yosemite
📍 Address: 1122 CA-41, Fish Camp, CA 93623
This full-service resort has everything you need: multiple dining options, a spa, pools, and activities like ice skating in winter.
❓ Why stay here? For a complete resort getaway right by Yosemite’s South Entrance.
➡️ Click here for the latest prices
✅ The Best Parts: Tons of amenities, year-round activities, great for events.
❎ The Worst Parts: Not inside the park — about a 10-minute drive to the entrance.
✳️ This is the perfect choice for: Travelers who want a resort experience near Yosemite.
➡️ Click here for more information and the latest prices
4. Yosemite Valley Lodge
📍 Address: 9001 Lodge Dr, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
Located steps from Yosemite Falls, this lodge has rooms with incredible views and a casual restaurant.
❓ Why stay here? For unbeatable access to Yosemite Falls and Valley trails.
➡️ Click here for the latest prices
✅ The Best Parts: Closest hotel to Yosemite Falls, great for early starts.
❎ The Worst Parts: Rooms are basic compared to other lodges.
✳️ This is the perfect choice for: Visitors who want the most convenient location inside the park.
➡️ Click here for more information and the latest prices
5. Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite
📍 Address: 33160 Evergreen Rd, Groveland, CA 95321
A secluded lodge near Hetch Hetchy with cozy cabins, fire pits, and stargazing.
❓ Why stay here? For a rustic‑chic retreat with stargazing and campfire vibes
➡️ Click here for the latest prices
✅ The Best Parts: Peaceful setting, great restaurant, nightly s’mores.
❎ The Worst Parts: Longer drive to Yosemite Valley.
✳️ This is the perfect choice for: Couples or groups who want a true wilderness lodge experience.
➡️ Click here for more information and the latest prices
6. Wawona Hotel
📍 Address: 8308 Wawona Rd, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
This Victorian-style hotel is perfect if you love history and charm. Afternoon tea on the veranda is a highlight.
❓ Why stay here? For a step back in time at Yosemite’s most historic hotel.
➡️ Click here for the latest prices
⚠️ The hotel is currently closed for a comprehensive condition assessment. Check their website for updates.
✅ The Best Parts: Historic charm, beautiful setting near the Merced River.
❎ The Worst Parts: Shared bathrooms in some rooms.
✳️ This is the perfect choice for: History lovers who want a classic Yosemite stay.
➡️ Click here for more information and the latest prices
7. Autocamp Yosemite
📍 Address: 6323 CA-140, Midpines, CA 95345
This luxury glamping experience features Airstream suites, luxury tents, and a stunning clubhouse with pool.
❓ Why stay here? For a chic glamping experience under Yosemite’s night skies.
➡️ Click here for the latest prices
✅ The Best Parts: Unique, stylish stay, great for stargazing.
❎ The Worst Parts: 40 minutes from Yosemite Valley.
✳️ This is the perfect choice for: Travelers looking for a trendy, Instagram-worthy stay.
➡️ Click here for more information and the latest prices
8. Chateau du Sureau
📍 Address: 48688 Victoria Ln, Oakhurst, CA 93644
A five-star Relais & Châteaux property offering an elegant, European-style escape. Perfect for honeymoons or anniversaries.
❓ Why stay here? For an elegant, five‑star escape perfect for honeymoons
➡️ Click here for the latest prices
✅ The Best Parts: Ultimate luxury, fine dining, and personalized service.
❎ The Worst Parts: High price point.
✳️ This is the perfect choice for: Couples wanting a romantic splurge near Yosemite.
➡️ Click here for more information and the latest prices
9. Narrow Gauge Inn
📍 Address: 48571 CA-41, Fish Camp, CA 93623
A rustic lodge near the Sugar Pine Railroad with cozy rooms and an outdoor pool.
❓ Why stay here? For rustic charm and affordability near Yosemite’s South Gate
➡️ Click here for the latest prices
✅ The Best Parts: Great location near the South Entrance, historic charm.
❎ The Worst Parts: Fewer amenities compared to resorts.
✳️ This is the perfect choice for: Travelers wanting character and convenience at a lower price point.
➡️ Click here for more information and the latest prices
10. Cedar Lodge
📍 Address: 9966 CA-140, El Portal, CA 95318
This budget-friendly option is the closest hotel by Yosemite National Park outside the Arch Rock entrance.
❓ Why stay here? For affordable lodging minutes from Yosemite’s Arch Rock entrance.
➡️ Click here for the latest prices
✅ The Best Parts: Affordable, good location, indoor and outdoor pools.
❎ The Worst Parts: Basic rooms.
✳️ This is the perfect choice for: Budget-conscious travelers who want proximity to the park.
➡️ Click here for more information and the latest prices
Best Yosemite Hotels Map
Use this map to see where these hotels in Yosemite National Park California are located so you can pick the best area for your trip.
Enjoy your stay wherever you choose!
Do you have any other tip picks for the hotels in Yosemite National Park, California? I’d love to hear about it. Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know (you can also pick up extra planning tips, share your photos and stories with other national park lovers and more).
If you liked this guide to Yosemite National Park hotels, Pin It to your Accommodations or Yosemite board!
➡️ Read more accommodation guides here
Be sure to read my Guide to Yosemite National Park to help plan your trip.
About the Author
James Ian is a national park, camping and hiking expert.
He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and most of the national parks in the United States. With over 35 years experience in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as a travel planner who’s helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks.
Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James has published detailed itineraries for many of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well as in-depth park guides, and other resources will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.
As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including USA Today, Newsweek, Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.
I’m a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.