When planning a trip to Yosemite National Park, many travelers focus on finding the perfect accommodation within the park’s boundaries. However, staying outside of Yosemite can offer a more affordable and convenient option, with a range of options from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay outside of Yosemite, providing you with a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your trip.
Why Stay Outside of Yosemite?
Staying outside of Yosemite can offer several benefits, including lower prices, more accommodation options, and easier access to other attractions in the area. Additionally, many towns and cities outside of Yosemite offer a more relaxed atmosphere, with a range of amenities and activities to enjoy. By staying outside of Yosemite, you can experience the best of both worlds – the stunning natural beauty of the park, combined with the convenience and affordability of a nearby town or city.
Best Places to Stay Outside of Yosemite
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to stay outside of Yosemite, including:
- Merced: A charming college town with a range of accommodation options, including budget-friendly hotels and cozy bed and breakfasts.
- Fresno: A bustling city with a range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts.
- Mariposa: A quaint town with a rich history, offering a range of accommodation options, including bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals.
- Groveland: A charming town with a range of accommodation options, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals.
- Lee Vining: A small town with a range of accommodation options, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals.
In this article, we’ll delve deeper into each of these towns and cities, exploring the best places to stay, eat, and explore. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a luxurious retreat, we’ve got you covered.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Yosemite, don’t overlook the many amazing options for accommodation outside of the park. By staying in one of these charming towns or cities, you can experience the best of both worlds – the stunning natural beauty of Yosemite, combined with the convenience and affordability of a nearby town or city.
Best Places To Stay Outside Of Yosemite
Yosemite National Park is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year. However, the park can be crowded and noisy, and many visitors prefer to stay outside of the park to experience the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains. In this article, we will explore the best places to stay outside of Yosemite, including towns, cities, and rural areas that offer a range of accommodations and activities.
Towns and Cities
There are several towns and cities near Yosemite that offer a range of accommodations and activities. Here are a few options to consider:
* Mariposa: Located just outside the south entrance of Yosemite, Mariposa is a charming town with a rich history and a range of accommodations, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals.
* Groveland: This small town is located just outside the west entrance of Yosemite and offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals.
* Lee Vining: Located at the eastern entrance of Yosemite, Lee Vining is a small town with a range of accommodations, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals.
* Merced: Located about an hour’s drive from Yosemite, Merced is a larger city with a range of accommodations, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals.
Rural Areas
If you prefer a more rural experience, there are several areas outside of Yosemite that offer a range of accommodations and activities. Here are a few options to consider:
* Big Oak Flat: Located just outside the south entrance of Yosemite, Big Oak Flat is a rural area with a range of accommodations, including vacation rentals and campgrounds.
* Crane Flat: This rural area is located just outside the west entrance of Yosemite and offers a range of accommodations, including vacation rentals and campgrounds.
* Wawona: Located just outside the south entrance of Yosemite, Wawona is a rural area with a range of accommodations, including vacation rentals and campgrounds.
Things to Do
There are many things to do outside of Yosemite, including: (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Clearwater Beach)
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Visiting the nearby towns and cities, such as Mariposa, Groveland, and Lee Vining, which offer a range of shops, restaurants, and attractions.
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Exploring the surrounding wilderness areas, such as the Stanislaus National Forest and the Sierra National Forest, which offer hiking, camping, and fishing opportunities.
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Taking a scenic drive through the Sierra Nevada mountains, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
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Visiting the nearby lakes and reservoirs, such as Lake McClure and Lake Don Pedro, which offer boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities.
Accommodations
There are many different types of accommodations available outside of Yosemite, including: (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Bardstown Ky)
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Hotels and motels: These are the most common type of accommodation and offer a range of amenities, including pools, restaurants, and free parking.
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Bed and breakfasts: These are small, family-run establishments that offer a more personalized experience and often include amenities such as breakfast and afternoon tea.
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Vacation rentals: These are private homes or apartments that can be rented for a short period of time and often offer more space and amenities than hotels or motels.
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Campgrounds: These are outdoor areas where you can pitch a tent or park an RV and often offer amenities such as showers and laundry facilities.
Table: Accommodations Outside of Yosemite
| Accommodation Type | Mariposa | Groveland | Lee Vining | Merced |
| — | — | — | — | — |
| Hotels and Motels | 10 | 5 | 3 | 20 |
| Bed and Breakfasts | 5 | 3 | 2 | 10 |
| Vacation Rentals | 20 | 15 | 10 | 30 |
| Campgrounds | 2 | 1 | 1 | 5 |
Recap
In this article, we have explored the best places to stay outside of Yosemite, including towns, cities, and rural areas. We have also discussed the range of accommodations available, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and campgrounds. Whether you prefer a more urban or rural experience, there are many options to consider when planning your trip to Yosemite. (See Also: Best Places To Stay On The Isle Of Skye)
Here are five FAQs related to “Best Places To Stay Outside Of Yosemite”:
FAQs: Best Places To Stay Outside Of Yosemite
What are some popular towns to stay outside of Yosemite National Park?
Some popular towns to stay outside of Yosemite National Park include Groveland, Mariposa, Oakhurst, and Fish Camp. These towns offer a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly motels to luxury resorts, and are within driving distance to the park’s entrance.
What are some camping options outside of Yosemite National Park?
Camping is a great way to experience the beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Outside of Yosemite, there are many campgrounds to choose from, including national forest campgrounds, private campgrounds, and RV parks. Some popular options include Yosemite Pines RV Resort, Big Trees RV Park, and High Sierra Campground.
Can I stay in a cabin or vacation rental outside of Yosemite National Park?
Yes, there are many cabin and vacation rental options available outside of Yosemite National Park. These can range from cozy cabins in the woods to luxury vacation rentals with amenities like hot tubs and fireplaces. Websites like VRBO, Airbnb, and HomeAway offer a wide range of options to choose from.
What are some budget-friendly accommodation options outside of Yosemite National Park?
If you’re on a budget, there are still many affordable accommodation options available outside of Yosemite National Park. Consider staying at a budget-friendly motel or hotel, or look for vacation rentals that offer affordable rates. You can also try camping or staying at a hostel or guesthouse.
Can I stay in a luxury resort outside of Yosemite National Park?
Yes, there are several luxury resorts and hotels outside of Yosemite National Park that offer high-end amenities and services. Some popular options include the Ahwahnee Hotel, the Big Trees Lodge, and the Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite. These resorts often offer amenities like fine dining, spas, and golf courses, and are a great way to experience the luxury of a resort while still being close to the park.