Planning a trip to Yosemite with kids? You’re not alone, Yosemite National Park is one of the most iconic family road trip destinations in California. But before you start mapping out hikes and photo ops, there’s one major question: where should you stay near Yosemite with kids? Whether you have toddlers in tow or adventurous teens, these three family friendly lodging options strike the perfect balance between comfort, convenience, and just enough wilderness to keep everyone excited.
1. Yosemite View Lodge – Best of Both Worlds for Families
El Portal, CA – Only 2 miles from Yosemite’s Arch Rock Entrance
If you’re looking for the easiest park access with kid-friendly amenities, Yosemite View Lodge is hard to beat. It’s the closest hotel you can stay at near Yosemite and it’s designed for families.
Why Families Love It:
- Kitchenettes in Most Rooms: Prep snacks, warm bottles, or make simple meals in your own space.
- Multiple Pools: After a long day in the park, unwind in one of the outdoor or indoor pools and hot tubs.
- Free Game Room: Keep the kids entertained without screens and let them play a round of foosball or air hockey while you relax.
- Playground On-Site: Perfect for burning off extra energy before bedtime, the new playground gives kids a safe space to climb and explore.
- S’mores + Fire Pit Nights: Grab a s’mores kit from the front desk and head to one of the fire pits for post-hike family bonding under the stars.
- Spacious Room Options: Choose from multi-bed layouts and room sizes that easily accommodate small and large families.
- Riverfront Setting: Open your balcony door and let the sounds of the Merced River lull the kids to sleep with nature’s sound machine.
2. Yosemite Cedar Lodge – Comfort, Convenience, and a Touch of Adventure
El Portal, CA – About 8 miles from the Yosemite entrance
Yosemite Cedar Lodge is a laid-back, family-friendly hotel near Yosemite that perfects the balance between rustic charm and practical convenience. It’s a favorite for families who want space to spread out, a pool to play in, and a little more room to breathe.
Top Perks for Parents:
- Family Suites Available: Need multiple sleeping spaces? Opt for a suite with two queen beds, Murphy bed, or private rooms, so no one ends up on the floor.
- Indoor and Outdoor Pools/Spas: Whether it’s hot or snowing, there’s always a place to splash and play.
- Free Game Room: Let the kids burn off some energy with free games, and family friendly competition.
- Fire Pit S’mores Nights: Wind down your day with a classic Yosemite experience, roasting marshmallows.
- Gift Shop On-Site: Forgot sunscreen or need a last-minute souvenir? The gift shop has you covered.
- Hidden Beach on the Merced River: A short walk from your room leads to a quiet riverside spot where kids can splash, skip rocks, or cool off in the summer heat.
Here, nature is right outside your window, but inside you’ve got modern comforts that make traveling with little ones much more manageable.
3. Indian Flat Campground – Yosemite Camping Made Easy (Even With Littles)
📍 El Portal, CA — 7 miles from Yosemite’s west entrance
Want to give your kids the magic of a Yosemite camping trip without roughing it? Indian Flat Campground has you covered. This campground near Yosemite with access to many kid-friendly amenities offers tent sites, RV spots, and even rustic cabins so you can choose your own adventure level.
Why It Works for Families:
- Cabins Available: Want the camping but not the midnight bathroom trips through the wilderness? Stay in a cozy cabin with real beds, full kitchen, A/C, and a bathroom.
- Shared Pool and Hot Tub Access: Guests get access to the pool next door at Cedar Lodge, a big hit for hot summer days or cool nights.
- Camp Store: Forgot the firewood? Craving ice cream? There’s a general store on-site for last-minute needs.
Indian Flat Campground is the perfect way to introduce kids to camping.
Tips for Visiting Yosemite With Kids
Whichever place you choose, keep these family travel tips in mind:
- Start your days early: Beat the heat and the crowds by entering the park before 9 AM.
- Download offline maps: Cell service is spotty, so prep directions ahead of time.
- Pack layers: Even in summer, mornings can be chilly and higher elevations can bring some strong winds.
- Let them lead: Choose family friendly hikes like Bridalveil Fall, Lower Yosemite Falls, or Mirror Lake Loop, all kid-friendly and packed with that incredible Yosemite ‘wow factor’. Many have stroller accessibility, too!
Each of these properties is more than just a place to sleep, they’re part of the Yosemite family travel experience. Book early, pack snacks, and don’t forget your sense of wonder.
Ready to book your Yosemite family getaway?
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