Choosing the right lodging near Yosemite National Park can make a big difference in how your elopement or adventure session feels. The right lodging can help your day feel calm, flexible, and stress-free. This is especially true if you’re planning an early start or spending time exploring multiple locations around the park.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy cabin, a full-service resort, or something modern and unique, there are some great options both inside and just outside the park. As a Yosemite elopement photographer, I’ve seen it all. Below are some of the best places to stay near Yosemite from my experience, along with what makes each one a good fit depending on your plans.
Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite
Location: Fish Camp, near the South Entrance
Best for: Families, resort-style stays, longer trips
Tenaya Lodge is a full-service resort located just outside Yosemite’s South Entrance. It’s a popular choice for families and travelers who want easy access to the park paired with lots of on-site amenities.
This is a great option if you’re planning a longer stay or traveling with a group and want everything in one place.
Why stay here:
• On-site dining options
• Spa, pools, and wellness amenities
• Easy access to the South Entrance
• Reliable year-round accessibility
Rush Creek Lodge
Location: Near the Big Oak Flat Entrance
Best for: Couples, relaxed luxury, families
Rush Creek Lodge offers an elevated lodging experience that still feels laid-back and outdoorsy. It’s a favorite among couples who want comfort and style without the feel of a formal resort.
The atmosphere here is warm and welcoming. This makes it a great choice for elopements or engagement sessions.
Why stay here:
• Heated pool and hot tubs
• Fire pits with nightly s’mores
• Spacious rooms and private cabins
• Easy access to the park via Big Oak Flat Road
Evergreen Lodge
Location: Near the Hetch Hetchy Entrance
Best for: Cabin stays, quieter experience, groups
Evergreen Lodge is ideal if you’re looking for a peaceful, cabin-style stay surrounded by nature. It’s slightly farther from Yosemite Valley but offers a more relaxed and secluded atmosphere.
This is a great option for lodging near Yosemite National Park for families or groups who want space and a slower pace.
Why stay here:
• Individual cabins with forest surroundings
• Family-friendly environment
• Close access to Hetch Hetchy
• Less crowded than Valley-adjacent lodging
Yosemite View Lodge
Location: El Portal, near the Arch Rock Entrance
Best for: Convenience, value, proximity to the Valley
Located along the Merced River, Yosemite View Lodge is one of the most convenient places to stay outside the park. It’s especially popular for couples who want quick access to Yosemite Valley without staying inside the park.
Why stay here:
• Riverfront rooms available
• Short drive into Yosemite Valley
• More affordable than in-park lodging
• Great option for early morning starts
Yosemite Cedar Lodge
Location: El Portal
Best for: Simple, budget-conscious stays
Yosemite Cedar Lodge is a straightforward option for travelers who plan to spend most of their time exploring the park. It’s a good fit if you’re prioritizing location over amenities.
This is a practical choice for adventure sessions or shorter stays.
Why stay here:
• Indoor and outdoor pools and a hot tub for relaxing after the adventure
• On-site restaurants and bar
• Spacious rooms and suites with options like kitchenettes or fireplaces
AutoCamp Yosemite
Location: Midpines
Best for: Unique stays, modern travelers, couples
AutoCamp Yosemite offers a glamping-style experience with Airstreams and cabins. They blend outdoor adventure with modern design. It’s a fun and unique option for couples looking for something a little different.
Why stay here:
• Stylish, design-forward accommodations
• Great for couples and small groups
• Communal fire pits and gathering spaces
• Easy access to Highway 140
Yosemite West Airbnbs
Location: Inside Yosemite National Park
Best for: Elopements (my top pick for them, actually!)
Yosemite West is a small residential community located inside Yosemite National Park, between Yosemite Valley and Glacier Point. Staying in a Yosemite West Airbnb offers the privacy of a cabin with the convenience of being inside the park.
This is one of my top recommendations for elopements, especially if you’re planning sunrise vows or early morning photos.
Why stay in Yosemite West:
• Located inside park boundaries
• Easy access to Glacier Point Road
• Popular for elopement and getting-ready photos
• Cabins with fireplaces, decks, and forest views
Things to know:
• Snow chains are often required in winter
• Limited cell service
• High demand during peak season
How to Pick Your Lodging Near Yosemite National Park
When deciding where to stay, think about what matters most for your trip. Consider whether you want to be inside the park or just outside it. Also consider how important sunrise and sunset access is to you, and whether you prefer hotel-style amenities or a private cabin.
Your group size and travel style also play a role. Couples often prefer quieter, more intimate stays. However, families or groups may want larger spaces and on-site amenities.
No matter where you stay, booking early is essential. Accommodations near Yosemite fill up quickly! They’re especially popular from late spring through fall, so planning ahead will give you the best options.
Planning a Yosemite Elopement?
If you’re planning an elopement in Yosemite and want guidance beyond just where to stay, I’d love to help. I assist couples with timelines, locations, permits, and creating a day that feels natural and stress-free from start to finish.
If you’re looking for a Yosemite elopement photographer who knows the park and helps you make the most of your experience, you can reach out to book me here and see more of my work here. I’d love to help you plan something meaningful.
