Where To Stay In Yosemite With Kids

Yosemite Valley Lodge — the practical family favorite

This was our home base for most of our trip — and for good reason. It sits right alongside Yosemite Falls, is on the shuttle route, and gives you easy access to major trails without packing kids into the car.

Yosemite Valley Lodge is one of the most popular family accommodations inside the park thanks to its unbeatable location right in Yosemite Valley. Just steps from Yosemite Falls, it puts you within walking distance of trails, viewpoints, and the free Valley shuttle — making it a very convenient base if you don’t want to be in the car every day.

The lodge is designed with families in mind, offering Family King rooms (with king bed, bunk beds, and a sofa/dining area in some setups), as well as standard rooms. It’s less about luxury and more about practicality: clean, spacious rooms, on-site dining, and easy access to everything Yosemite Valley has to offer.

Family highlights:

• Room options: Family King rooms with bunk beds, plus standard lodge rooms for smaller groups.

• Dining: On-site restaurant, lounge, and café for quick meals and kid-friendly options.

• Pool: Seasonal outdoor pool perfect for cooling off after hikes.

• Activities: Bike rentals available on-site for exploring the flat valley floor trails.

• Location: Steps from Yosemite Falls and right on the shuttle route, so you can skip driving and parking headaches.

Pros: Prime Valley location, family-friendly rooms with bunks, walkable to trails and programs, pool and bike rentals on-site.
Cons: Décor is simple and functional rather than stylish; lodge can feel very busy in peak summer season.

Photo Credit:Yosemite Valley Lodge | Yosemite Lodge | Book Reservations

The Ahwahnee — historic comfort and a special splurge

The Ahwahnee Hotel is Yosemite’s most iconic hotel, offering a touch of elegance and history in the middle of the Valley. Known for its grand architecture, huge stone fireplaces, and dramatic dining hall, it feels like stepping back in time — but with modern comforts. This is the place for families who want a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime stay, whether that’s for gorgeous family photos, a milestone trip, or simply enjoying a quieter, more refined atmosphere after a day of adventure.

The Ahwahnee offers large rooms, suites, and some cottage-style units, though the layouts are less family-focused than Yosemite Valley Lodge. The property also has a seasonal heated pool and sweeping views of Yosemite Valley’s cliffs.

Family highlights:

• Spacious rooms: Larger standard rooms and suites give older kids or teens more breathing room.

• Historic charm: Stunning architecture and elegant interiors add to the experience.

• Dining: Refined dining hall serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner (children are welcome, though it feels more formal than other Yosemite options).

• Pool: Seasonal outdoor heated pool surrounded by Valley views.

• Quiet atmosphere: Calmer environment than Curry Village or the Lodge, making it well-suited for families with older kids or those who want to slow the pace.

Pros: Gorgeous, historic setting with incredible architecture; upscale dining; spacious rooms; seasonal pool.
Cons: Expensive compared to other in-park options; fewer family-oriented room setups; formal atmosphere may not suit families with very young children.

Photo Credit:The Ahwahnee Hotel | Reservations and History | Yosemite.com

Curry Village — camping without pitching a tent

If your kids love adventure but you’re not keen on hauling camping gear, Curry Village offers the perfect middle ground. This iconic Yosemite Valley property provides a range of accommodations to suit different comfort levels — from simple canvas tent cabins (some heated seasonally) to rustic wooden cabins with private bathrooms, and Stoneman motel-style rooms for families wanting a more traditional setup.

Its central valley location makes it easy to walk or take the shuttle to popular trails like Mirror Lake, the Mist Trail, and Lower Yosemite Falls. Curry Village has a lively, casual vibe that gives children the “real Yosemite” experience without needing to set up tents or bring extensive gear.

Family highlights:

• Accommodation options: Canvas tent cabins for a true camping feel, wooden cabins with bathrooms for comfort, and Stoneman rooms for families wanting a motel-style stay.

• On-site dining: Large food court with multiple counters (pizza, pasta, burgers, sandwiches), coffee corner, ice cream stand, and a market for snacks and essentials.

• Activities: Seasonal outdoor swimming pool, amphitheater with evening ranger programs, and bike rentals.

• Convenience: Central Valley location means short walks to trailheads and easy shuttle access.

• Family-friendly vibe: Camp-like atmosphere and outdoor activities that appeal to kids of all ages.

Pros:

• Wide choice of accommodations to match comfort and budget.

• Prime Yosemite Valley location — walkable or short shuttle rides to trails and viewpoints.

• On-site food options make meals easy with little ones.

• Summer pool and ranger programs provide downtime and entertainment.

• Fun, adventurous camp-like environment that children usually love.

Cons:

• Tent cabins share bathrooms, which can be inconvenient for families with toddlers.

• No air conditioning; heated tents only available seasonally.

• Very popular — can feel crowded and noisy in peak season.

• Rustic setup means fewer in-room amenities and less privacy compared to hotels or lodges.

Photo credit: Curry Village Yosemite | Book Curry Village Reservations

Outside the park

Staying slightly outside gives you more space, maybe a kitchen, resort amenities, and a bit of breathing room (both for you and the kids). Yes, there’s more driving, but sometimes that trade is worth it for comfort.

Tenaya at Yosemite (Fish Camp) — full-service resort comforts close to the park

We stayed here one night on our exit leg — and it felt like a treat after dusty days in the valley. It balances quiet, space, and enough proximity to Yosemite that you’re not spending all your time in the car.

Located just outside Yosemite’s south entrance in Fish Camp, Tenaya at Yosemite is a large, family-friendly resort with a wide range of amenities. It’s about 20–30 minutes’ drive to the park entrance and roughly an hour to Yosemite Valley, making it a comfortable base if you want a mix of nature and resort-style convenience.

The resort has multiple accommodation types — standard rooms, family suites, and even private cottages with kitchenettes — so you can choose what best suits your family size and style.

Family highlights:

• Pools: Indoor pool and outdoor pool (seasonal), plus hot tubs for evening downtime.

• Game room: Arcade games, pool tables, and activities to keep kids entertained.

• Outdoor activities: Daily organized family activities such as crafts, guided hikes, and seasonal events.

• Dining: Several on-site restaurants with kid-friendly menus (a big plus for families needing predictable mealtimes).

• Spa: A chance for parents to sneak in a bit of relaxation while kids enjoy the pool or activities.

• Convenience: Easy access to the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, which is a big hit with young children.

Pros: Spacious family suites and cottage options, resort-style pools and activities, multiple dining choices, close to south entrance, family programming available.
Cons: Around an hour’s drive to Yosemite Valley (which can mean more car time with little kids); resort feel is less “wilderness” and more “family hotel.”

Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite — rustic cabins with a social, family vibe

Evergreen Lodge is a historic cabin community about a 1-hour drive from Yosemite Valley, located near the Hetch Hetchy entrance. It offers 90+ cabins spread across forest grounds, a tavern and restaurant, outdoor pool and hot tubs, and loads of family-friendly programming. The vibe is relaxed and outdoorsy, with evening s’mores by the fire pits, lawn games, and organized activities.

Family highlights:

• Cabins with separate bedrooms and living rooms (ideal for families needing space).

• Seasonal kids’ programs and guided adventures.

• Playground, recreation center, game room, and outdoor movie nights.

• Evening s’mores and a real “camp community” feel.

Pros: Spacious cabins, plenty of kids’ activities, social atmosphere, good for longer stays.
Cons: About an hour from Yosemite Valley; more of a “forest resort” than in-park immersion.

Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite — resort-style family lodge near Big Oak Flat entrance

Rush Creek Lodge is the newer sister property to Evergreen, located just outside Yosemite’s Big Oak Flat entrance (about 30 minutes to the Valley floor). It feels more like a modern mountain resort with hotel rooms, suites, and hillside villas, paired with extensive family amenities.

Family highlights:

• Large outdoor saltwater pool plus hot tubs.

• Game room, zip line, climbing structures, and nightly kids’ activities.

• Family suites and villas with kitchenettes.

• On-site dining options with kid-friendly menus.

• Evening s’mores and stargazing events.

Pros: Closest full-service lodge outside the Big Oak Flat entrance; modern facilities; great for families who want resort comfort.
Cons: Still a drive to Yosemite Valley; popularity can make it busy and pricier.

AutoCamp Yosemite — modern glamping with Airstreams and cabins

Located in Midpines, about 35 minutes from the Arch Rock entrance, AutoCamp Yosemite blends the outdoorsy feel of camping with the comforts of a boutique hotel. Instead of tents, you’ll find stylish Airstream trailers, modern cabins, and luxury tents, all designed with families (and a good night’s sleep) in mind.

This is a great option for families who want the novelty of glamping but still need the practical amenities — like a kitchenette for early breakfasts or white noise to help kids sleep.

Family highlights:

• Accommodation: Choice of modern cabins, luxury tents, or retro Airstreams with cozy beds and private bathrooms.

• Kitchenettes: Cabins and Airstreams have small kitchens with essentials for self-catering family meals.

• Clubhouse & pool: Central clubhouse with a seasonal outdoor pool, lounge, and general store for snacks and basics.

• Campfire experience: Outdoor fire pits (with s’mores kits available!) give that camp vibe without the hassle.

• Convenience: Free shuttles to Yosemite in peak season, saving families the stress of parking.

Pros: Stylish, modern accommodations with kitchenettes; private bathrooms; unique experience with cabins/Airstreams; pool and clubhouse.
Cons: Located outside the park (expect a daily drive to Yosemite Valley); more expensive than traditional lodges for the size.

How to choose: checklist for families with toddlers / babies

1. Will you want to come back midday for naps? If yes, inside the valley (Yosemite Valley Lodge or The Ahwahnee) are the best bets.
2. Do you need a pool / spa / playgrounds / additional facilities. Outside park resorts (Tenaya, Evergreen, Rush Creek) win here.  
3. Do you want self-catering? AutoCamp or cabin rentals with kitchens make life easier for fussy eaters.
4. Is budget tight? Canvas tent cabins or some inside-park lodge rooms can be more affordable than luxury hotels — but demand is huge; book early. You generally get more bang for your buck outside of the park but the trade off is the drive. 

Booking & timing tips

• Book months and months in advance for summer. Yosemite fills fast; the valley properties and campgrounds sell out early. If you can travel shoulder season (spring/fall), crowding drops and lodging can be easier to secure.  
• Check shuttle and YARTS schedules. Some outside-park lodges are served seasonally by YARTS (the regional transit to Yosemite) — this can save you driving and parking stress. Rush Creek, for example, promotes seasonal YARTS service.  
• Check what’s included for children: some hotels have cribs, rollaway policies, and family rooms; others do not. Call ahead and confirm crib availability and any extra bedding fees.