5 Best Towns Near Yosemite (Where to Stay and Eat)

Where you stay near Yosemite can shape your entire visit. The towns around the park aren’t just convenient bases; each offers its own advantages, from easy access to the park entrances to better lodging options and reliable dining. Some are ideal if you want to be close to Yosemite Valley, while others work better for exploring the quieter sections of the park.

This updated guide covers the five best towns near Yosemite National Park, with practical details on how far each is from the closest entrance, plus dependable places to stay and eat.

Yosemite has four main entrances, and each one connects to a nearby town that makes a convenient base:

• Arch Rock (Highway 140) – closest to Mariposa and El Portal
• South Entrance (Highway 41) – near Oakhurst
• Big Oak Flat (Highway 120) – leads to Groveland
• Tioga Pass (Highway 120 East) – seasonal access near June Lake

These towns offer the best access to different areas of Yosemite, whether you’re exploring the valley floor, the southern sequoia groves, or the high country along Tioga Road.

Here’s a quick look at where each town sits in relation to Yosemite’s main entrances. Use this map to help decide which base fits your itinerary best.

This map shows Mariposa, Oakhurst, El Portal, Groveland, and June Lake, the main towns near Yosemite National Park.

Each connects to a different park entrance, giving you easy options whether you’re coming from the west, south, or east.

If you can find a room inside Yosemite, it’s the most convenient option, but availability is limited and books up fast, often a year in advance.

The main in-park lodges include The Ahwahnee, Yosemite Valley Lodge, Curry Village, and Wawona Hotel.

If everything is full, don’t worry, the nearby towns below offer plenty of great alternatives with more space, good food, and easier access to the park entrances.

Mariposa sits along Highway 140, about 32 miles (50 minutes) from Yosemite’s Arch Rock Entrance, making it one of the most convenient bases for exploring Yosemite Valley. The town has a small-mountain feel, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and places to stay.

GOOD TO KNOW: Highway 140 is the lowest-elevation route into Yosemite, which means it usually stays open year-round; a big advantage in winter or early spring when other roads can close.

The Yosemite Inn – The Yosemite Inn is a reliable, no-frills option close to town. Rooms are clean and simple. Breakfast is included, and it’s one of the best value stays on Highway 140.

Best Western Plus Yosemite Way Station Motel – Best Western Yosemite Way Station Motel is comfortable and consistent, with an outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, and easy access to the main road toward the park.

GOOD TO KNOW: Rooms at the back of the property face the hills and are quieter than those near the highway.

Mariposa Lodge – Mariposa Lodge is situated on Main Street, within walking distance to cafés, a market, and restaurants. Rooms are spacious, and the small courtyard pool is great for unwinding after a long park day.

PRO TIP: The coffee shop next door (High Country Café) opens early and is perfect for grabbing breakfast before you hit the park.

Charles Street Dinner House – A favorite for hearty, classic dishes. Try the baby-back ribs or prime rib on weekends, and don’t skip dessert — the mocha fudge ice-cream pie is a hit.

Savoury’s – Relaxed fine dining with a focus on California ingredients. The chicken marsala and any seasonal fish special are always solid choices.
GOOD TO KNOW: Make a reservation if you’re visiting in summer; it fills up after 6 p.m.

1850 Restaurant and Brewery – Casual with craft beer brewed on site and big portions. The tri-tip sandwich and Mother Lode IPA.

Oakhurst sits along Highway 41, about 16 miles (25 minutes) from Yosemite’s South Entrance. It’s one of the best bases for exploring the southern section of the park — especially Mariposa Grove, home to over 500 giant sequoias. The town has the most variety of hotels, restaurants, and stores near Yosemite, making it ideal if you want convenience without sacrificing comfort.

GOOD TO KNOW: Oakhurst is also the most practical option if you’re visiting Bass Lake, just 10 minutes away — perfect for swimming, kayaking, or an easy rest day between hikes.

Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn – Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn is spread out across a hillside surrounded by pines. It offers rooms with balconies, a pool, and a solid breakfast buffet.

Yosemite Southgate Hotel & Suites – Yosemite Southgate Hotel & Suites has spacious, modern rooms with kitchenettes and a great location right on Highway 41. The sauna and pool area are excellent after a long day in the park.

The Oakhurst Inn at Yosemite – The Oakhurst Inn at Yosemite is a newer boutique-style stay with clean, modern rooms and friendly service. Close to restaurants and stores.
PRO TIP: Great option if you’re driving an EV. There are charging stations right on site.

South Gate Brewing Company – good beer and hearty food. Try the fish and chips or the bacon jam burger. They brew on site, and you can order a sampler to taste what’s seasonal.
GOOD TO KNOW: It gets busy at dinner, so go early or plan for a short wait.

El Cid Mexican Cuisine – Classic Mexican comfort food with generous portions and great margaritas. Their enchiladas are excellent, and the chips and salsa come out fresh.
PRO TIP: Ask for a seat on the patio if the weather’s nice. It’s shaded and quiet.

Sweetwater Steakhouse – Known for quality cuts and a relaxed atmosphere. I recommend the ribeye and the grilled salmon.
GOOD TO KNOW: Closed Mondays, so plan accordingly if you’re in town early in the week

El Portal sits right on Highway 140 along the Merced River, just 2–3 miles (5–10 minutes) from Yosemite’s Arch Rock / West Entrance. It’s one of the closest towns to the park, making it ideal if you want to minimize morning drive time and maximize your time in the Valley.

GOOD TO KNOW: Because it’s so close, lodging here tends to fill early, so booking ahead is smart.

Yosemite View Lodge – Yosemite View Lodge is situated across the river from Yosemite’s entrance. This lodge features rooms with kitchenettes, river views, and both indoor and outdoor pools.

PRO TIP: Request a “riverview balcony” room. The Merced River view adds an extra moment of calm after a full day at the park.

Cedar Lodge – Cedar Lodge is located about 8 miles from the entrance. It offers suites and larger rooms with a bit more space and slightly lower cost than the immediate-gate options.

The River Restaurant & Lounge – Located inside Yosemite View Lodge, this spot serves American fare, has outdoor seating, and is open for dinner — a good choice after park hours.

PRO TIP: Make sure to try the seasonal trout dish when it’s on the menu.

Parkside Pizza – Casual, family-friendly, with pizza, salads, and views of the river. Great for an early dinner or taking something back to your room.

Groveland sits about 24 miles from Yosemite’s Big Oak Flat Entrance.

It’s a laid-back Gold Rush town with a main street full of history, a few great restaurants, and solid lodging options for those who prefer staying outside the park but still close to the west gate.

Yosemite Westgate Lodge – Yosemite Westgate Lodge is about ten minutes past Groveland in Buck Meadows. This lodge offers modern, comfortable rooms with microwaves and mini-fridges. The outdoor pool is a bonus after a dusty day in the park.

The Groveland Hotel – The Groveland Hotel sits right in the heart of town. This historic hotel combines old character with modern touches.

PRO TIP: Ask for a room facing the courtyard for a quieter stay and easier parking access.

Iron Door Saloon & Grill – California’s oldest saloon, and it feels like it. The burgers are big, and the place has live music on weekends.

Lucky Buck Café – Just down the road from the Westgate Lodge, it’s known for hearty portions and great breakfast before heading into the park. Try the chicken fried steak or biscuits and gravy.

Two Guys Pizza Pies – Perfect for takeout after a long day. The crust is crisp, the toppings are generous.

If you’re visiting Yosemite from the east, June Lake is a beautiful base about 25 miles from the Tioga Pass Entrance (open seasonally, usually late May – October).

Surrounded by alpine lakes and snow-capped peaks, it’s quiet, scenic, and ideal for those who want hiking, fishing, or just a peaceful spot to unwind after exploring the park.

Double Eagle Resort & Spa – Double Eagle Resort & Spa has spacious cabins and lodge rooms. It sits among pines with views of Carson Peak. There’s an indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center, plus a small pond stocked for catch-and-release fishing. After hiking all day, the on-site restaurant saves you another drive.

Heidelberg Inn – Heidelberg Inn is a charming, historic lodge from the 1920s with cozy rooms that have kitchenettes — perfect if you want to make your own breakfast. It’s quiet, close to the lake, and has that old-mountain-lodge feel that fits the area perfectly.

June Lake Villager – June Lake Villager is a simple but reliable spot with cabins and motel-style rooms right in town. You can walk to June Lake Brewery and local shops,  and it’s one of the best values if you just need a clean, comfortable base near the park.

Eagle’s Landing Restaurant – Inside the Double Eagle Resort, it’s the nicest sit-down dinner spot in town. Try the ribs or pasta while watching the sun set behind the mountains.

June Lake Brewery & Ohanas 395 – The brewery shares its outdoor space with a Hawaiian food truck that serves incredible poke bowls and spicy chicken tacos. Great casual spot after a long hike.

The Silver Lake Café – A classic breakfast stop by the lake; big pancakes, hearty omelets. Go early before the fishermen crowd in.