Where to stay near Yosemite: west entrance towns

Choosing where to stay near Yosemite starts with the park entrance you expect to use and the places you want to visit. The west side has three main approach corridors: Highway 120 through Groveland, Highway 140 through Mariposa and El Portal, and Highway 41 through Oakhurst and Fish Camp. A room labeled “near Yosemite” can still mean a substantial drive to Yosemite Valley, so compare the exact property address with your daily itinerary before booking.

Highway 120: Groveland and Buck Meadows

Groveland and Buck Meadows suit travelers approaching the Big Oak Flat Entrance from the west. Compare the distance from each property to the entrance and then to Yosemite Valley, since reaching the park boundary is only part of the drive. Ask about parking, breakfast hours, cancellation terms, and whether the property fits an early departure for a full park day.

Highway 140: Mariposa and El Portal

Mariposa offers a town base on Highway 140. El Portal lies closer to the Arch Rock Entrance. Compare room availability, the drive to the sights on your list, and food options at the hours you expect to return. Highway 140 is also a corridor with public transit options; verify current schedules before relying on a bus for a park day.

Highway 41: Oakhurst and Fish Camp

Oakhurst and Fish Camp are on the southern approach to Yosemite. This corridor can make sense when Mariposa Grove and the south entrance are priorities. If Yosemite Valley is your main destination, compare the full drive to the Valley rather than choosing by town name alone.

What about Pinecrest and Strawberry?

Pinecrest and Strawberry are in the Highway 108 corridor, a mountain destination in their own right for lake time and forest trips. Highway 108 is not one of Yosemite’s main west entrance routes. If you plan to visit Yosemite from there, map the actual drive for your dates and check road conditions first. For a trip centered on daily Yosemite Valley visits, compare the west entrance towns above.

Before you reserve

• Check your route to the specific park destination, not just the entrance.
• Compare the total stay cost, parking, cancellation policy, and amenities directly with the property.
• Review official Yosemite driving directions and current conditions before traveling.

Need a broader decision framework? Read our Plan Your Stay guide. Lodging details change; confirm the latest information with each property.