There are few places that truly stop you in your tracks the moment you arrive — and Yosemite National Park is one of them. From towering granite cliffs and rushing waterfalls to peaceful meadows and star-filled skies, Yosemite feels like stepping into a postcard.

Whether you’re visiting with little kids, teens, or planning a multi-generation family trip, Yosemite offers the perfect mix of adventure and awe. This guide breaks down where to stay, what to do, where to eat, and what to pack — so you can focus on making memories instead of stressing over logistics.

Why Visit Yosemite National Park

Yosemite is one of those rare destinations that truly works for every kind of traveler — but especially families.

Why families love Yosemite:

• Easy access to iconic sights (many with stroller-friendly paths)

• Wildlife spotting opportunities kids never forget

• Junior Ranger programs and educational experiences

• A balance of adventure and downtime in nature

• Incredible scenery year-round, with each season offering something unique

From first-time visitors to families who return year after year, Yosemite has a way of calling you back.

Where to Stay in Yosemite

Inside the Park (Best for Convenience)

• Yosemite Valley Lodge – Walkable to Yosemite Falls, family-friendly rooms, and an unbeatable location.

• Curry Village – Budget-friendly cabins and tent cabins kids love, with easy dining options nearby.

Camping in Yosemite (For the Outdoorsy Family)

For families who want a more immersive nature experience, camping in Yosemite is an unforgettable option.

• Upper Pines Campground – Open year-round and centrally located in Yosemite Valley.

• Lower Pines Campground – Spacious sites with stunning views and easy valley access.

• North Pines Campground – A favorite for families who want river access and quieter evenings.

Good to know: Campsites in Yosemite book up months in advance, especially for summer. If camping is on your wish list, reservations are key.

Just Outside the Park

• Rush Creek Lodge (Groveland) – A top pick for families with pools, game rooms, and organized activities.

• Evergreen Lodge – Cabin-style accommodations with space to spread out and a relaxed mountain vibe.

What to Do in Yosemite

Must-See Highlights

• Lower Yosemite Falls Trail – An easy, mostly flat walk perfect for kids.

• Glacier Point – Jaw-dropping views with minimal walking required.

• Tunnel View – A quick stop with one of Yosemite’s most famous vistas.

Family-Friendly Adventures

• Bike the Yosemite Valley Loop

• Join a Junior Ranger program

• Meadow walks and river picnics

• Wildlife spotting (deer, squirrels, birds — always a hit!)

For Older Kids & Teens

• Mirror Lake hike

• Rafting the Merced River (seasonal)

• Stargazing in the valley

Where to Eat

Dining Inside Yosemite

• Base Camp Eatery – Casual, quick meals that are perfect after a long hike.

• Degnan’s Kitchen – A favorite for breakfast, coffee, and grab-and-go sandwiches.

• Pizza Deck (Curry Village) – Easy, kid-friendly option with outdoor seating.

Camping & DIY Meals (Important for Campers)

For families who are camping in Yosemite, bringing your own food and cooking meals at your campsite is very common — and often the most convenient option.

If you plan to cook while camping, be sure to:

• Bring clearly labeled, sealable food containers

• Use the bear-proof food lockers provided at every campsite

• Store all food, trash, coolers, toiletries, and scented items in lockers — not just at night, but whenever they’re unattended

• Never leave food out on picnic tables or in tents

Yosemite is home to active wildlife, including bears, and proper food storage is required to keep both your family and the animals safe. Teaching kids about food safety and wildlife rules can actually be a fun and educational part of the experience.

Pro tip: Simple meals like pre-made sandwiches, foil packet dinners, and easy breakfasts help keep campsite cooking stress-free.

What to Pack for Yosemite

Yosemite Essentials (All Travelers)

• Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots

• Weather-friendly layers (mornings and evenings can be chilly)

• Refillable water bottles

• Sunscreen & wide-brimmed hats

• Snacks and picnic lunches

• Daypack for hikes

• Binoculars for wildlife spotting

• Camera or phone with extra storage

Camping Gear (For Families Camping in Yosemite)

For families planning to camp, having the right gear makes all the difference — especially in a wildlife-rich park like Yosemite.

Shelter & Sleeping

• Tent (with stakes and ground tarp)

• Sleeping bags rated for cool nights

• Sleeping pads or air mattresses

• Pillows or compact travel pillows

• Favorite sleeping stuffies!

Food & Storage (Very Important)

• Bear-resistant food containers (if not using campsite lockers)

• Reusable, sealable food storage containers

• Cooler with ice packs

• Trash bags and zip-top bags

• S'more's fixings!

Don’t forget the coffee! Instant coffee or single-serve packets are ideal for camping mornings — no extra equipment needed and easy to store in bear-proof containers.

Cooking & Eating

• Camp stove or grill

• Fuel canisters (check park regulations)

• Lighter or matches

• Simple cookware & utensils

• Paper towels and dish cloths

• Kettle or portable electric kettle

Comfort & Safety

• Headlamps or flashlights

• Camp chairs

• First-aid kit

• Baby wipes & hand sanitizer

• Extra blankets for evenings

• Hand warmers for those cold winter nights

Kid-Friendly Extras

• Glow sticks, lanterns or solar string lights for after dark

• Card games or small travel games

• Nature journals or coloring supplies

Important Reminder:
Always store food, coolers, trash, and scented items in bear-proof lockers whenever they are unattended. Proper storage is required in Yosemite and keeps wildlife safe.

Best Time to Visit Yosemite

• Spring: Waterfalls at peak flow (snow may limit access)

• Summer: Best for families, full access to trails and activities

• Fall: Fewer crowds, crisp air, golden meadows

• Winter: Snowy magic, sledding, and cross-country skiing (limited access)

Final Thoughts

Yosemite isn’t just a destination — it’s an experience your family will talk about for years. Whether it’s your child’s first waterfall hike, a quiet moment watching the sunset over El Capitan, or simply unplugging together in nature, Yosemite has a way of slowing life down in the best possible way.

If you’re looking for a classic California family getaway that blends adventure, beauty, and meaningful moments, Yosemite National Park absolutely delivers.