Tip: make lodging reservations with the official vendor

Question

As with all National Parks, there is a concessionaire that manages official lodgings inside Yosemite. You can find that concessionaire by following the menu choices for lodging from the NPS page for Yosemite or you can use the direct website. It is http://www.TravelYosemite.com

Reservations can be made 366 days in advance.

Yosemite's NPS page: https://www.nps.gov/yose/index.htm

Yosemite's NPS page about lodging: https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/lodging.htm

If you are visiting any other National Park, you can always start at the NPS dot gov page for that destination. Some National Parks have more than one concessionaire. Yosemite has only one, it's Aramark and owns the TravelYosemite website.

Do not use a 3rd party company to book your lodging unless you

-- enjoy paying extra for the same room

-- want a pricey cancellation fee

-- want headaches (like lodging not actually being provided)

Note: a 3rd party company booking might possibly maybe perhaps work for you. This method is not recommended.

We hear the most complaints about cleverly-named NationalParkReservations .... AVOID, AVOID, AVOID.

There are three private property communities located within the Yosemite National Park boundary that offer lodgings from a variety of sources. Suggestions are in the Top Questions on the right.

Tip: When entry permits have been required during busy summers, overnight reservations in an official NPS lodging or campground, or lodging reservations in a private property community allows entry without a permit.

Answer

When planning a visit to Yosemite National Park, making lodging reservations directly through the official concessionaire is highly recommended to ensure reliability, fair pricing, and peace of mind. Yosemite’s official lodgings are managed by Aramark, which operates the TravelYosemite.com website. Reservations can be made up to 366 days in advance, allowing visitors to secure popular accommodations well before the busy summer season.

Booking directly through the official vendor has several advantages:

Guaranteed room availability without unexpected cancellations or errors.
No excessive fees that third-party booking sites often charge.
Access to accurate and up-to-date information about lodging, amenities, and park policies.
Reservations in official lodgings or campgrounds can serve as entry permits during busy summer months when park entry restrictions are in effect.

It is generally advised to avoid third-party booking companies, especially those with names similar to official park sites, such as "NationalParkReservations," due to common complaints about high fees, cancellation issues, or even non-existent bookings. While some third-party services may work, they carry a significant risk of additional costs and headaches, so they are not recommended.

Additionally, there are three private property communities located within the Yosemite National Park boundary that offer lodging from various sources. Staying in these communities is a viable alternative if official lodgings are full, and reservations there can also provide access without a park entry permit during busy periods.

Summary tips for Yosemite lodging:

Always start at the official NPS Yosemite page or TravelYosemite.com for accurate lodging information.
Book as early as possible, especially for peak summer months, to secure your preferred dates and room types.
Using official channels ensures smoother check-in, fair pricing, and inclusion in any entry permit exceptions.
If exploring private communities within park boundaries, verify the lodging source and check availability in advance.

By booking directly through the official concessionaire, you minimize risks and maximize your chances of a smooth and enjoyable Yosemite visit.