Alternatives to Yosemite in June

Question

We're going to California in June (2 adults and two kids ages 7 and 10). We were planning on going to Yosemite, but with everything that's happening right now and all the uncertainty about what the park will be like this summer, we want to have a backup plan. I don't feel like bringing my kids into some kind of chaos.

We are driving down from Lake Tahoe, and this was our plan:

1 night in Lee vining (if Tioga is open)

2 nights in Curry Village (yes, we have reservations)

We are then driving down to Santa Barbara before heading up along the Coast, ending our trip in Monterey. (Flying out from SFO. Airport can't be changed)

Do you have any suggestions were to go instead of Yosemite, and where to spend those 3 nights between Tahoe and Santa Barbara. Preferably parks/nature, but we're open to all suggestions. Would really appreciate your help!

Answer

If you’re looking for alternatives to Yosemite in June, there are several options in California that offer stunning natural scenery, outdoor activities, and family-friendly experiences without the potential crowds or uncertainty you mentioned. Since you’re driving from Lake Tahoe and then heading toward Santa Barbara and eventually Monterey, you have a range of options along the Sierra Nevada, the eastern Sierras, and the central coast.

Here are some suggestions for parks and nature-focused destinations:

Mono Lake & Mammoth Lakes Area: If Tioga Pass is closed or Yosemite is too crowded, you can spend a night in Lee Vining or Mammoth Lakes and explore Mono Lake, Mammoth Mountain, Devils Postpile National Monument, and nearby lakes for kayaking, easy hikes, and family-friendly outdoor activities.
Lassen Volcanic National Park: A bit further north from Lake Tahoe, this park offers geothermal features, small lakes, and moderate hiking trails. It’s less crowded than Yosemite and has a variety of accessible family hikes.
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks: Heading south from Lake Tahoe toward central California, you could spend a night or two near the parks and enjoy giant sequoia trees, moderate trails, and scenic drives. These parks are less congested than Yosemite and provide a similar “majestic nature” experience.
Eastern Sierra Lakes & Convict Lake: If you prefer staying closer to the Tahoe–Mono area, Convict Lake and nearby alpine lakes are scenic and peaceful for short hikes, picnics, and relaxation with kids.

Practical itinerary suggestions for your three nights between Lake Tahoe and Santa Barbara:

Option 1: One night near Mono Lake/Lee Vining, two nights in Mammoth Lakes. Explore lakes, short trails, and nearby geothermal areas. Then drive down toward the central Sierra foothills or directly to Santa Barbara.
Option 2: Skip Yosemite entirely: one night near Bishop or Mammoth Lakes, one night near Sequoia/Kings Canyon foothills, and one night en route to Santa Barbara (possibly in the Central Valley or along the coast in Pismo Beach area) to break up the drive.
Option 3: If you want to focus more on coastal nature, consider spending one night in the eastern Sierras (Mammoth Lakes), one night near Big Sur or Monterey Peninsula, and then continue to Santa Barbara. This allows combining lakes, mountains, and coastal scenery.

Additional tips:

Book accommodations early, especially near Mammoth Lakes or Sequoia/Kings Canyon, as June is popular for family travelers.
Focus on shorter, family-friendly hikes and natural attractions so your kids enjoy the outdoors without long strenuous treks.
Consider scenic drives like Tioga Pass (if open), June Lake Loop, or Highway 395 for mountain views if you want a “Yosemite-like” experience without entering the park.
Pack layers: elevations in the Sierra can be cool even in June, while coastal areas near Santa Barbara will be warmer.

Overall, spending your three nights between the eastern Sierras (Mono/Mammoth) and Sequoia or along the central coast provides a mix of mountains, lakes, and nature experiences for a family-friendly alternative to Yosemite, with less stress and fewer crowds.

Alternatives to Yosemite in June

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