No, I have not stayed in lodging. July is a good month to visit, but October is the best. I alway hike out of the valley and camp in the back country…

There is lodging in the park, but probably booked. You might want to find lodging on the east side of the park on 395 and enter thru Tolumne Meadows which is very pretty.

Or you will need to find other places on the west side which are probably geared more for tourists and more expensive.

‘Ello!

I have never stayed in the yurts, but they look nice. It seems they may be for the more outdoors-y person, instead of obviously staying in a hotel like The Ahwahnee. It does seem like a great compromise for you and your wife though.

Did that person tell you why they didn’t think it was a good idea? Did you consider what type of lodging/camping person s/he is?

I think it looks wonderful, but photos can be a bad representation. I still would love to try out a yurt someday; it’s all about the adventure, eh?

Have fun regardless! Yosemite is magnificent and one of my favorite places. (My beau proposed to me at Vernal Falls =D)

You need to realize that Yosemite Lakes Resort is not in Yosemite National Park. YLR is a private campground, just like KOA are private campgrounds, located outside the park on State Route 120. It’s at least a half hour drive from YLR into Yosemite Valley, and good luck finding parking in the Valley in July. (There may be a shuttle, you should check first, and use it if one’s available.)

I have no personal information about Yosemite Lakes Resort, but it looks a little cheesy from the highway.

We live close to the park, so we have never booked accomodations in or near it. If your wife doesn’t like “down and dirty” camping, why not try a B & B close to the park? There are many in the Mariposa area and while you’re there, you can enjoy the ambiance of a real gold rush town. Hope you have a great time!