Tenaya Lodge: "Lodging on the Outskirts of Yosemite" Top 5 Page for this destination Yosemite National Park Hotel Tip by VeronicaG

As I researched accommodations near Yosemite National Park, I discovered Tenaya Lodge in Fish Camp, California.

This location allows for easy access to Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, Glacier Point, Tenaya Lake, Tuolumne Meadows and Mariposa Grove.

The lodge was described as a "mountain retreat in the design of a grand alpine lodge".Guests have everything at their finger tips--wireless Internet, spa services, great dining and superb service.

Entering the lobby (picture 2), the stone fireplace and tall ceilings grabbed your attention. This was the ideal spot to 'chill' while waiting for your dinner reservation to be called! Most of the guest rooms have been renovated and are spacious, with thick comforters on the bed to slip beneath. (picture 3) Two nice gift shops were off the lobby.

There were two indoor dining rooms, plus a snack bar and outdoor dining on the patio. Each morning a buffet breakfast was served--ummm, I can still taste the bacon! At check-in, we were given two complimentary full breakfast buffet tickets for each day of our stay, but were charged for our grandson's meal.

Many activities could be scheduled at/from the hotel: we participated in some complimentary STARGAZING one evening, which allowed us to see Jupiter. On our last night we booked the Jamboree Cookout ($40 per adults;$20 per child).

A haywagon pulled by two strapping horses carted one and all to the cookout site, where we enjoyed a simple dinner, s'mores and singing around the campfire (picture 4). The kids learned how to lasso! (picture 5). It was a memorable evening.

We scheduled a full day of sightseeing with Yosemite Sightseeing Tours which departed from the hotel--it took us to all of the highlights without having to find a parking space. Afterall, the park was busy this time of year!

The hotel didn't forget the kids: there was an game arcade, rock wall and sparkling pool for their amusement. We had a terrific stay at Tenaya Lodge!

Address: 1122 Hwy. 42, Fish Camp, CA.
Comparison: more expensive than average
Directions: Near the entrance to Yosemite and Mariposa Grove
Phone: 559-683-6555
Price: US$180 and up
Theme: Hotel
Website: http://www.tenayalodge.com