Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort

This rustic resort’s proximity to Yosemite and varied accommodations attract a diverse mix of guests. Expect to see international backpackers staying in the dorms, and budget-conscious couples and families overnighting in the private cabins and tent cabins. While the various accommodations are widely scattered, guests come together in the June Bug Café that stays busy all day. It’s a large and open space with eclectic art, a fireplace, and lots of wood. Among the many spots to sit are several communal tables that encourage mingling. This lively place is indicative of the friendly and laid back vibe that characterizes the resort, which is peaceful after everyone settles in for the evening.

The Cedar Lodge is located along the Central Yosemite Highway (140) that stays open all year and runs into Yosemite National Park’s west entrance. It’s in a peaceful yet isolated hillside setting surrounded by woods and scenic mountains. It’s a one-hour drive east to the Yosemite Valley Visitors Center inside the national park. The Yosemite Valley Shuttle that stops in front of the resort takes visitors (for a fee) to the Visitors Center in about 90 minutes. Several hotels and restaurants are located in Mariposa, which is 16 minutes driving southwest. Modesto is approximately 90 minutes away by car, while Sacramento and San Francisco are about three hours by car. 

The accommodations at this budget resort include same-sex and coed dorms, insulated tent cabins with beds and shared bathrooms, and private cabins with private or shared bathrooms. They are all clean and generally well maintained, but the dorms and tent cabins are rather spartan, and their shared bathrooms are worn and dated. All tent cabins have electricity, but only some are heated, and some of them are a five-minute walk from bathrooms. The private cabins offer ample space for comfort and are individually decorated in an eclectic fashion. For example, the Starr King A cabin features a rather garish motif of neon colors and decorations like feather boas and a large Mardi Gras mask. Conversely, the Solomon Mine A cabin has traditional decor with dark wood antiques and Victorian theme artwork. All of the cabins we saw had solid-color carpet, lots of art or vintage photos, and covered decks with simple plastic resin furniture. The private bathrooms are comfortably sized, but typical of what’s seen in a budget motel, with pedestal sinks and small shower inserts. Hairdryers and toiletries are provided in all of the accommodations, but phones and TVs are not. Daily housekeeping is standard as well.

This budget resort and campground complex has some surprising amenities, especially given its pearl rating. The biggest surprise is the spa on site that offers treatments including massage and body scrubs. Access to the facilities such as the sauna and huge stainless steel whirlpool require a daily fee. Yoga classes are conducted on weekends as well. 

For dining, the June Bug Café serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner at reasonable prices with a focus on fresh local ingredients. A good selection of regional wine and craft beer are also sold. Event space includes the Bodie Room that can accommodate up to 120 people. Guests looking to make their own meals can use the communal kitchen, and there's a communal laundry room as well. 

The resort's gift shop sells sundries, clothes, and souvenirs. It also has a phone for guests that don’t have cell service (coverage is spotty or non-existent for some carriers). Free Wi-Fi is accessible in the café and other public spaces, and there is a computer with internet access that guests can use. Parking is free but scattered about the sprawling complex, which sometimes requires a steep climb up steps or paths to reach.