Best Value Hotels in Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite's Big Tree Lodge is not only one of the oldest mountain resorts in California, but is also a National Historic Landmark. Located between the Mariposa Groves and tourist hot spot Yosemite Valley, the hotel occupies its own patch of secluded property of streams and forest. This Victorian-style property was built in 1876 and is filled with classic period pieces, portraits, patterned wallpaper, and genuine antiques. Rooms are cozy and charming, though 50 of the hotel's 104 rooms lack private baths. Staying true to its roots, the hotel has no phones or TVs, but it does offer Wi-Fi in a few common areas. There is just one dining option on-site -- where evenings include live piano music -- and Yosemite Valley is a 45-minute drive away.

This 249-room budget hotel sits right in the heart of Yosemite Valley and within walking distance of the beautiful Yosemite Falls -- so guests going for location over charm might consider this option. It is significantly cheaper than the one other hotel right in the area, the more upscale Ahwahnee -- and the property reflects the lower rates. The room decor is probably going for "rustic," but it comes off as more outdated and just plain old, with cracked walls and loose screws. The two dining options on-site leave much to be desired -- one operates like a high school cafeteria and the other serves average food at fine dining prices. It's safe to say the location and low cost is about all that Yosemite Lodge at the Falls has going for it (plus a pool).

Half Dome Village is a community of cabins, tent cabins, and motel rooms along with some retail and dining establishments. The 48-acre property is located in the heart of Yosemite Valley right below Glacier Point and near Half Dome and Yosemite Village. The 499 accommodations are ideal for campers and visitors who want to experience the park and its attractions on a more rugged and communal level. Private bathrooms, heaters, electrical outlets, and phones are hard to come by, except in pricier units. Bigger motel rooms and cabins are outfitted with rustic decor, while the tent cabins are basically just for sleeping and getting dressed. There are no cooking facilities or campfire rings, but there’s a buffet-style cafeteria and spots to get pizza, coffee, and ice cream.

Monarch in Mariposa is a two-pearl hotel in central Mariposa, a short stroll from restaurants, shops, and the bus to Yosemite. The hotel offers a seasonal outdoor pool and accommodations are affordable for the area, but the overall quality here is subpar. Guest rooms and public spaces are dated well overdue for renovation, and the free continental breakfast gets mediocre reviews for taste and lack of variety. Amenities in the 47 spacious guest rooms are a highlight, as all come with 42-inch flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, microwaves, coffeemakers, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel’s nearby sister property Best Western Plus Yosemite Way Station Motel is a bit more expensive, but its guest rooms are in better condition, and it also offers hot items for breakfast.