Family Fun (or Frustration!): Our Honest Review of Yosemite Pines RV Resort and Family Lodging - Perfect for Families with Toddlers
Planning a family camping trip can be exciting, but also a little daunting, especially when you've got toddlers in tow. My husband Tom and I, along with our two little adventurers, 4-year-old Lily and 7-year-old Ben, recently returned from a 3-day/2-night stay at Yosemite Pines RV Resort and Family Lodging in California, and we're here to give you the lowdown. Was it the idyllic family getaway we dreamed of, or a chaotic mess of meltdowns and mosquito bites? Read on to find out! Our goal is to give you a Yosemite camping with kids review.
A glimpse of the family fun (and hopefully not frustration!) that awaits at Yosemite Pines RV Resort and Family Lodging.
Finding Our Way to Family Fun
Getting to Yosemite Pines RV Resort was relatively straightforward. We punched the address into Google Maps, and it led us right to the entrance. The last few miles were on a slightly winding road, but nothing too treacherous for our SUV. The signs leading up to the resort were clear and easy to spot, which was a relief after a long drive with the kids. We arrived at Yosemite Pines RV Resort with ease.
Setting Up Camp: Our Home Away From Home
Our campsite was surprisingly spacious, which was a huge plus. We had plenty of room to park our SUV, set up our tent, and let the kids run around without constantly bumping into things. The ground was a mix of dirt and gravel, so it was relatively level, making pitching the tent easier. Each campsite at Yosemite Pines camping comes with a picnic table and a fire pit, which were essential for meal times and evening s'mores.
While the site was mostly shady, we did notice a few ant hills nearby, so we made sure to keep our food well-sealed. Setting up the tent with two little helpers was…an experience. Let's just say patience is a virtue when camping with toddlers! But with some teamwork (and a few strategically placed snacks), we managed to get everything set up without too much drama. We felt like we had the best campgrounds near Yosemite National Park for our family!
Campground Rules: Keeping the Peace
The campground rules were clearly posted at the entrance and in the welcome packet. They were pretty standard: quiet hours after 10 pm, pet rules (leashes required, of course!), and fire safety guidelines. Everyone seemed to be respectful of the rules, which made for a pleasant and peaceful atmosphere. No loud music or disruptive behavior – just the sounds of nature and happy families enjoying their time together.
Bathroom & Shower Situation: Brace Yourselves
Okay, let's be honest – the bathroom and shower situation was probably the least glamorous part of the trip. While the facilities were generally clean, they were a bit dated and could use some updating. The showers had hot water, which was a major win after a day of hiking, but the water pressure was a bit weak. There were enough facilities to accommodate the number of campers, but during peak hours, there was sometimes a short wait.
Our advice? Bring shower shoes! And if you're not a morning person, try showering during off-peak hours to avoid the crowds. The bathrooms were cleaned regularly, but with so many little ones running around, it's always a good idea to pack some hand sanitizer. Family camping in California is amazing. But the bathrooms aren't always so glamorous!
Local Activities & Attractions: Adventures Await
Yosemite Pines RV Resort is conveniently located near Yosemite National Park, making it the perfect basecamp for exploring the park's many wonders. We managed to squeeze in a couple of amazing activities:
Hiking the Cook's Meadow Loop: This easy, mostly flat trail is perfect for families with toddlers. The views of Yosemite Valley and Half Dome are absolutely breathtaking, and the trail is stroller-friendly for those with even younger children. Lily loved spotting squirrels and birds along the way, and Ben enjoyed taking photos of the stunning scenery.
Swimming at the Merced River: The Merced River is a great place to cool off on a hot day. There are several shallow areas perfect for wading and splashing, and the kids had a blast building sandcastles on the riverbank. Just be sure to check the water conditions before swimming, and always supervise children closely.
We wished we had more time to explore the nearby town of Groveland, which boasts a charming Main Street with restaurants, shops, and historical sites. Next time, we'll definitely plan an extra day to explore the town and learn more about the area's rich history.
Enjoying some fun outdoor activities while camping!
Stargazing: A Celestial Spectacle
One of the highlights of our trip was the incredible stargazing. Away from the city lights, the night sky was ablaze with stars. We downloaded a stargazing app on our phones and spent an hour identifying constellations and planets. The kids were mesmerized by the sheer number of stars, and it was a truly magical experience. If you're planning a trip to Yosemite Pines RV Resort, be sure to pack a blanket and take some time to appreciate the beauty of the night sky.
Overall Impression & Recommendation: Worth the Trip?
So, would we recommend Yosemite Pines RV Resort to other families with toddlers? Absolutely! Despite a few minor inconveniences (like the dated bathrooms), the overall experience was fantastic. The spacious campsites, convenient location, and family-friendly amenities made it the perfect place for a memorable camping trip.
Here are the top 3 things we loved about Yosemite Pines RV Resort:
- Spacious campsites: Plenty of room to spread out and let the kids play.
- Convenient location: Close proximity to Yosemite National Park and other attractions.
- Family-friendly amenities: Playground, swimming pool, and organized activities for kids.
Here are a couple of areas for improvement:
- Bathroom and shower facilities: Could use some updating and better water pressure.
- Ant control: More proactive pest control around the campsites would be appreciated.
Overall, we give Yosemite Pines RV Resort a solid 4 out of 5 stars. It's a great choice for families with toddlers looking for an affordable and convenient camping experience near Yosemite National Park. Just be prepared for a few minor inconveniences, and you're sure to have a fantastic time! We were so grateful to find affordable camping near Yosemite National Park for our family. We will definitely go back!
Relaxing at camp at the end of the day!