BookResorts™ is an independent travel network offering over 100,000 hotels worldwide.is an independent travel network.

Wawona Hotel Yosemite National Park, California
Book Now Or call, 24/7+1 (888) 605-1350
Rooms & Suites Activities Gallery FAQs
Ready to book?Lowest online rate, free perks and upgrades.Book nowCall 24/7 · 888-605-1350
Hotel comparison guide

Wawona Hotel vs Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn

Wawona Hotel is a Victorian-era, in‑park Yosemite hotel and National Historic Landmark best for travelers who want historic character and direct access to south-park trails. Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn is a branded, family-friendly gateway hotel in Oakhurst that suits visitors who prefer predictable chain amenities and easy highway access to Yosemite.

Updated · about 23 km (14 mi) apart

Historic Wawona Hotel building with two-story veranda and fountain on the lawn at Wawona Hotel

Wawona Hotel

Victorian history · In‑park · Family-friendly

Best for staying inside Yosemite and experiencing historic Victorian lodging steps from trails and Mariposa Grove.

See rooms & suites
Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn, Oakhurst, California

Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn

Branded · Free breakfast · Pools & hot tubs

Best for predictable chain comforts, free full breakfast, more modern amenities and convenient Oakhurst location for south‑entrance access.

Quick Verdict: Wawona Hotel vs Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn

When Wawona Hotel wins: choose Wawona if you want to stay inside Yosemite National Park, value a National Historic Landmark setting, easy walking access to Wawona Meadow Loop and the Pioneer Yosemite History Center, and on‑site historic dining, golf and tennis. Note: the hotel is closed for a National Park Service condition assessment — check reopening updates before planning.

When Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn wins: choose the Best Western if you prefer a contemporary, full‑service chain property with indoor/outdoor leisure facilities (outdoor pool, 2 hot tubs), free full breakfast, more room types and easier booking/options in Oakhurst outside park boundaries.

Bottom line: Wawona is the pick for in‑park history and direct access to Mariposa Grove and meadow trails (when open); Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn is the practical choice for modern conveniences, family amenities, and lower‑effort access from Highway 41.

Call +1 (888) 605-1350Book Wawona Hotel

Wawona Hotel vs Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn – At a Glance

Side-by-side facts for Wawona Hotel and Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn
CategoryWawona HotelBest Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn
Overall vibeHistoric Victorian, low‑tech, park‑centeredContemporary branded hotel with family amenities
LocationInside Yosemite National Park near Wawona Meadow Loop and Mariposa GroveOakhurst on Highway 41, a highway gateway town south of the park
Size (rooms)104 guestrooms across six historic buildings133 air‑conditioned rooms
Built / eraVictorian main building from 1879; property established 1856Modern chain property (no historic claim listed)
Pools & hot tubsOne seasonal outdoor pool (typically June–September); no indoor pool listedOutdoor seasonal pool plus 2 hot tubs; indoor/outdoor leisure facilities listed
Restaurants & barsOne on‑site Dining Room (seasonal) and a piano lounge/sunroomYosemite Gateway restaurant on site and a bar/lounge; free full breakfast daily
Spa / fitnessNo verified on‑site spa or fitness center; outdoor activities (golf, tennis, hiking)Fitness facilities listed and business/banquet services; no named spa onsite
Accessibility & techWi‑Fi limited to Sun Room and Golf Shop; some wheelchair‑accessible public areas; no elevatorsFree WiFi in public areas, accessible rooms/options listed, assistive listening devices available
Parking & transportFree self/guest parking; no hotel shuttle verified; YARTS bus stops nearby seasonallyFree self parking; no accessible shuttle; nearest airport: Fresno (preferred)
Pet policyPets not permitted (service animals excepted)Pets allowed in specific rooms (fee applies; service animals exempt)
Known forHistoric character, on‑site nine‑hole golf course and in‑park locationChain reliability, complimentary full breakfast, family‑focused amenities

A Look Inside Wawona Hotel

Wawona Hotel: rooms & suitesRooms & suitesWawona Hotel: diningDining
See all photos →

Location: Wawona Hotel vs Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn

Wawona Hotel – Location

Inside Yosemite National Park near the South Entrance, Mariposa Grove and Wawona Meadow Loop.

  • On Wawona Road inside the park; short walk to the Pioneer Yosemite History Center and covered bridge.
  • About a 20‑minute drive to Mariposa Grove and roughly 45 minutes to Yosemite Valley.
  • Property is currently closed for a National Park Service condition assessment — confirm reopening before booking.

Choose Wawona for the experience of staying inside the park and immediate trail access (when open).

Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn – Location

Located on Highway 41 in Oakhurst, south of Yosemite’s park boundary with highway convenience.

  • Address: 40530 Highway 41, Oakhurst, CA; convenient drive north to Yosemite’s south entrance.
  • Approximately 14 mi / 23 km from Yosemite National Park (supplier listing reference).
  • Close to local services, restaurants, and attractions in Oakhurst such as Fresno Flats Historical Park.

Choose Best Western Plus for easy highway access and town services outside the park.

Rooms: Wawona Hotel vs Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn

Wawona Hotel – Rooms

Historic rooms with limited in‑room tech, set across multiple Victorian buildings.

  • 104 guestrooms across six buildings; 50 rooms with private baths and 54 with shared/central bathrooms.
  • Typical historic setup: no televisions or telephones in rooms (per historic property descriptions).
  • Wi‑Fi is complimentary but limited to common areas (Sun Room and Golf Shop), not guestrooms.

Expect basic, low‑tech rooms focused on historic character rather than modern in‑room amenities.

Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn – Rooms

A larger modern chain property offering many room types and accessible options.

  • 133 air‑conditioned rooms with a long list of room types (Queen, King, accessible, family suites).
  • Many rooms list amenities such as refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers and flat‑screen TVs.
  • Accessible room options available (mobility accessible, roll‑in shower, tubs) and some rooms allow pets with fees.

Expect modern, amenity‑rich guest rooms and more choice in bed types and accessibility features.

Dining & drinks: Wawona Hotel vs Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn

Wawona Hotel – Dining & drinks

One on‑site Dining Room plus a lounge; meal service is seasonal and not included in room rates.

  • Wawona Hotel Dining Room serves American comfort classics for breakfast, lunch and dinner (seasonal).
  • The Lounge/piano bar offers evening music and drinks on a limited schedule.
  • Meals are charged separately; reservations for dinner are commonly recommended.

Pick Wawona for historic dining ambiance inside the park when the restaurant is operating.

Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn – Dining & drinks

On‑site Yosemite Gateway restaurant and a bar/lounge, plus complimentary full breakfast daily.

  • Full free breakfast served daily (listed hours 6:00 AM–10:00 AM on supplier listing).
  • Yosemite Gateway restaurant serves hotel guests; bar/lounge available for evening drinks.
  • One on‑site restaurant and banquet/meeting dining options for groups.

Choose Best Western for included breakfast and consistent restaurant hours.

Pools & signature amenities

Wawona Hotel – Pools & signature amenities

Outdoor seasonal pool and unique in‑park recreational features.

  • One seasonal outdoor swimming pool, typically open June–September.
  • Historic nine‑hole golf course across the street (seasonal) and outdoor tennis courts.
  • Free parking and summer activities like BBQs and live piano music in the lounge.

Wawona focuses on outdoor, historic recreational amenities rather than modern spa/fitness facilities.

Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn – Pools & signature amenities

Leisure facilities geared to families and travelers wanting comfort and relaxation.

  • Outdoor seasonal pool plus 2 hot tubs; pool sun loungers and umbrellas listed.
  • Fitness facilities on site and barbecue grills for guest use.
  • Banquet hall/meeting rooms and family suites for larger groups.

Best Western offers more conventional leisure infrastructure (pools, hot tubs, fitness).

Accessibility & practical concerns

Wawona Hotel – Accessibility & practical concerns

Park‑style limitations and historic building constraints matter here.

  • Dining room, lobby and restrooms are wheelchair accessible; the property has no elevator service.
  • Wi‑Fi limited to shared areas; no verified airport shuttle or dedicated fitness center.
  • Pets are not permitted (service animals excepted); check reopening status before travel.

Wawona is authentic park lodging with some accessibility in public areas but historic limitations in guestroom layout.

Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn – Accessibility & practical concerns

A chain hotel with broader accessibility and service options.

  • Wheelchair accessible facilities and accessible room types listed; assistive listening devices available.
  • Free Wi‑Fi in public areas, 24‑hour front desk, laundry and business center services.
  • Pet rooms and pet fee policy documented (USD 25 per pet, per day listed); check room availability for pets.

Best Western is more straightforward for travelers needing accessible rooms, business services or pet‑friendly options.

Who Wins? Best Pick by Travel Style

Best for in‑park history & setting
Hotel lobby seating area with staircase and fireplace at Wawona Hotel

Wawona Hotel

Wawona Hotel — National Historic Landmark, Victorian architecture, immediate access to Wawona Meadow Loop and Mariposa Grove trails (when open).

Best for family amenities and pools
Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn, Oakhurst, California

Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn

Best Western Plus — outdoor pool, 2 hot tubs, fitness center and family suites make it an easier fit for families wanting modern leisure options.

Best for dining reliability & breakfast
Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn, Oakhurst, California

Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn

Best Western Plus — complimentary full breakfast daily and a hotel restaurant with regular hours.

Best for events and weddings
Stone fireplace and seating arrangement in the Wawona Hotel lobby

Wawona Hotel

Wawona Hotel — on‑site Sunroom venue, manicured lawns and a historic golf course provide distinctive settings for small to mid‑sized events.

Frequently asked questions

Wawona Hotel vs Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn: FAQs

See all FAQs →
Which hotel is inside Yosemite National Park?

Wawona Hotel is inside Yosemite National Park; Best Western Plus is in Oakhurst outside the park boundary.

Is Wawona Hotel currently open?

No — Wawona Hotel has been closed since December 2, 2024 for a National Park Service condition assessment with no announced reopening date. Check official park/concessioner sources before planning.

Which hotel has free breakfast?

Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn provides a complimentary full breakfast daily; Wawona Hotel’s dining room charges separately and operates seasonally.

Are pets allowed at either property?

Wawona Hotel does not permit pets (service animals excepted). Best Western Plus allows pets in specific rooms for a fee (USD 25 per pet, per day listed).

More Wawona Hotel Comparison Guides

Explore how Wawona Hotel stacks up against other hotels nearby:

Hotel lobby seating area with staircase and fireplace at Wawona Hotel
Book your stay

Near South Entrance & Mariposa Grove

  • Lowest rate guarantee
  • Complimentary perks & upgrades
  • 24/7 concierge
Check availability Call 888-605-1350
Offer terms

Price comparison & offer terms

These terms apply to the price comparison, Lowest Price Guarantee, free perks and concierge service shown on this site.

How we compare rates

The nightly rate shown is the lowest nightly rate we found for Wawona Hotel after searching every available night up to 12 months in advance, based on single occupancy (one guest). We compared that rate with publicly available rates on other online travel agencies (OTAs), such as Expedia, Hotels.com and similar sites, and show the price difference we found. We don't name the specific site each comparison came from.

Rates and availability change constantly. The rate for your dates, room type and number of guests may be different. The full price, including taxes and fees, is shown before you confirm.

Lowest Price Guarantee

Free perks & upgrades

24/7 concierge

General

BookResorts may change or end these offers at any time. These terms are in addition to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. BookResorts is an independent travel agency and is not affiliated with Wawona Hotel.
Legal

Terms & Conditions

Last updated: January 1, 2026

Please read these Terms carefully. They contain important information about limitations of our liability and the resolution of disputes through binding arbitration and a class action waiver (Section 16), and our right to change these Terms (Section 18).

1. Acceptance of these terms

These Terms & Conditions (the “Terms”) govern your access to and use of BookResorts and any booking you make through us. By using the site or making a reservation, you agree to these Terms. If you do not agree, please do not use the site.

2. Definitions

“We,” “us,” and “our” refer to BookResorts, operated by SVH Tours & Travel Services, Inc. “You” refers to the person using the site or making a reservation. A “Supplier” or “Travel Provider” is the hotel, resort, or other provider that supplies the travel services. “Travel Services” means the room stays and related services made available through us. “Content” means text, descriptions, images, reviews, and other material on the site.

3. Who we are

BookResorts is an independent online travel agency that acts as an intermediary between you and Suppliers. We are not a hotel, and we are not owned by, affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any hotel or brand featured on the site. When you book, your reservation is made with the Supplier through us as agent.

4. Eligibility & use of the site

You must be at least 18 years old (or the age of majority where you live) and able to enter a binding contract. You agree to use the site only to make legitimate reservations for yourself or for someone you are authorized to act for, to provide accurate and complete information, and to inform any other traveler of the terms that apply to their reservation.

5. Bookings & confirmation

All reservations are subject to availability and to the rate rules, restrictions, and policies shown at the time of booking. A reservation is confirmed only when you receive a confirmation from us. You are responsible for reviewing the rate rules (including cancellation terms) before you book.

6. Prices, fees, taxes & currency

Prices are shown in the currency indicated and include applicable taxes and fees unless stated otherwise; the total is displayed before you confirm. Our price may include a service fee and may differ from the rate offered directly by the Supplier. Currency conversions, where shown, are estimates. Certain taxes or resort fees may be collected by the Supplier at the property.

7. Cancellations, changes & refunds

Each rate carries its own cancellation policy, shown before you book (for example, non-refundable, or refundable up to a stated deadline). Refund eligibility and timing follow the policy attached to the rate you select. Service fees may be non-refundable. Failure to check in (“no-show”) may result in forfeiture of the amount paid, per the rate rules.

8. Your responsibilities

You are responsible for having valid identification and any required travel documents (such as a passport or visa), and for complying with the Supplier’s policies, including minimum check-in age, occupancy limits, deposits, and identification requirements. You are responsible for the accuracy of all guest information you provide.

9. Suppliers & third-party services

Suppliers are independent third parties. We are not liable for the acts, errors, omissions, representations, warranties, or negligence of any Supplier, or for the quality, condition, or safety of the travel services they provide. Any dispute regarding your stay or the services delivered is between you and the Supplier. Supplier terms and policies apply in addition to these Terms.

10. Third-party links

The site may contain links to third-party websites provided for your convenience. We do not control and are not responsible for those sites, and a link does not imply endorsement. Your use of any linked site is at your own risk and subject to that site’s terms.

11. Intellectual property

The site and its Content (excluding third-party trademarks) are owned by BookResorts or its licensors and are protected by law. Hotel names, logos, and trademarks are the property of their respective owners and are used only to identify the property being booked. You may not copy, scrape, or reuse any Content without permission.

12. Prohibited conduct

You agree not to use the site for any unlawful or fraudulent purpose; not to make speculative, false, or fraudulent reservations; not to use automated tools to access or scrape the site; and not to interfere with the site’s operation or security.

13. Reviews & user content

If you submit reviews or other content, you grant us a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use, display, and distribute it in connection with our services. You are responsible for what you submit, and we may remove content at our discretion.

14. Disclaimers

The site, its Content, and the travel services are provided on an “as is” and “as available” basis, without warranties of any kind, whether express or implied, including as to accuracy, availability, or fitness for a particular purpose. We do not warrant that listings, prices, or descriptions are error-free.

15. Limitation of liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, BookResorts will not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, punitive, or consequential damages arising out of or connected with your use of the site or any booking. If we are found liable, our total liability will not exceed the greater of (a) the fees you paid to BookResorts for the booking at issue, or (b) US$100. This limitation reflects the allocation of risk between us.

16. Dispute resolution

We want to resolve any concern quickly and fairly. Before pursuing a formal claim, you agree to first contact our support team at 888-605-1350 or support@bookresorts.com and give us 60 days to resolve the matter informally. If we are unable to resolve it, any dispute will be handled by the state or federal courts located in California, as set out in Section 17 (either party may still bring qualifying claims in small claims court).

17. Governing law & venue

These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of California, USA, without regard to conflict-of-laws rules. Any permitted court action will be brought exclusively in the state or federal courts located in Los Angeles County, California, and you consent to their jurisdiction.

18. Changes to these terms

We may update these Terms from time to time. The version in effect at the time of your booking applies to that booking. Your continued use of the site after changes take effect means you accept the updated Terms.

19. Force majeure

We are not responsible for any failure or delay caused by events beyond our reasonable control, including severe weather, natural disasters, pandemics, strikes, government actions, or Supplier closures.

20. Miscellaneous

If any provision is found unenforceable, the remaining provisions stay in effect. Our failure to enforce a provision is not a waiver. These Terms are the entire agreement between you and us regarding the site.

21. Contact

Questions about these Terms or a reservation? Call our support team, available 24/7, at 888-605-1350.
Legal

Privacy Policy

Last updated: January 1, 2026

This Privacy Policy explains how BookResorts collects, uses, shares, and protects your personal information when you use our site or make a booking. For the purposes of applicable data protection law, the data controller is SVH Tours & Travel Services, Inc. (operating as BookResorts).

1. Information you provide

When you search, book, or contact us, we collect information such as your name, email, phone number, billing and payment details, the names and details of other guests, your travel dates and preferences, and the content of your communications with us.

2. Information we collect automatically

When you use the site, we automatically collect technical and usage data such as your device and browser type, IP address, approximate location, pages viewed, referring URLs, and interactions with the site, using cookies and similar technologies.

3. Information from other sources

We may receive information about you from Suppliers, business partners, fraud-prevention services, and (if you choose to connect one) social media platforms.

4. How we use your information

We use your information to process and manage bookings; communicate with you about reservations; provide customer support; personalize your experience; send marketing where permitted (with the ability to opt out); analyze and improve the site; prevent fraud and secure our services; and comply with legal obligations.

5. How we share your information

To complete a booking, we share necessary details with the relevant hotel and room Suppliers and with payment processors. We may also share information with service providers who support our operations, with advertising and analytics partners, with our corporate affiliates, in connection with a business transfer, with authorities where required by law, and with your consent.

6. Cookies & tracking

We use essential, performance, functional, and advertising cookies and similar technologies. You can manage non-essential cookies through your browser and through our cookie settings. For more detail, see our Cookie Policy.

7. Your privacy rights

Depending on where you live, you may have the right to access, correct, delete, or restrict the use of your personal information, to data portability, and to opt out of marketing.

EEA/UK (GDPR): You may access, rectify, erase, restrict, or object to processing of your data, withdraw consent, and lodge a complaint with your local supervisory authority. We process data based on your consent, the performance of a contract, our legitimate interests, and legal obligations.

California (CCPA/CPRA): You may request to know, delete, or correct your personal information, and limit the use of sensitive personal information, without discrimination. We do not sell or share your personal information as those terms are defined under California law, so no opt-out is necessary. To exercise any of your rights, contact us at support@bookresorts.com; we verify requests before responding.

8. Data retention

We keep personal information for as long as needed to provide our services and to meet legal, tax, accounting, and dispute-resolution obligations.

9. Security

We use reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect your information. However, no method of transmission or storage is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

10. International transfers

Your information may be processed in countries other than where you live. Where required, we put appropriate safeguards in place (such as standard contractual clauses) for those transfers.

11. Children’s privacy

The site is intended for adults and is not directed to children. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 18 without appropriate consent.

12. Third-party links & social features

The site may contain links to, or features from, third-party services. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of those third parties; please review their policies.

13. Changes to this policy

We may update this policy from time to time. The “last updated” date above reflects the current version, and we will provide notice of material changes where required.

14. Contact us

Questions or privacy requests? Reach our support team, available 24/7, at 888-605-1350 or by email at support@bookresorts.com.
About BookResorts · Independent since 1993

A better way to book your hotel

BookResorts is a full-service, independent travel agency connecting travelers to unforgettable stays since 1993. Detailed hotel information, competitive all-in rates and 24/7 concierge support, all in one place.

Est. 199330+ years
100K+Hotels & resorts
200+Countries
24/7Concierge
This is not the official website of Wawona Hotel. BookResorts is an independent travel agency and is not owned by, affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by Wawona Hotel or its parent brand.

Why travelers choose BookResorts

Best available rates

We compare rates from top suppliers. Taxes and fees included, no hidden charges.

100,000+ hotels & resorts

200+ countries and 2,000+ cities, from all-inclusives to boutique stays.

24/7 concierge

Real travel specialists to build, change or help with your reservation anytime.

Full transparency

Honest details on every property: rooms, amenities and policies.

Trusted since 1993

Three decades as a full-service, independent travel agency.

Secure & protected

Every booking is handled securely and your information is protected.

How booking with us works

Questions about a reservation? Our team is here 24/7 at 888-605-1350.
Full details in our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Lowest Price + Free Perks

UsOthers
Nightly rate
Price guarantee✓
No hidden fees✓
Perks & upgrades✓
24/7 concierge✓
Check availability

vs. sites like Expedia, Hotels.com and other OTAs ·

Book by phone888-605-1350
Book nowLowest rates Call usAvailable 24/7
Photo viewer