What’s new in Yosemite Mariposa County

In a place where so much remains unchanged, it’s easy to overlook what’s new.

There are many new ways to experience Yosemite Mariposa County in 2024 with all-new activities, places to stay and new dining experiences. Also don’t miss a host returning old favourites.

Stay at Wildhaven Glamping Yosemite 

Starting in March 2024, a new glamping experience arrives in Mariposa County. Wildhaven Yosemite will offer glamping tents and cozy cabins with mountain and valley views just outside Yosemite National Park. Located less than a mile from the historic town of Mariposa, the extra-large, safari-style tents and modular cabins with baths feature comfortable beds with linens, electricity, heaters, and all the furnishings needed. Reservations are available now.

Eat out at the new Happy Goat Dinner

Happy Goat Diner in Mariposa is Yosemite Mariposa County’s newest dining establishment. The Happy Goat Diner recently opened its doors in the heart of Mariposa. The farm-to-table restaurant serves updated American classic cuisine for breakfast and lunch with produce grown at the Happy Goat Farm just a few miles away. The farm was established in 2020 and is dedicated to serving the local community through a variety of programs including working with local schools. The Happy Goat Diner will be available in the evening for private groups, who can also experience the nearby farm.

Explore the reopening of High Sierra Camps

After a few years of closures due to Covid-19 and then record snowfalls in the winter of 2022 and 2023, the Yosemite High Sierra Camps plan to open again in summer 2024. Nestled high in the wilderness and surrounded by nature, the five camps are only accessible on foot or by mule. Guests are free to explore the backcountry, carrying only a day pack as they head out each day. Camps are spaced 6 to 10 miles apart along a loop trail and guided mule and hiking trips are available. The lottery for 2024 spots is open now. Reservations are via lottery only.

Celebrate the Redwoods at Yosemite turning 75 

The Redwoods in Yosemite is celebrating 75 years in business in 2024. In 1949, dozens of homeowners in the Wawona area of Yosemite National Park came together to preserve their family homes and share the wonder of these cabins with the public. The 120 homes are still individually owned and range in size from studios to 6 bedrooms, offering an incredible Yosemite experience for all kinds of explorers. The Redwoods in Yosemite operates like a hotel, offering a front desk, housekeeping and concierge-style services.

Enjoy Ahwahnee renovations 

After a year of improvement, the historic Ahwahnee in Yosemite Valley will complete structural seismic enhancements to update the hotel, kitchen and dining room. Since January 2023, areas of the hotel have been intermittently closed for renovations, most noticeably the stunning main dining room. The work was designed to strengthen the structure, replace ageing components and completely rehabilitate the kitchen. The Ahwahnee’s Dining Room is set to reopen in December 2023.

Visit the new Yosemite Welcome Centre

The new Yosemite Valley Welcome Centre is now open as the primary visitor information station for Yosemite Valley. The centre, located at the south end of the Village Store complex is open daily and staffed by National Park rangers and Yosemite Conservancy volunteers. The Yosemite Conservancy will also staff a bookstore and provide information about its programs.