A few months ago, my partner Jamie and our kids realized we had one last week of summer before school started. So, we decided to seize the moment and plan a three-day, two-night trip to Yosemite. It had been years since my last visit, and our kids were becoming quite the adventurers with their love for camping, so it felt like the perfect opportunity.
We opted for a stay at the HOUSEKEEPING camp, not entirely sure what to expect other than the fact that we wouldn’t need to bring our own tent. Upon arrival, we were pleasantly surprised by our accommodations. The setup resembled a canvas cabin with one concrete wall and a canvas roof extending over a porch. Inside, we found a double bed, a bunk bed, and some handy storage, plus the luxury of ELECTRICITY for charging our devices!
We were fortunate enough to score a site right by the river. The kids wasted no time skipping rocks and gazing at the towering mountains. Yosemite truly lives up to its reputation; the breathtaking beauty of nature is evident everywhere you turn—it’s almost overwhelming in the best way possible.
Here are a few highlights from our trip:
- Jr. Ranger Campfire: This was a fantastic way for the kids to learn about the park’s wildlife. There was plenty of discussion about bears, which made my son Max a bit anxious, but he thought the idea of sharing s’mores with a bear was amusing. Overall, it was a valuable lesson about respecting nature and understanding the wildlife that inhabits the area.
- Hiking Adventures: Our first full day began with a hike to Yosemite Falls. The trail was relatively easy, though arriving at a dry waterfall was a bit disappointing. We then headed to Bridalveil Fall, where we had seen water flowing upon entering the valley. The kids enjoyed this hike much more, as the steeper trail led to a stunning waterfall and a rocky area perfect for climbing. Of course, we kept an eye out for the warning signs about climbing safety.
- Biking Fun: We had a blast riding bikes! There are several rental stations in the park, and we chose to rent from the Curry Village station. Jamie and my daughter Lily used a bike with a trailer, while Max and I tackled a tandem bike. It took a little practice, but soon we were cruising along the well-marked paths that meander through the valley. We stopped for lunch at a lovely picnic spot near Degnan’s Deli, which offers excellent vegetarian options. On our way back, we treated ourselves to some ice cream in Curry Village.
- Swimming Time: After our bike ride, we followed the river behind our tent cabin and discovered a perfect swimming spot to cool off. The kids had a blast, with Max showcasing his cannonballs from a log while Lily happily played in the sand. The water was refreshingly chilly, yet invigorating, and the views were simply stunning!
Of course, we also indulged in s’mores, spotted deer and squirrels, enjoyed rock climbing, shared spooky stories, and gathered around campfires. If you’re considering a trip to Yosemite with your family, these suggestions should help set the stage for a fantastic experience.
All in all, our trip was short but sweet, with a long drive and plenty of excitement. We fell in love with the beauty of Yosemite and plan to return to explore it during a different season. For those interested in family planning, check out this article about the home insemination kit and also visit Intracervical Insemination for expert insights on the topic. If you’re looking for pregnancy resources, WebMD offers excellent information.
In summary, Yosemite offers a myriad of adventures for families, from hiking and biking to swimming and learning about nature. Embrace the opportunity for a memorable getaway filled with exploration and connection.