Entire home

Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River

Riverside holiday home with private pool and kitchen

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Property grounds - Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River (El Portal)
TV, fireplace, DVD player, books - Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River (El Portal)
TV, fireplace, DVD player, books - Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River (El Portal)
Outdoor pool - Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River (El Portal)
TV, fireplace, DVD player, books - Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River (El Portal)
Located in the heart of El Portal, YOSEMITE'S RIVER HOUSE offers a serene retreat near Yosemite National Park. Unwind by the private in-ground swimming pool or on the large deck overlooking the Merced River. With a fully-equipped kitchen, 2 gas fireplaces, and comfortable seating areas this home is perfect for up to 8 guests.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathrooms130 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space

Add dates for prices

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River

YOSEMITE'S RIVER HOUSE (to receive an accurate quote, contact owner at 209-379-2458)...a newly re-modeled 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with a spectacular view of the Merced River. From its location close to Highway 140-- the 'All-Year Highway' to Yosemite National Park--you are only 5 miles to the Park boundary, and minutes to the incomparable Yosemite Valley. With a fully-equipped kitchen, 2 gas fireplaces, the ONLY private in-ground swimming pool among Yosemite area vacation rentals, and a large deck overlooking the river, YOSEMITE'S RIVER HOUSE is a year-round vacation destination from which to enjoy the sights, sounds, and recreational activities of the 'crown jewel of national parks'.

With 3 bedrooms and a sleeper sofa, YOSEMITE'S RIVER HOUSE can accommodate up to 8 guests. One bedroom has a queen bed, a gas fireplace surrounded by beautiful local rock, and a sublime river view. A second bedroom also has a queen bed, a pool view, and an adjoining full bathroom. The 3rd bedroom has a bunk bed, with a twin mattress on top and a double on bottom. A second full bathroom has been newly renovated in an Art Deco style. The kitchen has everything you'll need, and you'll love the view from the sink, watching the river roll by. The living room has ample comfortable seating, a stone fireplace with gas insert, a 42' HDTV, and DVD player. Wireless internet is also available.

The El Portal area has a fascinating history. The Yosemite Valley Railroad, which ran on what is now Incline road, operated from 1906 until 1942. Before Highway 140 was completed in 1926, the railroad carried passengers to El Portal, from where they would continue their journey to Yosemite via horse-drawn carriages, and later motor-coaches. On the return trip to Merced, the train carried sugar pine logs back to the sawmill.

YOSEMITE'S RIVER HOUSE is on Incline Road (the former railroad bed), a level, paved lane parallel to the Merced River. Because so few cars travel the road, it is ideal for walking, running, skating, and biking. Guests at YOSEMITE'S RIVER HOUSE can take advantage of a variety of seasonal activities in the area, including:

*river rafting, kayaking, and some of California's premier wildflower walks in the spring.
*swimming in the on-site pool and local swimming holes in the summer.
*downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing at family-friendly Badger Pass in the winter.
*trout and bass fishing in season.
*photography, hiking, bird and wildlife watching, rock hounding, and phenomenal star-gazing all year round.

Staying at YOSEMITE'S RIVER HOUSE is an affordable family vacation, especially when 2 families share the rental and food costs. Upon returning to the house after a day of fun activities, refresh by the pool or relax on the deck and listen to the soothing sounds of the Wild and Scenic Merced River. Cook outside on the gas BBQ, have a delightful meal outdoors, and savor your vacation at our unique location in El Portal, the Gateway to Yosemite.



Keywords: House

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach towels

Ski

  • Cross-country skiing nearby
  • Snowboarding nearby

Pool/Spa

  • Outdoor pool
  • Private pool

Internet

  • Available in the house: WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Car required
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster
  • Water dispenser

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • Games
  • TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • On a river
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Ice skating nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Mountain climbing nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Rock climbing nearby
  • Snorkelling nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Cleaning products are eco-friendly
  • Energy-saving switches in guestrooms
  • Garden
  • Recycling
  • Unit size: 1,400 square feet
  • Water dispenser
  • Water-efficient showers
  • Water-efficient toilets

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age - 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:30 AM

Special check-in instructions

An adult aged 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
Note from host: no charge for children 2 years old and younger

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

Property is also known as

Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River Property
Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River El Portal

About the area

Located in El Portal, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Yosemite National Park and Yosemite Valley. El Portal Market and Yosemite Museum are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
El Portal, CA

Getting around

  • Mariposa, CA (RMY-Mariposa-Yosemite) - 47 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The River Restaurant and Lounge - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Parkside Pizza - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Cedar Lodge Restaurant - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪The Pink Palace - ‬11 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

Is Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River?

Checkout is at 10:30 AM.

Where is Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is steps from Sierra National Forest and within 6 mi (10 km) of Yosemite National Park and El Portal Market. Merced River and Yosemite Arch Rock Gate Entrance are also within 9 miles (15 km).

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Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River Reviews

Reviews

Exceptional

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 283 out of 303 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 15 out of 303 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 303 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 303 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 303 reviews

9.8

Cleanliness

9.8

Location

9.0

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Yvette

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
A quiet and tranquil place for vacation. The kitchen is fully equipped. Heater works well. An ideal place to stay if you are going to Yosemite National Park.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Matthew Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location, clean and amenity-full

Our family of five enjoyed the property and the close location to Yosemite.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rishi S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice location near Yosemite!

It is really nice place on Merced River and Jo Ann is wonderful host!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Steven H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Vacation with friends near Yosemite

Wonderful location. Quiet, great views, enjoyed the sound of the rushing water in the river. Very convenient to the park.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ken W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Yosemite valley

Wonderful property with everything we needed for our stay. Plenty of space and the pool was amazing after a long day of hiking.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Andrea S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Home for Yosemite Visit

What a beautiful and well appointed home WITH THE BONUS OF A POOL outside of Yosemite NP.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

8/10 Good

Quentin F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy home

Great location, 30 minutes to Yosemite. House is well equipped with all the basics and very clean. Two gas fireplaces one in the living room and one in the bedroom. Great location near the river. One bedroom was very comfortable.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Scott G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing & Beautiful Location

Great property with an incredible location near Yosemite! I highly recommend this property for anybody looking for a home with convenient access to the national park.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

William E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Yosemite Perfect

Great location to next to the park. Quiet and next to the river. Would definitely stay again. The house had everything we needed.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Debbie B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great house, great location

The house was great...clean, comfortable and relaxing. Great location to explore Yosemite and great to be able to cool off in the pool.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Alice P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great house & location

Loved the river view and the pool. Would definitely go back.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kelly P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Breathtaking views!

This secluded one of a kind property was perfect for our Yosemite trip with family. Loved the river view, mountain view and visiting wildlife. Even saw some baby quails.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Steven B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Yosemite - Early August

We had a wonderful stay at the home (3 Adults / 5 kids). Plenty of space, air conditioned, and all the amenities - kitchen was well appointed, pool was fantastic, quiet setting next to the Merced! Would stay here again!! Hosts were attentive and great communication.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tracy F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location!

Great home with ideal location for exploring Yosemite! Accurate online description of the space, great instructions on how to arrive to property given from the host. Property has all the basics you might need, so nice! I agree with other reviews not to count on the sofa bed- the mattress and frame are too uncomfortable to sleep on at this point. That said, I would definitely return to this property in the future- host was helpful and the location is incredible!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Filip G., Belgium

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great house!

We had a great holiday in the house! Everything was perfect. We recommend it as it is a clean, well equipped house.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Denis k.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Secluded river house

Stayed here two nights to visit Yosemite valley. Very close to park gate. Loved the sound of the river as we fell asleep. The stars were exceptional due to almost no lights around from neighbors. Kitchen was very well supplied with good cookware. Really enjoyed our brief visit.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tonia B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful retreat

The house was a welcome retreat after spending time in the crowded parks. The pool was a refreshing bonus. Private and peaceful, this home exceeded our expectations!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kathleen W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Yosemite Family Home Away From Home!

We were very comfortable in this nice house with wonderful views of the river and the nearby mountains. Our favorite things about this house were the warm gas fireplace in the livingroom and complete kitchen. The property is only minutes from a Park entrance.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gary W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous

Everything about the house was amazing. Extremely well stocked in every way. So peaceful on the deck overlooking the Merced river. Swimming pool was wonderful. Gas fireplace a real treat. Very close to Yosemite National Park. Had a glorious time and hope to be back.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bryan b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Yosemite

My fiancé , my son and a few friends and 2 toddlers stayed on our vacation to Yosemite , PERFECT location 20 minutes to park entrance , the house was great ! The pool is absolutely amazing , what a back yard !! The hosts were also incredible, thank you for everything !!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

8/10 Good

Ruben & Bonnie S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quite Home close to Yosemite

Very quaint home on a private road, sitting peacefully quiet overlooking the Merced river and away from the Hwy. Sitting just south of Yosemite View Lodge, it is an ideal location for a family visiting Yosemite while enjoying a full home. We visit during the summer but can see this as a wonderful summer stay too. The fireplace in the living room was broken but there was a second fireplace to enjoy in one of the bigger bedrooms. The kitchen was well stocked with appliances and the Grill was well maintained. Can see visiting here again when weather is better for pool fun or being by the nearby riverside sands.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tamara C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Could not have asked for better!

We were awe struck when we pulled up to our house. The beauty of the river, trees, deck and pool was so impressive, more than we could have asked for. The house was emaculate. Everything was so nice and clean, including the pool and only 15 minutes from the park gate.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laura L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely Property

Great location- easy access to park. Clean house, well stocked, nice pool and grounds. Not a lot of choices for restaurants or grocery though (El Portal is VERY small and the grocery store extremely limited, especially for meat and veg. Not really any restaurants either unless you drive to Mariposa or into the park). Highly advise bringing a cooler of food with you and cooking at the house.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exceeded my expectations

JoAnn's house is lovely and comfortable with a 10-star location. Some of our favorite features were: -- Quick access to Yosemite Valley by car, close enough to come back for an afternoon rest then head back to the park -- Sleeping to the sound of the Merced River -- Plenty of room for our 18-year-old son and his friend -- Excellent wifi -- Gazing at the river while having coffee on the deck -- Easy safe access to a running route for our athletic young men -- Pool and comfy couches for less-athletic, less-young parents
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Close to Yosemite

Beautiful setting on the Merced River. Very peaceful. Close to Arch Rock Yosemite entrance. Weather was perfect for hiking, but too cool to use the pool! No real grocery stores nearby so come prepared. We had good communication with hosts. Directions to home were spot on. We had a wonderful time.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024