Entire home

Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River

El Portal vacation home with private pool

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Property grounds
Exterior
Outdoor pool
TV, fireplace, DVD player, books
Outdoor dining

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathrooms130 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space

Explore the area

View in a map
El Portal, CA
  • Place, Merced River
    ‪20 min walk‬
  • Place, Yosemite Arch Rock Gate Entrance
    ‪14 min drive‬
  • Place, Yosemite Valley
    ‪18 min drive‬
  • Airport, Mariposa, CA (RMY-Mariposa-Yosemite)
    ‪48 min drive‬

Room options

About the area

El Portal

On river.A stay at this vacation home places you within half a mile (1 km) of Sierra National Forest and 6 miles (10 km) of Yosemite National Park. El Portal Market and Merced River are also within 6 miles (10 km).

What's nearby

  • Merced River - 20 min walk - 1.7 km
  • Yosemite Arch Rock Gate Entrance - 14 min drive - 15.2 km
  • Yosemite Valley - 18 min drive - 19.2 km
  • Yosemite Visitor Center - 40 min drive - 36.6 km
  • The Ahwahnee - 43 min drive - 38.0 km

Getting around

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

Restaurants

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

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

Similar properties

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 transportation

  • Car required
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

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

  • Smoking not allowed

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
  • Snorkeling 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

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 age 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

  • No pets 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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
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
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock in each accommodation.

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

Frequently asked questions

How close is Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River to the airport?

This vacation home is 31.8 mi (47-min drive) away from the Mariposa, CA (RMY-Mariposa-Yosemite) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

Does Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this vacation home.

How close is Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River to the beach?

This vacation home is 15.8 mi (32-min drive) from Cathedral Beach.

Does Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River offer free breakfast?

This vacation home does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River?

No, there is no casino at this vacation home.

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

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

Is there free parking at Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River?

Free parking is not available at this vacation home.

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

This vacation home features an outdoor pool.

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

There are no spa services available at this vacation home.

How close is Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River to downtown El Portal?

This vacation home is 3.2 mi away from El Portal.

Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 287 out of 308 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 15 out of 308 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 4 out of 308 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 308 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 308 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

9.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Beverly B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Well appointed, peaceful place to stay. Thank you JoAnn for your hospitality and kindness.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

stacey s.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The kitchen was great - very well-supplied! The whole house was very clean. We loved the location and the pool. Jo Ann was very responsive in answering our questions. We’d stay there again.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

6/10 Okay

Vee T.

Liked: Check-in, location
Disliked: Cleanliness, communication
We checked-in at night, it was a
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Zac M.

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

Nice location for exploring Yosemite Valley

Enjoyed our stay and the pool
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Iris G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely placedQuiet, and very beautiful
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was clean. The location was perfect. The host was responsive. This is the PERFECT place to stay if visiting Yosemite.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Deborah K.

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

TERRIFIC!

Fantastic place to stay!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kevin T.

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

Merced River house

We really enjoyed our stay! Very convenient to Yosemite and a great place to take a break from crowds in the park.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Thomas V.

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

Wonderful stay and setting

We loved the property; the location, setting and pool were amazing! What a chance to see Yosemite from a super property!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kevin L.

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

Great Home and Great Location

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in El Portal. Easy drive into Yosemite and beautiful home and surroundings. We would definitely stay here again!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alicia V.

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

Great time

Had a great time - the house is perfect. Would love to come again!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shelley N.

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

Perfect for Yosemite

Jo Ann's house is perfect for a visit to Yosemite! It is only about 15 min from the entrance to the park. The house is well stocked and squeaky clean. The pool was a wonderful perk and we enjoyed it every afternoon!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chantelle E.

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

Great location

We celebrated my baby girls 2nd birthday in Yosemite and loved our stay
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lissa M.

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

Our Stay in El Portal

Wonderful house, great hosts, a fine and enjoyable experience. Thanks. We loved staying at the Incline Drive house.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Erin V.

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

Gorgeous Property!

Couldn’t have a more beautiful spot next to a river and surrounded by mountains. My three girls loved the pool and we enjoyed sitting on the deck in the early morning and evening. House was clean and close to the park entrance. Highly recommend!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

kelly s.

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

Great location to Yosemite!

Good time!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

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
Verified

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