Make These Campgrounds Home Base on Your Next Ski Trip

Badger Pass Ski Area proves good things come in small packages. Compared to other major ski resorts, Badger Pass is decidedly more compact (and more affordable!), but it’s also a classic – it’s the oldest ski resort in California. Plus, it offers some amazing perks. First and foremost, Badger Pass is located within the borders of Yosemite National Park. Also, it’s exceptionally family-friendly, offering Badger Pass Ski School since 1928 where both novices and those who need improvement can sharpen their skills. Oh, and don’t miss the opportunity to slide down the mountain snow tubing!

Yosemite Lakes RV Campground is just five miles from the west gate of Yosemite National Park on 400 pastoral acres. There are a host of lodging rental options including single bed rentals in the on-site hostel that start at just $39 and just-the-basics bunkhouses containing a double bed and twin bunk beds, then there’s the rustic cabins that sleep two to four with a full bathroom and kitchen featuring a gas cooktop, microwave, toaster, refrigerator, pots and pans, and, for your java-Jonesing, a coffee maker. Cottages offer a more spacious stay with a private bedroom with a queen size bed, private bunk beds, high ceilings, a stocked kitchenette and comfy living space. But the crème de la crème’ accommodations are the River Yurts with stunning views of the South Fork of the Tuolumne River. Sleeping five, you’ll want for nothing with a full kitchen, private baths, and amenities including satellite TV, gas stove heat and a swamp cooler for air conditioning, plus gas barbecue grills on the deck, fire rings and picnic tables.