Take A Dip
No summer vacation would be complete without a refreshing dip in the sparkling water. Yosemite National Park offers a range of swimming opportunities—from rivers and lakes to our family-friendly pools, which are the only swimming places in Yosemite with lifeguards. River and lake swimming is at-your-own-risk. Life jackets are strongly recommended—especially for children.
River & Lake Swimming
A favorite for swimmers of all ages, the Merced River at the eastern end of Yosemite Valley offers soft, sandy beaches--perfect for spending an afternoon sunning and splashing. Tuolumne Meadows and the Park's High Sierra Camps also have some wonderful, secluded swimming areas.
- Help protect the river by entering and exiting only on sandy beaches
- Stay informed on swiftwater and other potential hazards in order have a safe and enjoyable swim
Pool Swimming
Curry Village and Yosemite Valley Lodge offer swimming pools that all park guests are welcome to use. Guests staying at the hotels can swim free. Visitors not staying at the hotels can pay a small fee to swim (see below). The Ahwahnee pool and Wawona Hotel Pool are available only for guests staying at that specific lodge.
- Use of our swimming pools is free to our overnight guests.
- Non-lodging guests may use the pools at Curry Village and Yosemite Valley Lodge:
- $5.00 per adult per day
- $3.00 per child (12 and under) per day
Lifeguards are on duty at Curry Village and Yosemite Valley Lodge. All pools are open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, when conditions permit. Check the Yosemite Guide for current hours.
