Entire home

Closest Home to Yosemite Valley on the Merced River

Riverside holiday home with private pool and kitchen

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Exterior
Large deck with two dining tables, BBQ, and big views of river and mountains
Enjoy gorgeous mountain and river views while visiting or dining on the deck
Walk, bike, or skate along the historic YV railroad bed next to the Merced River
Craggy peaks rise high above the river view from the deck

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8130.1 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View map
El Portal, CA
  • Place, El Portal Market
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Place, Yosemite Arch Rock Gate Entrance
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Place, Yosemite Valley
    ‪13 min drive‬
  • Airport, Mariposa, CA (RMY-Mariposa-Yosemite)
    ‪35 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Single Bunk Bed

Convertible bed(s)

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

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

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Amenities

Pool
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 10:30 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
No charge for children 2 years old and younger
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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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

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

El Portal

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

What's nearby

  • El Portal Market - 5 min drive - 8.0 km
  • Yosemite Arch Rock Gate Entrance - 10 min drive - 15.2 km
  • Yosemite Valley - 13 min drive - 19.2 km
  • Tunnel View - 21 min drive - 27.5 km
  • Badger Pass Ski Area - 39 min drive - 49.8 km

Getting around

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

Restaurants

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

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).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

9.8/10

Cleanliness

8.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.8/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy
Rating 10 - Excellent. 282 out of 302 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 15 out of 302 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 302 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 302 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 302 reviews

Reviews

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

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

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

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

10/10 Excellent

Kurt D.

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

Loved River House!

Our family of 8 loved staying at Joann’s property! We stayed 4 nights and it was great coming back to relax away from the crowds after each day of hiking in Yosemite. We vacationed with our 5 kids and son-in-law and felt like we had adequate space to spread out. One day the guys hiked Half Dome while the rest of us relaxed by the pool and just enjoyed the house. Thanks, Joann, for sharing your home with us! We hope to come back some day!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025

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

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

Reagan B.

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

Great House with easy access to Yosemite

We loved this quiet secluded house with a beautiful view and our kids really enjoyed the pool! Has easy Access to the arch entrance of Yosemite, which is the entrance closest to the valley. One small suggestion would be to add fans, either ceiling or portable. While the house gets plenty cool even in summer, it was a bit stuffy. This didn’t change our overall opinion of the house though. We really enjoyed our stay here and would definitely stay again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Adam N., Corona, USA

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

Will stay again!

We had a great time in their home. Location was prime and the view was awesome! The home had everything we needed and more. We will definitely book again!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

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

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

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

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

sandra s.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
5 Stars – A Total Gem!This place was an absolute dream! The location? Perfect. We were close to everything, but still felt like we had our own private slice of paradise. The pool was the star of the show—sparkling clean, great for both lazy lounging and fun splashing around. Inside, the house was spotless and fully stocked with everything we could possibly need. You can tell the owners really thought of everything—from comfy beds to a well-equipped kitchen.And the star gazing? Don’t even get me started. We spent our nights floating in the pool or lounging on the patio, staring up at the most magical night skies we’ve ever seen. Pure bliss.Honestly, we didn’t want to leave. If you’re even thinking about booking this place—do it! Can’t say enough good things. Already planning our next
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

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

Dennis B., Urbandale, IA

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

Yosemite

This home really fit our needs on our visit to Yosemite. We were a bit surprised with the lack of cellular service but the property had a landline and Internet service that were greatly appreciated. Beautiful home overlooking the Merced river where we spent many days listening to the Merced and many nights looking at the stars.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

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

10/10 Excellent

Carla P.

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

Wonderful home base just outside Yosemite

We were 2 adults & 2 teenage boys on a 5-day hiking trip to Yosemite before school starts. Our camping reservations were cancelled on us so we scrambled to find new lodging. What luck that we found Jo Ann's River House! The house was just wonderful to come home to after many hours on the trails - lots of space to spread out, we all had our own bedroom, pool to splash around and unwind, air conditioning to beat the summer heat, full sized kitchen where we cooked all our dinners, deck to lounge on after dinner when the temperature cooled down, TV and internet if you wanted to stay plugged in, washer & dryer so we left with no dirty clothes. All this while being just 15 mins from the entrance to Yosemite. It was a lot more than our tent cabin reservations, lol, but boy was it worth it!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Iris G.

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the host

Hosted by Harvey Holland and Jo Ann Belforte

Host profile image
We have lived in the area for almost 40 years. Harvey is a local real estate agent and woodworker, and Jo Ann is a physical therapist. We have 2 children, 5 grandchildren, a 1 great-grandson. Our knowledge of the area can help our guests have a memorable Yosemite experience.

Why they chose this property

Located on one of the few parcels of private property in the Yosemite area, this house has many benefits that have made it a successful vacation rental. The location is very close to Yosemite, the Merced River flows right by the house, and the private in-ground pool are just a few of the features that our guests have loved.

What makes this property unique

The waterfalls of Yosemite flow into the Merced River, which guests can view from the deck of our home. In the summer, our pool provides a welcome relief after hiking in the Park. In the spring, the hills are alive with an array of dazzling wildflowers. The house is a 45 minute drive from Badger Pass, a family-friendly ski area.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests