New Yosemite Visitor Center

Representative Jeff Denham has introduced bipartisan legislation in Congress that would allow the National Park Service to acquire up to 18 acres of land from Mariposa County in order to establish a visitor center for Yosemite National Park. In his proposal Denham says that the acquisition would have no cost to taxpayers because the funds for acquiring the land would come from revenues earned through visitation to the park. A Yosemite visitor center on the Mariposa side of the park is a much-needed addition to Yosemite National Park. By establishing a new visitor center through this proposed land acquisition, Yosemite could significantly decrease traffic at its current entrance station while also enhancing visitor education by providing easier access to park resources. The new Yosemite visitor center would also be a great advancement in the eyes of park workers, most of whom live in Mariposa County. Many Yosemite National Park employees currently have to commute over an hour from Mariposa County across Yosemite to the opposite side of the park in order to get to their desk jobs. These employees could save hours each week on their commutes and get more done at work with a more conveniently located visitor center. Denham's proposed plan has support from both Democrats and Republicans who see the proposed land purchase as a win-win situation for the National Park Service, visitors to the park, and employees of Yosemite National Park. All parties hope that Denham’s legislation will go through quickly, that the land purchase process will be simple, and that a new Yosemite visitor center with enhanced orientation services in Mariposa will be built as soon as possible. Residents of Mariposa County are particularly pleased by the proposed partnership between their county and Yosemite National Park as so many Mariposa residents either work in the park, have family who work in the park, or simply love Yosemite. The general sentiment of Mariposa residents towards the park is extremely positive and residents are very receptive to the idea of bringing Yosemite visitor services into their community. Denham’s legislation was introduced in tandem with legislation from Sam Farr to upgrade Pinnacles National Monument in San Benito County, CA, to National Park status. Lodging within the Gates of Yosemite It may take a while for a new Mariposa visitor center to become a reality, but you don't have to wait to enjoy a wonderful Yosemite vacation. Scenic Wonders offers Yosemite lodging within the gates of Yosemite National Park. You can reserve a cabin, condominium, or home located just minutes from your favorite Yosemite activities. By making your Yosemite reservations with Scenic Wonders, you'll get to enjoy all the comforts of home while exploring the untamed wilderness of Yosemite. Enjoy the difference that having a full house to relax in makes versus staying in a cramped hotel room. Not only will you have a better Yosemite vacation experience, you'll receive much more bang for your buck. Don't believe us? Call now at 1-888-YOSEMITE (1-888-967-3648) to learn about Scenic Wonders’ available rentals and rates. You'll be surprised how much space and comfort you can have. Yosemite National Park Blog Our Yosemite National Park blog offers readers up-to-date news, information on park activities and also lodging suggestions. Photo credit: sota-k