Glamping gets glamorous: under canvas opens near yosemite
Forget roughing it. The high-end camping experience, Under Canvas, has expanded its footprint, bringing a touch of luxury to the doorstep of Yosemite National Park. This isn’t your grandfather’s tent; it’s a meticulously designed escape, poised to redefine how we experience the great outdoors—and it's already becoming one of the most anticipated hotel openings of 2026.
A three-hour escape from the golden city
The journey to Under Canvas Yosemite begins with a three-hour drive east from San Francisco, a scenic route that culminates in a gravel turn-off just ten minutes before the Big Oak Flat park entrance. The transition from highway to campground is abrupt, but the welcome is anything but. Staff greet you, explaining the property's ethos – a blend of hotel comforts and wilderness immersion—and the rules (yes, there are rules, even in glamping). The most important? Disconnect. Wi-Fi is conspicuously absent, and cell service is practically nonexistent. Bears and other wildlife call this area home, so all food must be kept secured in your car or a communal bear-safe shed—a necessary, if slightly inconvenient, precaution.
Getting to your tent involves a ten-minute walk down a somewhat steep hill. Thankfully, golf carts are readily available to ferry guests and their luggage, a welcome amenity considering the terrain. The result, however, is worth the minor effort.
Inside the canvas: a luxurious retreat
The tents at Under Canvas Yosemite are a far cry from the canvas dwellings of yesteryear. My Suite tent, one of several sizes offered, was a spacious haven featuring a king-size bed, a comfortable seating area, and even a leather sofa bed. The details are exquisite: plush rugs, bedside nightstands, and, crucially, individual heating pads for each side of the bed—a thoughtful touch for chilly Yosemite nights. The ensuite bathroom, unexpectedly, was a highlight, surpassing the quality of many hotel bathrooms I've encountered. Running water, a low-flush toilet, and a spacious shower with quality bath products elevate the experience considerably.
Beyond the basic comforts, the tents are equipped with portable lanterns, USB chargers, and a small fan, ensuring a pleasant stay. A private deck, complete with two chairs, provides the perfect spot for morning coffee or evening stargazing – the night sky here is, predictably, spectacular.
Culinary delights and community spirit
Dining at Under Canvas Yosemite is a surprisingly sophisticated affair. The on-site restaurant, Embers, located within the lobby tent, offers an à la carte menu showcasing local ingredients. Breakfast options range from craft lattes to hearty sandwiches and decadent pancakes. Dinner is the true star, with dishes like marinated skirt steak and crispy Brussels sprouts earning high marks. A full wine and spirit menu, including refreshing mocktails, completes the culinary experience. While Hyatt Globalist perks don’t extend to complimentary breakfast at this Mr & Mrs Smith property, the quality of the offerings more than justifies the cost.
But the true magic of Under Canvas lies in its communal spaces. Evenings are spent gathered around fire pits, sharing stories and s'mores with fellow guests. It’s a refreshing antidote to the isolating nature of modern travel, a chance to reconnect with others and with oneself.
More than just a place to stay
Under Canvas Yosemite isn't just a hotel; it's a curated experience. Daily activities range from yoga to crafting, and an on-site experience coordinator can arrange private hikes or white-water rafting excursions. EV charging stations are available, and the staff, uniformly friendly and helpful, are eager to share their knowledge of the area. The property’s commitment to sustainability is evident throughout, from the pull-string showers to the focus on local sourcing. However, the lack of air conditioning could be a concern during the hottest summer months.
Booking a stay requires either cash or World of Hyatt points—though rates fluctuate dynamically. Given the rising cost of travel, a glamping escape might seem extravagant, but the combination of luxury, location, and community makes Under Canvas Yosemite a worthwhile investment for those seeking an unforgettable Yosemite adventure. The property’s location, just 10 minutes from the park entrance, provides a strategic advantage for exploring Yosemite Valley, a fact often overlooked by those opting for lodging within the park itself.