Under Canvas Yosemite

Under Canvas Yosemite, a Michelin Key Selected property, offers a distinctive "glamping" experience, blending immersion in nature with the comforts of high-end hospitality near one of America's most iconic national parks.

Overall Rating & Sentiment

As a newly launched property (scheduled to open in 2025/2026 for its inaugural season), Under Canvas Yosemite has yet to accumulate a substantial number of verified guest reviews. The Michelin Guide, which selected the property, notes "No verified stays yet" for guest feedback. However, the brand is generally acclaimed for delivering an "epitome of luxury camping," creating a serene retreat that allows guests to connect with the outdoors without sacrificing comfort and style. Early sentiment, primarily from online discussions related to its delayed opening, has highlighted some initial operational hurdles and cancellations.

Key Highlights

Guests are expected to appreciate the unique blend of nature and luxury. Key highlights include the elegant safari-style tents, the serene forested setting, and the convenient access to Yosemite National Park. The property emphasizes a connection to nature with amenities like nightly campfires featuring complimentary s'mores, open-air yoga sessions, and guided programming. The main lobby tent, furnished by West Elm, provides a comfortable communal space.

Room Quality

The accommodations consist of elegant white safari-style tents, designed to provide both comfort and an immersive outdoor experience. Each tent is outfitted with a king-sized bed, plush linens, upscale modern furnishings, and a private deck. A significant feature is the en-suite bathroom, which includes a hot shower, sink, and flushing toilet, along with organic bath products. For added comfort, tents offer in-tent heating, USB charging packs, and bedside lanterns. Specialized options like the "Stargazer Tent" boast a viewing window directly above the bed for an unparalleled stargazing experience, while "Suite Tents" are available for families.

Dining Experience

The dining experience at Under Canvas Yosemite centers around a café-style restaurant located in the airy lobby tent, offering both indoor and outdoor seating. "Embers," the on-site restaurant, serves seasonally inspired Californian cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Breakfast options include items like yogurt with granola, banana, chocolate, Graham crackers ("Good S'morning"), and vanilla French toast. Dinner features small bites, fresh salads, charcuterie plates, and fresh fish. The restaurant is family-friendly and accommodates dietary needs with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Grab-and-go meals are also available for guests heading out to explore. A strict "no food in tents" policy is in place to maintain the pristine natural surroundings. While complimentary coffee and tea are available, breakfast is not included in the room rate and costs between $10-$20.

Service & Staff

While specific guest reviews for Under Canvas Yosemite's service are not yet widely available due to its recent opening, the brand typically provides guest experience coordinators to assist with booking local excursions, such as guided hikes, rock climbing, and fly fishing. Feedback from employees across the Under Canvas brand indicates a varied experience; some praise the "nice team" and "amazing management" at other locations, while others report "low pay for work involved," "disorganized management," and "incredibly toxic and incompetent management."

Location & Accessibility

Under Canvas Yosemite is strategically located on 85 forested acres, approximately 10 to 15 minutes from the Big Oak Flat Entrance, the west entrance of Yosemite National Park. A significant advantage is the presence of a Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) shuttle stop directly across from the camp's entrance, providing convenient car-free access into the national park. Free self-parking is also available on-site. The property is situated in Groveland, accessible from the San Francisco Bay Area and Sacramento. Nearby attractions include Rainbow Pool, Tuolumne River, and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias.

Value & Pricing

Under Canvas Yosemite is positioned as an upscale glamping destination, offering a luxurious outdoor experience that commands a premium price. Average room rates typically range from $451 to $500, with some starting rates noted at $319 per night. This pricing reflects the unique combination of immersion in nature with hotel-like amenities and services, making it a valuable choice for those seeking an "exclusive experience" rather than traditional, budget-friendly camping.

Common Complaints

The primary complaints and criticisms surrounding Under Canvas Yosemite have emerged prior to and during its initial operational phase. The property experienced significant delays in opening, with reservations being canceled due to issues with obtaining necessary approvals and not meeting California code. Notably, one former employee's Reddit post mentioned a severe rat infestation at the Yosemite site as a major contributing factor to the failed opening, citing hundreds of rats caught and piles of droppings in tents. Beyond the specific Yosemite opening issues, general complaints regarding the Under Canvas brand (not specific to this location or verified guest reviews for it) have included concerns about "false advertising" regarding amenities and restaurant details, and perceived poor customer service from management.

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