Evergreen Lodge is a 22-acre cabin resort surrounded by Stanislaus National Forest, about one mile from Yosemite National Park’s western border. The 90 cabins come in different sizes -- some perfect for newlyweds, others great for a large family -- and are rustic, cozy, and comfortable with large private decks. Techies beware: There are no phones or TVs in the cabins, and the Wi-Fi service in the recreation halls is less than reliable. It's a great spot for nature lovers, though, who want to be disconnected from the world for a bit and enjoy the serenity of the surrounding pine trees instead. Guests looking for something active to do will find it too -- there's some equipment for rent on-site, such as mountain bikes and snowshoes, plus fly fishing, bocce ball, rafting, horseback riding, and two recreational halls filled with games, books, and arts & crafts materials. And the outdoor pool opened in Spring 2012, making the Evergreen an even better spot for families.

The Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite is a 294-room, four-pearl hotel surrounded by Sierra National Forest, about two miles from the South Gate entrance of Yosemite National Park. It’s a comfortable enough place with a homey ambiance, and simple decor inspired by Native American and Southwestern patterns as well as the great wilderness just beyond its walls. It's a bit like a fancy hunting club’s headquarters -- the large, rustic reception area has high ceilings with dark wooden beams, and many cozy chairs and couches for relaxing. The rooms are modern and covered in rich autumn colors, though some of the furniture could use some sprucing up. The quaint cottages are a short walk from the main lodge and come with fireplaces and private balconies.

This 249-room budget hotel sits right in the heart of Yosemite Valley and within walking distance of the beautiful Yosemite Falls -- so guests going for location over charm might consider this option. It is significantly cheaper than the one other hotel right in the area, the more upscale Ahwahnee -- and the property reflects the lower rates. The room decor is probably going for "rustic," but it comes off as more outdated and just plain old, with cracked walls and loose screws. The two dining options on-site leave much to be desired -- one operates like a high school cafeteria and the other serves average food at fine dining prices. It's safe to say the location and low cost is about all that Yosemite Lodge at the Falls has going for it (plus a pool).

Half Dome Village is a community of cabins, tent cabins, and motel rooms along with some retail and dining establishments. The 48-acre property is located in the heart of Yosemite Valley right below Glacier Point and near Half Dome and Yosemite Village. The 499 accommodations are ideal for campers and visitors who want to experience the park and its attractions on a more rugged and communal level. Private bathrooms, heaters, electrical outlets, and phones are hard to come by, except in pricier units. Bigger motel rooms and cabins are outfitted with rustic decor, while the tent cabins are basically just for sleeping and getting dressed. There are no cooking facilities or campfire rings, but there’s a buffet-style cafeteria and spots to get pizza, coffee, and ice cream.

Monarch in Mariposa is a two-pearl hotel in central Mariposa, a short stroll from restaurants, shops, and the bus to Yosemite. The hotel offers a seasonal outdoor pool and accommodations are affordable for the area, but the overall quality here is subpar. Guest rooms and public spaces are dated well overdue for renovation, and the free continental breakfast gets mediocre reviews for taste and lack of variety. Amenities in the 47 spacious guest rooms are a highlight, as all come with 42-inch flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, microwaves, coffeemakers, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel’s nearby sister property Best Western Plus Yosemite Way Station Motel is a bit more expensive, but its guest rooms are in better condition, and it also offers hot items for breakfast.