Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center (V21)
The original visitor's center for the Park is now a conservation and natural history library, a museum, and a lecture hall.
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Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center (V21) Details
Originally named for named for California geologist and early Sierra Club president Joseph LeConte, this Tudor Revival style lodge was built in 1903 and served as the first visitor's center for Yosemite National Park. It was designed by architect John White and is inspired by the nature, color, and textures of Yosemite with it pitched roof, granite walls, and exposed beams. Today, it is on the National Register of Historic Places. The lodge is open Wednesday through Sunday from May to September. When you go inside, you can browse the extensive library of books on Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada, learn about the life of Joseph LeConte, and chat with Sierra Club volunteers. Check the schedule for free programs on natural history, outdoor adventure, and conservation held nightly at 8 p.m. There are also daytime summer children's programs like storytelling and nature walks. It was renamed the Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center in 2016 at the request of the Sierra Club, after consideration of writings of Joseph LeConte about white superiority. Roadside marker: V21
Difficulty
Low
Distance
N/A
Estimated time
Region
Yosemite Valley
Nearby Parks Around Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center (V21)
Compare nearby parks around Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center (V21) when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center (V21)
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center (V21) while the map context is still fresh.
0.0 mi away
LeConte Memorial Lodge
Built in 1903 and served as the first visitor's center.
0.0 mi away
Housekeeping Camp
Housekeeping Camp features sandy beaches for swimming and sunbathing.
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Housekeeping Camp
Housekeeping Camp offers a unique, rustic camping experience along the Merced River, providing stunning views of Yosemite's iconic landmarks.
0.3 mi away
Route 140--Mariposa County
This tourist route between El Portal and Mariposa County is a scenic 44 mile journey across this state highway.
0.3 mi away
P1 Visitor Parking
This is the parking lot for the Valley Visitor Center.
