There’s a plethora of accommodations in and around Yosemite National Park, and the list of great options just seems to get better and better every year. With its 2024 grand opening, Firefall Ranch joins its two Yosemite area sister properties, Evergreen Lodge and Rush Creek Lodge & Spa.
Cottages and Villas
The Yosemite resort stretches across 300 acres of meadowland and forested rolling hills; guests can choose from 55 stand-alone cottages and villas with one, two, or three bedrooms. Staff are friendly and welcoming, and check-in is fast and efficient. I stayed in a two-bedroom cottage with my husband and spoiled rescue pup.
The space had a modern cabin vibe. The main bedroom does double duty as a living space; along with a king bed, sleeper sofa, and coffee table, there was a two-sided fireplace that roars to life with the touch of a button. Thanks to large windows the space fills with natural light. Sliding glass doors open to a covered deck with seating and the other side of the fireplace.
Though smaller than the main bedroom, the second bedroom was spacious and featured a pair of twin beds. It’s an ideal setup for a traveling family, especially for those with younger kids.
The bathroom separated the bedrooms. Split into two, the sink and vanity were in an open, public space, whereas the walk-in shower and toilet were behind a door. Heated bathroom floors were an unexpected but always appreciated perk. The layout allows more than one person to use the bathroom while still maintaining some privacy.
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The cottage didn’t have a kitchen, but the foyer area was well equipped with a Keurig coffee machine, electric kettle, refrigerator, and microwave oven. Because hotel staff knew I was traveling with my dog, a crate was set up and ready for use in the foyer area.
Dining Options
Firefall Ranch offers a trio of dining choices. Open for dinner only, expect the menu at upscale Yova Restaurant to include dishes ranging from wild boar chops and venison tenderloin to Maine lobster and prawn fettuccine. (A private dining room is available for gatherings with eight to 45 guests.)
The nearby Tavern offers a more casual dining experience, with both indoor and outdoor seating. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, there’s a bit of something for everyone here. Start your day with avocado toast or vegan hash with tricolor cauliflower, sweet potato, peppers, and onion. Come lunch and dinner you can opt for a ribeye steak, chicken wings, or a burger.
The General Store is packed with grab-and-go picnic-style offerings, including sandwiches, fruit, baked goods, and an array of coffee drinks.
Public Spaces and Amenities
Firefall Ranch has the feel of a residential community with all the conveniences travelers want when on vacation. Walking paths give way to scenic views, including a pond with a number of hammocks that encourage guests to relax and stay awhile.
Along with a heated pool and hot tubs, outdoor activities, including bocce ball, disc golf, and ping pong, abound.
Good to Know Details
Firefall Ranch offers an activities calendar that changes seasonally. Expect offerings like crafts, stargazing, and nightly s’mores. For guests interested in guided options within Yosemite National Park, the recreation desk can book a plethora of options ranging from hikes and fly fishing to scenic airplane flights. Guests looking for a spa experience are welcome to visit the nearby sister resort, Rush Creek Lodge & Spa.
Firefall Ranch is located 17 miles from the Big Oak Flat Entrance to Yosemite National Park. For guests looking for a change of scenery or simply a place to pick up supplies, it’s less than a 10-mile drive to the gateway town of Groveland, which boasts a number of shops and restaurants.
Rates start at $650. There are no hidden daily resort fees or charges for parking. Wi-Fi is complimentary.
Firefall Ranch welcomes dogs. The “Doggie Daily” rate is an additional $85 per night and includes up to two dogs.
Check rates online for Firefall Rancj at Expedia, Booking.com, or Hotels.com.
Review and photos by San Francisco Bay Area travel writer and television correspondent Dana Rebmann. Her stay was organized by Firefall Ranch, but as always her thoughts and opinions are her own.