Tuolumne county shares record visitor number in 2024

Tourism is a key industry for Tuolumne County, supporting just under 4,000 jobs in the region which encompasses the Gold Country, High Sierra and the lion’s share of Yosemite National Park. 

The destination’s location, just two and a half hours from San Francisco Bay and its proximity to Yosemite National Park, makes it an ideal starting point for visitors looking to explore the park. Tuolumne Country also provides visitors with opportunities to explore its historic rail and Gold Rush past. 

The region has seen a significant increase in its room night offering with three new accommodations opening in 2024 and into 2025. 

In May 2024 Firefall Ranch opened in Groveland, close to the northwest entrance of Yosemite National Park. The new resort sits amongst pristine meadowland providing a peaceful wilderness experience and offers guests standalone cottages and villas. With 55 one, two and three-bedroom accommodations available, prices start from £293 per night for one-bedroom cottages and £514 for a three-bedroom villa. 

Autumn 2024 saw the opening of the new Chicken Ranch Casino Resort and it is now accepting online reservations. Featuring 197 luxurious guest rooms, a variety of restaurants and bars, and an 100,000+ sq ft gaming floor. Plus, a YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System) stop for the upcoming season, for easy transportation to the National Park.

In spring 2025, Tuolumne will welcome Under Canvas Yosemite – the brand’s first-ever California camp. Set in a serene, mountainside forest, just 10 minutes from the west entrance of Yosemite National Park. In addition, it has a YARTS stop directly across from the camp’s entrance, offering car-free access into the national park multiple times a day. 70 tents will open for its inaugural season with rates starting at £255 per night.

Lisa Mayo, president and chief executive of Visit Tuolumne County, said: “I am thrilled to see Tuolumne County’s tourism thriving, with growth surpassing 2019 levels.

"We’re committed to supporting sustainable growth in the region and look forward to welcoming even more visitors in 2025 to experience Tuolumne’s beauty.”