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Summary of reviewsThe Ranch At Death Valley is celebrated for its prime location within Death Valley National Park, positioning it perfectly for easy access to iconic attractions like Zabriskie Point and Badwater Basin. Visitors describe it as an oasis in the desert with beautifully maintained grounds that blend seamlessly with the dramatic surroundings, making it an ideal spot to experience the park's natural beauty and unique atmosphere.
The availability of amenities such as a large, spring-fed swimming pool, general store, restaurants and even an ice cream parlor enhance the convenience and comfort of staying at The Ranch. The spacious pool is particularly praised for its warm waters, cleanliness and inviting atmosphere, providing guests with a delightful and refreshing break from the desert heat.
Guests found the rooms spacious and comfortable, appreciating clean accommodations and unique western decor that complements the setting. However, some noted that the furnishings and decor are dated with issues like old carpets, outdated air conditioning units and maintenance concerns being mentioned frequently. Despite these drawbacks, the overall level of cleanliness and the well-maintained grounds are often highlighted positively.
The staff experiences at The Ranch At Death Valley tend to be mixed. Many guests encounter friendly, welcoming and helpful staff members who contribute positively to their stay. Unfortunately, there are instances where guests encountered rude or indifferent service, especially in dining areas, indicating a need for improved customer service consistency.
The breakfast and dinner options receive varied feedback. The breakfast buffet offers a decent selection and is generally satisfying, but the high cost and occasional quality issues bring its overall value into question. Dinner reviews similarly point out high prices and inconsistent quality with some guests finding the food subpar and the buffet particularly disappointing. Successful dining experiences seem to hinge on personal preferences and timing with some guests finding certain dishes like steaks and ribs enjoyable.
The availability and quality of free Wi-Fi at The Ranch are inconsistent with many guests experiencing slow speeds and unreliable connections, particularly in the rooms. However, public areas, especially near the visitor center, offer better connectivity.
Parking at The Ranch is generally convenient with ample free parking close to accommodations. However, during events or peak times, finding an optimal spot can become challenging. There is also a lack of shaded parking and adequate EV charging stations, which occasionally necessitate a trip to a nearby town for charging electric vehicles.
Overall, The Ranch At Death Valley provides a comfortable and enjoyable stay with an exceptional location, ample amenities and generally positive guest experiences. However, there are areas for improvement in dining options, Wi-Fi connectivity, room updates and customer service consistency. Show more
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Categories
Hotel with Swimming Pool
The Ranch provides a family-friendly atmosphere with a fantastic pool complex. The pool area includes multiple pools and recreational options, making it an ideal choice for families looking to relax and have fun.
Heated Pool Outdoor Pool
Hotel with Parking
Parking is available on site for guests. Parking is included as part of the resort fee.
EV charging stations
Accessible Hotel
The Ranch offers ADA-compliant rooms. Some deluxe rooms feature accessibility features such as roll-in showers. Certain units are fully handicapped accessible, and wheelchair access is available. Rooms with pool access are also offered.
Hotel with Outdoor Pool
The Ranch at Death Valley offers an outdoor pool for guests to enjoy. This provides a welcome amenity for relaxation and recreation in the Death Valley environment.
Hotel with EV Charging Stations
Hotel near Golf Courses
Family Friendly Hotel
Hotel with Tennis Courts
Hotel with Heated Pool
Room Types
Standard Queen RoomThis double room's special feature is the pool with a view. The spacious double room provides air conditioning, a private entrance, a terrace with garden views as well as a private bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 2 beds.
Deluxe Queen RoomGuests will have a special experience as this double room features a pool with a view. The spacious double room offers air conditioning, a private entrance, a terrace with garden views as well as a private bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 2 beds.
Cottage, 2 Queen BedsThe spacious double room provides air conditioning, a tea and coffee maker, heating and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. The unit offers 3 beds.
Cottage, 1 King bedThe spacious double room offers air conditioning, a tea and coffee maker, heating and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. The unit offers 2 beds.
Guest Reviews
7.4
Good
Location
Nestled in the heart of Death Valley National Park, The Ranch offers an unbeatable location for exploring the vast desert landscape. Reviews highlight its proximity to key attractions such as Zabriskie Point, Badwater Basin and Mesquite Sand Dunes, making it a superb base for sunrise and sunset excursions. The central position of the hotel is frequently praised for allowing easy access to various sights within 30-45 minutes by car.
Guests appreciate the remarkable setting, describing it as an oasis in the middle of the desert, providing a serene and scenic retreat. The grounds are beautifully maintained and blend seamlessly with the dramatic surrounding environment, enhancing the overall ambiance of the stay.
The Ranch also offers a good range of amenities, including a large swimming pool, which is a welcome respite after a day of exploring the arid terrain. The presence of facilities like a general store, restaurants and even an ice cream parlor adds to the convenience and comfort of the experience.
Ultimately, the location of The Ranch at Death Valley stands out as its defining feature, providing a perfect and strategic spot for immersing oneself in the natural beauty and unique atmosphere of this iconic national park.
Breakfast
At 'The Ranch At Death Valley,' breakfast reviews offer a mixed perspective, balancing between praises for its variety and criticisms regarding price and quality. Many guests appreciated the breakfast buffet for its decent selection of entrées, noting that it opened early and featured a plentiful spread. Some found the buffet tasty and filling with certain items like fruits being particularly enjoyable. Additionally, there were mentions of a good breakfast with lots of choices, satisfying picky eaters and catered coffee service enhancing the morning experience.
However, the cost of breakfast received frequent complaints with patrons describing it as extremely expensive and overpriced. Numerous reviews highlighted that breakfast was not included in the room price, making the added cost feel burdensome. Moreover, several guests were disappointed with the quality, citing issues like cold eggs, overcooked bacon and limited options. The buffet was often described as lacking variety and failing to meet expectations with some foods perceived as stale or unappetizing.
Reservations for other dining options were difficult to secure, further steering guests towards the buffet despite its drawbacks. This led to suggestions that guests should be prepared for breakfast expenses or consider bringing their own food. Overall, while the breakfast at The Ranch At Death Valley had its positive moments, the consensus leaned towards it being overpriced relative to the quality and variety offered.
Dinner
Dinner at 'The Ranch At Death Valley' appears to be a mixed bag according to guest reviews. While some praised dishes like steaks and ribs at the Saloon, the overall sentiment leans heavily towards disappointment. Common complaints highlight the exorbitant prices that don’t match the quality of food served with many describing the buffet as subpar, bland and sometimes even inedible. Patrons have noted that the selection is often limited, especially for vegetarians and that the food is frequently reported as cold or unappetizing.
The high cost of dining is a recurring theme with numerous remarks about the price being disproportionately high considering the mediocre food quality, from $29 dinner buffets to $75 steaks. Service issues, such as long waits and rude staff, have also marred the dining experience. However, some guests enjoyed their meals and appreciated the rustic interiors of the Saloon, describing certain dinner experiences as delicious.
The limited dining options necessitate advance reservations to avoid being left without a meal, a point of frustration for many. Though a few found the dining pleasant and praised individual meals, the consensus suggests that eating at 'The Ranch At Death Valley' can be hit-or-miss, often skewed towards the negative. Visitors might find better value and satisfaction by bringing their own food or exploring alternative dining options outside the resort.
Rooms
Nestled in the heart of the Death Valley National Park, The Ranch At Death Valley offers rooms with a mix of positive experiences and areas needing improvement.
The rooms are generally recognized for their spaciousness and comfort. Many guests have noted the clean and comfortable nature of the rooms and some enjoyed additional amenities like air conditioning and small balconies. The charming western decor in some rooms also adds to the ambiance, providing a unique flavor that complements the desert surroundings.
However, the age of the rooms and furnishings is a recurring theme. Many visitors pointed out that the accommodations are quite dated with old carpets, furniture from the 70s and outdated air conditioning units. The worn-out look and need for renovation were mentioned frequently, along with reports of unpleasant odors, dirty carpets and basic, underequipped facilities. The noise from ventilation systems and issues with water pressure further detracted from the overall experience for some travelers.
Despite these drawbacks, the level of cleanliness was highlighted in numerous reviews and guests appreciated the generally well-maintained grounds. The presence of a spacious swimming pool and other ample facilities on-site also received positive mention.
In summary, while the rooms at The Ranch At Death Valley offer a comfortable and clean stay with ample space and a distinctive decor, guests may find the outdated elements and occasional maintenance issues detract from the overall value.
Beds
The Ranch At Death Valley offers guests a mixed experience when it comes to sleeping arrangements. Many reviews highlight the beds as large and notably comfortable with mentions of king-size options and cleanliness. However, there are recurring mentions of bedding appearing cheap and worn down with some guests finding mattresses hard or even sagging. While several guests appreciated the comfort and size of the beds, noting that they were excellent or very good, others found the pillows to be less satisfactory, describing them as firm or small and occasionally lumpy.
The hotel also seems to offer rooms with different bedding standards with some visitors pointing out that certain rooms have very comfortable beds while others do not meet their expectations, particularly when compared to more premium hotel chains like Marriott or Hilton. Additionally, the comfort of sofa beds and pullout beds was frequently criticized with guests noting they were uncomfortable and sometimes not properly prepared.
In terms of service, the hotel staff are praised for their efforts, especially when providing extra bedding accessories upon request. However, some reviews mention a lack of thoroughness in bed-making and an overall sense of aging in the bedding itself. Despite these mixed reviews, many guests still found their beds to be comfy, hinting that experiences may vary depending on specific room assignments.
Cleanliness
The Ranch at Death Valley offers a picturesque setting with well-maintained grounds and clean surroundings. However, there are recurring concerns regarding the cleanliness and upkeep of both the rooms and common areas. While some guests found their rooms comfortable and clean, many reported that the rooms could use more attention from housekeeping, noting issues such as dirty carpets, unclean bathrooms and musty smells. The hallways and shared facilities like the pool and locker room often appeared neglected and several reviews mentioned outdated furnishings and a need for remodeling.
Despite these shortcomings, the staff received praise for being friendly and helpful and the property itself holds promise with its overall design and location. Although the main areas like the saloon and general store were appreciated for their cleanliness and upkeep, there is a noticeable disparity in the standards of room cleanliness, which detracts from the overall experience. For a more satisfying stay, improvements in housekeeping and maintenance are highly recommended.
Staff
The reviews regarding the staff at 'The Ranch At Death Valley' present a mixture of experiences, predominantly positive but with notable drawbacks. Many guests highlighted the friendliness and helpfulness of certain staff members, describing them as super friendly, welcoming and attentive. Specific individuals, like a helpful man in charge of facilities and the accommodating front desk personnel, were singled out for praise. Fast service and a smooth reception process were mentioned, as well as efficient and polite staff interactions, contributing positively to the stay.
However, critiques were also prevalent. Numerous reviews pointed out instances of rude, grumpy or indifferent staff, particularly at the reception and in various dining areas. Issues of disorganization, understaffing and poor communication were recurrent themes with several guests noting that staff seemed tired or unmotivated. There were specific mentions of a lack and inconsistency in customer service with certain staff members appearing cold or unfriendly, significantly impacting some guests' experiences.
While the positive encounters with friendly, helpful staff helped enhance the overall impression of the Ranch for many visitors, the negative experiences highlight a need for improvement in areas like enthusiasm, training and general customer service consistency.
Wi-Fi
The Wi-Fi experience at The Ranch At Death Valley appears to be quite mixed with many guests voicing their dissatisfaction about the connectivity. Common issues include slow speeds, unreliable connections and frequent outages, making it difficult for guests to stay connected throughout their stay. Wifi in the rooms often did not work, particularly with Apple devices and there were instances of non-existent service. However, some guests reported finding good wifi in certain areas, especially near the visitor center next door, which offers a reliable network. Public areas apparently have better wifi coverage.
While there were mentions of great and powerful wifi by some guests, these seem to be rare instances rather than the rule. Overall, the wifi situation at The Ranch At Death Valley can be classified as spotty and unstable, displaying a need for significant improvement to meet guests' expectations for reliable internet access.
Pool
The pool at The Ranch At Death Valley is widely regarded as a highlight of the stay, praised for its size, temperature and overall atmosphere. Many guests appreciated the large, spring-fed pool that remains open until late in the evening, allowing for a delightful swim under the stars. The heated pool's warm and inviting waters provided a welcome respite from the desert heat, making it perfect for cooling off and relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
The pool area boasts a spacious layout with plenty of seating and is well-maintained for the most part. Visitors found the pool to be clean and enjoyed the garden surroundings, as well as the extended operating hours which added to its appeal. The pool facilities were considered excellent with some guests noting that the area also offered a superb view, making the experience even more enjoyable.
However, a few reviews indicated that the pool could use some maintenance and renovation, as some wear and tear had become noticeable over time. Issues such as dirty water, peeling paint and occasional algae growth were mentioned, but these did not overshadow the overwhelmingly positive feedback.
Overall, the pool at The Ranch At Death Valley is described as a fantastic oasis, essential for a refreshing break in the extreme desert temperatures, contributing significantly to the overall enjoyment of the stay.
Tennis
The Ranch At Death Valley offers well-maintained tennis courts that guests find satisfactory for recreational use. These courts are a part of the extensive resort amenities, including swimming and golf. However, there have been some minor issues, such as a lack of enough tennis balls. Despite some comments regarding the hallways and rooms not being particularly clean, the tennis courts themselves are highlighted as a positive feature of the resort.
Parking
The parking situation at The Ranch at Death Valley receives varied feedback from guests. On the positive side, there is free and ample parking available, often close to accommodations, making it convenient for guests to access their rooms. The parking is described as comfortable, functional and generally easy to navigate with plenty of parking spaces available onsite. Some guests appreciate that the parking is nearby and even found spaces right in front of their rooms.
However, there are certain challenges that occasionally arise. Events can make it difficult to find parking and some guests noted that parking spots can be tight and not ideally positioned near all accommodations, causing a bit of a walk to rooms or cottages. Another common issue is the lack of adequate charging stations for electric vehicles, sometimes necessitating a trip to a nearby town for charging. Nighttime visibility of parking spaces and signage could be improved and some guests reported issues with finding spaces late in the evening.
In terms of maintenance, the grounds around the admin and restaurant buildings are well-kept and maintained, though there have been mentions of some laxness in trash pick-up and landscaping around the complexes, which extends to the parking lots. Some guests expressed a desire for shaded parking as cars can get quite hot without any cover.
Despite these drawbacks, the overall parking experience at the property seems to be largely positive with many guests finding it easy and plentiful.
EV charging stations
The Ranch At Death Valley offers several options for electric vehicle (EV) charging, making it a convenient choice for visitors with electric or hybrid cars. Guests appreciated the fact that EV charging stations are available in the area, noting it as a big plus. However, there are some areas for improvement. Guests pointed out that there are not enough parking spots dedicated to electric vehicles and that the charging ports can be occupied all day. Some visitors found the Tesla charging setup to be complicated, requiring adapters. Despite these minor issues, the presence of EV chargers on site, including Tesla chargers, was generally considered beneficial. Overall, the availability of EV charging stations enhances the convenience of staying at The Ranch At Death Valley for those driving electric vehicles.
Family
The Ranch At Death Valley stands out as a family-friendly haven, well-suited for groups traveling with children. The spacious and comfortable rooms cater perfectly to families, accommodating up to four comfortably and even offering separate bedrooms for added privacy. Amenities are thoughtfully geared towards family needs, from a spring-fed pool to a delightful playground and well-maintained sports courts. Children particularly enjoy the arcade and the fun-filled ice cream parlor, making it an engaging stay for the little ones.
The location itself is highly favorable, offering easy access to nearby shops and restaurants, ensuring convenience and safety for families. The grounds are ideal for family bonding with ample opportunities for memorable experiences. Structures like cottages and family gathering rooms enhance the communal feel, making it a great spot for larger family celebrations and gatherings.
However, it is worth noting that some families found the cost prohibitive and certain room sizes inadequate for larger groups. Additionally, the on-site food options may not be ideal for everyone with some families suggesting bringing their own food to better suit their preferences and budget.
Despite these minor drawbacks, The Ranch At Death Valley remains an excellent choice for families looking to explore the area while enjoying a range of activities tailored for all ages.
Golf
Nestled in the heart of Death Valley, The Ranch at Death Valley offers an unexpected oasis for golf enthusiasts. The well-kept and beautifully green golf course stands in stark contrast to the surrounding desert landscape, creating a unique and picturesque setting for a round of golf. The course, available year-round and designed by Nicklaus, has garnered praise from guests for its good condition and reasonable cost.
The resort itself is family-friendly and luxurious, providing amenities that include not just golf but also swimming and tennis. Playing a game early in the morning here is a truly fabulous experience and many visitors appreciated the chance to enjoy golf right next to their accommodations. With golf rentals available, it's easy for guests to enjoy a spontaneous game.
Despite a few mentions of needed refurbishments, the overall consensus reflects that the scenic and unexpectedly lush greens make this golf course a standout feature. Additionally, its convenient proximity to the hotel and the fact that it is well-watered and maintained ensures that golfing here is both enjoyable and visually stunning.
For those looking to combine relaxation with some sporting activity, The Ranch at Death Valley and its adjoining golf course present an intriguing option set against the dramatic backdrop of Death Valley's unique terrain.
Business
The Ranch At Death Valley offers a mix of features for business travelers, though experiences can vary. There are dedicated business-friendly amenities such as desks in the rooms, conference meeting rooms and plug-in stations for those needing to stay connected. The business center provides support for business stays, making it a feasible option for work-related trips. Reliable WiFi is available and the environment is generally conducive to business activities.
However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Some visitors noted that there are no elevators for reaching the second floor, which might be inconvenient. The pricing for rooms and meals can feel expensive and additional charges for extra rooms and high accessory fees in the business center can increase the overall cost. Moreover, some found that specific business amenities were lacking or unavailable and the air conditioning could be noisy, potentially disrupting work.
In summary, while The Ranch At Death Valley provides several conveniences for business travelers, there are aspects that may require consideration, especially regarding costs and the availability of certain facilities.
Heated Pool
The Ranch at Death Valley boasts a widely praised heated pool that guests seem to truly appreciate. The pool is described as large, very warm and consistently heated to a comfortable temperature of around 82 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 30° C). This outdoor pool, fed by natural springs, offers a pleasant and unique experience, remaining swimmable even during winter months. Many guests have highlighted its convenience and accessibility, noting that it is open in the evenings, providing a relaxing spot after a day of activities. The pool is praised for being both deep and large, offering ample space for relaxation and enjoyment. However, a visit to this spring-fed pool often requires a reservation ahead of time. Despite a few remarks about it being rundown, the overall consensus is that the heated pool is a wonderful and refreshing amenity that enhances the guest experience at The Ranch at Death Valley.
Outdoor Pool
Guests have generally praised the outdoor pool at The Ranch At Death Valley, highlighting its ample size and spring-fed water, which remains warm and swimmable even during winter months. The heated pool and its generous garden area are particularly appreciated with many mentioning the unique experience of swimming in a large, natural spring-fed pool in the heart of Death Valley. The pool area, which is well-maintained and open until late at night, adds to the hotel's charm, offering a pleasant escape with an amazing view. However, some guests noted issues with cleanliness and the upkeep of pool furniture, suggesting some room for improvement. Overall, the pool stands out as a significant and enjoyable feature of the hotel's amenities.
Luxury
The Ranch at Death Valley offers an unmistakable luxurious environment that caters to guests looking for comfort and style amid the stark beauty of the desert. Reviewers frequently point out the beautiful and well-maintained facilities, which contribute to an overall atmosphere of luxury. High room prices come with expectations of top-notch quality and, for the most part, guests find these expectations met. The resort features an upscale restaurant and an excellent spa that enrich the luxurious experience. Outdoor areas are also noted to be very nice and contribute to the resort's charm, despite the costliness.
The resort's luxurious feel is enhanced by its beautiful setting and thoughtful design, but some guests do note that certain areas feel dated and suggest that minor improvements could elevate the experience further. Luxurious camping and deluxe rooms add to the allure for those willing to invest in a high-end stay. Overall, The Ranch at Death Valley makes a strong impression with its blend of natural beauty and luxurious amenities, providing a costly but superb experience for those traveling to national parks.
Yes, The Ranch At Death Valley has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Heated Pool, Outdoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at The Ranch At Death Valley.
No, The Ranch At Death Valley doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at The Ranch At Death Valley.