The Thunderbird Retreat Lodge Ranch House + Saloon was exactly what we were looking for - an escape to the desert and a visit to the park. It is fairly secluded down a dirt road, but Lori will guide you right there easily. The house is quaint with a lot of sleeping space. One of the big draws is the property with the saloon/ghost town out back.
We spent a majority of the warm days and evening hanging out there, playing games and looking out over the desert/mountains. This place is the perfect Joshua Tree hideaway. Went with my girlfriend and two small dogs. The large yard around the Rock House allowed the dogs plenty of safe room to play and roam without worrying about them.
We spent a majority of the warm days and evening hanging out there, playing games and looking out over the desert/mountains. This place is the perfect Joshua Tree hideaway. Went with my girlfriend and two small dogs. The large yard around the Rock House allowed the dogs plenty of safe room to play and roam without worrying about them.
Services
Looking for a unique Joshua Tree National Park cabin under the starry skies? This cozy 1-bedroom/1-bath cabin with a space theme is situated at the end of the road on 15 acres with some of the most stunning mountain views in the region. No other properties are further up the road beyond our very private "Space" Mountain House.
NOTE: Weekly rate does not apply during holiday weeks. Walk out the backyard into the park from this secluded 3 bedroom cabin on 5 acres at the end of the road. No other properties are further up the road beyond the Park View. Stunning views, including unobstructed night skies, are in every direction of this eclectic cabin.
Please note that rates are subject to change, and do not include taxes & fees. Special rates, are not valid during holiday weeks. Rates are typically higher the weekend immediately before, of, or immediately after a national holiday. A minimum stay of two (2) nights is required, three (3) night minimum during holiday weeks.
NOTE: Weekly rate does not apply during holiday weeks. The very fun Thunderbird Lodge Retreat AURORA CLUB HOUSE is decorated with rustic flair with loads of games inside and out. This is a great space to escape the city lights for a getaway with friends and/or family for a truly relaxing vacation while immersing yourself in the seclusion, tranquility, and natural beauty of the Mojave Desert.
Lori Portillo, owner of Thunderbird Lodge Retreat is shown here above her newly installed El Dorado sign. Lori designed and hand painted all of the signage in the ghost town of El Dorado, located on the Ranch House property at Thunderbird Lodge Retreat. Lori, Dana Courtney and their crew have been building El Dorado over the last few months, it has been quite an endeavor and has turned out even better than imagined.
Reviews (9)
Mari Lo
May 04, 2021
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I absolutely love Thunderbird Lodge Retreat! I’ve been coming here over 7 years to stay at these beautiful cabins! When any of my friends and family want to go to Joshua Tree I always refer them to Lori’s places! Every cabin is unique and the fact that you can bring your furry family members for no extra charge is rare these days. The wide open views and the nearby hiking spots is what attracted me to begin with but now it’s like coming to my home away from home.
Ashley Loth
Apr 16, 2021
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I have stayed here many times at TLR over years. Great location for photography, an elopement, private intimate houses and pet friendly. I had a couple photographers and myself rented Ranch House for the weekend to Photograph at The Cute little western town El Dorado! Would recommend, Lori was very responsive and welcoming! Will be back soon for that Space Mountain house!
Nichole Gee
Apr 12, 2021
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Been coming to Loris houses for 3 years now and every year I try to find reasons to stay longer. The houses are not only beautiful, but they’ve got such a homey feeling to them. I never wanted to leave. The Desert skies alone at night are enough reason to wanna head out there and stay for a while. The town is so close too and so is Joshua tree national park. Highly recommend to anyone wanting to have a lil get away for a week or two.
Jennifer Thomas
Aug 31, 2019
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Matthew Jenkins
Jun 26, 2019
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Honestly if you're ever in the desert please do yourself a favor and stay here it is absolutely beautiful views are breathtaking and the night sky is the most majestic I have ever seen it. The staff it's absolutely lovely and these are whole houses not just a room it's a super artistic environment and you automatically feel comfortable as soon as you get there I would recommend this to anybody absolutely love this place
Katie Krebs Howlett
Jul 31, 2017
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Mike Hall
Nov 19, 2016
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We had our first vacation here without our kids in 14 years. It was so relaxing and we had a great time. We stayed in the Park View house and were able to hike out of the back gate up into the park its was great! We love Lori's eye for art and we will come back with our kids next time!
Thank You,
Mike & Gladys Hall
From New Jersey
Thank You,
Mike & Gladys Hall
From New Jersey
Katie Krebs
Jul 15, 2016
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Jason Ivany
Jun 30, 2016
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Quirky and eclectic. So easy, so accommodating. Can't say enough nice things. We had our wedding at Park View house and rented Mountain, Shell, and Mesa for our guests (approx 20 guests). Everyone was impressed with how unique each cabin was. If you want beautiful vistas and peaceful sounds of the desert with hominess and warmth you've found it. If you want vaulted ceilings and crystal chandeliers, gloss and polish, go elsewhere.
