There’s something undeniably magical about a Rush Creek Lodge wedding, where the towering sequoias, crisp mountain air, and endless skies make it an unforgettable backdrop for saying “I do.”the towering sequoias, crisp mountain air, and endless skies make it an unforgettable backdrop for saying “I do.” If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels both rustic and refined, Rush Creek Lodge in Groveland, CA might be exactly what you’re looking for. Nestled just outside Yosemite National Park, this stylish lodge offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and modern comfort, creating an intimate and awe-inspiring setting for your special day.

Why Choose a Rush Creek Lodge Wedding?

One of the biggest advantages of hosting your reception at Rush Creek Lodge is its unbeatable location. Situated just a 5-minute drive from Yosemite’s Big Oak Flat Entrance, Rush Creek Lodge offers easy and convenient access to Yosemite Valley, which is about a 40-minute drive, making it the perfect reception venue after a ceremony in the park. Whether you’re exchanging vows at Glacier Point, in Yosemite Valley, or right at Rush Creek Lodge itself, transitioning to your celebration here is effortless for you and your guests.

How Rush Creek Lodge Enhances Your Wedding Experience

Rush Creek Lodge goes beyond being just a reception venue, it offers a full guest experience. The lodge features cozy and modern accommodations, a spa for pre-wedding relaxation, and multiple on-site dining options. Guests can unwind by the pool, enjoy the hot tubs, or explore the lodge’s hiking trails. For larger groups, shuttle services and parking make it easy for everyone to arrive and celebrate without stress.

On-site amenities include:

• Rush Creek Spa: Perfect for pre-wedding relaxation or a spa day for your guests.

• Dining Options: A tavern, restaurant, and private dining spaces offer flexible catering choices.

• Outdoor Recreation: Fire pits, poolside lounging, and hiking trails for guests to enjoy during the weekend.

• Guest Lodging: Plenty of cozy rooms and villas for guests to stay close to the celebration.

• Convenient Parking & Accessibility: Easy parking and possible shuttle options for seamless transportation.

Rush Creek Lodge blends contemporary design with rustic charm, offering couples a secluded and sophisticated setting surrounded by towering trees and breathtaking mountain views.

As the first new lodge built in the Yosemite area in over 25 years, it combines contemporary design with rustic charm. Surrounded by towering trees and breathtaking mountain views, it offers couples a secluded yet sophisticated setting to celebrate their love story.

With flexible indoor and outdoor spaces, Rush Creek Lodge is perfect for intimate receptions and micro weddings, offering weekday packages for as few as 20 guests. For couples dreaming of a cozy, romantic gathering, the lodge provides an inviting and secluded setting. If you’re planning a larger celebration, the venue can comfortably accommodate up to 200 guests, blending rustic charm with the natural beauty of Yosemite.

Rush Creek Lodge Wedding Receptions for Guest Counts of All Sizes

Elopement Packages (20, 40 Guests)

An elopement package for as few as 20 guests is a rare find near Yosemite, making Rush Creek Lodge a standout choice. Their Yosemite Elopement Package for 20–40 guests, available Sunday through Thursday, is perfect for couples seeking a relaxed reception dinner without the stress of planning every detail. With stunning onsite ceremony options like Cedar View and the outdoor terrace, or the flexibility to hold a ceremony in Yosemite National Park, Rush Creek Lodge makes intimate celebrations feel effortless and unforgettable.

Intimate Celebrations (Up to 48 Guests)

For slightly larger gatherings, Rush Creek Lodge offers intimate celebration packages for up to 48 guests in their cozy private dining room. This space blends rustic charm with modern comforts, creating an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere perfect for celebrating with your closest friends and family.

Not sure if this is the right fit for your celebration? I recommend reaching out to Rush Creek Lodge directly to explore how they can customize their offerings to match your wedding vision.

Larger Weddings (50–200 Guests)

Rush Creek Lodge is the perfect setting for larger weddings, accommodating 50–200 guests with exclusive access to expansive indoor and outdoor spaces. Whether you’re planning an elegant dinner or a lively night of dancing, the lodge offers versatile event spaces that can be customized to fit your vision. On-site lodging and dining options make it a convenient destination for your guests, creating a seamless and memorable celebration.

Indoor and Outdoor Spaces for Your Rush Creek Lodge Wedding

The Main Lodge is the heart of the venue, featuring a dining room, tavern, and multiple terraces, all of which can be mixed and matched to suit your wedding vision. For intimate weddings, the private dining room and terrace are ideal for gatherings of fewer than 50 guests.

If you’re drawn to the outdoors, imagine exchanging vows surrounded by towering pines and mountain peaks. And if the weather has other plans, the event hall—with its vaulted ceilings, glowing string lights, and massive picture windows—offers a seamless transition to an indoor celebration. Plus, the sliding walls open up to let the beauty of Yosemite pour in.

After the ceremony, celebrate with dinner and dancing in the event hall. The large stone fireplace creates a cozy focal point, and the adjoining patio with a fire pit is perfect for sharing s’mores and stories under the stars.

Breathtaking Photography Opportunities

Rush Creek Lodge offers endless opportunities for stunning wedding photos. Imagine soft sunlight filtering through dense treetops, quiet forest clearings perfect for intimate portraits, and the rustic charm of stone fireplaces and wooden staircases adding depth to your gallery.

One of my favorite spots for photos is the lodge’s outdoor terraces at golden hour—the warm light and panoramic views create an effortlessly romantic setting. Every corner of this venue offers the chance to capture timeless images that perfectly reflect the magic of your Rush Creek Lodge wedding.

Let’s Capture Your Rush Creek Lodge Wedding

If a secluded mountainside celebration sounds like the perfect fit, let’s talk about how we can make your Rush Creek Lodge wedding truly unforgettable. From candid moments to stunning portraits, I’ll help you feel comfortable and beautiful in front of the camera—so you can relax and savor every second.

Ready to start planning? Let’s connect and begin creating timeless images that will tell your love story for generations to come.

Planning a Yosemite Wedding Check out my Ultimate Guide on How to Elope in Yosemite National Park

Looking for more inspiration for your own Yosemite Wedding? Check out Juliana & Maison’s Glacier Point Amphitheater Wedding on the blog