The U.S. Department of the Interior, working with Yosemite National Park officials, is in talks with Las Vegas developer Jeff Pori of Kingsbarn Realty Capital on a proposed land exchange. The deal would give the federal government a one‑to‑two‑acre parcel inside Yosemite in return for comparable land elsewhere in California.
Proposed development and access road
Pori plans to use the acquired parcel to construct a 700‑foot road linking his 83‑acre Hazel Green Ranch property to Big Oak Flat Road, a primary gateway to Yosemite Valley. The road would provide a shortcut for guests staying at the new lodging, potentially easing the chronic traffic jams on State Route 120.
Details of the planned resort
While exact plans remain under wraps, a Kingsbarn fact sheet describes a development reminiscent of the nearby Rush Creek Lodge and Spa. The envisioned project includes a 150‑room hotel, extensive parking for 800 vehicles, cabins, a small market, a gourmet restaurant, a 5,000‑square‑foot spa, and housing for staff, firefighters and rangers. The target market is described as “higher‑end ‘Ahwahnee’ traveler” and “average park traveler.”
Environmental and economic arguments
Attorney Lanny J. Davis, representing Pori, argues the exchange would benefit the environment by reducing the distance visitors must travel on unpaved forest roads. He also emphasizes that no lobbying of the Trump White House has occurred, noting that all discussions have been with Yosemite officials.
The National Park Service (NPS) does not have authority to sell park land outright, but a land exchange is permissible under federal law if the trade provides a demonstrable benefit to the United States. The agency’s budget document to Congress cites this requirement, though it does not detail how the public would benefit.
Opposition and concerns
Conservation groups such as the National Parks Conservation Association and the Central Sierra Environmental Resource Center warn that Yosemite’s lodging market is already saturated. They argue additional development could strain the park’s capacity and set a precedent for further commercial encroachment.
Mark Rose, senior program manager for the NPCA, cautioned that “the park has been at capacity for a number of years now,” and that new lodging could create unrealistic expectations for visitor accommodations.
Political backdrop
The idea originated during the Biden administration, which indicated it lacked authority to grant an easement. Interest surged after President Trump took office, with Interior’s assistant secretary for fish, wildlife and parks, Kevin Lilly, reportedly championing the proposal. Yosemite superintendent Ray McPadden, appointed in May, has been urged to prioritize the project.
Interior’s communications office declined to comment beyond a standard statement that any land exchange would be subject to all applicable federal laws, regulations and environmental reviews.
Next steps
The feasibility of the swap hinges on legal clarification and a clear demonstration of public benefit. If approved, the development could become the largest gateway resort west of Yosemite, potentially reshaping access to one of the nation’s most visited national parks.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
