Discover Dunlap

Dunlap is a destination for travelers interested in the Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center or planning a drive along the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway. These highlights give a trip different directions: the center hosts programs for Greek Orthodox Christians, while the byway describes a longer drive on Highway 180. First consider which purpose is most important for your trip; this will help you align your hotel and travel plans with your interests.

The Kings Canyon Scenic Byway on Highway 180

The Kings Canyon Scenic Byway begins in the Sierra Nevada foothills near Dunlap and runs for more than 50 miles along Highway 180 to Roads End. Along the way, the route reaches the Grant Grove area of Kings Canyon National Park, descends through Sequoia National Forest, and ends in the Cedar Grove area of the same national park. This makes it easy to understand the route by its sequence: it connects the two named park areas and passes through the national forest along the way. Check current road conditions and seasonal closures before driving.

Dunlap is also a specific reference point for services along the route. Some of the closest gas stations to the park entrances are located on Highway 180 in Dunlap. They are 20 miles west of Grant Grove. Check fuel availability before setting out when planning your route.

Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center

The Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap hosts camps, spiritual retreats, and seminars for Greek Orthodox Christians. For travelers whose stay is connected with one of these programs, this provides a specific reason for the trip. The grounds cover 180 acres and are located in the foothills of the Sequoia region. Formerly known as the historic Sally K Ranch, it was donated in 1979 and renamed the Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center.

The property’s landscape includes rolling hills, ancient oaks, a small lake, an apple orchard, and an olive grove. These features provide the setting for the site, while the list of programs describes its religious and community focus. When planning your trip, you can distinguish between an interest in the surroundings and an interest in a particular program.

Greek Village and Dunlap’s event history

Greek Village is a one-week immersion camp that has been running since 2010 and takes place every June at the Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap. If you are planning your trip around this program, June is the time to consider for your plans.

The Turkey Testicle Festival is a historical reference in Dunlap’s event history. The 2017 edition was the 41st annual event; at least 200 people attended the festival that year. In 2017, Bill Celaya tended a grill with turkey pieces. The figures and food description refer to the 2017 edition.

Fresno as a regional context

In the wider Fresno destination, Fresno County’s recreational facilities include 12 parks and two fishing access points; Shaver Lake also has a boat ramp with parking. Millerton Lake State Recreation Area is a Sierra Nevada foothill reservoir in Fresno and Madera Counties. At the Fresno County Blossom Trail, you can drive and photograph blossoms from the roadside, since the orchards are privately owned.

Discover more destinations: Fresno, Reedley, Clovis, Shaver Lake, Huron, Sanger, Big Creek, Cantua Creek

Go to the main travel overview: Fresno.