Welcome to Briar Patch Inn
We believe in the importance of nurturing your relationship with nature. Our mission is to exceed your highest expectations while protecting the tranquility our long-time returning guests have come to expect. Briar Patch Inn is truly, “The Way Life Should Be.”
About
Welcome to Briar Patch Inn, a serene retreat nestled along the banks of Oak Creek. Set on nine lush acres beneath towering sycamores and majestic oaks, our twenty unique cabins invite you to slow down, reconnect, and soak in the beauty of Sedona’s Oak Creek Canyon.
Whether you’re here for peaceful mediation by the creek, shared moments fireside in your cabin, or simply to restore your spirit in nature, Briar Patch offers a timeless haven for rest and renewal.
History
1876
The First Settlers
The first Anglo settler in the area was John James Thompson, who arrived in 1876 and built his homestead at Indian Gardens, less than a mile from Briar Patch. His family found this area to be a haven for harvesting fruit trees, and vegetables, and fishing the native German Brown in the spring-fed waters of Oak Creek.
1930s
First Cabins Built
A German carpenter sought solace in the Canyon, built his home, and then saw the need to provide lodging for the “movie folk” who were making westerns in Sedona. In 1940 he built the first cottage, the “Bluejay,” complete with hand-hewn wooden door latches, still functioning today. Subsequent buildings became “Rocky’s Cottages,” after his name Raacke.
1983
A Family Legacy
Ike and JoAnn purchased Briar Patch in 1983, along with the neighboring Terracotta Resort (formerly Rocky’s), bringing together 18 cottages on nine acres of sycamore, oak, and fruit trees. In 2004, the 19th cabin—Casa de Piedra—was added. For more than 40 years, the property has remained a true family endeavor, with multiple generations, including eight grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren, often lending a hand.
Meet JoAnn
“JoAnn, JoAnn we owe it all to you” – lyrics of eldest grandchild Lee Ferris ring eternally true for this special place and our family. JoAnn Olson is a fervent lover of nature, art and people. Her ethics in work and in life have inspired her staff and family. The large collection of Southwestern art found throughout the lodge and cabins is evidence of JoAnn’s long appreciation and interest in the Native American Indians of Arizona.
Attention to detail and a love of hospitality have been her legacy for this property and everywhere you look you see a space she has dreamt up, curated and made happen for this haven on earth. At 97, she is still seen visiting with guests new and old, sharing stories of travel and memories of Briar Patch’s history. Her dedication and spirit are reminiscent of the early settlers that made this canyon their home in the 1870s.
Guests often ask about the secret to her energy and longevity, and she answers with a smile: “Briar Patch water!”
A Family Affair
“Rejuvenate your soul & reconnect with nature” – Rob Olson
In 1996, JoAnn and Ike’s son Rob returned from working overseas to join the family business. For the past thirty years, he has managed Briar Patch Inn with the same warmth and dedication his parents instilled—welcoming guests, taking calls, and ensuring every stay exceeds expectations. Inspired by his parents’ generosity, Rob also volunteers on community boards and continues the tradition of hosting organizations that provide terminally ill children and their families the chance to experience the healing beauty of nature. The Olson family remains closely knit, and it’s not unusual to find children and grandchildren lending a hand around the property.
Our Dedicated Staff
The soul of Briar Patch Inn is our staff—a hardworking, caring team that is an extension of the Olson family. Many have worked here for over 30 years, caring for the grounds, cabins and guests in the same traditions of hospitality and attention to detail that JoAnn and Ike began.
Their deep connection to this land and to our guests is what transforms a simple stay into something truly memorable—making Briar Patch not just a place to visit, but to feel at home.
Cookbook
Often when we interact with our guests, they ask, “Why don’t you write a book about your experiences at Briar Patch, and please include your recipes.” For a while, that idea had been resting quietly in a corner of my mind when suddenly one morning inspiration took hold and JoAnn said to herself, “You can do it.” So it is with pleasure that we introduce, The Life and Times of the Briar Patch Inn. We hope you enjoy our story.
Contact Us
Whether you’re planning a future stay, have questions about our property, or just want to learn more about the Sedona area, we’re here to help. Feel free to reach out by phone, email, or through our contact form—we’re always happy to assist you.
How Can We Help
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