If you are looking for luxury ranch resorts in Texas, then Flying L The 230-acre ranch has direct access to a 5,400-acre state park with breathtaking scenery and more than 50 miles of trails to explore. Youll enjoy Texas two-stepping and the Cotton-Eyed Joe and learn many Western line-dancing techniques. The best US dude ranches include options for families, couples, seniors, and those on a budget. Powered by Mai Theme, 10 Best Texas Dude Ranches You Must Visit, 15 Best Luxury Cabins In Texas You Must Visit. The Wildcatter Steakhouse offers hand-cut mesquite-grilled steaks, petite filets, seafood specials, and chicken-fried steak. It was seriously so, so good. Cindy Brzostowski is a freelance writer focusing on travel and other lifestyle content. With 25 miles of lightly-tread riding trails rambling across the ranch, couples may have a trail all to themselves. (Dont come here on diet mode!). On the East Coast, there arent as many options, though you can find one or two in Pennsylvania, Virginia, New York and Georgia. Additionally, a stellar children's program includes riding, a weekly rodeo, hayrides, and lots of opportunities to play with barn animals. If youre traveling to Texas, its a great dude ranch near Austin and San Antonio (I would even drive to it from Houston, too!) Pros: With the Gallatin River running through the property, the resort is a mecca for fly fishing. The family-owned business has 120 guestrooms, and guests can go horseback riding in the morning and can cool off at the indoor water park in the afternoon. The West 1077 Guest Ranch keeps travelers on their toes with a shooting range, golf course, and direct access to 5,500 acres of exquisite state park land. About 100 horses, primarily quarter horses and paints, make their home at the Drowsy Water. Cons: 4UR Ranch is a digital detox with no cell phone service, in-room telephones, or televisions. Located in the wooded foothills of the Shawangunk Mountains a few hours from New York City, Rocking Horse Ranch is tailor-made for families. Why you should stay: From the romantic to the quirky, this dude ranch has different accommodations to suit varied tastes and lots of different animals roaming the property. Also, it wouldnt be a lie to say that the horses at this Bandera ranch were some of the most beautiful horses weve ever ridden. The Buckaroos childrens program is for kids ages 4 to 6, and the Wranglers is for kids ages 7 to 11; both include riding lessons and daily trail rides, educational nature programs and more. We have horses and farm animals on our 350-acre working guest ranch, as well as activities and adventures that are sure to entertain guests of all ages. Dude, when used in the context of dude ranching, is a term of respect for those experiencing a lifestyle they dont otherwise know or understand, and there are basically two kinds of dude ranches. Yes, send me expert advice, handpicked recommendations, and tips for my family. One of the more affordable options on this list, this spot was founded in 1947 and has played host to some famous guests like John Wayne and Willie Nelson. Think swimming holes, archery, hiking, fishing, square dancing, stargazing, bird watching, or just relaxing with a good book. Stay in the lodge rooms with their hilly views or in the individual rock cottages with one, two, or three bedrooms. Whats the Deal With All-Inclusive Dude Ranches? The main lodge playroom has all sorts of board games and ping pong for families to hang out together. Mount your horse for the popular lunchtime ride to Cottonwood Grove and soak in the majesty of the desert horizon. Texass dude ranches will make you think you are in a Western movie filled with cowboy history, folklore, and pure Hill Country magic. Guests sleep in glamping tents outfitted with electricity, luxurious bathrooms, claw foot soaking tubs with room for two, and cushy beds. Instead of uselessly flipping the switch of your burned-out bulb, 1998 - 2023 ResortsandLodges.com All rights reserved. The wide variety of accommodations and activities also makes it popular with multi-generational vacationers. In truth, we arent quite the prototype of cowboys and rodeos. Lodging Email us at [email protected]. They are often secluded with wide-open spaces and plenty of fresh air. Our 4 cabin lodging can accommodate 12 people comfortably and our small size allows us to offer a customizable guest ranch experience. All trips include food, lodging and transportation around the ranch. Its an even shorter drive if youre looking for a dude ranch near Austin. Youll notice a bit of historic charm in some of the cabins, which were built back in the 1940s and 50s. More than just a spring break spot, this un, You have hit your wall, youre in a slump and no matter how many cups of coffee you drink, its clear that youre out of energy. No-frills guest rooms are uncluttered with cathedral ceilings, hardwood floors, and large screen LED TVs, and some have fireplaces and private patios. When you're ready to dine, know that the menu leans towards meat and potatoes, with few options for vegetarians or those who favor clean eating. Even if you dont call a ranch in Texas home, you can still experience the appealing mix of idyllic tranquility and rural adventure of one by booking a stay at a dude ranch. The popular Barn Buddies program gives up-close access to the horses while teaching grooming and saddling skills, while tractor rides, a petting zoo, horseshoe pit, and s'mores by the campfire offer nostalgic fun. Operated by the Hicks Family for the last 50 years, this Texas ranch is quintessential for a dude ranch Texas style experience: lots of open space, horseback riding, and BEEF!! My kids loved the Dinosaur walk to learn about the fossils and tracks on their property. Western Pleasure Guest Ranchs quality ranch raised horses are perfect for the beginner or the experienced rider. 8 Ranches to Visit Bandera, Texas, United States. Located on 60,000 acres of starkly beautiful desert terrain with the Rincon Mountains as a backdrop, Tanque Verde Ranch has the authentic feel of an old-time cattle ranch. Her culinary, wine, and travel photography adventures have led her across Peru from Cusco through the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu; up the Canadian Icefields Parkway from Lake Louise to Banff and Jasper, indulging in Fairmont luxury hotels; and to the four largest islands of Hawaii. Learn more. Cedar Cove Ranch & Resort is home to a 25-acre private lake and three big lodges. Guided horseback rides showcase the area's beauty and the wranglers are so genuinely friendly, you'll feel like they're your country cousins by the end of your stay. The lodge is an industrial limestone ranch-style building with a steel roof and 40-foot windows in the main lodge, plus floor-to-ceiling windows with Mallard Lake views from each room. At the Silver Spur Ranch, youll enjoy home-cooked meals, plenty of great activities like horseback riding and hiking, and even a bonfire under the stars. In fact, the daily rate at Dixie Dude Ranch includes two horseback rides and three meals a day. Meals are laidback in tune with the casual feel of the ranch. The Marble Mountain Ranch has been family-owned since 1968. Here in Dallas the state, The top golfers know that year-round golf isnt restricted to the Southwest or the Southeast. A filling breakfast is including in the rate, and dinner at on-site McGill's leans local, with just-caught trout and bison on the menu. The first is a working dude ranch. of acres of land offering plenty of wide-open spaces and on-site trails, ponds, lakes, and more. The Mayan serves up some fantastic food, including mesquite-grilled steak, brisket, pork, ribs, chicken, sausage, and some of the best Mexican food around. Sitting on 348 acres, its not hard to understand why Mayan Ranch is one of the best dude ranches for families. The Hicks family has run the ranch for more than half a century. Ready to giddy up and get going? Flying L Ranch Resort, BanderaPrices & Photos. For those wanting all your modern amenities in a dude ranch, Flying L Ranch Resort is the ranch forMayan Ranch, BanderaPrices & Photos. Mayan Ranch is perfect for families, located in Bandera and is surrounded by the Medina River. LodgingDixie Dude Ranch, BanderaPrices & Photos. Located on 725 acres, the Dixie Dude Ranch is still a working ranch in Bandera that raises cattle, Overnight stays are unavailable December 16-26, 2023. Meals are filling but by no means gourmet. that focuses on family memories and cowboy adventure. I knew we had to take the kids to the best dude ranches in Texas for family vacations. You know how the classic cowboy song goes. You wont have much cell service while youre here, but who needs it given the many different activities at your fingertips. Resort features: All-Inclusive. as well as other partner offers and accept our. De Su Mama is a participant in the Amazon Associates Program. To get up close and personal with the animals, you can book a guided safari. Book the popular breakfast ride to start your day with an easy trail ride before indulging in a Chuckwagon breakfast served by a crackling campfire. One horseback ride per stay is included in the rate, as are free daily pony rides for young children. The manyaccommodation options make this dude ranch for families an obvious choice. A short walk from the corral is Hicksville, a fun playground for the kids and a great place for photo opps. A three-night minimum stay is required for Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends. The was a heater and an old TV set, but the true beauty of the ranch was just outside the doors on the land and in the daily program of activities so we werent actually in the room very often at all. Activities that require an additional fee include golf; paintball; skeet shooting; a rifle range; pheasant, dove, turkey, and deer hunting; and spa treatments. The weather is mild and sunny, and the cold, crisp nights are perfect for campfires. Pack your boots, jeans, concho belt, Western shirt, leather fringe jacket, and hat to experience a part of the Wild West. Spanning an impressive 30,000 acres, Cibolo Creek Ranch is proof that a luxurious getaway and a dude ranch experience arent mutually exclusive. At one point, Grand County had 17 operating dude ranches, more than any county in the United States. Expert wranglers maintain over 2,000 miles of trails and excel at helping riders find their hidden inner cowboy. Typical starting/peak prices:$957/$1,112. Daily activities are scheduled, meals are often included and guests stay on property to be fully immersed in Old West traditions. Nine individual cabins snuggled beside the creek offer lodging for families. Wine trails, outdoor adventures, swimming holes and luxurious resorts await. We included a variety of locations across the US, but all offer wide-open spaces and stunning scenery. The friendly, helpful staff will get you situated in a lodge room with a view of the lake and the resorts 11,140 acres of rolling prairie. These are the best places to saddle up, or not. Over 100 horses call the ranch home and an extensive year-round riding program is at its core. While staying at this blissful It depends heavily on the season (peak summer dates will be the most expensive), as well as whether it's all-inclusive or not. Or, dive into the pioneer experience and stay in one of the Conestoga wagons, based on the authentic 19th-century design. Spanning an impressive 30,000 acres, Cibolo Creek Ranch is proof that a luxurious getaway and a dude ranch experience arent mutually exclusive. Set high in the Colorado Rockies at nearly 9,000 feet of elevation, Waunita Hot Springs Ranch is filled with snow-covered mountain views at every turn. Pick up the daily schedule the night before to plan your day! Many dude ranches are all-inclusive resorts where all meals, drinks, and activities are included. If youre just after a low-key meal, dont worry they have you covered there too with their restaurant, Branding Iron Bar and Grill. Includes: Breakfast-only or all-inclusive rates are available. An extra plus: Feel free to bring your fluffy, four-legged friend since pets are welcome in all of the rooms. Related read: 12 Must-Visit Texas Hill Country Towns. from $1,999. All activities are available exclusively for registered guests and must be booked in Sugar & Spice Ranch is a mother-daughter experience that features Western style horseback riding at its heart. Visit Family Vacation Critic on Instagram! Get expert advice, handpicked recommendations, and tips for your family all year round! You also wont leave hungry thanks to the on-site steakhouse, which serves up hearty Texan cuisine. Sign up for our newsletter to get honest reviews on top products & services delivered weekly to your inbox. Related Read:The 11 Best Small Towns in Texas To Visit This Year. Pros: The standard trail ride lasts for 45 minutes, which is an excellent length for beginners and rusty riders. Updated March 31, 2023. Her work has been featured in Travel & Leisure, Thrillist, TripSavvy, Food & Wine, The Infatuation, and more. High ceilings and porches with panoramic views accentuate the sense of space. Some of the amenities include king-sized beds with luxury linens, handcrafted wooden rocking chairs on the balconies, in-room refrigerators, safes, and even boot brushes. To get in touch with your inner buckaroo without making a big dent in your wallet, Pine Ridge Dude Ranch is an affordable getaway located only 90 miles from Manhattan. We stayed in a cabin with two bedrooms (one with bunk beds!) Related Read:8 Awesome Cabin Rentals Near San Antonio for a Country Getaway. So we packed up our best cowboy gear and got ready to visit a highly rated Texas dude ranch all-inclusive with the perfect mix of luxury and rugged Bandera ranch appeal. TripAdvisor Book Pine Ridge Dude Ranch. The infinity-edge pool is the perfect place to watch the sunset while sipping a glass of local wine. Though horseback riding is the main attraction at our favorite dude ranches, you'll also enjoy a wide slate of additional activities to keep non-equestrians busy, from fishing to hiking to roasting marshmallows around the campfire. The extensive kid's menu should tempt even finicky eaters. WebOR CALL 830-275-7991. The town of Banderra is the The separate large marble showers, deep soaking tubs, and bathrooms can easily accommodate two or a family. Save room for the warm Texas pecan pie with vanilla bean ice cream and molasses bourbon sauce! By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Privacy Policy. Mayan Dude Ranch was at the top of the list for working dude ranches in Texas! travelers continue to lean towards remote, domestic trips, How we selected the best dude ranch vacations, Read our full hotel review of Alisal Ranch, The best US mountain resorts for all seasons, Learn more about how our team of experts tests and reviews products at Insider here. Which Dude Ranch Destination Is Best for Us? Many dude ranches are all-inclusive resorts where all meals, drinks, and activities are included. However, other guest ranch stays have a la carte options. Some dude ranches require minimum stays of anywhere from two nights to a week, but others allow you to book just one night. How much does a dude ranch vacation cost? How Can We Get a Deal? Cons: Alisal Ranch is expensive and there are similar options available elsewhere for less. Check out one of these awesome dude ranches in Texas. For children ages 6 to 13 in the Range Riders program, rides are held twice a day. And my husband? While you can certainly book activities like fishing and hunting la carte, Cedar Cove also offers all-inclusive packages that cover meals, your choice of guided activities, and access to on-site amenities like kayaks and paddleboats. 10 Best All-Inclusive U.S. Resorts for Families. Pine Ridge Dude Ranch is an affordable getaway located only 90 miles from New York City. Novices gain confidence in the arena before heading onto wilderness trails while savvy riders can book an all-day ride through the Rio Grande Forest. Dixie Dude Ranch is an established guest ranch thats been operating for more than 75 years in Bandera, Texas. This sprawling ranch provides an idyllic setting for the perfect Western retreat, where visitors can relax, unwind, and simply let the everyday worries fade away. Why you should stay: Four-star hotel amenities meet welcoming, down-home vibes at this ranch resort with its own steakhouse. Dude Ranch. Gracious Alisal Ranch is situated on 10,000 rugged acres in California's Santa Ynez Valley, the heart of Santa Barbara County's wine region. Many dude ranches in Colorado offer discounts in the month of June, while other properties offer discounts around holidays. The town of Banderra is the self-proclaimed Cowboy Capital of the World, and features some of the finest dude ranches in the state. Pros: Many guest rooms and casitas have panoramic views that exploit the desert location. We stayed at the lodge on our first visit, but we stayed in one of the cabin suites on our second. Mayan Ranch is perfect for families, located in Bandera and is surrounded by the Medina River. You know what else is diverse? Web8 Romantic Texas Getaways. Be sure to ask about riding instruction and guided rides versus free rides, too. The whole family will love Buck Shannon, the cowboy balladeer who entertains with cowboy songs and stories of the ranchs history around the campfire. Horseback riding and an extensive horsemanship program anchor the resort. These are the best dude ranches in the US, sorted by category and price. This 3,000-acre Sonoran Desert oasis has been owned and operated by the same family for generations. The property's two 18-hole golf courses and six tennis courts offer a range of clinics and lessons and the top-notch spa is worth the splurge. Laphams Lodge and the Colonels Quarters, with 10 bedrooms and 10 bathrooms each, both accommodate up to 22 people. Related read: Cowboy & Western Name Generator, 11 Best Resorts in Texas for a Rejuvenating Getaway, 9 Incredible State Parks with Cabins in Texas, 9 Awesome Cabin & Cottage Rentals Near New Braunfels, Texas, The 6 Best Places to See Fall Foliage in Texas, 10 Luxury Cabin Rentals in Texas for a Pampered Getaway. You can reconnect with nature on a private horseback ride with the ranch cowboys, who will tell you tales about the Old West. If you thought Florida was nothing but spring breakers, early-bird dinner specials, and a certain black-eared mouse, welcome to one of the state's last wide-open tracks of wilderness. Texass dude Cons: Conestoga Ranch is more of an immersion into nature than it is a deep dive into cowboy culture. Dude ranches also often present an even safer and more attractive vacation option right now since many offer standalone cabins and most ranches feature plenty of space for social distancing and focus on spending time outdoors. The types of animals you can find wandering about. Have you always dreamed of being a cowboy or cowgirl? This resort has an all-inclusive At Getaway Ranch Texas, you may just be an hour from the big city of Fort Worth, where Big Jim Courtright once prowled, but youll feel a world away thanks to its secluded nature dont expect any WiFi here! Youll receive a deluxe hotel room, award-winning three-course dinner by Chef Gerard Thompson, Rough Creeks signature breakfast, and all on-site activities for a set price per person for double occupancy, weeknights, or weekends. My favorite getaway is Rough Creek Lodge and Resort, about 90 miles southwest of the DallasFort Worth area near Glen Rose. If you eat meat, do NOT miss their famous steak buffet meal. WebWe offer an all-inclusive package that includes accommodations, three delicious, southwest-style meals a day, unlimited horseback riding/hiking, and all entertainment/activities. Cons: Horses are the main attraction, so non-riders might be happier at a ranch with a broader range of additional activities. WebAll Inclusive Hunting Packages - Trophy Fees Not Included. All-Inclusive Guest Ranch Vacations include lodging in one of our cozy Grand Lodge rooms or Log Cabins, daily horseback rides, three Country Gourmet meals daily, evening entertainment, and access to all ranch amenities. Shed your cosmopolitan persona and spend a few days at a Texas guest ranch. The West 1077 Guest Ranch, 10 miles from Bandera, was established on an old 230-acre cattle ranch and boasts a peaceful atmosphere and stunning Texas Hill Country beauty with plenty of modern amenities. Pros: The spring-fed lake is a scenic bonus for outdoor lovers. The guides were very kind, chatting with her and answering all her questions. Seen in: Texas, Where to Stay, Where to Stay in Texas. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. Whether she's participating in a wine tasting, restaurant review, or local craft beer or distillery tour, Janie posts her adventures at Journey Mapped. Why you should stay: Home-cooked, family-style meals and horseback rides are part of the package during your stay at this working ranch. Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list. She writes for CNN, USA TODAY 10 Best, USA TODAY Go Escape, Travel Channel, HGTV, Shermans Travel, Travel Squire, Emirates Open Skies Magazine and numerous other publications. Plus the ranch is home to a border collie rescue, so be prepared to see lots of cute pups too! What Type of Dude Ranch Should We Visit? A variety of guided rides are scheduled, from fast-paced trots to gentle walks where riders and wranglers have time to appreciate the flora and fauna. but the kids and I love the ranch lifestyle, so Im constantly looking for a kid-friendly dude ranch near me tovisit. Western Experience in Texas Experience the authentic cowboy lifestyle by visiting a working ranch. Wooded valleys, tranquil lakes, winding rivers, and lesser-known white-sand Gulf Coast beaches give Alabama plenty to brag about. Wood-burning stoves, fireplaces, and wrap-around porches grace many cabins. Some dude ranches require minimum stays of anywhere from two nights to a week, but others allow you to book just one night. Our team of parents and travel experts chooses each product and service we recommend. WebAt Dixie Dude Ranch you'll sleep in cozy cabins. Breakfast is covered as part of your overnight stay, and itll come delivered in a basket to your door. We research, evaluate and select travel destinations based on a number of factors, including our writers experience, user reviews and more. The Mayan Dude Ranch is one of the best dude ranches in Texas for families according to all the reviews out there. A cruise around the area in a classic convertible. Tanque Verde Ranch is one of those dude ranches with a spa and tennis court, mountain biking trails and other activities, in addition to horseback riding. destination. Beginning riders may enjoy a leisurely walking ride while experienced riders walk, trot, and lope. Sign up at the front desk! Guests are saturated in serenity without lacking creature comforts. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. 1-830-460-8487. Related Read:9 Best Texas Lavender Farms for Getting Your Fragrance Fix. Youll feel the relaxation setting in from the moment you arrive. Whether youre an ol cowpoke or a little buckaroo, youll be at ease immediately. Despite their various differences in layout and occupancy, you can expect to have a fire pit, grill, and plenty of coziness at each of them. In addition to unlimited activities, the all-inclusive option also covers food and drinks. The family-owned business has 120 guestrooms, and guests can go horseback riding in the morning and can cool off at the indoor water park in the afternoon. Sign up for Weekend Wanderer and join thousands of readers getting epic travel ideas weekly. Well visit the Cowboy Capital of the World, dude ranches, luxurious ranch experiences, and everything in between, in no particular order. We welcome your feedback. Allison Tibaldi has been a full-time freelance travel and food writer for 15 years. Off-road UTV riding, karaoke, cooking classes, whiskey tastings, trap shooting, and horseback psychology are just a sampling of their offerings. At Wildcatter Ranch, theres a good amount of variety in accommodations depending on what youre feeling like and how deep youre rolling. Theres also the on-site spa where you can unwind with treatments like a deep tissue massage plus a restaurant with themed dining nights. The Catskill Mountains in New York State have long been a playground for urbanites seeking a rural escape. WebDude and guest ranches offer an all-inclusive vacation experience like no other destination. A network of interlocking trails provides ample room to walk, trot, or canter and wranglers arrange rides to suit first-timers and seasoned regulars. Grand County, Colorado, on the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park, has been called the Dude Ranch Capital of North America. Visit Family Vacation Critic on Facebook! During your stay, each guest gets two 50-minute rides a day one of the morning and one in the afternoon. Idaho, Arizona and California also have a decent concentration of guest ranches. Aside from food, Flying L activities include wagon rides, creekside fishing, putt putt, horseback riding, and more. There are typically at least two horse rides available each day taking the rider high up into the hills or along the river. When we visited, it was entirely too cold to swim in the pool but we did adventure along the Medina River one afternoon (where my little guy jumped right in!). Yoga, fly fishing, trap shooting, hatchet throwing, and a zip line course are popular pastimes in addition to equestrian sports, and in cold weather, snow tubing, ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing round out the offerings. The remote beauty of Big Sky country is easy to appreciate from the back of a horse. Follow her adventures on Instagram @cindybrz. The most budget-friendly place of the bunch, this 800-acre working cattle ranch offers a relaxing escape from the city. Far from the West, Rocking Horse Ranch, offers a taste of the country on the East Coast. As travelers continue to lean towards remote, domestic trips, dude ranches make for a particularly compelling choice. Some of the ranchs activities include campfires with smores, a swimming pool, and hayrides to feed the longhorns. In fact, golf in Texas is spectacular. We participated in skeet shooting and archery and then relaxed in the infinity pool and hot tub. The evening meal is a traditional affair, with men asked to wear collared shirts and sport jackets. Guest rooms feature adobe walls and time-honored Southwestern accents such as beehive fireplaces. The childrens program is unstructured, but comprehensive. ResortsandLodges.com is a trademark of, Big Bend Texas (2), Gulf Coast Texas (1), Hill Country Texas (15), Piney Woods Texas (1), Prairies and Lakes Texas (4), Flying L Hill Country Resort & Conference Center. Pros: A full-service spa pampers sore muscles after a day of riding. Just two hours outside of Denver, Drowsy Water Ranch has been doing business since the 1920s. Sprawling over 37,000 acres, you and your pooch can go forth and conquer 100 miles of pet-friendly trails on foot or ski together through the expansive backcountry in winter. Private patios provide a peaceful place to listen to the morning birdsong. Our Mayan Dude Ranch vacations in Bandera, Texas are some of the best families memories weve made in Texas. The property boasts that it never feels crowded since there are only four units, each one a studio-like cabin. The activities are plentiful; more than 80 are available, including zip-lining, rock climbing, catch-and-release fishing, billiards, darts, a petting corral, a childrens ranch, tomahawk throwing, archery, and horseshoes. For a dude ranch vacation with ample charm, pack your Stetson hat and escape to Wildcatter Ranch Resort in North Texas Hill Country ranch, just 90 miles from Dallas. The ranch owns one of the largest private herds of horses in Arizona and guests are paired with one horse for the duration of their stay.