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11 dude ranches where you can ride horses, go skeet shooting, or try fly fishing - and most meals are included

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best dude ranches in the US
  • For wide-open spaces, outdoor activities, and plenty of nature, consider a dude ranch vacation.
  • A dude ranch is a western-style resort with horseback riding, fishing, campfires, BBQs, and more.
  • The best US dude ranches include options for families, couples, seniors, and those on a budget.
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For a western-themed adventure that doesn't sit on its high horse, consider a dude ranch vacation. Some ranches are quite luxurious, with guests dressing for dinner and indulging in local wines. Others are more simplistic affairs, offering a down home way to unplug and reconnect with nature.

As travelers continue to lean towards remote, domestic trips, dude ranches make for a particularly compelling choice. They are often secluded with wide-open spaces and plenty of fresh air.

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. These are the best places to saddle up, or not.

Browse all of the best dude ranches below, or jump to a specific category here:

These are the best dude ranches in the US, sorted by category and price.

Best Resorts sub banners Budget Friendly
320 Guest Ranch
best dude ranch vacations - room at 320 guest ranch
In addition to horseback riding, this resort is a mecca for fly fishing.

Book 320 Guest Ranch

At 320 Guest Ranch, the bluebird skies, high mountain meadows, and ebb and flow of the river feel infinite. Once a historic homestead, the property was transformed into a guest ranch that oozes low-key western hospitality.

The ranch offers a variety of accommodations, from intimate log cabins with homespun decor to elaborate mountain chalets with glass-enclosed living rooms providing spectacular views. Wood-burning stoves, fireplaces, and wrap-around porches grace many cabins. Every cabin is standalone and there's no main lodge, making this an especially attractive choice for social distancing. 

The remote beauty of Big Sky country is easy to appreciate from the back of a horse. Expert wranglers maintain over 2,000 miles of trails and excel at helping riders find their hidden inner cowboy. Rides are as short as one hour and as long as a full day with lunch served lakeshore. 

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.

COVID-19 policies can be found here.

Tanque Verde Ranch
best dude ranch vacations - Tanque Verde Ranch desert ride
Tanque Verde Ranch has the authentic feel of an old-time cattle ranch.

Book Tanque Verde Ranch

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. 

Guest rooms feature adobe walls and time-honored Southwestern accents such as beehive fireplaces. Private patios provide a peaceful place to listen to the morning birdsong. 

Mount your horse for the popular lunchtime ride to Cottonwood Grove and soak in the majesty of the desert horizon. Beginning riders may enjoy a leisurely walking ride while experienced riders walk, trot, and lope. Everyone enjoys a BBQ lunch before heading back to the corral. 

Additional horsemanship activities include team penning and lessons on equine behavior.

COVID-19 policies can be found here

Pine Ridge Dude Ranch
best dude ranch vacations - Pine Ridge Dude Ranch wranglers
Pine Ridge Dude Ranch is an affordable getaway located only 90 miles from New York City.

Book Pine Ridge Dude Ranch

The Catskill Mountains in New York State have long been a playground for urbanites seeking a rural escape. 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. 

No-frills guest rooms are uncluttered with cathedral ceilings, hardwood floors, and large screen LED TVs, and some have fireplaces and private patios. 

One horseback ride per stay is included in the rate, as are free daily pony rides for young children. 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. Additionally, take a swim in the pool, swing a tennis racquet, and play a round of mini-golf.  

Meals are laidback in tune with the casual feel of the ranch. The kitchen takes pride in utilizing produce sourced from nearby farms and hearty main courses are served with freshly baked bread and retro desserts like Jell-O and chocolate pudding. 

COVID-19 policies can be found here

White Stallion Ranch
best dude ranch vacations - White Stallion Ranch standard room
Guests are paired with one horse for the duration of their stay.

Book White Stallion Ranch

This 3,000-acre Sonoran Desert oasis has been owned and operated by the same family for generations. They take pride in offering personalized service, a welcoming atmosphere, and excellent value.

Guest rooms have tiled floors, solid wood furniture, and private patios. Local artwork adds panache, and the sprawling five-bedroom hacienda is a good choice for groups. 

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. 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. Nightly entertainment includes moonlight bonfires, whip-cracking demos, and a cowboy chorus. 

COVID-19 policies can be found here.

Best Resorts sub banners Families
Rocking Horse Ranch Resort
Rocking_Horse_Ranch_Resort_guest_room (1)
Rooms have faux-log furnishings and cowboy-themed bedding.

Book Rocking Horse Ranch

Located in the wooded foothills of the Shawangunk Mountains a few hours from New York City, Rocking Horse Ranch is tailor-made for families. 

Guest rooms are in either the Main Lodge or the adjacent motel-style Oklahoma Building. Rooms have faux-log furnishings, cowboy-themed bedding, Wi-Fi, and flat-screen cable TVs. Larger rooms with two Queen beds and bunks sleep six comfortably, and three homestyle meals per day and all snacks are included in the price. 

Over 100 horses call the ranch home and an extensive year-round riding program is at its core. A network of interlocking trails provides ample room to walk, trot, or canter and wranglers arrange rides to suit first-timers and seasoned regulars. 

The supervised children's program is also top-notch. Infants and toddlers have their own age-appropriate nursery while older siblings may attend day camp. Finally, a water park, nightly entertainment, and arcade ensure kids are never bored.

COVID-19 policies can be found here.

C Lazy U Ranch
C_Lazy_U,_horses_grazing,_credit_C_Lazy_U_Ranch (1)
While dude ranches might seem rustic, this one serves an upscale dinner that is an elegant four-course affair.

Book C Lazy U Ranch

C Lazy U Ranch has been introducing families to the traditions of the American West for over 100 years. While not for those watching their wallets, the all-inclusive model and high-end accommodations and meals still mean it offers strong value.

Locally owned, this classic dude ranch sits on 8,500 pristine acres within an unspoiled landscape that supports a wealth of plant life and colorful wildflowers. As such, keep an eye out for moose, black bears, elks, and eagles. 

Upscale guest rooms and remodeled cabins feature stone fireplaces, exposed beams, and reclaimed timber trim that serve as characteristic complements to the Continental Divide surroundings. All are equipped with refrigerators, heated bathroom floors, and Keurig coffee machines. Roomy cabins with bunk beds work especially well for families. 

Programming is anchored by extensive year-round horsemanship and horseback riding opportunities along with a patchwork of trails. However, if inclement weather hits, there's also a heated indoor riding arena. 

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. Each winter morning, guests may join the wranglers on the feed wagon and watch the herd of horses eat their breakfast. 

You'll build up an appetite as well and three full meals are included in the daily rate. Dinner is an elegant four-course affair with an award-winning wine program, led by an on-site sommelier.

COVID-19 policies can be found here.

4UR Ranch
4UR_Ranch_riders (1)
Explore your inner cowboy with a taste of the Wild West along the banks of the Rio Grande River.

Book 4UR Ranch

Nestled in a wisp of a valley in the San Juan Mountains, explore your inner cowboy and a taste of the Wild West along the banks of the Rio Grande River.

Guest rooms are divided between four cottages and rooms have sturdy wood paneling, simple Shaker-style furniture, and plush bathrobes. Porches present panoramic views from the perch of comfy rocking chairs.

Horseback riding and an extensive horsemanship program anchor the resort. 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. Fly-fishing, hiking, a dip in the soothing natural hot springs, and evening campfires are also all on the daily schedule.

Additionally, a stellar children's program includes riding, a weekly rodeo, hayrides, and lots of opportunities to play with barn animals. 

COVID-19 policies can be found here.

Best Resorts sub banners Couples
Wildcatter Ranch
Wildcatter_Ranch_infinity_pool (1)
With 25 miles of riding trails, you may have a trail all to yourself.

Book Wildcatter Ranch

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.  

Cabin suites and main building hotel rooms utilize natural materials like wooden bed frames and stone fireplaces, and in spite of mounted taxidermy, the look is genuine gaucho over kitschy. High ceilings and porches with panoramic views accentuate the sense of space. 

With 25 miles of lightly-tread riding trails rambling across the ranch, couples may have a trail all to themselves. Learn additional cowboy skills such as ranch roping, or if you prefer to kick-back, enjoy the scenery on an escorted Jeep tour. The infinity-edge pool is the perfect place to watch the sunset while sipping a glass of local wine. 

COVID-19 policies can be found here.

Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort
Alisal_Ranch_riding,_credit_Alisal_Ranch (1)
Situated on 10,000 rugged acres in California's Santa Ynez Valley, Alisal offers upscale luxury in a ranch setting.

Book Alisal 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. The ranch is surrounded by dozens of wineries, which is convenient for sampling top vintages once you're out of the saddle. 

Rooms and suites feature cozy wood-burning fireplaces, plus tasteful accents like reclaimed barn wood paneling, and fine linens covering the pillow-soft beds.  

The extensive riding program is led by experienced wranglers and there are 50 miles of trails dipping through verdant glens, grass-covered hills, and riverbanks. 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.

Room rates are for two and include breakfast and dinner daily, which adds value to the expensive rate. The evening meal is a traditional affair, with men asked to wear collared shirts and sport jackets.

COVID-19 policies can be found here.

Read our full hotel review of Alisal Ranch

Travel Hotel Reviews Sub banners Seniors
Conestoga Ranch
Conestoga_Ranch_wagon (1)
Sleep in glamping tents or Conestoga wagons after a day of guided horseback rides.

Book Conestoga Ranch

This remote Utah ranch is a bucolic retreat on the shores of Bear Lake. Surrounded by rolling hills and mountain peaks, the area is home to numerous caves filled with otherworldly stalagmite formations. 

Guests sleep in glamping tents outfitted with electricity, luxurious bathrooms, claw foot soaking tubs with room for two, and cushy beds. Or, dive into the pioneer experience and stay in one of the Conestoga wagons, based on the authentic 19th-century design. 

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. In summer, the sparkling waters of Bear Lake are a wonderland for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. If you prefer your fun on dry land, hiking, biking, and sunrise yoga are also enticing possibilities.

COVID-19 policies can be found here.

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo
Westgate_River_Ranch_luxury_tipi (1)
Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo is located on 1,700 acres overlooking the Kissimmee River and is one hour south of Orlando

Book Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo

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. Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo is located on 1,700 acres overlooking the Kissimmee River, and is one hour south of Orlando, making it an appealing add-on to a theme park vacation. 

The ranch offers a variety of comfortable accommodations including lodge rooms, cabins, glamping tents, and decked-out tipis. Each tipi provides luxurious linens, a fireplace, a cast iron soaking tub, and a private patio. 

Saddle up and go for a guided 45-minute trail ride or try not to get thrown from the mechanical bull. If horseback riding isn't your thing, there's also skeet shooting, tennis, fishing, swimming, line dancing, and archery. Our pick is the weekly Saturday rodeo, where experienced contestants fight to hold onto a wild bull. 

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. 

COVID-19 policies can be found here.

FAQ: Dude ranch vacations

What is a dude ranch?

A dude ranch is a Western-style resort typically featuring rustic-chic accommodations and a wide range of outdoor-centric activities, including horseback riding, fishing, hiking, roping, roasting marshmallows, chuckwagon dinners, and more. 

Dude ranches are often set on hundreds (or thousands!) of acres of land offering plenty of wide-open spaces and on-site trails, ponds, lakes, and more. 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?

Dude ranch vacation costs can vary quite a bit. It depends heavily on the season (peak summer dates will be the most expensive), as well as whether it's all-inclusive or not.

Though all-inclusive options can come with an initial sticker shock, it pays off to do the math on how much meals and activities will cost at other dude ranches since sometimes the all-inclusive route can actually come out cheaper in the end.

Dude ranches span a wide range and there are budget options available for under $200 per night all the way up to decadent luxury stays packed with amenities and perks that can start from over $1,000 per night. 

What do you do at a dude ranch?

Horseback riding is the main attraction at most dude ranches, but there are plenty of additional activities, including fishing, swimming, archery, and even lounging at on-site pools to keep non-equestrians busy.

Expect wholesome entertainment like toasting marshmallows under a starry sky, or listening to a chorus of cowboys singing country music hits by the campfire at night. Food options can also range from casual barbecues to gourmet meals depending on the ranch. 

Are ranch vacations safe?

The CDC has stated that travel within the US is safe for fully vaccinated travelers, and experts say hotels are safe with the proper precautions taken. 

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. 

How we selected the best dude ranches
  1. We looked for options to suit a wide range of adventurers. We've broken our list into categories, with options for travelers on a budget, as well as families, couples seeking a romantic getaway, and active seniors.
  2. Our top picks are based on our own travel experiences, as well as incorporating feedback from trusted review sites like Trip Advisor and Booking.com.
  3. Every dude ranch offers plenty of activities and outdoor fun to keep you busy, whether you want to head out on a trail ride or lounge poolside back at camp.
  4. We included a variety of locations across the US, but all offer wide-open spaces and stunning scenery.
  5. All the ranches have strict COVID-19 policies in place, which we've highlighted.
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Credit_ Cheyenne Mountain Resort
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