Save room for the warm Texas pecan pie with vanilla bean ice cream and molasses bourbon sauce! Spanning an impressive 30,000 acres, Cibolo Creek Ranch is proof that a luxurious getaway and a dude ranch experience arent mutually exclusive. 9 Amazing Things To Do In Artistic Old Lyme, Connecticut, Everything You Need To Know About Visiting The Ark Encounter, This National Park To Honor Four-Legged Furry Residents On One Special Day What Visitors Need To Know, 12 Incredible Things To Do During A Long Weekend In Laredo, Texas, 12 Ways To Spend A Great Day In Charming Brenham, Texas, 6 Fantastic Restaurants To Try In Lubbock, Texas, For details on Quillt's privacy and cookie policies, please visit our. Originally from Texas, she is currently based in Berlin. 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. These are the best places to saddle up, or not. (Dont come here on diet mode!). It was founded in 1947 by Colonel John H. Lapham, a retired Air Corps colonel who built an airstrip and started his flight school at the 542-acre ranch. South Texas Hunting Ranch All Inclusive Packages C Lazy U Ranch has been introducing families to the traditions of the American West for over 100 years. Lodging Guests sleep in glamping tents outfitted with electricity, luxurious bathrooms, claw foot soaking tubs with room for two, and cushy beds. You can reconnect with nature on a private horseback ride with the ranch cowboys, who will tell you tales about the Old West. Why you should stay: Its less stress and more fun when you book an all-inclusive package at this lakeside ranch and resort. Youll enjoy Texas two-stepping and the Cotton-Eyed Joe and learn many Western line-dancing techniques. Typical starting/peak prices:$790/$1,200. Spanning an impressive 30,000 acres, Cibolo Creek Ranch is proof that a luxurious getaway and a dude ranch experience arent mutually exclusive. Sitting by the poolside is, of course, not the only activity to keep you entertained here. Ask about programs that emphasize riding techniques, that partner the horse and rider for the duration of your stay, and that allow the guest to participate in choosing the horse right for them. 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. but the kids and I love the ranch lifestyle, so Im constantly looking for a kid-friendly dude ranch near me tovisit. Children ages 5 and under in the Buckaroos program are led on smaller horses in a pen. 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. Which Dude Ranch Destination Is Best for Us? Sugar & Spice Ranch is a mother-daughter experience that features Western style horseback riding at its heart. She speaks fluent Italian. Yes, send me expert advice, handpicked recommendations, and tips for my family. Youll learn about Fort Belknap, the ranchs history, and the Native Americans who once lived in the area. Dixie Dude Ranch, situated just an hour west of San Antonio in Bandera, has been a go-to getaway for familiesand dudesfor 75 years. Pros: Excellent cuisine is a hallmark of the resort. They are often secluded with wide-open spaces and plenty of fresh air. WebTexas dude ranches offer an exciting western experience for anyone with cowboy dreams. A dude ranch is an establishment orientated towards visitors and is considered a type of agrotourism. These are the best dude ranches in the US, sorted by category and price. This loving and welcoming atmosphere put me at ease right away and my kids loved every second; absolutely one of the best dude ranches in Texas for families. It was lovely. During your stay, keep an eye out for some cool animal residents like oryx, peacocks, and bald eagles! Plan your trip to Texas Select a region using the map to your right or pick one from the drop down below. The ranch is surrounded by dozens of wineries, which is convenient for sampling top vintages once you're out of the saddle. Blisswood Bed & Breakfast Ranch. Theres plenty to do at Mayan Ranch all year long, including a pool and river to swim in. There are other cottages, lodge rooms, and a two-story bunkhouse you can book too. Typical starting/peak prices:$957/$1,112. 10 Best Dude Ranches for Families 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. Flying L Ranch Resort. The kids are allowed to walk, lope and trot according to trail conditions and their comfort level on the horses. 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: Positioned on a historic cattle trail, this ranch is a more affordable way to get the full Texas ranch experience. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. Grab your jeans, boots, and hat and experience this full-scale resort with one-to-four-room villas, five restaurants, a general store, a water park with a lazy river, an 18-hole golf course, and a business and conference center. Overnight stays are unavailable December 16-26, 2023. When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. She is a native New Yorker who has lived in Italy, Australia, Canada, and California. Why you should stay: Four-star hotel amenities meet welcoming, down-home vibes at this ranch resort with its own steakhouse. Southern love stories are spun in the Best Romantic Texas Bed and Breakfasts. Upon checking into the Mayan Dude Ranch in Bandera, we immediately felt theirhorsepitality. Many dude ranches are all-inclusive, providing three meals a day and snacks for the entire family. 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. Finally, a water park, nightly entertainment, and arcade ensure kids are never bored. 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. You know how the classic cowboy song goes. 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. Whats the Deal With All-Inclusive Dude Ranches? Pet-Friendly Dude Ranch 12 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Texas - Enchanting Texas If you take a kid to a dude ranch, theyre gonna expect plenty of horseback riding. Theres also the on-site spa where you can unwind with treatments like a deep tissue massage plus a restaurant with themed dining nights. WebPlan your own all-inclusive getaway in the Lone Star State today! Scenic roads and must-sees across the state. Our top picks are based on our own travel experiences, as well as incorporating feedback from trusted review sites like. Discounts are given for in-state residents visiting Tanque Verde. As soon as we started looking for a dude ranch near San Antonio, we learned about this special place in the Texas Hill Country. Select a region below to Each day starts with a delicious Cowboy breakfast cooked on the open range, followed by so many activities to fill your time with endless fun. It was seriously so, so good. If youre here in the summertime, youll appreciate that theres a swimming pool for cooling off in. Visit Family Vacation Critic on Instagram! 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. Montana is home to a number of great dude ranches, too, with popular names like The Resort at Paws Up and Bar W Guest Ranch. WebDude Ranch - Resorts and Lodges in Texas Experience an authentic Western experience the next time you travel to Texas at a bona fide dude ranch. All Resort Types Meetings Reunions Wedding All-Inclusive Beach Family Golf Nature Fishing Romantic Hunting Pet Friendly Ecotourism Luxury Mountain Lake Historical Honeymoon 1-830-460-8487. Experience an authentic Western experience the next time you travel to Texas at a bona fide dude ranch. We research, evaluate and select travel destinations based on a number of factors, including our writers experience, user reviews and more. The most budget-friendly place of the bunch, this 800-acre working cattle ranch offers a relaxing escape from the city. While enjoying the surroundings of your countryside paradise, you can fill up your day by taking an ATV tour, horseback riding, or hanging out by the ranchs pool. Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. By clicking Sign up, you agree to receive marketing emails from Insider Email us at [email protected]. A dude ranch is a western-style resort with horseback riding, fishing, campfires, BBQs, and more. And no matter what time of year it is, the hot tub is open. 10 Best Texas Dude Ranches You Must Visit - Texas Travel 365 The first time we visited him from Southern California, the weather was absolutely magical. They take pride in offering personalized service, a welcoming atmosphere, and excellent value. 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. Or, dive into the pioneer experience and stay in one of the Conestoga wagons, based on the authentic 19th-century design. When youre not in your room, youll probably be out enjoying one of Wildcatter Ranchs many thrilling experiences. Passport to Culture Travel Party for Kids: Hawaiian Culture, KOA Ventura Ranch: California Glamping At Its Best. Extensive programming for children allows parents to enjoy adults-only time. We enjoyed the rocking chairs on the back porch and the views across the valley to the Brazos River below. Texas Guest Ranches Programming is anchored by extensive year-round horsemanship and horseback riding opportunities along with a patchwork of trails. Pros: If you're looking for family fun within an easy drive from New York City, this is the jackpot. Activities that require an additional fee include golf; paintball; skeet shooting; a rifle range; pheasant, dove, turkey, and deer hunting; and spa treatments. The main lodge playroom has all sorts of board games and ping pong for families to hang out together. Of course, much of the fun of a dude ranch comes from the experiences available, and boy, does this one have some interesting ones. 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. Cons: It's very hot for much of the year so schedule your ride for early morning or late afternoon. Youll feel the relaxation setting in from the moment you arrive. 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!! Another fun activity? 13 Gorgeous Log Cabins with Private Hot Tubs Across the U.S. As such, keep an eye out for moose, black bears, elks, and eagles. Western Experience in Texas Experience the authentic cowboy lifestyle by visiting a working ranch. Ready to giddy up and get going? As travelers continue to lean towards remote, domestic trips, dude ranches make for a particularly compelling choice. My kids loved the Dinosaur walk to learn about the fossils and tracks on their property. Powered by Mai Theme, 10 Best Texas Dude Ranches You Must Visit, 15 Best Luxury Cabins In Texas You Must Visit. The property boasts that it never feels crowded since there are only four units, each one a studio-like cabin. Infants and toddlers have their own age-appropriate nursery while older siblings may attend day camp. Dude Ranch Family Vacations Guests can also enjoy bullwhip and shooting demos, fossil hunting, hiking, buckaroo rides, stargazing, ranch animals, lasso lessons, a playground, and more. All the ranches have strict COVID-19 policies in place, which we've highlighted. All in all, the Mayan is definitely a dude ranch for kids that is bucket list worthy. We use cookies to improve your experience and to analyze the use of our website. Pack your boots, jeans, concho belt, Western shirt, leather fringe jacket, and hat to experience a part of the Wild West. Access your favorite topics in a personalized feed while you're on the go. The best US dude ranches include options for families, couples, seniors, and those on a budget. It depends heavily on the season (peak summer dates will be the most expensive), as well as whether it's all-inclusive or not. Why you should stay: Activities and meals are included at this ranch with its own wellness camp. Breakfast is covered as part of your overnight stay, and itll come delivered in a basket to your door. Guest rooms are in either the Main Lodge or the adjacent motel-style Oklahoma Building. 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. Her beats include Italy, New England, and the Caribbean. 10 Best Texas Dude Ranches for a True Western Experience Food options can also range from casual barbecues to gourmet meals depending on the ranch. What are some popular things to do: Poconos, NY, TN, MI, OC, All Inclusive, Family weekend getaways, NJ, NC, VA, TX, OH -- You are reading "21 Best Texas Dude Ranches" Back to Top 4. Texas Dude Ranches: Dixie Dude Ranch Dixie Dude Ranch is an established guest ranch thats been operating for more than 75 years in Bandera, Texas. as well as other partner offers and accept our. Its rustic elegance all around at The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, which has 16 cabins plus 16 guest rooms. The cabins are definitely rustic, but well suited for our expectations and needs. If you want to fully lean into the Western experience, you definitely need to book a chuck wagon dinner and show here, which includes an all-out barbecue dinner, live country music, and dancing. Wildcatter Ranch is just 90 minutes from the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport in the Texas Hill Country near Graham and Possum Kingdom Lake. In summer, the sparkling waters of Bear Lake are a wonderland for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Plus, activities are included in rates. Welcome Accommodations Activities Events STEAKHOUSE Location Contact Pet Guest rooms are divided between four cottages and rooms have sturdy wood paneling, simple Shaker-style furniture, and plush bathrobes. Related Read:8 Awesome Cabin Rentals Near San Antonio for a Country Getaway. At one point, Grand County had 17 operating dude ranches, more than any county in the United States. Sitting on 348 acres, its not hard to understand why Mayan Ranch is one of the best dude ranches 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. Her graduate work in early childhood education gives her an edge when it comes to understanding the nuances of family travel. Well visit the Cowboy Capital of the World, dude ranches, luxurious ranch experiences, and everything in between, in no particular order. Oh my goodness, so much great food. What you actually do on your family dude vacation will depend greatly on the time of year. The Dude Ranchers Association was formed in 1926 to preserve this special way of life The Mayan Dude Ranch is one of the best dude ranches in Texas for families according to all the reviews out there. Janie H. Pace is a travel writer and photographer based in Fort Worth, Texas. Includes: Options available for all-inclusive stays or a la carte dining and activities. Nightly entertainment includes moonlight bonfires, whip-cracking demos, and a cowboy chorus. The Catskill Mountains in New York State have long been a playground for urbanites seeking a rural escape. Embark on a cross country tour with the 50 coolest Airbnbs in the U.S. and see which is best in your state. There are several ways to plan your stay at the Grand Canyon - camping or lodging in the park itself offers the most authentic, immersive experience, but staying nearby also has its perks. WebWe offer an all-inclusive package that includes accommodations, three delicious, southwest-style meals a day, unlimited horseback riding/hiking, and all entertainment/activities. Some ranches are quite luxurious, with guests dressing for dinner and indulging in local wines. 3 Day & 2 Night Hunts - $1,500 Additional non-hunting guests $400/night. All trips include food, lodging and transportation around the ranch. The weather is mild and sunny, and the cold, crisp nights are perfect for campfires. Idaho, Arizona and California also have a decent concentration of guest ranches. For children ages 6 to 13 in the Range Riders program, rides are held twice a day. The remote beauty of Big Sky country is easy to appreciate from the back of a horse. Theres horseback riding, ATV tours, clay and long-range shooting, and mountain tours just make sure you book your chosen activity at least 24 hours in advance! You'll build up an appetite as well and three full meals are included in the daily rate. Trade your skirt for blue jeans, your tie for a red bandana, and your stress for a peaceful Hill Country sunset at the Silver Spur Guest Ranch near Bandera. My brothers cabin was a studio and a short walk away. The Resort at Paws Up is the creme de la creme of all-inclusive pet-friendly dude ranches. Web8 Romantic Texas Getaways. 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. Some of the ranchs activities include campfires with smores, a swimming pool, and hayrides to feed the longhorns. Private patios provide a peaceful place to listen to the morning birdsong. Guest rooms feature adobe walls and time-honored Southwestern accents such as beehive fireplaces. Cons: This rambunctious ranch is not the place to vacation if you're seeking tranquility. Many dude ranches do not offer an all-inclusive option. 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. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. Pros: A full-service spa pampers sore muscles after a day of riding. 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. The themed dinners are delicious too. Dude & Guest Ranch Vacations - The Dude Ranchers Association All are equipped with refrigerators, heated bathroom floors, and Keurig coffee machines. This resort has an all-inclusive Stay At A Texas Ranch Looking for a unique way to unwind? Dude ranches are often set on hundreds (or thousands!) Related Read:The 11 Best Small Towns in Texas To Visit This Year. 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. Where to Stay Bandera, TX Dude Ranches Theres hiking, horseback riding, and fishing plus hayrides, ping pong, horseshoes, and more. The separate large marble showers, deep soaking tubs, and bathrooms can easily accommodate two or a family. If youre just after a low-key meal, dont worry they have you covered there too with their restaurant, Branding Iron Bar and Grill. And my husband? How Can We Get a Deal? Packages Includes: 3 days Guided Hunting; 5 Some must be tasted. You can also get a deal by asking for non-rider discounts if someone in your family is not able to or would prefer not to ride. 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. 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. Ride the hayride to the cowboy breakfast, the riverside gazebo, the little Western town, or out under the starry skies for a campfire and sing-along. You can learn more about our editorial policies, 10 Best Hikes in Texas for Top-Notch Lone Star State Scenery, 9 Best Texas Lavender Farms for Getting Your Fragrance Fix, 11 Best Texas Swimming Holes to Beat the Summer Heat, 10 Best Weekend Road Trips from San Antonio, Texas, The 11 Best Small Towns in Texas To Visit This Year, 8 Awesome Cabin Rentals Near San Antonio for a Country Getaway, 15 Romantic Getaways in Texas for Adventurous Couples, 10 Best Cabin Rentals in Florida for a Relaxing Vacay, 50 Coolest Airbnbs in the U.S. for a Great American Adventure, 8 Best Grand Canyon Airbnbs for Adventurous Travelers, 10 Unique Airbnbs in Alabama for a Stunning Southern Getaway, The 10 Best Pet-Friendly Cabin Rentals in Maine. 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? Each winter morning, guests may join the wranglers on the feed wagon and watch the herd of horses eat their breakfast. And dont forget, if you need some help choosing the perfect dude ranch vacation, you can always ask our expert for advice. Off-road UTV riding, karaoke, cooking classes, whiskey tastings, trap shooting, and horseback psychology are just a sampling of their offerings. We included a variety of locations across the US, but all offer wide-open spaces and stunning scenery. On the propertys many trails, you may spot deer, armadillos, roadrunners, wild turkeys, and more. Be sure to stay after dinner for the games and entertainment. The accommodations range from standard rooms to three-bedroom cabins, some sleeping up to 12 guests each. 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. The town of Banderra is the self-proclaimed Cowboy Capital of the World, and features some of the finest dude ranches in the state. Rocking Horse Ranch Highland, N.Y. Located in the wooded foothills of the Shawangunk Mountains a few hours from New York City, Rocking Horse Ranch is tailor-made for families. Its a better experience for the rider and horse. It wasnt long before we were introduced to the Hicks family tree, who married who, how many kids everyone had and just how much the family loves their Texas home. A short walk from the corral is Hicksville, a fun playground for the kids and a great place for photo opps. 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!). Cibolo Creek Ranch. 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. If horseback riding isn't your thing, there's also skeet shooting, tennis, fishing, swimming, line dancing, and archery. WebBlissWood Ranch is an Ideal Getaway Destination in Texas Check out the following list of activities guests can look forward to at our Texas dude ranch. Which Ranches Do You Recommend?Tanque Verde Ranch Tucson, Ariz. The water is crystal clear; truly so beautiful and clean. 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. 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 addition to unlimited activities, the all-inclusive option also covers food and drinks. Have you always dreamed of being a cowboy or cowgirl? A three-night minimum stay is required for Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends. My favorite getaway is Rough Creek Lodge and Resort, about 90 miles southwest of the DallasFort Worth area near Glen Rose. This was our first time driving through Hill Country and, althoughI was a little nervous, wegot theresafely without any incident. Dude Ranch Vacation Map Texas All Inclusive Resorts & Vacations Over 100 horses call the ranch home and an extensive year-round riding program is at its core. For something a little more romantic, why not book one of the king cabin suites? When it gets hot, its time to get wild at a water park Texas style. explore Resorts & Lodges in that Visit Family Vacation Critic on Facebook! Everyone enjoys a BBQ lunch before heading back to the corral. Bandera, Texas, about an hour west of San Antonio, is another notable area, nicknamed the Cowboy Capital of the World; it is home to 12 dude/guest ranches. Everything - the bunkhouse lodging, more. I enjoyed a Jeep tour of the ranch, the overview, and the valley past the stockyards, all the way to the river. Also called a guest ranch, dude ranches can be 100% operational (or working dude ranches) or strictly cater to luxury dude ranch guests. Dude Ranches However, if inclement weather hits, there's also a heated indoor riding arena. 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. Anyone looking for the real deal when it comes to a ranch getaway should consider Dixie Dude Ranch, a working ranch founded in 1901. In fact, the daily rate at Dixie Dude Ranch includes two horseback rides and three meals a day. While not for those watching their wallets, the all-inclusive model and high-end accommodations and meals still mean it offers strong value. I knew we had to take the kids to the best dude ranches in Texas for family vacations. The Wildcatter Steakhouse offers hand-cut mesquite-grilled steaks, petite filets, seafood specials, and chicken-fried steak. Nine individual cabins snuggled beside the creek offer lodging for families. These are places with Wi-Fi (often included in rates), pools, hot tubs and hot toddies, maybe a tennis court or fitness center, but certainly an atmosphere of relaxation and tranquility. The accommodations are quaint and full of country charm, and its pretty cool knowing that youre staying somewhere right on the historic Chisholm Trail (the route used to drive cattle from Texas to Kansas). Other on-site activities include horseback riding, catch and release fishing, and paddleboarding. However, other guest ranch stays have a la carte options. Family activities include horseback riding, putt-putt golf, basketball, tennis, volleyball, ping-pong, horseshoes, shuffleboard, and playgrounds. Related Read:5 Must-Do Scenic Train Rides in Texas. 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. 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. When not writing, reading, or eating, you can probably find her making an itinerary for her next adventure or dreaming about pizza.