Activities
Traveling is one of many wonderful things a parent can do for a child’s education and early experiences. Many families may become dismayed while searching for a destination to take their young ones. That being said, there are dude ranches where even families with babies and young children can find a vacation that works for everyone.
Wind River Ranch and these family-friendly destinations are just those types of spots. Although you may be looking for a baby-friendly place, the fun doesn’t stop there. It continues on to great times for small children through the teenage years and settles in with activities for parents and grandparents alike. Here are some adventure ranch destinations with amazing experiences for all ages.
Ranches for Children of All Ages
Wind River Ranch
Wind River Ranch, takes care of your entire family’s needs and desires seriously. They know that kids and teens need the time and space to play and explore with kids of their own ages and interests, that infants need to be coddled and swooned, and that everyone in the family needs a chance to experience rejuvenation and unplugged happy downtime in nature.
All of the children’s counselors at Wind River have gone through a tough screening process and rigorous training and they excel at creating a wide variety of fun and exciting activities~ from morning to night. So whether they choose to hang out at the kids club or go horseback riding with amazing wranglers, your kids will find both the elbow room and latitude they need to explore freely, combined with the supervision and security you need to ensure they have a wonderful and safe experience in the great outdoors.
Shoshone Lodge and Guest Ranch
Cody, Wyoming
Located just three miles from the East Entrance to Yellowstone National Park, Shoshone Lodge and Guest Ranch is a family-friendly Wyoming getaway with plenty to enjoy at Shoshone Lodge & Guest Ranch. Kids ages 6 and up can participate in all of the ranch activities with their families, while younger children can enjoy many activities as well. Babysitting is also available during specific events for children 5 and under, giving parents the opportunity to enjoy some time on their own.
Greenhorn Ranch
Quincy, California
Tucked into California’s Lost Sierra, Greenhorn Ranch offers plenty of ways for young guests to experience the fun of ranch life. Children ages 3–5 can enjoy the Kiddie Corral with pony leads, nature adventures, fishing, crafts and outdoor play, while babysitting is available for children under 3. Older kids can take part in activities ranging from horseback riding and scavenger hunts to outdoor sports and adventures around the ranch.
Nine Quarter Circle Ranch
Gallatin Gateway, Montana
Located 1 hour from Yellowstone National Park, Nine Quarter Circle Ranch makes it easy for the whole family to enjoy a Montana dude ranch vacation. Their Small Fries program gives children ages 0–5 their own activities, including lead-around horseback rides, while complimentary babysitting gives parents time to enjoy the ranch on their own. Older children have age-specific programs of their own, with horseback riding, activities and plenty of opportunities to make new friends.
Rancho de los Caballeros
Wickenburg, Arizona
Set in the Sonoran Desert, Rancho de los Caballeros combines classic ranch activities with plenty of options for families. Children can enjoy age-specific programs from toddlers through teens, while babysitting and childcare options can help parents enjoy some time to themselves during their stay.
Red Horse Mountain Ranch
Harrison, Idaho
Nestled in the Idaho Panhandle near Coeur d’Alene, Red Horse Mountain Ranch makes family vacations easy with adventures designed for kids of all ages. During Family Vacation Weeks, children ages 3–10 can enjoy their own program filled with activities such as horseback riding, kayaking, climbing and exploring the outdoors. For families traveling with younger children, nanny services are also available, giving parents the flexibility to enjoy some time on their own while their little ones are cared for.
To find out more about these family destinations (and their adult activities) visit them on the web or use the contact information below. To make a reservation contact the ranch directly. If you have general questions about a ranch vacation you can call the Dude Ranchers Association.
