Activities
From the littlest to the biggest kid, everyone will get a chance to play. The Dude Ranchers’ Association offers a variety of family-friendly ranch experiences with phenomenal kid’s programs, healthy food, horseback riding and more outdoor adventures than you can imagine.
A dude ranch vacation gives families the opportunity to spend quality time together, explore the outdoors, learn new skills and experience the Western way of life. Each ranch has its own unique style and offerings, making it possible to find an experience that fits your family’s interests and ages. From horseback riding and wildlife encounters to swimming, fishing and children’s activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Here are some wonderful family ranch vacation destinations across North America to consider for your next getaway.
Wyoming Family Ranch Vacations
The Red Rock Ranch – Kelly, Wyoming
Dates Open: June through September
The Red Rock Ranch is a family-owned authentic western dude ranch with polished amenities. Children will love the freedom of just being kids in the wide-open spaces of Wyoming. There is no TV or video games, but they will be busy with horseback riding, caring for their own specially chosen horses, volleyball, pickleball, horseshoes and the kid’s recreation room. There is something special about swimming in a heated pool surrounded by the beautiful red cliffs, playing tag with new friends or simply enjoying a game of foosball or ping pong.
7D Ranch – Cody, Wyoming
Dates Open: mid-June through mid-September
Offering weekly trips into Yellowstone National Park, the 7D Ranch has a kids program geared for kids 3 – 12 years old, but kids of all ages enjoy participating in the activities. Their children’s program allows young people to experience ranch life and come to understand the connections to the natural world. Ecological relationships are taught by example on daily hikes and rides. Children are introduced to the world of livestock and horses by patient wranglers who take great care to build kids’ confidence.
Goosewing Ranch – Kelly, Wyoming
Dates Open: June – September
Located in the Gros Ventre River Valley near Jackson Hole, Goosewing Ranch offers families an opportunity to experience the beauty and adventure of the Wyoming wilderness. Children can take part in the Goosewing Buckaroos program, with age-appropriate activities that introduce them to ranch life. Younger children can enjoy livestock care, pony rides, crafts and games, while older kids can spend time horseback riding and learning about horse care. With outdoor adventures, mountain scenery and opportunities to explore together, Goosewing Ranch makes a memorable destination for families looking to experience the West.
A little practice, a lot of fun, and memories made on the ranch. Photo Credit: Goosewing Ranch
Arizona Family Ranch Vacations
Circle Z Ranch – Patagonia, Arizona
Dates Open: Mid October through April
How often do we long for the days of giving our children the gift of nature, in a safe and healthy environment, where the electronics are shelved and our kids are happy and laughing, making new friends? Circle Z cherishes the adventures that families will experience, either together or separately. Here, the kids are allowed the freedom to be kids without pressures and are given adventures that will expand their confidence and fill their hearts. A dude ranch vacation will not just entertain your children, it will change their lives.
Elkhorn Ranch – Tucson, Arizona
Dates Open: Mid-November through April
Just 50 miles southwest of Tucson the Elkhorn Ranch is a sunny winter destination for your family. Children of all ages are welcome. Guest ranch life provides an ideal setting for family vacations and reunions. Families ride together or separately as rides are set up daily to suit individual interests. Children enjoy the freedom to play outdoors and an ample supply of board games and puzzles available in the dining room. Ping-pong, shuffleboard, tennis and basketball and a heated swimming pool add to the fun.
Colorado Family Ranch Vacations
Sundance Trail Guest Ranch – Red Feather Lakes, Colorado
Dates Open: Year-round
At Sundance Trail Guest Ranch families are encouraged to play together and to make memories together. At different times during the week, kids may opt to participate in Colorado dude ranch activities with their families or join in with counselor-wranglers for their own special activities: “kids only” horseback riding in the arena or small group trail rides, gathering eggs from the hen house, playing with the ever-present kittens and goats, group hikes & rock climbing, fishing, picnics & campfire sing-alongs, outdoor games, & treasure hunts, movies & crafts.
Imagine your teenager connecting with her own personal horse for the week. Photo Credit Sundance Trail Ranch
Black Mountain Ranch – McCoy, Colorado
Dates Open: June through mid-September
You won’t forget a family ranch vacation at the Black Mountain Ranch. Unlimited horseback riding, overnight pack trips, a Longhorn cattle drive, white water rafting, fishing, kids’ program, rifle and trap shooting, archery and trip to the local rodeo is just the start. Whether you are looking for some easy trails to ride with your kids or advanced riding for the entire family, there are great options for everyone in the family.
Cherokee Park Ranch – Livermore, Colorado
Dates Open: June through August
The Cherokee Park Ranch is a family-owned dude ranch nestled in the beautiful Colorado Rocky Mountains. They cater to families with kids of all ages, horseback riding, river rafting, rodeos, fishing, music, dancing, cow wrangling, swimming, ropes/challenge course, skeet shooting and mountain biking. Your kids will have a full day’s worth of counseled activities should parents desire “time off!” For young ones under two, this family ranch offers a unique opportunity: bring your own full-time babysitter, free of charge.
Montana Family Ranch Vacations
JJJ Wilderness Ranch – Augusta, Montana
Dates Open: Mid-June through September
The Triple J Ranch offers an extensive Children and Teen Program. Each child will have their own horse for the week to learn horsemanship skills with dedicated kids wranglers. Children are not required to engage in any activity, but activities are available should parents desire a little freedom to participate in more scenic and challenging rides. This family ranch can keep even the most restless little cowboy or cowgirl busy. They’ll have loads of fun and they’ll talk about it … seemingly forever!
Nine Quarter Circle Ranch – Gallatin Gateway, Montana
Dates Open: Mid-June through late September
Located in the beautiful Taylor Fork area near Yellowstone National Park, Nine Quarter Circle Ranch offers a memorable Western experience for the whole family. Children can enjoy their own ranch adventures through age-specific programs designed to encourage independence, confidence and fun. Younger guests can take part in the Small Fries program, while children ages 6–9 have the opportunity to ride their own horse with guidance from a dedicated kiddie wrangler. Older kids can join riding groups suited to their experience level. Complimentary babysitting is available for children ages five and under, giving parents time to enjoy their own ranch activities. From horseback riding and outdoor adventures to making new friends, there’s plenty for young ranch guests to enjoy.
California Family Ranch Vacations
Marble Mountain Ranch – Somes Bar, California
Dates Open: Seasonal
Tucked into the wilderness of Northern California, Marble Mountain Ranch offers families a vacation filled with outdoor adventure and Western activities. Families can enjoy horseback riding on private trails, whitewater rafting, kayaking, fishing and arena equestrian games. The ranch also offers a Buckaroo Program for children ages 3–4, with activities such as feeding small animals, nature walks, swimming and arts and crafts. With opportunities for both shared family adventures and age-appropriate activities, Marble Mountain Ranch gives families plenty of ways to explore, learn and make lasting memories together.
Teamwork, laughter and a little friendly competition make for unforgettable family ranch memories. Photo Credit: Marble Mountain Ranch
The Dude Ranchers’ Association – All Ranches
Curious about the full list of The Dude Ranchers’ Associations’ ranches? Sort through them using our Find a Ranch tool or choose a ranch by location.
Contact the Dude Ranchers Association:
[email protected] | 307-587-2339 | 1122 12th St., Cody, WY 82414
