Dude ranches - aren’t they places where you actually do ranch work? So, what makes them popular vacation places anyway? Many people are quite hesitant about dude ranch vacations because they think they won’t be able to relax. Contrary to what most people believe, staying in a ranch or farm does not mean that you will be staying in run-down cabins or feeding the horses. There is a wide range of accommodation options when it comes to choosing dude ranches. If you are up for that really rustic and hands-on experience, then there are ranches like that. In places like these, you can expect to go about the day just like the wranglers and cowboys do.
Accommodations are usually barebones, but comfortable of course. Meals are home-cooked and prepared just like they are every day. Here, you get to do ranch chores and get your hands dirty. If you are thinking of relaxing and unwinding though, then you do not have to worry. There are larger dude ranches that are designed as vacation destinations. If you are not up for horseback riding or animal grooming, you can unwind by getting a massage, swimming in the pool or playing golf. Or, you can stay in your cozy room or cabin while your spouse or children frolic about and enjoy the outdoors.
Meadowlake Ranch in Oklahoma is located just west of Tulsa, Oklahoma. They have over 1,000 acres of rolling hills, prairie meadows, waterfalls, spring-fed lakes and limestone bluffs.
There are activities for all ages. You can fish, hike, canoe, swim, ride horses, throw tomahawks, rope a straw calf, shoot a bow & arrow, pitch horseshoes, shoot a rifle and pistol or go on a hayride.
All cabins are heated and air conditioned w/ a full kitchen, modern bathroom, king size bed and queen or king futon, TV w/ DVD player, stereo system and patio. You can also stay in an authentic Indian tipi. Indian tipis feature a chiminea for evening campfire and sleep up to 6 on padded cots. 3 private bathrooms are nearby w/ hot showers, modern toilet, sink, mini-fridge & microwave, plus charcoal grills on the lodge patio.
Echo Valley Ranch is located in British Columbia and is a luxury resort that combines the best of East and West. The fusion of eastern and western influences is best seen at the spa, where both western massage and Thai treatments soothe muscles and mind
The spa at Echo Valley Ranch
The dining options encompass dishes from east and west, fueled by produce from the ranch livestock and kitchen garden. Meals are all prepared by their on site gourmet chef.
Gourmet Food at Echo Valley Ranch
Other activities aside from horseback riding include hiking, bird watching and fly-fishing, as well as trips to white water rafting and golf. Winter options range from snowshoeing to ice fishing and snowmobiling. Echo Valley is an idyllic spot for weddings and elopements, and caters to meetings and retreats for corporate groups. These are just two examples of how you can easily relax on a dude ranch vacation. Dude ranch vacations truly have something for everyone as long as you select a dude ranch that has activities and amenities to suit your vacation style.
Ranchseeker can assist you in finding that perfect dude ranch by providing you access to our database of dude ranches, all free! Just use our handy dude ranch search engine.
