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From beautiful sandy beaches to magnificent forests of redwood trees, California is one of the most scenic states in America. The Golden State provides the perfect setting for your next vacation.
For those looking for a relaxing getaway, a dude ranch allows you to enjoy the incredible wilderness of California.
From horseback riding in the mountains to white water rafting and mountain biking, plenty of activities will allow you to escape from the busyness of everyday life.
So get ready to saddle up for your next great adventure at one of the best guest and dude ranches to visit in California.
1. Greenhorn Ranch
Escape to the wilderness with a vacation to Greenhorn Ranch. Located in Quincy, the ranch offers grand mountain views and breathtaking forests.
Make yourself cozy at Greenhorn as you stay in one of their luxury accommodations where modern meets rustic. Lodge suites, cabins, and a fully restored Airstream camper are available for rental, each offering an intimate getaway experience. With an all-inclusive stay, guests can enjoy three delicious meals a day at the Greenhorn Ranch Chuckhouse.
With creek crossings and rugged hills, you can experience the natural beauty of California on a scenic trail ride. For more outdoor adventure, you can try your hand at fly fishing, electric mountain biking, hiking, archery, and more.
If you are interested in more than just a getaway, Greenhorn Ranch also hosts weddings and special events.
See more information on greenhornranch.com and reviews on Tripadvisor.
2. Marble Mountain Ranch
For an authentic Western experience, Marble Mountain Ranch has the vacation you are looking for. Located in Somes Bar, guests will get to experience the beauty of Klamath National Forest.
The ranch offers charming cottages and homes where guests can soak in the beautiful California sunshine and unwind in the peace of the great outdoors. Those who book all-inclusive packages can enjoy home-style meals throughout their stay.
Marble Mountain Ranch offers both arena and trail riding with some of the best riding spots in California. White water rafting is also available along the picturesque Klamath River.
See more information on marblemountainranch.com and reviews on Tripadvisor.
3. Rankin Ranch
Since 1863, Rankin Ranch has been family owned and operated. The ranch spans an impressive 31,000 acres in Caliente.
Surround yourself with nature as you stay in one of the quaint mountain cabins on the ranch. Delicious home-cooked meals are served buffet style and during the summer dinner is served in the front yard of the original Rankin Home which was built in the 1870s.
During your stay, enjoy a scenic trail ride through mountainous trails full of stunning scenery. When not in the saddle, guests can enjoy wagon rides, backyard games, fishing, swimming, and hiking. It is a vacation experience that the whole family will enjoy.
See more information on rankinranch.com and reviews on Tripadvisor.
4. V6 Ranch
Located in the heart of California, V6 Ranch operates out of the small town of Parkfield, with a population of just 18 people. The picturesque ranch offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
At the ranch, guests can stay in the log main lodge, the historic water tower, the post office, and the cowboy cabin. Each accommodation provides guests with a rustic Western experience. You can enjoy a daily continental breakfast and dine at the delicious Parkland Cafe during your stay.
For an authentic cowboy experience, guests can join in on a cattle drive as they learn the skills of working cattle and riding. Wrangler rides are also available with your own horse or a V6 horse as you participate in scenic trail rides and learn various ranch skills such as gathering and sorting cattle, roping, ranch obstacle courses, and more.
There are plenty of chances to sharpen your riding skills while at V6 Ranch.
See more information on v6ranch.com and reviews on Tripadvisor.
5. Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort
Luxury meets ranch life at the Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort. Located in Solvang, the ranch sits in the heart of Santa Barbara Wine Country.
The ranch offers gorgeous Western-style houses and cottages that provide comfortable luxury. During your stay on the ranch, you will receive two daily ranch-style meals, plus beverages.
At the ranch, you will have plenty of activities to choose from, including horseback riding, fishing, biking, golfing, tennis, lake rentals, and more. Each Wednesday during the summer, the ranch hosts a rodeo with the exciting option for guests to even participate in the events.
After an exciting day of outdoor fun, you can unwind with a soothing facial and a relaxing massage at the spa.
See more information on alisalranch.com and reviews on Tripadvisor.
6. Hunewill Guest Ranch
Experience first-hand life on a working cattle ranch at Hunewill Guest Ranch. The ranch is located in Bridgeport and sits along the breathtaking Sierra Nevada Mountains bordering Yosemite National Park.
During your stay, you will have the opportunity to stay in a cozy cabin on the ranch. Meals are served in the historic Victorian ranch house and evenings are celebrated with BBQs and dancing.
During your stay, you will have plenty of opportunities to spend time in the saddle as you will ride across open meadows with gorgeous mountain views. The ranch offers several different getaway packages including an opportunity to work cattle.
There are plenty of incredible opportunities for riders of all skill levels to learn, grow, and have fun.
See more information on hunewillranch.com and reviews on Tripadvisor.
7. Circle Bar B Guest Ranch & Stables
Relax and unwind at the one-of-a-kind Circle Bar B Guest Ranch & Stables. Located in Goleta, the ranch offers some of the most stunning coastline views in all of California.
Chic meets Western rustic at the ranch rooms, cottages, homesteads, and cabins located at Circle Bar B. Every stay includes breakfast and dinner, so you can stay fueled for the many adventures the ranch has to offer. At the end of the day, you can relax in the game room, pool, or jacuzzi.
Immerse yourself in the mighty wilderness of California with a guided trail ride you won’t soon forget. When not in the saddle, you can enjoy scenic hiking, wine tasting, a visit to the beach, kayaking, or a relaxing day at the spa. The ranch also hosts weddings, allowing you to make your big day extra special.
See more information on circlebarb.com and reviews on Tripadvisor.
8. Bar SZ Ranch
Enjoy a refreshing getaway at the beautiful Bar SZ Ranch. Situated in Paicines, the ranch is surrounded by mountains and the incredible Pinnacles National Park.
For a trip back in time, you can stay in the ranch’s stunning log cabin or the stylish ranch house. Guests also have the opportunity to stay in an RV or in a glamping tent for a unique experience. There is also the opportunity to bring your own RV or tent to camp on the property.
There are plenty of opportunities to interact with horses on the ranch as you can join in for a trail ride, arena ride, or a Mustang experience. In addition, the ranch also offers hiking, mountain biking, archery, and animal feeding.
At the ranch, you can also participate in the Coming Home Retreat or even host a spectacular wedding.
See more information on barszranch.com and reviews on Tripadvisor.