The best dude ranches in Texas are in part a reflection of the history of this large state. Texas has a well established reputation for its huge cattle ranches that spread over many square miles and required long days of hard work from a tough brand of employee known as a cowboy. The cowboy has become an American icon and young men and women grow up idolizing the men and women who lived the rugged life of the old west. You can enjoy a taste of those days, mixed with some very relaxing accommodations and great meals at some of the best dude ranches in Texas.
The Running R Ranch, Bandera, Texas There are many different types of guest or dude ranches in a state as large as Texas. Choosing from among the best dude ranches really begins with your own determination of what you want in a dude ranch. But if you want a ranch where you will not feel lost in a crowd but rather that you are really being personally cared for and prepared for then you might want to check out the Running R Ranch in Bandera Texas.
The Running R Ranch has been constructed on the site of what was formerly a working cattle ranch. While this is no longer a working ranch, its location still puts vacationers exactly where cowboys of long ago worked and lived. What you will notice right away is that there are no traffic noises here, just incredible western peace and quiet.
As with most dude ranches riding is the central activity at the Running R Ranch. You will have help in selecting the perfect mount for you out of selection of some 35 stabled horses. Hour long rides are offered morning and afternoon or you with the help of staff arrange for longer rides as your taste and ability allows. As much as you may enjoy the opportunity for horseback riding, you will find that when you want a break from time in the saddle you’ll have a variety of choices. A dip in the swimming pool, a game of ping pong, a ride on a dirt bike , a hike through the nearby State Park land, all are tempting choices.
Dining arrangements at the Running R Ranch are a bit different than what you will find at many dude ranches. Sumptuous breakfast and lunch menus give guests a taste of the old west and of great hospitality. But at the Running R Ranch the evening meal is on your own. This allows guests the freedom to enjoy activities without the need to be back for a set dinner meal. Many guest take themselves to nearby Bandera and enjoy evening meals at the selection of restaurants there. Perhaps what will put you most in touch with the old west, besides the horses of course, is your cabin. The interior is beautifully done in wood and Indian designs are often part of the motif. You will love the porch that allows you a peaceful evening or early morning place to relax and consider what a great idea this vacation really was. For more information call at . 830-796-7771
Flying L Ranch, Bandera, Texas The Texas hill country is home to a variety of guest and dude ranches and one of the best for you may be the Flying L Ranch. The key to the attraction of the Flying L Ranch is that it recognizes the need that some people have to balance a return to the past and simpler times with a need to retain certain creature comfort. Located in Bandera, Texas, the Cowboy Capital of the World, the Flying L Ranch has been welcoming guests to a special western adventure since 1947. Many guests here are return or second generation customers, proof of the high degree of satisfaction visitors here take away with them.
At flying L. Ranch you will definitely get in your full measure of horseback riding over some magnificent countryside and likely have a chance to see wildlife in its natural habitat. Skilled wranglers will take time to correctly match you with the best suited horses in the Flying L stables for your comfort and safety and then help you to develop your skills on horseback during your stay.
But what makes the Flying L interesting is its awareness that not everyone wants to spend all day, every day in the saddle. So at the Flying L Ranch there is plenty of other enjoyable activities that can fill your time according to your taste. You won’t have to go looking for recreation, it’s at your doorstep. You can enjoy an 18 hole golf course or the Lazy Lagoon Water Park . For kids there is a petting zoo made up of local favorites, crafts, roping activities, and nature hikes if they get tired of riding horses and playing in the water park. What seems to be the bottom line for some folks is that after playing at being a cowboy all day long you can go back to your rather elegant accommodations and yes, there is Cable TV. The Flying L. Ranch really does try to provide you with the best of both worlds.
Discuss reservations and get more information at 1-800-212-5134.
Lightning Ranch, Pipe Creek, Texas. Perhaps you prefer a dude ranch that seems a bit closer to the old time experience of really being a cowboy. Then for the you one of the best dude ranches in Texas might be the Lightning Ranch in Pipe Creek, Texas. Here you find yourself smack in the middle of working ranch which means this spot is open year round, 7 days a week. When you come here you are making yourself an active participant in an ongoing cattle operation. T
There is in fact a very interesting combination of things going on here. You can arrange for company get aways, youth retreats or family reunions at Lightning Ranch or you can make use of the rustic, cowboy styled cabins for an overnight escape for your family. For those with less finances you can even come out just for a day. No matter how long you stay while you are here you can enjoy the ranch’s riding opportunities, visit the petting zoo, swim in the pool or play volleyball, basketball or horseshoes. For overnight guests Lightning Ranch operates as a B& B offering a delicious ranch style breakfast but for guest staying on arrangements can be made for lunch and dinner meals as well. What sets this adventure apart is the presence of “Movieland Animals” a residence and training ground for lots of exotic animals that you may have seen on screen. You can see camels , water buffalo, ostriches , and other exotic animals.
As the owners of Lightning Ranch point out “We are not the Marriott” but there are plenty of adventures to be had here for those willing to go with the flow.
For more information about this multi dimensional ranch call at 1-800- 994-7373
