If you’re looking to introduce your family to the Western way of life, look no further than a dude ranch. A dude ranch offers a unique opportunity for families to reconnect with each other and disconnect from their devices, all while getting immersed in Wyoming’s natural beauty. Whether you’re hoping to kick back at a fishing hole, learn a new skill like horseback riding or explore the rich history of the Old West, these locales have all the ingredients for a perfect Wyoming family vacation.
Map of Wyoming’s Best Family Dude Ranches
Kick off your vacation planning with this handy map of the state’s family dude ranches.
7D Ranch | Cody
Located in the Sunlight Basin near Yellowstone National Park, 7D Ranch is just the place to unplug and embrace nature. This dude ranch prioritizes horseback riding, featuring trails and arena-based instruction tailored for younger cowpokes. Beyond equestrian activities, the ranch has archery, dancing, fishing, hiking and pack trips suited for children. Guests will also be pleased to find cabins with modern amenities and flavorsome meals, including picnic lunches and gourmet dinners served in the dining hall.
Open: June – September
Acres: 128
Elevation: 7,000 ft.
TA Ranch | Buffalo
Set between the Bighorn Mountains and Wyoming’s rolling hills, TA Ranch is a historic working cattle ranch that offers families a unique blend of past and present. Guests can explore significant historical sites like the battlegrounds of the Johnson County War and landmarks associated with outlaws like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Activities include horseback riding through historic trails, sustainable agriculture lessons, cattle work and horsemanship clinics. Additionally, children’s programs, fishing, hiking, yoga and farm-to-table dining are available, providing a comprehensive and immersive Western experience for all ages.
Open: May – September
Acres: 8,000
Elevation: 4,000 ft.
Brush Creek Ranch | Saratoga
Known for its upscale amenities and exceptional service, Bush Creek Ranch offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including horseback riding, fly-fishing, hiking and culinary experiences. Guests will stay in rustic yet luxurious accommodations and enjoy gourmet meals sourced from the ranch’s own farm. The ranch’s educational programs highlight local environmental and sustainable practices, combining the rugged charm of the West with modern comforts.
Open: Year-round
Acres: 30,000
Elevation: 7,600 ft.
Red Rock Ranch | Jackson Hole
Nestled against the Gros Ventre Mountains near Jackson Hole, Red Rock Ranch is a family-friendly retreat within the heart of the Bridger-Teton National Forest. The ranch is renowned for its exceptional horse program, where you can saddle up for trail rides and team penning. Families can also engage in guided hikes, fly-fishing, pool, pickleball and yoga. The charming log cabins, with rustic yet comfortable decor, provide a cozy base for your adventures. Guests have also been known to rave about the hearty, gourmet meals made from fresh, local ingredients, making this destination a delightful trip for the taste buds.
Open: June – September
Acres: 1,000+
Elevation: 7,250 ft.
Lazy L&B Ranch | Dubois
While it may be close to Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks, Lazy L&B Ranch offers more than stunning scenery. This ranch is known for its extensive family-friendly activities, including fishing, hiking, archery and golf. Younger guests will be pleased with the kids’ programs and petting zoo, while everyone can enjoy a refreshing dip at the natural swimming hole on warm days. With warm hospitality, home-cooked meals and the privacy and comfort of Western-style cabins to boot, this ranch ensures that every family member will find joy and relaxation in their own way.
Open: June – September
Acres: 80,000
Elevation: 7,200 ft.
Eatons’ Ranch | Wolf
Located just west of Sheridan, Eatons’ Ranch is a family-operated establishment with nearly 150 years of history, making it a true gem for those seeking an authentic Western getaway. This ranch is ideal for families looking to engage in self-guided adventures, offering the unique opportunity to explore the vast landscape on one of their 220 horses. For those who prefer more structure, there are guided trail rides, hiking and fishing. The ranch’s historic cabins provide a comfortable and nostalgic setting, while the dining experience features hearty, traditional fare that has impressed guests for generations.
Open: May – September
Acres: 7,000
Elevation: 4,500 ft.
Paradise Guest Ranch | Buffalo
Paradise Guest Ranch in Buffalo has been crafting memorable family vacations for over a century. This ranch stands out with its flexible adventure program, which allows you to tailor your activities to your family’s preferences, whether it’s horseback riding, hiking or fishing. From its charming log cabins that blend rustic charm and modern comfort to its tempting dining options featuring locally-sourced ingredients, Paradise Guest Ranch prides itself on ensuring that every moment of your stay is special.
Open: June – September
Acres: 160 acres
Elevation: 7,600 ft.
Vee Bar Guest Ranch | Laramie
Vee Bar Guest Ranch in Laramie offers one-of-a-kind family vacations with its wide range of activities and musical entertainment several nights a week. While visiting, families can try horseback riding, cattle work, and even sleeping out on the range for a true cowboy experience. When you’re ready to catch some z’s, the ranch’s riverside cabins are a cozy and scenic retreat after a day of adventure.
Open: Year Round
Acres: 800
Elevation: 7,800 ft.
Medicine Bow Lodge and Adventure Guest Ranch | Saratoga
Since its opening over 100 years ago, the family-owned Medicine Bow Lodge and Adventure Guest Ranch has been dedicated to providing meticulous attention to detail and personal touches, creating a welcoming environment where families can unwind and reconnect. The ranch boasts a myriad of things to do, from horseback riding to gold panning, ensuring endless possibilities for family fun. When the sun goes down, guests can kick off their boots and settle into rustic cabins, just right for resting after a full day of exploration.
Open: May – September
Elevation: 8,100 ft.
A Bar A Ranch | Encampment
Sprawling nearly 100,000 acres along the North Platte River, the A Bar A Ranch is a vast destination with something for young and old cowpokes. Families can partake in a full slate of activities, including horseback riding, fly-fishing, yoga, tennis and hiking. The ranch’s historic cabins beckon weary adventurers with their welcoming and relaxing atmosphere, while fresh, gourmet meals will tempt any palate.
Open: June – September
Acres: Nearly 100,000
Elevation: 7,500 ft.
Flat Creek Ranch | Jackson Hole
Built in the 1920s by a countess and a cowboy, Flat Creek Ranch is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and offers luxury family dude ranch vacations amidst the Wyoming wilderness. With the nearest neighbors 10 miles away, guests can relish the peaceful setting while enjoying horseback riding, fly-fishing, hiking, swimming and wildlife viewing. Additional perks like gourmet cuisine, a hot tub and sauna, and accommodations ranging from quaint cabins to luxurious lodges make Flat Creek Ranch the ultimate family escape.
Open: June – September
Acres: 500k
Elevation: 7,400 ft.
CM Ranch | Dubois
Boasting endless outdoor activities for cowpokes of all ages, CM Ranch is a top-notch choice for a Wyoming family vacation. From pack trips and petroglyph tours to children’s activities and hikes with 360-degree views, this destination within the Wind River Mountain Range is brimming with adventure. The ranch’s historic cabins provide a comfortable and authentic setting, while the friendly staff and tasty home-cooked meals make every stay a treat.
Open: June – September
Acres: 13,000
Elevation: 7,000 ft.
The Hideout Lodge & Guest Ranch | Shell
Situated two hours away from Yellowstone’s East Entrance within the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains, The Hideout Lodge & Guest Ranch offers an upscale, intimate Western riding experience. This all-inclusive ranch not only features trail rides but also provides beginner lessons, trap shooting, archery and a heated lap pool for unwinding at the end of the day. Additionally, guests can relax in elegantly appointed cabins and tuck into remarkable dining with local ingredients, making this the place to be for families seeking an upscale vacation.
Open: February – October
Acres: 650,000
Elevation: 4,200 – 13,100 ft.
Triangle C Ranch | Dubois
Set in the heart of the Wind River Valley, Triangle C Ranch beckons travelers from far and wide to relish its incredible mountain views and wide range of activities. With horseback riding, fly-fishing, skeet shooting, archery, a small-town rodeo and more, it’s a great destination for memorable family dude ranch vacations. The ranch’s cabins, warm hospitality, and hearty cuisine create an inviting stay for families hoping to dive into Wyoming’s beauty and Western heritage.
Open: July – September
Elevation: 7,800 ft.
What to Pack for a Family Dude Ranch Vacation
Be prepared to experience all that dude ranches have to offer with this handy packing list:
- Moisture-wicking long and short sleeve shirts
- Western or denim shirts
- Hoodies or pullovers
- Long pants and jeans
- Lightweight jacket and water-repellent windbreaker
- Swimsuit
- Sunglasses
- Cowboy hat or baseball cap
- Cowboy boots and hiking boots
- Reusable water bottle
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
Plan Your Next Unique Family Vacation
Now that you’ve got some ideas on where to go and what to bring, it’s time to hitch up your station wagon! And remember, this is just a small sample of the family-friendly dude ranches in Wyoming. Across the state, you’ll find numerous ranches fit for your family’s dream vacation or even an adult-only getaway.
Find more inspiration and start planning your dude ranch escape today.
