Family Dude Ranch Vacations

Montana, Wyoming, Colorado and Idaho dominate the ranch scene in terms of location, but we also recommend certain ranches in places like Utah, Arizona, California and western Canada. Choosing a dude ranch location that allows you also to visit a national park or specific mountain range often factors into a family’s decision.

Our Advisors have experienced many of the top family dude ranches firsthand and can help you select the right fit for your family based on your preferences and budget. They’ll share their favorite pro tips and experiences in order to maximize your vacation. CB Advisors can also connect you with ranch staff in advance to address any safety concerns you may have, as well as help you decide what to pack for the activities you choose (great riding boots are a must!).

The Resort at Paws Up, Montana

You’d be hard-pressed to find a dude ranch experience with such a wide variety of options, from gourmet dining and countless activities (on and off the trails) to lodging choices that range from glamping to 4-bedroom luxury homes. Paws Up is a definite crowd pleaser!

Red Horse Mountain Ranch, Idaho

We love the laid-back vibe of this dude ranch. There’s a great mix of organized trail rides paired with onsite activities available all the time, no pre-booking or advance commitment required.

Flathead Lake Lodge, Montana

Set on the shores of spectacular Flathead Lake, just 45 minutes from Glacier National Park, the lodge offers the best of a lake vacation and a ranch vacation bundled into one package.

Lost Creek Ranch and Spa, Wyoming

If the Grand Tetons are on your bucket list, book a stay at this ranch and check off a family dude ranch experience and these stunning mountains on the same trip.

Colorado Trails Ranch, Colorado

Two perks stand out at this dude ranch. First there’s the exceptionally qualified horseback riding and fishing guides, which will teach even the most experienced outdoorsy folks a few new tricks. Second, evening entertainment like square dancing keeps the toe-tapping fun going from morning until night.

Tanque Verde Ranch, Arizona

A ranch vacation here is a chance to enjoy a desert hideaway, as it is surrounded by 60,000 acres of Sonoran desert.

Mountain Sky, Montana

Day trips to Yellowstone and incredible dining set this dude ranch apart from its Montana competitors. This property also does a fabulous job of diversifying their children’s programs for all ages, from treasure hunts for young kids to rock climbing for teens.

Red Reflet Ranch, Wyoming

Some families imagine living the life of real cowboys while on their dude ranch vacation, so the chance to participate in a cattle drive makes this property incredibly appealing

The Ranch at Rock Creek, Montana

Yeehaw! The Wild West comes alive at this ranch, where families can enjoy rodeos and stagecoach rides as well as all the usual ranch activity offerings.

A Bar A Ranch, Wyoming

For families booking a dude ranch vacation primarily to unplug their children from devices, this is the place to go to escape screen time addiction. A feeling of disconnectedness permeates this property.

Pricing can be a little confusing when you start to dig deeper as you research family dude ranch vacations. Most offer some type of all-inclusive pricing, but what’s covered in that quote varies from ranch to ranch. Our Advisors can help you compare options to see what’s the best value for your family’s budget. At first blush, the price tag might seem steep, but the memories made on a family dude ranch vacation are truly priceless.