Dude Ranches and Family
There is a rather interesting assumption floating around about dude ranches and families not being a good mix. This is completely wrong as most dude ranches are set up specifically for a family to enjoy.
Dude ranches went through a period of significant popularity after the movie “City Slickers” came out and had people rolling on the floor laughing. Unfortunately, City Slickers 2 was a bad movie and there went the popularity! Actually, this is a good thing because dude ranches are back to being intimate vacations that parents and kids can thoroughly enjoy.
Dude ranches are set up to handle families. The only ranches that don't are the very rare working ranch that is just treating the dude ranch idea as a way to bring in a guest or two for some financial benefit. These ranches make it very clear what they allow in regards to families, but the simple truth is nearly all dude ranches not only allow kids and families, but are set up for them.
So, what can you expect? Well, most dude ranches try to achieve two main things. The first is to keep kids entertained the entire time with things like helping with the animals, hiking, horseback riding and so on. The second goal is to let parents experience the ranch lifestyle, but also unwind from the hectic requirements of living in modern society. To this end, many will ban things like cell phones, laptops, and not allow you to access email. Shocking, eh?
Dude ranches are also good at giving parents a bit of private time. The ranch will have staff that will take the kids horseback riding or what have you. As a parent, you can get involved with the activities or take some time to enjoy yourself as necessary. While kids might enjoy being out playing with cows, you and your loved one can go for a stroll through a wickedly beautiful meadow or what have you. In short, both you and the kids can have a great time.
Dude ranches and family are two phrases that go together naturally. If you are looking for a family vacation that both you and the kids will talk about for a long time, a dude ranch is the place for you.
