The term “dude ranch” likely conjures up images of the movie City Slickers, the sitcom Hey Dude or a famous episode of Modern Family. But what is a dude ranch and why should hobby farmers be interested?
Tom Warren of Meadow Lake Ranch in Sand Springs, Oklahoma, runs his venue for multiple purposes, including hosting weddings, bed and breakfast rentals, and exciting dude ranch vacations. He says his clients are, in his words, “looking for solace.”
Wealth of Outdoor Opportunities
What many people on a farm take advantage is what his clients seek. Dude ranches have something for everyone. Adventurous activities he offers include:
- tomahawk throwing
- gun ranges
- archery
- calf roping
- trail riding
- fishing
- hiking
- sling shotting
Activities such as these offer a huge draw for kids who need time in nature and to experience skills they don’t get to practice in their neighborhoods. Chimineas, gardens, porches, rivers and lakes appeal to anyone looking to get out of the hustle and bustle of life and escape.
Check out the video above to see more of Warren’s agrotourism destination for ideas on how you might open up your farm to solace-seeking travelers. Or maybe just plan your next family getaway.
Read more: Say “yes” to free press with earned media for your farm.
A Popular Place
The Warrens have hosted people from every state in the U.S. and 42 different countries. Their ranch has been the setting for movies such as Minari and Reservation Dogs.
One of their rentable cabins is called “Paul’s Cabin” after the legendary Paul McCartney who stayed there.
Dude ranches are a great place to visit for many hobby farmers to learn different ways to steward their own land and operation. It is inspiring to experience a place that has so many amenities working well.
