Bandera, Texas, the cowboy capital, is home to some of the best dude ranches in the Lone Star State.
These dude ranches have welcomed guests since the 1930s and introduced them to the cowboy way of life.
From family-friendly lodges to rustic luxury cabins, visitors can enjoy an authentic western experience with all the modern amenities.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, there’s something for everyone at the dude ranches of Bandera.
Here are six dude ranches in the cowboy capital of the world that will kick off your yee haw vacation.
Mayan Dude Ranch
The Mayan Dude Ranch is an excellent option for anyone looking to experience the authentic dude ranch by riding to their heart’s content and living just as cowboys did.
Offering luxurious amenities and plenty of activities, you can have your pick and create an itinerary that is fulfilling for you.
Guests can choose from various accommodations, from cozy cabins to spacious lodges. Riding lessons are available for all skill levels, with trails leading through scenic Hill Country terrain.
Other activities on the ranch include tennis, swimming, archery, outdoor movies, and cornhole. After a long day of activities, guests can relax in their rooms or dip in the pool.
One thing that makes Mayan Dude ranch special is every night. They offer various activities that suit everyone in your group, from the youngest to the oldest.
So whether you’re a fan of dancing, star gazing, or dressing up, you’re sure to have fun.
What To Expect
- You get an incredibly western breakfast; eggs by the dozen, thick-sliced bacon, browns, cowboy sausage, oven-fresh biscuits, and southern grits.
- Two trail rides daily; one in the morning and one in the afternoon
- Single file walking at a walking pace
- Texas cowboys riding with you and answering any questions you may have
- Lunch is served either poolside or in the dining room.
- You get a world-class dinner comprising steaks, briskets, ribs, and barbeques.
- The minimum riding age at the ranch is six years.
- Their rates start at $185 per night per adult and $100 per night for kids aged 13 to 17.
- Minimum Stay: 2 Nights Minimum
- Check-In: After 1.00 pm
- Check Out: 11.30 am
Website: https://www.mayanranch.com/
Address: 350 Mayan Ranch Rd, Bandera, TX 78003, United States
Phone: +1 830-796-3312
Email: mayan@mayanranch.com
Dixie Dude Ranch
The Dixie Dude Ranch is the perfect choice for singles, groups, and families looking for an authentic texas ranch.
A tradition for families for over 80 years, Dixie Dude Ranch is 40 minutes away from San Antonio, making it a great starting or end point for those looking to explore.
Not only is it a working cattle ranch, home to pigs, Spanish goats, and longhorn cattle, but the cowboys can be seen working horses and competing in rodeos.
In addition, this all-inclusive ranch features accommodations, meals, and activities for all ages.
Horseback riding is a must at this ranch, with trails leading through verdant Hill Country terrain, giving you enough time and space to reconnect with nature and yourself.
Guests can also participate in other activities like swimming, catch-and-release fishing, hiking hayrides, dancing, and bonfires. Evening entertainment includes line dancing, campfire singalongs, and live music.
There are numerous ways to decompress after a long day of riding. However, the massages offered take the cup.
The rates start at $195 per day per adult and $135 per day per child 13 through 16 years.
- Minimum Stay: 2 Nights Minimum
- Check-In: 3.00 pm (No Check-ins On Sunday)
- Check Out: 11.00 am
Website: https://dixieduderanch.com/
Address: 833 Dixie Dude Ranch Rd, Bandera, TX 78003, United States
Phone: +1 830-796-7771
Twin Elm Guest Ranch
The Twin Elm Guest Ranch is the perfect choice for a relaxing getaway. This family-friendly ranch has its location on one of the highest points in Bandera, overlooking the Indian creek and Medina rivers.
As soon as you step on the grounds, you can feel the history (Twin Elm is one of the oldest dude ranches in Bandera), a sense of wonder, calmness, and hospitality carried through by the staff.
The ranch offers 22 comfortable accommodations, all with their charm and rustic feel to accommodate you or your group. While there are plenty of activities, horseback riding is a must here.
With trails leading through picturesque Hill Country terrain, you will soon feel all your worries melting away.
Some of the amenities at the ranch include basketball courts, a game room or arcade, and a swimming pool.
In addition, there are other activities which include fishing, swimming, hayrides, and campfire singalongs.
There are plenty of opportunities for relaxation with a spa and yoga classes.
*The rates at the ranch start at $225 for two days.
- Check-In: After 3.00 pm
- Check Out: Noon
Website: https://www.twinelmranch.com/
Address: 810 Farm to Market Rd 470, Bandera, TX 78003, United States
Phone: 830-796-3628
Email: twinelmranch@hotmail.com
Hill Country Equestrian Lodge
The Hill Country Equestrian Lodge is an excellent choice for those who want to experience the best of western living.
This dude ranch features open spaces with magnificent vistas and quiet areas, inviting you to take a moment and breathe.
Riding becomes like second nature, with trails that follow blooming wildflowers (when in season), wild deer, turkey, and rabbits.
Their accommodations are made to mimic home yet still hold their authentic western style that acts as a sanctuary at the end of the day.
Many activities are perfect for any adventurer, although horseback riding is a favorite activity here.
These include hiking, biking, birding, fishing in the stoked watering hole, and wildlife watching.
In addition, you can use the jacuzzi, cowboy pool, and spa services at your discretion before or after your full day of outdoor adventures.
Need To Know
- A weight limit of 225 lbs is enforced on all riders.
- Hill equestrian offers guests the chance to ride their horses if they decide to bring one or ride one of theirs across their 6000 acres of land.
Website: http://www.hillcountryequestlodge.com/
Address: 1580 Hay Hollar Road Bandera, Texas 78003:
Phone: 830-796-7950
Email: info@hillcountryequestlodge.com
West 1077 Guest Ranch
West 1077 Guest Ranch is perfect for a unique western experience. The ranch is established on an old cattle ranch, and this rustic retreat features cozy cabins and plenty of activities to keep you entertained.
This ranch is unlike anything you’ll ever experience. With no schedule to follow, you can expect nothing but tranquil trails winding through the 230 acres of property, perfect for trail riding, biking, jogging, and wildlife roaming around.
Horseback riding is a must here, with trails leading to the beautiful Hill Country State Natural Area. You will only ponder whether to ride during sunset or sunrise.
Accommodations are in three styles, the laurel cottage, the live oak house, and the cabins. They feature hand-crafted cedar furniture and beds, all lovingly created for your comfort.
Stays at West 1077 are unique because you are only served breakfast in the lodge, allowing you to explore nearby towns and indulge in different types of foods and change-ups in your itinerary.
Some of the activities at the ranch include fishing, trap shooting, and hayrides. Evening entertainment includes bonfires and lives music.
Website: https://west1077.com/
Address: 9061 Bandera Creek Rd, Bandera, TX 78003, United States
Phone: +1 (888) 272-9998
Email: info@west1077.com
Rancho Cortez
The Rancho Cortez is the perfect choice for those looking to experience an authentic western adventure with a twist.
This ranch offers a dude ranch day visit for those who are either visiting San Antonio on a time constraint or want a couple of hours on the trails.
For riders looking to get in some lessons, these can be arranged in preparation for one of the trail rides that can last anywhere between 1-3 hours.
The ranch features comfortable accommodations, meals, and plenty of activities, both for weekly and daily guests.
What To Expect
- Large porches that have vast views of the terrain
- A refreshing outdoor pool that’s great for cooling off after a long day
- Children’s play area to keep the little ones busy when you’re on a trail ride
- An outdoor covered deck and hot tub perfect for wind downs
- A large dining room and lodge room are perfect for catch-ups with the kids and the rest of the group
- Arena rides for the little ones, aged six and younger, to introduce them to horses and horsemanship
- Spacious accommodations that can fit anywhere from 2 -15 people
- 2 RV spaces perfect for families on a cross-country sightseeing tour
Horseback riding is a must here and is the crowing jewel. With trails leading through stunning Hill Country terrain, you are sure to feel safe whether you’re new to riding or more experienced.
In addition, during summer, they run a girls’ summer horse camp and a boys’ cowboy camp, teaching equestrian skills needed to become a better horse riser.
Website: https://ranchocortez.com/
Email: info@ranchocortez.com
Address: 872 Hay Hollar Rd Bandera, TX 78003
Phone: (830)796-9339
Conclusion
Dude Ranches in Bandera offer something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a new horseman or woman, you can explore the Texan wild as you please. Thus head on down to Bandera for the perfect stay.
