Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo offers visitors a unique blend of Old West charm and modern amenities. Located just a short drive from Lake Wales, this dude ranch-style resort provides an authentic cowboy experience that stands out among Florida’s more typical tourist attractions. With its wide range of activities, accommodations, and weekly rodeo events, Westgate River Ranch has become a popular destination for families, couples, and groups seeking a taste of the Wild West in the Sunshine State.

The land on which Westgate River Ranch sits has a rich history dating back to the early days of Florida’s cattle industry. In the 1960s, the area was developed into a western-themed attraction called River Ranch. In 2001, Westgate Resorts acquired the property and transformed it into the expansive resort it is today, while maintaining its cowboy heritage and charm.

Situated on 1,700 acres along the Kissimmee River, Westgate River Ranch is surrounded by pristine Florida wilderness. The resort’s location in Central Florida’s cattle country provides an ideal backdrop for its western-themed experiences. The diverse ecosystem includes pine flatwoods, oak hammocks, wetlands, and river frontage. This varied landscape supports a wide array of wildlife, including deer, alligators, and numerous bird species, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.

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Westgate River Ranch offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and group sizes. Guests can choose from glamping tents that provide a luxury camping experience with air conditioning and private bathrooms, unique teepees inspired by Native American dwellings but equipped with modern amenities, converted rail cars for a nostalgic lodging experience, traditional lodge rooms and suites, standalone cabins and cottages with full kitchens and multiple bedrooms, and RV and tent camping sites for those bringing their own accommodations.

The resort offers a wide range of activities that cater to all ages and interests. The highlight is the Saturday Night Rodeo, featuring bull riding, barrel racing, and calf roping. Other popular activities include horseback riding through the Florida wilderness, exhilarating airboat rides on local waterways, archery and trap shooting sessions, fishing in catch-and-release ponds and the river, a petting farm for animal interactions, and an adventure park with a zip line, rock climbing wall, and mechanical bull. Guests can also enjoy swamp buggy rides, mini golf on a western-themed course, and miles of hiking and biking trails to explore the natural surroundings.

Dining options at the resort cater to various tastes and preferences. The River Ranch Saloon offers a western-style dining experience with steaks and American cuisine. The Westgate Smokehouse Grill specializes in barbecue and comfort food. For quick bites and picnic supplies, guests can visit the on-site deli, while the general store provides snacks, groceries, and camping essentials.

Throughout the year, Westgate River Ranch hosts various special events, including themed celebrations for major holidays, corporate retreats with team-building activities, western-themed wedding packages, and educational programs for children and teens. These events add to the resort’s appeal and provide unique experiences for guests.

The resort is committed to preserving the natural environment and promoting sustainable practices. Efforts include protecting and maintaining habitats for local species, implementing water-saving measures, using solar power and energy-efficient appliances where possible, and prioritizing local and sustainable food sources for dining venues.

Westgate River Ranch plays a significant role in the local community by providing employment opportunities for residents, attracting tourists to the area, maintaining and showcasing Florida’s cowboy heritage, and collaborating with schools for educational programs and field trips.

Looking to the future, the resort continues to evolve with plans for expanding luxury camping options, introducing new outdoor adventures and western-themed experiences, and developing eco-tourism initiatives focused on Florida’s unique ecosystems.

The connection between Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo and local services like Junk-It Near Me highlights the balance between preserving heritage and maintaining modern efficiency. These services support the resort’s operations by assisting with event clean-up, accommodation renovations, grounds maintenance, and responsible waste management. This partnership ensures that while Westgate River Ranch offers visitors a step back in time to experience Florida’s cowboy heritage, the modern-day realities of waste management are efficiently handled, contributing to a sustainable tourism ecosystem that preserves the past while effectively managing the present.

Learn more about Lake Wales, FL.