There are over 20 ranches in Wyoming that offer vacationers a chance to visit and see the west the way it used to be - Wild and Free.  Some if not all of these vacation destinations offer luxurious accommodations, but some are more rustic and offer a true cowboy experience.

Of the 20+ vacation ranches in the cowboy state, 7 are considered among the top 50 in the world for vacationers according to the website top50ranches.com.

There are lots of activities including working cattle at a working dude ranch.  But if you prefer a more luxurious experience, many offer guided fishing and even a massage or spa day waiting just for you.  Most all of the ranches offer a family style meal (everyone eats together) and some sort of after dinner entertainment like listening to music or singing songs around the campfire.

Wyoming boasts 7 of the top 50 vacation ranch destinations and each offer different capacity limits and accommodations. (listed alphabetically)

Bitterroot Ranch - in Dubois, is a working ranch and guest ranch that can hold a capacity 30 guests.  Is open from May-Sept. and offers action and adventure, peace and quiet and is open to guests of all ages (Nightly rate $250-$320).

Brush Creek Ranch - in Saratoga, is a favorite destination for many executives, musical artists (like Reba McEntire) and other vacationers looking to escape the rigors of big city life. The ranch can entertain up to 150 guests and is a working, dude / guest ranch and is indeed a luxury ranch.  Guest of all ages are welcome and the ranch is open Jan-Mar, May-Oct, Dec (Nightly rate - $750-1100).

Double Rafter Cattle Drives - in Ranchester, this working ranch offers visitors an authentic rustic cowboy experience.  This is a working ranch can host up to 20 visitors at a time and is completely hands on.  If you've ever wanted to know what it was like living in the wild west, this is the place for you.  Sleeping under the stars, moving cattle and sheep across the landscape to feed and water.  The mountain scenery offers solitude and adventure. (Nightly rate - $363-$499)

Lazy L&B Ranch - also in Dubois, this dude and guest ranch offers a family or groups up to 30 people, over 80k acres of wildlife viewing and spectacular scenery.  River gorges and high mountain peaks are the back drop as you enjoy pampering, peace and quiet with activities for all ages.  (Nightly rate $325-$335)

Paradise Ranch - located in Buffalo, visitors can enjoy the romance of the Big Horn mountain range at this Dude and Guest ranch that can accommodate up to 70 people at once. Enjoy horseback riding through the Wyoming landscape, a pool and hot tub as well as a saloon for gathering.  (Nightly rate - $215)

Red Reflet Ranch - located in Ten Sleep, this dude, guest and working ranch offer authentic hands on experiences to visitors from all over the world.  Up to 32 guest can be accommodated to enjoy the stunning views and watch the 300+ heard of elk that live and pass through the ranch.  Visitors can also take day trips into the nations first national park as you are only a short drive to the west gate of Yellowstone National park.  The Red Reflet was recently honored with the Men's Journal Award of Approved Recognition.  (Nightly rate - $433-$628)

The Hideout Lodge and Guest Ranch - tucked away in Shell, this century old working, guest and dude ranch offers guests 250k acres of diverse scenery and solitude. Up to 25 guests of all ages can enjoy great food and a working Wyoming cattle ranch with a European touch. Lots of adventure await you and your family, from digging for dinosaur fossils to fly fishing creeks and streams. (Nightly rate - $345-$750)

If you're considering a "ranch" style vacation there are lots more ranches in Wyoming that you can checkout via the website ranchweb.com.  I for one have been on a vacation like this and absolutely loved every minute of it!  Fishing, Horseback riding, Cattle Drive, Music around the campfire and of course great food await you on your next adventure vacation. Be sure to check out the previous visitor comments and ratings or you can ask for references from previous visitors, ask about amenities and be sure to ask for current photos before you book to help ensure you're picking the right ranch vacation for you!  Enjoy!!

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