Fourth of July is THE time to take a dude ranch vacation if you're looking to capture the true spirit of the USA. Independence Day commemorates the United States' adoption of the "Declaration of Independence" on that very day back in 1776, which sealed its independence from Great Britain. The day sees rodeos, fireworks extravaganzas, horseback parades, carnivals, family picnics, BBQs, country music concerts, dancing... And every other fun way that US citizens can find to celebrate their national day! With celebrations often span from July 1st right the way through to July 5th, it's a wonderful time to take a USA ranch vacation - especially with family, as the holiday is a great way for families to reconnect and spend time together.
Fireworks extravaganza at Triple Creek Ranch
Some of Top50's ranches are even hosting special Fourth of July celebrations, which promise dude ranch vacations you'll remember forever. Despite the meaning behind the celebrations, Brits are of course welcomed with open arms - just be prepared for a bit of friendly, tongue-in-cheek ribbing!
Up for it? We thought so. Here's our pick of the best Fourth of July vacations...
Bar W Guest Ranch Save up to 15%!This Montana dude ranch is ideal for a last-minute ranch vacation in the Fourth of July week - from 1-7 July, Bar W is giving guests 10% off single and double occupancy, and 15% triple and quad occupancy.
Looking a little further ahead...? Give your family a July the Fourth gift and book yourselves a ranch vaca at Bar W during Photography Week (October 14th, 2012), where all bookings will get a special 15% off.
Brush Creek Ranch 4th of July 2012 Celebration ~ Save 20%!*Wyoming family vacations at this luxury dude ranch are even more special around July 4th, when the whole family can experience the vacation celebration of a lifetime. Brush Creek's authentic western fun offers something for everyone, from a ropes course tournament children will love, to an on-site professional rodeo!
You'll enjoy...• July 4th Fireworks display • Third annual Brush Creek Ranch Rodeo with professional bull riders • Nightly Live Entertainment • Boot Scootin’ Barn Dance • Complimentary family scenic float trip for up to 6 people per trip• Outdoor Movie Night • Brush Creek Ropes Course 'Tournament of Champions'
All-inclusive rates start from $750 pp/pn, and include all on-ranch activities, gear, guides and instruction, a children's program for ages 4-11, and all meals and beverages (inclusive of premium beers, wine and spirits).
*Must book before 5pm MST June 15, 2012, to receive 20% off - mention Website Special when booking
Majestic Dude Ranch Colorado family vacations ~ Save 20%!
This Colorado dude ranch sure knows how to do family ranch vacations. Spirits are always high at Majestic, and are set to be even more so over the July 4th period. What's more, book your family ranch vacation before the end of June and you'll get a 20% discount on your stay! (Use promo code MDFRIEND when reserving online) This is a real multi-generational family ranch, and the ideal place to reconnect over the national holiday.
Triple Creek Ranch Independence Day Extravaganza
Enjoy the festivities at this Montana dude ranch! Owners Crain and Barbara Barrett will treat you to a gourmet outdoor dinner at Elk Meadow, at their private home, plus special activities and an over-the-top fireworks display are just a few of the experiences you'll enjoy alongside good company at this luxury dude ranch, and working and safari ranch. This all-inclusive experience will get you luxurious accommodations, snacks, breakfast, lunch, gourmet dinners, house wines and house spirits, and all featured on-ranch activities.
Cabin rates start at $750 per couple/night. Minimum stay 3 nights.
Rowse's 1+1 Ranch 4th of July Ranch Roping Party
It's cowboy gathering time at the 1+1 Ranch this July 4th! Head to the Nebraska dude ranch for the national holiday and you'll enjoy a real cowboy party. Spend your afternoon horseback riding, roping, chowing down on proper steak from the BBQ, and much more. After socializing with the friends, neighbors and cowboys of the 1+1 Ranch, you'll all enjoy a hearty supper and campfire at the day's end.
Rankin Ranch 4th of July Celebration - July 1-5, 2012
Fourth of July is a very special time at the California dude ranch. At the start of this 4-night (minimum) family ranch vacation, families will be divided into Red, White, and Blue teams, each sporting team pride with the help of bandanas, sashes and or T-shirts!
On July 4th itself, you'll wake up to a patriotic wonderland. Every inch of the ranch will be decorated, and even the horses are patriotic! This fun-filled day includes morning horseback rides as usual, then all-American family fun begins in the afternoon. Dressed in your Red, White and Blue creations, you'll take part in Rankin Ranch's old-fashioned Olympic Games, complete with obstacle course, potato sack race, water balloon volleyball, and much more.
Then it's time for Happy Hour, with dinner are served on the front lawn looking out over Walker Basin. A historic pageant starring your children will round of their day in style, teaching them about American heritage while having a blast at the same time. This is an all-American family ranch vacation that all ages will love - US citizens and international guests alike will be proud to celebrate the 4th of July at Rankin Ranch!
Bonanza Creek Ranch Save 20% - weeks July 1 and July 22
Head to this Montana working ranch for a women's only vacation to celebrate the 4th of July this year. During week beginning July 1, single ladies save 20% on working ranch vacations at the authentic cattle ranch. Saddle up with other single ladies for stunning horseback rides, genuine cattle drives and fabulous scenery - a wonderful way to spend the Fourth of July celebrations!
Or make the celebrations last a little longer and take your working ranch vacations in the week of July 22, where groups of 3-4 save 20%. Head to the Montana guest ranch with friends or family, and experience authentic cattle drives on real cow horses in a Big Sky setting like no other.
For more information on these and other ranch events, visit Top50Ranches.com
By Mel Rutherford