What if you could spend the night inside a luxurious teepee, ride horses through the Florida countryside, explore the wilderness on an airboat, and watch a real Saturday night rodeo—all without leaving the Sunshine State?
It might sound like a vacation in Texas, Montana, or Wyoming, but this Wild West adventure is actually hiding in Central Florida!
Welcome to Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo in River Ranch, Florida, a one-of-a-kind getaway that combines the excitement of a traditional dude ranch with unique accommodations, outdoor adventures, and modern comforts.
Instead of the usual Florida vacation filled with beaches and theme parks, you can enjoy horseback riding, glamping, swamp buggy adventures, fishing, and evenings spent beneath the stars.
And if you're visiting during fall 2026, there's even a Halloween event featuring haunted stables and spooky Western-themed attractions.
Whether you're planning a family vacation, romantic getaway, or unforgettable weekend adventure, Westgate River Ranch deserves a place on your Florida bucket list.
A Wild West Vacation in the Heart of Florida
Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo sits on approximately 1,700 acres of Central Florida countryside.
Surrounded by natural landscapes, the resort offers a peaceful escape from the crowds of Florida's major tourist destinations.
The property is designed to capture the atmosphere of a Western ranch, complete with horses, rodeo entertainment, rustic accommodations, and outdoor activities.
But this isn't a traditional working cattle ranch where visitors are expected to spend their vacation doing chores.
Instead, it's a full-service resort where guests can experience Western-inspired adventures while enjoying comfortable accommodations and recreational amenities.
From riding horses through scenic trails to relaxing beside a campfire, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the ranch atmosphere.
Stay in a Luxurious Teepee
One of the most unusual accommodation options at Westgate River Ranch is its Luxe Teepees.
From the outside, these oversized teepees resemble traditional camping structures.
But step inside, and you'll discover something completely different.
The resort's Luxe Teepees offer modern comforts, including:
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Air Conditioning and Heating
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Private Bathroom
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Comfortable Sleeping Accommodations
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Microwave and Mini Refrigerator
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Dining Table and Chairs
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Electrical Outlets
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Personal Concierge Service
Each Luxe Teepee accommodates up to four guests.
Instead of roughing it in a basic tent, you can enjoy the atmosphere of sleeping outdoors while still having many of the conveniences of a hotel room.
Guests booking this accommodation category also receive special benefits, including a resort golf cart, morning coffee and pastry delivery, a nightly campfire prepared by staff, and access to selected resort activities.
The package includes VIP rodeo tickets and seating, along with activities such as horseback riding, airboat rides, swamp buggy adventures, and more.
Important: Luxe Teepees require a minimum two-night stay, and pricing is based on double occupancy. Additional guest charges may apply.
Sleep in a Covered Wagon
For another unforgettable overnight experience, consider the resort's Luxe Conestoga Wagons.
These accommodations are inspired by the covered wagons associated with America's westward expansion.
The exterior resembles an old-fashioned pioneer wagon, but the interior is climate-controlled and designed for comfortable modern lodging.
Luxe Conestoga Wagons can accommodate up to six guests, making them an appealing option for families.
They also come with premium amenities and activity benefits, including VIP rodeo access, a golf cart, and concierge service.
Imagine spending the night inside a covered wagon, then waking up to fresh coffee and pastries delivered to your accommodation!
It's an unusual experience that feels completely different from an ordinary Florida hotel stay.
Other Places to Stay at Westgate River Ranch
The resort offers several accommodation styles beyond its luxury teepees and covered wagons.
Depending on your budget and preferences, options include:
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Glamping Tents
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Ranch Cabins
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Lodge Guest Rooms
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Cottages
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RV Accommodations
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Camping Options
Some accommodations provide a more traditional hotel experience, while others focus on the outdoor atmosphere.
Before booking, compare the amenities carefully.
Not every accommodation includes a private bathroom, complimentary activities, golf cart, or rodeo tickets.
Those benefits vary significantly by lodging category.
Experience the Famous Saturday Night Rodeo
One of the biggest highlights of Westgate River Ranch is its weekly Saturday Night Rodeo.
This family-friendly event takes place in the resort's 2,400-seat rodeo arena.
Guests can watch talented rodeo athletes compete in exciting Western events.
The show features:
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Bull Riding
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Barrel Racing
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Trick Riding
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A Patriotic Tribute to the Armed Forces
The atmosphere is energetic and entertaining, with spectators cheering as competitors demonstrate their skills.
It's one of the resort's signature attractions and a wonderful experience for anyone who has never attended a rodeo.
Saturday Night Rodeo Details
Day: Every Saturday
Time: 7:30 PM
Published General Guest Prices:
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Adults: $34.95
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Children: $29.95
Westgate owners receive separate discounted rates.
Some premium accommodation packages include rodeo tickets, so check your reservation before purchasing them separately.
Advance ticket purchases are recommended, particularly during popular weekends and holidays.
Go Horseback Riding Through the Florida Countryside
If you've always wanted to experience horseback riding at a dude ranch, Westgate River Ranch offers guided trail rides.
These rides take guests through the surrounding countryside, providing an opportunity to enjoy the natural scenery from horseback.
The resort advertises 45-minute rides led by experienced guides.
You don't need to be an expert rider to participate, although there are important age, height, and weight restrictions.
Published Horseback Riding Details:
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Duration: Approximately 45 Minutes
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Guest Price: $64.95
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Minimum Age: 8
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Minimum Height: 51 Inches
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Maximum Weight: 225 Pounds
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Children Ages 8–11: Must Ride With an Adult
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Advance Reservations: Required
All trail rides are conducted at a walking pace.
The resort recommends wearing long pants and arriving 30 minutes before your scheduled ride.
For guests staying in certain luxury accommodations, horseback riding may already be included in the room package.
Explore the Wilderness on an Airboat Ride
Another exciting activity at Westgate River Ranch is an airboat adventure.
Airboats are a classic part of Florida's outdoor culture, allowing visitors to explore waterways and wetlands.
During an airboat ride, guests can experience the surrounding natural environment from a completely different perspective.
The resort offers airboat excursions as one of its outdoor activities.
These rides are especially appealing for travelers who want something more adventurous than relaxing by a pool.
Activity schedules, prices, and availability vary, so reserve in advance when possible.
Take a Swamp Buggy Ride
If you enjoy unusual outdoor adventures, consider a swamp buggy ride.
Swamp buggies are specially designed vehicles used to travel through rugged terrain and wetland environments.
At Westgate River Ranch, swamp buggy rides provide another way to explore the countryside.
It's an activity that combines the thrill of an off-road excursion with the opportunity to see Florida's natural landscape.
For visitors who love outdoor adventures, this is one of the experiences that makes the resort stand out from traditional vacation destinations.
Enjoy Mini Golf and Cowboy Adventure Park
Westgate River Ranch also offers activities for visitors who prefer to stay closer to the main resort.
Cowboy Adventure Park features a variety of family-friendly attractions.
Depending on operating schedules and availability, activities include:
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Mini Golf
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Mechanical Bull Riding
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Zip Lining
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Bungee Jumper
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Other Adventure Attractions
These activities are especially popular with families and groups.
Some accommodation packages include Adventure Park passes, while other guests may need to purchase access separately.
Check the resort's activity information before your visit.
Go Fishing and Enjoy the Outdoors
Westgate River Ranch offers additional ways to enjoy the Florida countryside.
Fishing is one of the resort's outdoor recreational options.
Guests can also explore other available activities, including sporting experiences and scenic excursions.
The ranch atmosphere encourages visitors to spend time outside, away from busy roads and crowded attractions.
For travelers who enjoy peaceful mornings, outdoor adventures, and evenings around a campfire, the resort offers a completely different kind of Florida vacation.
Experience a Cowboy Dinner and Hayride
For an activity that combines Western atmosphere with Southern comfort food, consider the resort's Cowboy Dinner and Hayride Experience.
This adventure includes a tractor-pulled hayride through the surrounding natural area.
The resort advertises a 45-minute hayride through the nearby KICCO Wildlife Management Area.
Guests can enjoy the scenery and live country music before sitting down to a barbecue dinner.
Menu selections may include ribs, pulled pork, or chicken with traditional sides such as macaroni and cheese, baked beans, and Texas toast.
It's a fun way to enjoy an evening with family or friends.
Reservations, pricing, and availability should be confirmed directly with the resort.
The Haunting of River Ranch: Halloween 2026
If you're planning a fall visit, Westgate River Ranch becomes even more interesting!
The resort is hosting The Haunting of River Ranch, a Halloween event featuring spooky experiences and Western-themed entertainment.
The event runs on Friday and Saturday nights from September 25 through November 7, 2026.
Visitors can explore the Haunted Stables, encounter spooky characters, and enjoy special seasonal activities.
The event includes:
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Haunted Stables Experience
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Scary Walkthrough Attractions
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Haunted Scare Zones
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Spooky Photo Opportunities
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Halloween-Themed Food and Beverages
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Spooky Adventure Park
The attraction is open to both overnight resort guests and members of the public.
2026 Event Hours:
Fridays: 7 PM–10 PM
Saturdays: 8 PM–11 PM
The resort recommends the experience for guests ages 8 and older because some attractions may be intense.
Admission is separate from regular resort activities unless included in a special accommodation package.
Tickets should be purchased in advance to avoid possible sellouts.
Don't Miss the Special Halloween Rodeo
Another exciting part of the 2026 Halloween season is the special Halloween Rodeo.
Westgate River Ranch has announced a Halloween-themed rodeo for Saturday, October 31, 2026.
Visitors can enjoy the traditional excitement of the Saturday Night Rodeo with additional Halloween festivities.
It's a particularly fun option for travelers who want to combine Western entertainment with seasonal celebrations.
If you're planning to attend, consider booking your rodeo tickets and Halloween event admission ahead of time.
The rodeo and haunted attractions are separate experiences, so check ticket details carefully.
Is The Haunting of River Ranch Open to the Public?
Yes!
You don't need to stay overnight at Westgate River Ranch to attend The Haunting of River Ranch.
The resort's official event information confirms that the Halloween attraction is open to the public.
That makes it possible to plan an evening visit without booking accommodations.
However, because the resort is in a rural area, allow enough time for your drive and confirm parking and admission details before arriving.
The Halloween experience is seasonal and is currently scheduled only through November 7, 2026.
Dining at Westgate River Ranch
With so many activities available, you'll probably work up an appetite.
Westgate River Ranch offers dining options for guests who want to enjoy meals without leaving the property.
The resort's Western-themed dining experiences complement the ranch atmosphere.
Visitors can also enjoy food and refreshments during special events and selected activities.
Dining locations, menus, and operating hours may vary, so check the resort's current dining information when planning your stay.
If you're booking a multi-night vacation, it's helpful to review the available food options before arriving.
Is Westgate River Ranch Good for Families?
Westgate River Ranch can be a wonderful destination for families who enjoy outdoor activities.
Children and adults can experience a variety of Western-themed adventures, from mini golf and animal encounters to rodeo entertainment.
The resort offers different accommodation styles for families of various sizes.
Luxe Conestoga Wagons, for example, can accommodate up to six guests.
However, some activities have age, height, weight, or safety restrictions.
Horseback riding requires guests to be at least eight years old, while the Halloween haunted experience is recommended for ages eight and older.
Before booking, review the restrictions for the activities your family most wants to enjoy.
Is Westgate River Ranch Good for Couples?
If you're looking for a romantic getaway that feels different from a traditional beachfront hotel, Westgate River Ranch offers an unusual alternative.
Couples can enjoy peaceful countryside surroundings, horseback riding, sunset scenery, and evenings spent around a campfire.
The Luxe Teepees are especially appealing for travelers who want a private glamping experience with modern comforts.
Morning coffee delivery, a prepared campfire, and concierge service add to the atmosphere.
It's a memorable option for anniversaries, birthdays, or a weekend getaway.
Tips for Visiting Westgate River Ranch
Choose your accommodations carefully. Luxe Teepees, Conestoga Wagons, glamping tents, cabins, and lodge rooms have different amenities and package benefits.
Check what's included in your reservation. Rodeo tickets and outdoor activities may be included with certain luxury accommodations but cost extra for other guests.
Plan your stay around Saturday night. The weekly rodeo is one of the resort's signature experiences.
Reserve horseback riding in advance. Guided trail rides require reservations and have age, height, and weight restrictions.
Bring comfortable outdoor clothing. Closed-toe shoes, long pants, and weather-appropriate clothing are useful for ranch activities.
Prepare for Florida weather. Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and water for outdoor adventures.
Book Halloween tickets early. The Haunting of River Ranch is a limited seasonal event with specific Friday and Saturday operating hours.
Check activity schedules. Some experiences require advance reservations and may be affected by weather.
Allow enough time to explore. A two-night stay can provide more opportunities to enjoy the activities than a quick overnight visit.
Plan Your Visit to Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo
Destination: Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo
Location: River Ranch, Florida
Address: 3200 River Ranch Boulevard, River Ranch, FL 33867
Resort Phone: (863) 692-1321
Reservations: (888) 779-4104
Official Website: https://www.westgateresorts.com/hotels/florida/river-ranch/westgate-river-ranch-resort/
Resort Size: Approximately 1,700 acres
Accommodation Options:
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Luxe Teepees
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Luxe Conestoga Wagons
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Glamping Tents
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Cabins
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Lodge Rooms
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Other Camping and RV Options
Popular Activities:
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Saturday Night Rodeo
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Horseback Riding
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Airboat Rides
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Swamp Buggy Rides
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Mini Golf
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Mechanical Bull Riding
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Zip Lining
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Fishing
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Cowboy Dinner and Hayride
Saturday Night Rodeo: Every Saturday at 7:30 PM
Published Rodeo Admission:
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Adults: $34.95 for General Guests
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Children: $29.95 for General Guests
Horseback Riding: $64.95 for General Guests, advance reservations required
Halloween 2026 Event: The Haunting of River Ranch
Halloween Event Dates: September 25–November 7, 2026, Fridays and Saturdays
Halloween Event Hours:
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Friday: 7 PM–10 PM
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Saturday: 8 PM–11 PM
Special Halloween Rodeo: October 31, 2026
Recommended Stay: Two or three nights, especially if you want to experience the Saturday Night Rodeo and several outdoor activities.
Before You Go: Confirm current accommodation rates, activity schedules, package inclusions, and ticket availability directly with the resort.
Is Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo Worth Visiting?
If you love unusual accommodations, outdoor adventures, Western-themed entertainment, and destinations that feel completely different from an ordinary Florida vacation, Westgate River Ranch is absolutely worth considering.
Where else in Florida can you spend the night in a luxurious teepee, ride horses through the countryside, explore the wilderness on an airboat, and watch bull riding at a Saturday night rodeo?
The resort offers a combination of adventure, relaxation, and unique lodging that makes it memorable for couples, families, and groups.
And during the Halloween season, The Haunting of River Ranch adds even more excitement with haunted stables, spooky attractions, and a special Halloween rodeo.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, Westgate River Ranch offers a taste of the Wild West right in the heart of Florida.
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