Ranch Types
Working, Dude, Recreational, Gentleman's, Resort and Estate Ranches
The word "Ranch" has different connotations to different people, be it mountain landscapes with sparkling streams, rolling land with tall grass and grazing horses, cowboys rounding up a herd of cattle or a secluded fishing paradise. We share some of these interpretations and offer some of our own below of various types of ranches for you to see where your interests fall.
Working Ranch is a property which typically has large acreage, perhaps
several thousand acres, raising livestock and or crops. Its primary
function is creating an economic return and, in some cases can be quite
isolated. Improvements may be rustic and esthetics minimal.
Dude Ranch - Where you and your family have quite possibly spent a vacation. There are hundreds of Dude Ranches located primarily in the Western United States. Often the origin of the idea of owning a ranch property in your future. Horse back riding, fishing, log buildings, cowboys, good food, clean air, hiking, swimming, cross country skiing, sleigh rides -in a word- enjoyment.
Recreational Ranch is a property most often with large to medium acreage, having fishing, hunting, and wildlife attributes, located within a reasonable distance to basic services. The proximity to broader services while maintaining the inherent recreational attributes and pristine nature is most desirable. Improvements may be in place or require construction.
Gentleman's Ranch is a property of sizable, but smaller acreage than a
Recreational Ranch, with some fishing, hunting, wildlife attributes,
also close to better services, livable improvements, less management
intensity - yet can be all inclusive.
Resort Ranch is a property of small acreage, should have some fishing or wildlife attributes. It could be enclosed behind gates, possibly be part of a subdivided dude ranch with common areas. Amenities could include golf, horse-back riding, fishing, swimming, tennis, dining, etc..
Estate Ranch is a property consisting of a home and horse on small acreage, quite possibly in an upscale subdivision with some ranch amenities and near all the better services.
