Is the hayride suitable for young children?

Yes, the hayride is family-friendly and suitable for all ages, with gentle rides and fun storytelling.

What should I wear for the event?

Wear comfortable outdoor clothing, including layers for changing weather, and sturdy shoes for walking around.

Are vegetarian options available at the cookout?

Vegetarian options can be requested; check with staff when booking for specific dietary needs.

Is this activity accessible for guests with mobility challenges?

Most hayrides are accessible, but it's best to inform staff in advance to accommodate any special needs.

Can I bring my own alcohol or beverages?

Outside alcohol is not permitted; beverages are available at the cookout area.

How early should I arrive for the hayride?

Arrive 30 minutes early to ensure check-in and to enjoy pre-ride activities.

Family Cowboy Dinner & Hayride at River Ranch, Florida

At River Ranch in Florida, Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo offers an authentic taste of cowboy culture amid the lush landscapes of Central Florida. Their signature Cowboy Dinner & Hayride is a beloved tradition, providing a fun-filled evening that combines rustic adventure with family-friendly entertainment. Imagine climbing aboard a warmly lit hay wagon, winding along the Florida Trail as the sun dips lower, casting golden hues over the surrounding woodlands. Accompanied by the lively tunes of the 'Singing Cowboy,' guests enjoy stories, music, and the chance to spot native wildlife like white-tailed deer and herons darting through the trees.

This 45-minute hayride is more than just a ride—it's a chance to step into a western-tinged adventure right in the heart of Florida. As the wagon makes its way through scenic corridors, children and adults alike can take in the sights of the Florida Trail, known for its rich mix of pine flatwoods and cypress swamps. Once the ride concludes, visitors gather at the East Corral for a family-style cookout buffet, serving up classic barbecue, hearty sides, and good ol’-fashioned camaraderie in a lively outdoor setting. The Saturday night tradition makes for memorable moments, especially when coordinated with the regional wildlife watching and cowboy-themed activities.

Westgate River Ranch’s combination of outdoor scenery, engaging storytelling, and warm community atmosphere makes it a standout destination for those seeking something different. Whether you're after a relaxed evening or an introduction to authentic rural Florida, this outing offers a genuine glimpse of cowboy customs infused with southern charm and forested beauty. Perfect for folks of all ages, it’s a chance to slow down, enjoy nature, and immerse yourself in a classic Western experience—without leaving the Sunshine State.

About Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo is a working Florida ranch and family-friendly resort located in River Ranch, Florida. The ranch offers a mix of outdoor adventures, hands-on activities, and nightly entertainment spread across an expansive ranch setting. Guests can choose from guided airboat rides on the Kissimmee River, swamp buggy excursions through wooded trails, and the scenic one-hour cruise aboard the 40-foot Kissimmee River Queen guided by a Coast Guard Licensed Captain.

On-site recreational options include trap and skeet shooting ranges with rental shotguns and safety gear, an air rifle range with lever-action BB guns, and a Cowboy Adventure Park featuring slides, a seasonal maze, rock climbing, and a mechanical bull. The resort hosts a weekly Saturday Night Rodeo in a 1,200-seat arena showcasing trick riding, barrel racing, and bull riding, plus a family-style Cowboy Dinner & Hayride with live entertainment.

Westgate River Ranch also runs seasonal experiences such as holiday escape rooms and specialized activities that emphasize wildlife viewing and outdoor discovery. Safety protocols and supplied equipment are noted features for shooting activities and guided tours. The property is positioned for families, groups, and travelers seeking authentic Florida ranch experiences, wildlife viewing, and traditional western entertainment. Its combination of guided nature excursions, live rodeo shows, and hands-on family attractions creates a distinctive destination in River Ranch, Florida that blends outdoor recreation with ranch-style hospitality.

On-site dining, lodging, and event spaces accommodate multi-day stays and private gatherings, supporting family reunions, corporate retreats, and special celebrations throughout the year.