Step into the 1950s at Rising Moon Ranch’s unique desert retreat near Zion. Ride an ATV, toast gourmet s’mores by firelight, and stargaze from a vintage trailer oasis away from crowds.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Basic physical fitness needed for riding an ATV and walking short distances around the campsite.
Wildlife
History
This region sits near the historic Old Spanish Trail, a trade route established in the 19th century, enriching local cultural layers amid the landscape.
Conservation
Rising Moon Ranch prioritizes minimal environmental impact by limiting group sizes and encouraging responsible use of the delicate desert ecosystem.
Rising Moon Ranch & Stars LLC
Step into the 1950s at Rising Moon Ranch’s unique desert retreat near Zion. Ride an ATV, toast gourmet s’mores by firelight, and stargaze from a vintage trailer oasis away from crowds.
Rising Moon Ranch & Stars LLC is a small experiential hospitality business based in Orderville, Utah, offering curated evening and stargazing experiences on private desert land near Zion National Park. The ranch specializes in four signature offerings: Spirit of The West - An Evening Under The Stars, Stargaze in a Studebaker: Fire, S’mores & Big Skies, The Desert Lounge: Sunset Views, Fire & Stars, and Retro Desert Escape: 1950s Trailer, S’mores & Stars.
Each experience includes guided ATV access to secluded viewing areas, private firepits, telescope-assisted stargazing, and handcrafted s’mores or Dutch oven desserts. Events incorporate regional storytelling, cowboy poetry, singalongs, and on select nights, sacred drumming and Native American cultural presentations. Rising Moon Ranch & Stars emphasizes small-group, reservation-only experiences that intentionally limit guest counts to preserve quiet, open-sky viewing and maintain safety on rugged desert terrain.
The operation prioritizes guest comfort with blankets, seating, and optional charcuterie, and delivers a vintage Western atmosphere using period vehicles and a 1950s trailer for select bookings. Safety protocols include ATV safety briefings and adherence to local land-use regulations. The ranch markets itself to couples, small groups, and visitors seeking an intimate evening away from Zion’s crowds. Local sourcing for desserts and a focus on cultural respect for Native presentations support community engagement. Rising Moon Ranch & Stars LLC is registered and operates in Orderville, Utah, and presents evening desert experiences designed for stargazers, photographers, and travelers seeking authentic Western ambiance and quiet desert nights. With guided telescope assistance included every evening.
Location
Orderville, UT
Near Zion National Park
Tours Offered
4 Experiences
Evening and stargazing trips
Secluded Access
ATV Access
Private desert viewpoints
Group Size
Small groups
Reservation-only experiences
Reserve a limited-seat experience for authentic stargazing, vintage charm, and quiet desert skies.
Arrive Prepared for ATV Transit
Guests must be comfortable riding an ATV to reach the private trailer site through rugged desert terrain.
Dress in Layers for Desert Evenings
Temperatures drop quickly after sunset—bring warm clothing to stay comfortable by the firepit and telescope.
Protect Your Eyes for Stargazing
Avoid flashlight overuse; use red-light modes to preserve night vision when using the telescope.
Plan Ahead for Food Preferences
The experience includes gourmet s’mores with an optional charcuterie upgrade—notify the ranch of any dietary restrictions in advance.
Warm Jacket
Crucial for staying comfortable during chilly desert evenings after sundown.
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Closed-Toe Shoes
Necessary for ATV riding and navigating the rocky desert terrain safely.
Red Light Flashlight
Helps preserve night vision during stargazing while avoiding disturbance to other guests.
Sunglasses
Protects your eyes from bright daylight during arrival and departure.
summer