Ride through Florida’s subtropical wilderness on a 1.5-hour horseback adventure at Westgate River Ranch. Discover this off-the-grid retreat’s unique equestrian experience and genuine cowboy spirit.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels with basic riding ability; moderate physical effort during mounting and riding.
Wildlife
History
River Ranch was established as a working cattle ranch and remains one of the last true western-style ranch resorts in Florida.
Conservation
The resort emphasizes responsible stewardship of Florida’s wetlands, maintaining trails to minimize erosion and protect native wildlife habitats.
Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo
Ride through Florida’s subtropical wilderness on a 1.5-hour horseback adventure at Westgate River Ranch. Discover this off-the-grid retreat’s unique equestrian experience and genuine cowboy spirit.
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.
Location
River Ranch, FL
Historic Florida ranch setting
Experiences
10 experiences
Airboat, rodeo, shooting ranges
Rodeo Arena
1,200 seats
Saturday night rodeo venue
Equipment Included
Shotguns & safety gear
Ranges supply rental equipment
Book airboat rides, rodeo tickets, shooting sessions, and family activities at Westgate River Ranch in River Ranch, Florida.
Mount independently
Ensure you can get on the horse without assistance to fully enjoy the ride experience safely.
Wear closed-toe shoes
Closed-toe shoes with a sturdy sole protect your feet during mounting and trail riding.
Bring insect repellent
Florida’s wetlands can be buggy; apply repellent to avoid bites during the trail ride.
Arrive early for check-in
Plan extra time before your ride to acclimate, get briefed, and fit riding gear comfortably.
Closed-toe sturdy shoes or boots
Protects your feet and provides proper grip while riding.
Lightweight long pants
Shields your legs from brush, insects, and saddle friction.
summer|spring|fall
Insect repellent
Keeps mosquitoes and other insects at bay in humid Florida wetlands.
spring|summer|fall
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Protects skin from strong subtropical sun exposure during trail rides.
spring|summer|fall