Wisconsin isn’t exactly the first state that comes to mind when talking about horses and ranches, but at Woodside Ranch in Mauston, their motto is “Where the west begins.” So throw out any preconceived notions about whether a western-style ranch can truly be found here in Wisconsin and check out this amazing, welcoming and amazing ranch that’s just waiting for you to come visit. These folks have more than a century of experience riding and raising horses and they’ve opened up their ranch for day trippers and overnight guests looking to have a fabulous ranch experience right here at home.
Woodside Ranch is a stunning, 100-year-old ranch in the center of the state that has more than 100 horses on 1000 acres of land. Heading here is like taking a trip out west but with a lot less travel involved.
There are a number of options here, from overnight and week-long stays in their cabins or ranch house to day-visitor activities. You can get as immersed in the ranch culture as you want.
The ranch is open year-round and may be even lovelier in winter. Take the horses out and explore the gorgeous forest. You'll find pristine snow and a serene, peacefulness in the woods this time of year.
There really is something for everyone at Woodside. You'll find pony rides for the youngsters and wagon rides for those not ready to get on a horse. Youngsters get a short riding lesson before heading out on trail rides.
This truly is a magical little oasis in the middle of Wisconsin. These folks have been doing this for a century and many of their visitors come back here again and again to experience life on a ranch right here at home.
Plus, these folks have their own small buffalo herd. Woodside Ranch really does feel like it would be at home somewhere in Montana or Wyoming or Colorado, but lucky for us, it's available for us right here in Wisconsin.
You literally cannot get bored here. In addition to all the horse-related activities, this place has their own lake stocked with fish and provides all the equipment you need. You'll also find things like archery, horseshoes, bonfires, a pool and so much more.
Get up early for a morning ride that will take you right back for breakfast or sign up for the twice-a-week Cowboy Cookouts. The food here is stellar, but the Ranch is also flexible, with packages as all-inclusive or a la carte as you need.
Whether you're signing up for a week, weekend or even a day trip, Woodside Ranch is one of the coolest places in Wisconsin. You and your family will treasure your time here and your kids will be begging to go back again and again.
Woodside is a unique ranch that we get to visit right here in Wisconsin. Make plans to take your family for a real western-style vacation right here in the middle of the state and start making ranch memories for a lifetime.
Woodside Ranch is located at W4015 State Rd 82, Mauston, WI 53948. Learn more about this awesome Wisconsin Dude Ranch, book lodging or plan a day trip on their website. And to see more gorgeous pictures of this place and their beautiful animals, head to their Facebook page.
Have you ever spent time at Woodside Ranch? Let us know about it in the comments!