From city girl to cowgirl: my glamping getaway to Florida

Travelers know Florida for its white sand beaches, bustling cities and water adventures. But this year, I traded the coastline for cowboy boots and discovered a side of Florida most people never see: Westgate River Ranch, a hidden gem where ranch life meets rustic luxury. Here I found one-of-a-kind lodging and non-stop activities like horseback riding, skeet shooting, and an all-American rodeo that made me feel like I had stepped into a western movie.

House on the land (but with air conditioning)

Accommodations at Westgate River Ranch add fun and offer a fresh, adventurous twist on traditional camping. From luxury teepees and glamping wagons to cozy lodge rooms and RV sites, there’s a style of stay for every type of traveler. I slept in the Luxe Conestoga Wagon, a spacious retreat that sleeps up to six people and features its own glamping concierge and golf cart, making it easy to explore the sprawling ranch in comfort and style. I’m not the only one who’s a fan of this fun approach to vacationing: on Kayak, the resort receives a “very good” rating from past guests.

Saturday Night Lights: The Rodeo Experience

One of the highlights of my Florida-style western weekend was experiencing the Saturday night rodeo – a Westgate River Ranch tradition that takes place rain or shine (and yes, I was there in the rain!). The talent, courage and precision of the riders were on full display, demonstrating not only their skills, but also the deep bond and trust between horse and rider. From the high-energy flag girls running through the arena to the thrilling rides and crowd engagement, the rodeo was an unforgettable spectacle that every guest should experience.

Ranch days, your way

I was amazed at how easy it was for me to completely relax and go into vacation mode here. Everything I wanted to do was right there on the property, so I never had to worry about planning or driving anywhere, which can be a relief, especially if you’re traveling with a group. One of my favorite activities was a peaceful horseback ride through the open pastures. There was something incredibly grounding about connecting with nature from the saddle, and the horses – calm, well-trained and gentle – made it an enjoyable experience for beginning riders and children.

Beyond the horse trails and rodeo arena, there’s much more to do, including trap and skeet shooting, airboat rides through Florida’s watery wilderness, and even lively street parties under the stars.

And of course, in true Florida fashion, the heat can be intense. So I appreciated the opportunity to cool off at the recently opened River Country Water Park in between ranch adventures.

Casual Bites, Big Flavors

Of the many places to eat on property, Smokehouse on the River is my favorite. This classic Southern barbecue spot, with its casual outdoor seating and smoky aroma, has quickly become one of my favorite stops. The smoked meats were tender and flavorful, and the sides were downright mouth-watering. If you visit, I highly recommend trying the hickory smoked barbecue brisket with the creamy white cheddar mac and cheese.

Boots, ambiance and Southern hospitality

During my stay, I found so much joy in the simple things, like putting on my cowboy boots and leaning into the rustic, ranch-style aesthetic that surrounded me. There is something special about entering a setting so different from everyday life and spending days outdoors, enjoying the fresh air and open skies.

What made the experience even more memorable was the incredible staff at Westgate River Ranch. Their warmth, knowledge and willingness to help made a huge difference in how welcome and comfortable I felt throughout my stay.

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