Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, located in Polk County, Florida, offers a distinctive blend of rustic, off-the-grid camping and modern amenities designed to appeal to outdoor hospitality professionals seeking to enhance their guest offerings.
Positioned along the Kissimmee River, this resort is an example of how heritage tourism and luxury glamping can be successfully integrated to attract a wide range of visitors.
Florida holds a unique position in American cattle ranching history. Unlike the well-known cowboy culture of the American West, the state’s cattle-raising traditions date back to the early 1500s when Spanish explorers introduced Andalusian cattle and horses.
This historical connection provides an opportunity for outdoor hospitality businesses to tap into a growing interest in experiential travel by offering authentic, themed accommodations that immerse guests in the region’s rich heritage.
Originally developed in the 1960s, River Ranch saw rapid growth with the establishment of Western-themed attractions, a rodeo arena, and a private airstrip.
According to an article published by Islands, Westgate Resorts acquired the 1,700-acre community in 2001 and has since transformed it into a premier glamping destination, set amid 400,000 acres of protected wetlands.
The resort’s evolution highlights the potential for outdoor hospitality operators to repurpose existing properties into high-end destinations that combine traditional camping with upscale comforts.
The resort provides a range of lodging options, including cabins, lodge suites, teepees, and Conestoga wagons, with sizes ranging from 279 to 1,548 square feet. For those interested in traditional camping, the property also offers RV and tent camping spaces.
Guest services vary by accommodation type, featuring amenities such as personal glamping concierges, nightly campfires, and morning coffee service. Seasonal pricing plays a crucial role in revenue optimization, with rates fluctuating significantly depending on the time of year.
A one-night luxury glamping stay in mid-April 2025 is priced at approximately $200, while the same stay in mid-December 2025 costs about $300 per night. Understanding these pricing dynamics can help business owners strategize their own seasonal pricing models.
The resort’s extensive list of activities contributes to its appeal as an all-inclusive destination.
Guests can attend weekly rodeo events showcasing barrel racing and bull riding, participate in horseback riding excursions, or explore the property’s adventure park featuring a petting farm, mini golf course, and rock climbing wall.
Additional experiences, such as airboat rides on the Kissimmee River, provide opportunities for guests to engage with Florida’s natural environment.
These activity offerings illustrate how outdoor hospitality businesses can enhance guest engagement and extend the length of stay through immersive experiences.
“There is something for everyone!” one reviewer shared on the resort’s website. “The property was beautiful, staff were helpful and attentive. WGR made traveling with your family effortless!”
Located just five miles from Lake Kissimmee and the surrounding 21,000-acre Kissimmee Chain of Lakes Area Wildlife Management Area, the resort benefits from its proximity to vast outdoor recreation opportunities.
For outdoor hospitality professionals, this serves as an example of how strategic location selection can enhance a property’s value by offering guests easy access to diverse nature-based experiences.
With its fusion of cowboy heritage and modern glamping luxury, Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo exemplifies how outdoor hospitality businesses can leverage history, location, and experience-driven amenities to create a compelling guest experience.
Operators in the industry may find inspiration in its model for attracting travelers looking for both adventure and comfort in a unique setting.