From city girl to cowgirl: my glamping escape to Florida

Travelers knows Florida for its white sand beaches, vibrant cities, and water-filled 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 accommodations and nonstop activities like horseback riding, skeet shooting, and an all-American rodeo that made me feel like I’d stepped into a Western movie.

Home on the range (but with air conditioning)

Accommodations at Westgate River Ranch dial up the fun and offer a fresh, adventurous spin on traditional camping. From luxe teepees and glamping wagons to cozy lodge rooms and RV sites, there’s a stay style for every kind of traveler. I slept in the Luxe Conestoga Wagon—a spacious retreat that sleeps up to six guests and comes with its own glamping concierge and golf cart, making it easy to explore the expansive ranch in comfort and style. I’m not alone as a fan of this fun approach to vacation digs: 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 happens rain or shine (and yes, I was there in the rain!). The talent, grit, and precision of the riders were on full display, showcasing not just skill but the deep connection and trust between horse and rider. From the high-energy flag girls racing across the arena to the heart-pounding bull 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 fully relax and get 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 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 first-time riders and kids alike.

Beyond the horseback trails and rodeo arena, there’s plenty 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 chance to cool off at the newly opened River Country Waterpark between ranch adventures.

Casual bites, big flavors

Of the many places to eat on the property, Smokehouse on the River is my personal favorite. This classic Southern BBQ spot, with its laid-back outdoor seating and smoky aroma, quickly became one of my favorite stops. The smoked meats were tender and flavorful, and the sides were downright mouthwatering. If you visit, I highly recommend trying the hickory-smoked BBQ brisket paired with the creamy white cheddar mac & cheese.

Boots, vibes & Southern hospitality

During my stay, I found so much joy in the simple things—like slipping on my cowboy boots and leaning into the rustic, ranch-style aesthetic that surrounded me. There’s something special about stepping into a setting so different from everyday life and spending days outdoors, soaking up 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 at ease I felt throughout my stay.

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