Westgate River Ranch Resort – Family Glamping Meets Authentic Dude Ranch

Nestled in the heart of Lake Wales, Florida, Westgate River Ranch Resort offers a tranquil escape just an hour south of Orlando’s theme‑park bustle. The resort’s secluded 1,700‑acre setting along the Kissimmee River provides the perfect backdrop for a family vacation that blends rustic charm with modern comfort.

Why Westgate River Ranch Stands Out

• Authentic dude ranch experience in Polk County.
• Diverse lodging options: standard rooms, cabins, glamping tents, and luxe teepees or covered wagons.
• All‑in‑one destination: groceries, a full‑service restaurant, and a western‑style general store are on‑site.
• Outdoor activities for every age, with many included when you stay in a luxe teepee or wagon.
• Peaceful surroundings within 400,000 acres of protected wetlands.

Accommodations to Fit Every Family

Whether you prefer the classic tent experience or a fully furnished luxury teepee, Westgate offers options for all budgets and family sizes:

• Tent & RV Camping – Bring your own gear or choose a pre‑pitched platform site with grill, electricity, and nearby showers.
• Cabins & Cottages – Studio to two‑bedroom units with kitchens and western décor.
• Rail Cars – Compact, family‑friendly spaces with full kitchens and TV.
• Lodge Rooms & Suites – Comfort near the pool, saloon, and Adventure Park.
• Glamping Tents – Air‑conditioned, fully furnished with concierge service.
• Luxe Teepees & Conestoga Wagons – Premium amenities, concierge, complimentary resort activities, and VIP rodeo seating.

Dining Highlights

The Westgate Smokehouse Grill offers a riverside menu featuring steak, seafood, gator bites, and key lime pie. The General Store’s deli serves breakfast, pizza, and Starbucks drinks, while the adjacent Western Store lets guests don cowboy gear for the full ranch experience.

Activities for the Whole Family

• Saturday Night Rodeo – Live bull riding, barrel racing, and trick riding. Included with luxe accommodations.
• Horseback Riding – 45‑minute guided rides for ages 8+ (additional fee).
• Adventure Park – Zip line, bungee jumping, mini golf, and mechanical bull. Pay per activity or buy an Adventure Pass.
• Fishing & Petting Farm – Catch‑and‑release pond and free petting zoo; pony rides available for a fee.
• Pool & Games – Outdoor pool with loungers, life jackets, and family games.
• Swamp Buggy & Airboat Rides – Guided wildlife tours (advanced booking required).
• Shooting & Archery Range – Range for all skill levels (reserve in advance).
• Escape Room – Family‑friendly challenge with hints available.

Guest Reviews & Ratings

Westgate River Ranch scores:

• 4.0/5 on TripAdvisor (500+ reviews)
• 8.0/10 on Booking.com (90 reviews)
• 8.0/10 on Hotels.com (80 reviews)

Guests praise the western theme and activity variety, though some note that a few accommodations could benefit from refurbishment.

Location & Accessibility

Located on Florida State Road 60, the resort sits just off the eastern edge of Polk County. It’s over 60 miles from Walt Disney World, under an hour from LEGOLAND Florida, and about 90 minutes from Orlando International Airport. A private airstrip accommodates private planes and helicopters.

COVID‑19 Safety Measures

Westgate follows a rigorous safety protocol: enhanced cleaning, hand sanitizer stations, and staff health checks. Guests can enjoy their stay with peace of mind.