While the best dude ranches in Arizona can't technically be considered glamping, they share many characteristics — rustic (but often luxurious!) accommodations, epic locations, and a connection to The Great Outdoors. Oh, and we can't forget the fact that there's often some confusion about what exactly they are.
Definitions of glamping are subjective and therefore vary widely. Essentially, it's "glamorous camping" — camping with more luxurious amenities, such as electricity and real beds.
The definition of dude ranches is more straightforward: they're converted cattle ranches, designed to host vacationers. In many cases, like the Tombstone Monument Ranch near Tombstone Arizona, they remain working cattle ranches while also hosting guests. This presents an opportunity for truly unique, memorable getaways.
Let's unpack this hidden desert gem and take a look at what makes Tombstone Monument Ranch one of the best dude ranches in Arizona.
Tombstone Monument Ranch
Tombstone Monument Ranch is in southeastern Arizona, about one hour from Tucson. The views from the ranch in and of themselves are worthy of a visit, with the rugged Dragoons sprawling out to the northeast and the Huachucas to the southeast. Tombstone itself is also just five minutes away, though to be honest, there's not much reason to leave the ranch.
From the moment you check in, it's obvious why this one of the best dude ranches in Arizona. You'll see people on horseback riding around the property, taking UTV tours to check out abandoned mines nearby, learning how to shoot Old West-style .22-caliber revolvers and rifles, lounging by the pool, and enjoying a drink while listening to live music in the saloon.
When you're ready to retire to your guestroom at the end of a busy day, you'll enjoy oversized rooms with many amenities. The rooms are decorated and furnished in a turn-of-the-century western style and each have large private bathrooms. You'll have satellite TV, strong wi-fi, in-room coffee, and front patios. Some rooms have larger private terraces, but every room at the ranch has stunning views of the Dragoons.
Wondering if Tombstone Monument Ranch is suitable for kids? Absolutely! In fact, it's one of the best dude ranches for families in Arizona! Children can ride starting at age five, and there are a variety of trail rides geared specifically toward children and beginner riders. Guests can also interact with the horses at the ranch, something kids especially love. Plus, Tombstone, with all of its historic family-friendly charm, is just a few minutes away.
Tombstone is considered "high desert," sitting at an elevation of about 4,500 feet. While it is unquestionably a desert, it's substantially cooler than Tucson and Phoenix. Thanks largely to its proximity to several mountain ranges, Tombstone enjoys a mild year-round climate. It rarely dips below 60 degrees during the day or reaches temps of over 90. That means it's always the best time to visit this Arizona dude ranch!
Activities at Tombstone Monument Ranch
When you stay at this Tombstone guest ranch, you can make your daily itinerary as busy or low-key as you'd like. Do all the things, or nothing at all!
Horseback riding, which includes rides for different skill levels
Archery
UTV tours
Western-style shooting
Old West cinema-style photoshoots
Pool and hot tub
Things to do in Tombstone Arizona
Tombstone is at the center of many important events in US history, particularly those related to the Gold Rush in the 1800s. There is perhaps no place more synonymous with the Wild West, and visiting Tombstone is truly like stepping back in time.
You could easily spend an entire weekend in the tiny town, as there are seemingly endless things to do in Tombstone. Visit the historic sites, take authentic mine tours, watch gunfight reenactments, hunt for ghosts, shop, and more! Highlights include ghost tours at the famed Birdcage Theatre, watching gunfights at the O.K. Corral, and having a cocktail at Doc Holliday's Saloon.
So, are you ready to stay at one of the best dude ranches in Arizona? Tombstone Monument Ranch offers a variety of packages, ranging from some that include daily breakfast, all-inclusive options, and the Cowboy Experience, where guests can help out on the ranch! Connect with us on Instagram and let us know if you stay here!
