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7 Best Dude Ranches in Tennessee

Live like a real cowboy when you visit one of these dude ranches in Tennessee. No matter if you’d like to spend a day or a week at the ranch, there is a Tennessee dude ranch perfect for you. Experience the beauty of the Smoky Mountains while on a horseback ride at one of these 7 dude ranches in Tennessee.

French Broad Outpost Ranch French Broad Outpost Ranch
Credit: French Broad Outpost Ranch by French Broad Outpost Ranch

French Broad Outpost Ranch

This dude ranch in the Smoky Mountains is found along the French Broad River. French Broad Outpost Ranch is surrounded by the Cherokee National Forest, making it a perfect escape for you and your family. Tennessee families will enjoy horseback riding, hiking and even whitewater rafting at this all-inclusive resort in Del Rio, Tennessee. The menu here is sure to make your mouth water, as French Broad serves southern classics that are enjoyed family-style.

A Tennessee Dude and Guest Ranch A Tennessee Dude and Guest Ranch
Credit: A Tennessee Dude and Guest Ranch by A Tennessee Dude and Guest Ranch

A Tennessee Dude and Guest Ranch

You don’t just receive your room key upon check-in but also your own horse at this Tennessee dude ranch. A Tennessee Dude and Guest Ranch is found in the Sequatchie Valley in Dunlap, Tennessee. Even if you’ve never ridden a horse before, by the end of your stay this guest ranch will have you feeling confident and comfortable after the instruction lessons. This dude ranch offers a few options for travelers, no matter if you’d like to stay a week or a few days. A Tennessee Dude and Guest Ranch even hosts one and two-week long horse camps for kids.

Twin Valley Guest Ranch Twin Valley Guest Ranch
Credit: Twin Valley Guest Ranch by Twin Valley Guest Ranch

Twin Valley Guest Ranch

Head to the Smoky Mountains to enjoy a stay at Twin Valley Guest Ranch. Since Twin Valley Guest Ranch is within close proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it’s a popular destination for out-of-towners. This mountain getaway offers private horseback riding trails. However, horseback riding isn’t the only activity offered here. Guest can also take advantage of the spring-fed pond for fishing and swimming. Twin Valley Guest Ranch also offers space for your furry friends, no matter if you’d like to bring your dog or you’re horse, this guest ranch offers pet-friendly services.

Clearview Horse Farm Clearview Horse Farm
Credit: Clearview Horse Farm by Clearview Horse Farm

Clearview Horse Farm

Clearview Horse Farm is the perfect place for horse lovers. The arena at this dude ranch is where all the action happens, from horseback riding lessons to horse shows. When you aren’t on horseback, you’ll find the guest rooms here to be cozy and comfortable. There are unique, horse-themed rooms here where you’re sure to find solitude. Enjoy country living at its finest at this dude ranch outside of Shelbyville, Tennessee.

Big Rock Dude Ranch Big Rock Dude Ranch
Credit: Big Rock Dude Ranch by Big Rock Dude Ranch

Big Rock Dude Ranch

Big Rock Dude Ranch has so many fun activities to experience here from horseback riding to gem mining. Along with a petting zoo, ATVs to ride, and a fishing pond, guests will never grow bored here. Big Rock Dude Ranch is different than the other ranches on this list because it is only for day trippers. There is no lodging option here, however since it’s near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, it’s a popular destination for travelers in the area.

Jayell Ranch Jayell Ranch
Credit: Jayell Ranch by Jayell Ranch

Jayell Ranch

Another day trip destination, Jayell Ranch not only offers a stunning horseback riding trail ride but also the longest zipline in the Smoky Mountains. Experience the Smokies through the four-mile horseback ride that offers views of 260 acres of mountain scenery. This family-run dude ranch is found near Dollywood theme park, one of the area’s most popular attractions. So when you aren’t riding the rides of Dollywood, ride the trails at Jayell Ranch.

Meadow Creek Mountain Resort Meadow Creek Mountain Resort
Credit: Meadow Creek Mountain Resort by Meadow Creek Mountain Resort

Meadow Creek Mountain Resort

This full-service resort isn’t necessarily a dude ranch, however, the resort is one of the top places to horseback ride in eastern Tennessee. Enjoy a horseback ride through Cherokee National Forest, or simply find some alone time in the spacious lodge or a private cabin. Meadow Creek Mountain Resort also offers RV sites and hookups, catering to various types of travelers.

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