CATTLE DRIVE

Aside from daily cattle drives done on our property, we also offer 3 weekend long cattle drives each year.  We also teach cattle sorting and cattle penning at our ranch.

Running–R Ranch, Hill Country State Natural Area Cattle Drive

 Space is limited to 25, sign up now and don’t miss out!

Cattle Drive Dates 2011:

June 10 - June 12th - Running -R Ranch Cowboy Capital Cattle Drive
at Hill Country State Natural Area

August 31st - September 3rd - Celebrate Bandera Cowboy Capital
Cattle Drive at the Hill Country State Natural Area including
participation in the Celebrate Bandera Parade down Main St.
***Call for special pricing for this cattle drive.

Cattle driving originated in American when the need for beef to feed our expanding country grew so great that cattle had to be brought in from the Western states. Wild cattle would be rounded up from great expanses of open range and then collected into huge herds. Once rounded up, the drive to the East or nearest railroad would begin. It could take up to a month to reach the stockyard. Driving the herd was slow, always looking for grass pastures and keeping an eye out for Indians or Rustlers.

The value of each cow is based upon the weight so it was important not to go fast or the cows would lose weight – “Lost Pounds Lost Money”.

Young men eager for a days pay would join on as wranglers to drive the herd. They lived on the trail, sleeping and eating with the herd, hence the name “Cowboys”.

Running –R Guest Ranch has scheduled their 2011 Cattle Drive's!

Space is limited and we expect this to sell out very quickly. Don’t delay or you will miss out on this unique experience to drive cattle across the Texas Hill Country State Natural Area. The three-day event allows one to experience life as a cowboy and gain a lifetime of memories.

Cowhands end their days with a western meal served on range, listening to cowboy music and poetry to make the outing an authentic and memorable experience. Participants can choose to sleep on the range or in a bunkhouse style cabin for the night.

The cost of the three-day event is $180.00 per night for adults,and $160/night for children from 10-16 (plus tax), which includes horse and tack, park entry fee, camping fees, meals, the assistance of park wrangler guides and a lot of fun! A one night deposit is required for each person. The cattle drive will take place rain or shine.

TRIP INFORMATION

EQUIPMENT

The ranch will supply all necessary tack, horses, and gear.  You are welcome to bring your own western saddle if you prefer. If you plan to sleep out with the herd, you will need to provide your own sleeping bag, pad, and tent.  Clothing needs to be durable, comfortable, and functional.  Long pants, a long sleeved shirt, sensible shoes or boots (no hiking boots with heavy tread), hat with a tie string, sunscreen, and a light pair of gloves are necessary for riding.  This is not the time to use or wear the family heirlooms or expensive jewelry and watches.  You may bring your own water container or one will be provided for you along with a carrier.   Optional items are saddle bags and a pair of chaps or chinks.  Although not necessary, chaps can improve your comfort level considerably in brushy, thorny country. We do not allow clients to carry or use ropes or whips of any kind.  Spurs are permitted only at the discretion of the wranglers.  Normally, they are not allowed to be worn unless the wrangler determines they are needed.  Evening attire can be anything you are comfortable wearing around a campfire.  We suggest that you bring along a jacket and rain gear in the unlikely case of rain or cool weather.  Normally, we have sunny - warm days and moderate nighttime temperatures. 

TRADITIONAL COWHAND ADVENTURE

It all begins as you arrive Friday morning. The rest of the day is filled with getting acquainted with your new surroundings and new friends. The most important new friend is, of course, your horse. A ranch horse will be matched to your riding ability and an experienced cowhand will instruct you how to saddle, bridle and take care of your new "buddy". The remaining time will be used to set up your tent and learn cow psycology then get settled in for the night. A wonderful cowboy dinner and campfire will mark the closing of the day.

Saturday morning comes quick, up at the crack of dawn to begin your first day as a cowhand. There's no lounging; a quick cup of coffee, saddle your horse, relax briefly as you enjoy breakfast, jump on your horse and the round-up begins.

Before you know it, it's time for lunch. With the cattle rounded-up and half a day's work under your belt, it's time to relax. A couple of hours to rest the horses and cattle and it's off again. You'll ride a few more hours 'til it's time to call it a day. But the night has just begun! After a marvelous dinner, stories around the campfire will set the stage for a lively evening. Don't forget, though - early to bed, early to rise.

This same schedule will pretty much be followed throughout the remaining visit.

Just a few items you will need to bring along:

• Sleeping bag and pad
• Western wear
• Warm clothes and rain gear
• Flashlight and batteries
• Toiletries
• Tent

An old saying amongst Texans is, “If you don't like the weather, wait ten minutes and it will change.” This is true. Throughout the summer, temperatures can range from highs of 100º F to lows of 50º F with occasional showers. Please come prepared for this contrast in weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can come on the Running –R Guest Ranch Cattle Drive?
Anyone that is over 10, in generally good health, have a sense of adventure, and enjoy the outdoors, you'll enjoy our cattle drives.

Do I need to be an experienced horseback rider?
One of the beautiful things about our cattle drives is that they do lend themselves well to all levels of riding experience. There are places and jobs for experienced riders who want to ride further faster and harder and there are places for less experienced riders who may just want to float along with the herd. If you can sit balanced in the saddle with weight in the stirrups, you should get along fine.

What kind of horse will I get to ride?
Most of our horses have Quarter horse breeding. Other breeds include Appaloosa, Paints, Tennessee Walkers, Arabs, Mustangs, half-lingers and Thoroughbreds

How many horses do you have?
We have over 50 head of horses at any given time.

What are the experience level of the horses?
We have all experience levels (advanced, intermediate, beginner, and children’s).

I would like to come out for some time either before or after the cattle drive. Do you have places to stay or activities to offer?
If you'd like to come early or stay later, you need to make arrangements. For guests that are arriving prior to or after the cattle drive we will offer clinics and lessons on sorting cattle, roping, poles and barrels.

Where will I stay?
Guests should bring their own tents or can rent a tent in advance from the ranch. There are also cabins available with limited sleeping arrangements for an additional fee.

Will I be safe?
Your safety is probably our biggest concern and worry. However, we cannot guarantee your safety. You will be crossing wide open mountainous country on a large mobile animal, the horse, chasing other large mobile animals, cows. There are certain risks and dangers inherent in pursuing this adventure. In this regard, you will be required to sign a release and waiver of liability and an assurance that you have adequate medical insurance coverage before you start the cattle drive. Please contact us if you would like to view the release form prior to your arrival.

What about medical services?
We have a certified emergency medical technician or physician on every drive to attend any emergency medical situation. We have radios and cell phones along, and can be in touch with the ambulance in minutes. Commonly, most medical attention is devoted to sunburn, allergies due to dust or pollen, and mild dehydration. It is very important to wear sunscreen and drink plenty of water!

What kind of weather can I expect?
Hot, cold, warm, sunny, windy, warm, cool, drafty, exquisite...That will cover most of it. Anything is possible in Texas weather! The cattle have to go when it's time, so we've experienced every kind of weather, and are prepared to make the best of it. Think layers in clothing, and bring raingear.

What about meals?
You'll be served authentic cowboy hot family style meals at breakfast, lunch and supper every day. If you have any special dietary requirements, we are happy to accommodate them. Just let us know in advance of your arrival

What about alcoholic beverages?
We cannot provide alcohol, but we can pack any libation which you care to purchase prior to the drive. A cocktail around the campfire can take the sting out of soar aching muscles.

How many people will be on the drive?
We limit each drive to 25 to 30 guests. A fully-booked cattle drive will result in 45- 50 mounted riders, which tends to make a herd of cattle get up and pay attention! Visitors find the large remuda of horses picketed and corralled each night a memorable and impressive sight.

Will I feel at home if I come as a single?
Many of our guests are single people and they usually make friends quickly at the ranch.  Those who come here often have much in common with one another and a love of horses is a great ice breaker. 

Due to space limitations we are unable to give refunds for this special event. Anyone cancelling prior to the event or that drops out during the event will not receive a refund. All attending are encouraged to purchase travel insurance.

What about gratuities/tipping?
The price of the cattle drive is all inclusive; however it does not include gratuities. If any of the wranglers or camp crew perform some services above and beyond the call of duty, a modest gratuity would be appreciated

APPLY NOW!