Zapata Ranch
Permanently Closed
Working ranch & nature preserve, bison, rustic lodging, gourmet meals
Working ranch & nature preserve, bison, rustic lodging, gourmet meals
"Zapata Ranch is a relaxed and remote working ranch located in the San Luis Valley of south-central Colorado. It is known for its location, privacy, and space, offering over 100,000 acres of land with cattle, bison, and horses. Guests can enjoy horseback riding, hiking, fly-fishing, and stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo range and Great Sand Dunes National Park. The ranch is owned by The Nature Conservancy, emphasizing conservation and stewardship of the land. Accommodations include 15 guest rooms across three ranch buildings, with amenities like clawfoot bathtubs and toiletries from Los Poblanos lavender farm. Programs include writing workshops, Harvest Weekends, bird-watching tours, and wellness retreats. Meals are included, featuring the ranch's own beef and bison, with vegetarian options available. The ranch partners with Ranchlands for management, focusing on rangeland preservation." - Pat Tompkins
"Zapata Ranch is a historic working bison ranch with Southwestern-style lodging and gourmet meals, located just a few miles south of the main park entrance." - Travel + Leisure Editors
"A remote and immersive Western-style working ranch providing a deep connection with majestic animals."
"The place to stay is the historic Zapata Ranch, which is owned by the Nature Conservancy." - Maya Silver
"A petite, 17-room lodge on 50,000 wild acres overlooking Great Sand Dunes National Park, Zapata Ranch, a once-working ranch built in the 1870s, has found new purpose. Now managed and preserved by Ranchlands and The Nature Conservancy, this national park neighbor shows its visitors the value of these lands through exceptional outdoor experiences." - Travel + Leisure Editors