Tejon Ranch is classic California, a land of legacy - bigger than life, rich in history, blessed by nature. Established in 1843 as a Mexican land grant, this grand sweep of territory was home to some of the Old West's most illustrious exploits. Trappers, hardy settlers and frontiersman, outlaws, the Camel Corps, Butterfield stagecoach lines, and Army dragoons all traversed its range. Historic pioneers such as Jedediah Smith, Kit Carson, and John C. Fremont explored Tejon's frontier. As in the days of the vaqueros, cowboys on horseback still herd cattle on open grazing land. Vast stretches of the ranch land still remain in their natural state, serving as one of the few living links to an era of prestigious ranches, thundering herds and impassioned pioneers.
Explore Ranches had the opportunity to partner with Tejon Ranch beginning in the summer of 2019 to offer exclusive access to lodging and activities on this sprawling and majestic part of southern California. Since that time, we have had the chance to capture and share the wonders of this landscape with others. One of our recent guests, a small corporate group based in Los Angeles, visited the ranch for a strategic planning retreat "without the distractions of electronics", access to horseback riding and "the solitude of the outdoors". Tejon Ranch offers two mid-century modern ranch houses complete with private lodging for up to twelve, fully-equipped kitchens, meeting spaces with wifi and audio visual, and nearby dining options.
A short 15-minute drive from the main headquarters, a third lodging location sits in a hidden spot among the rolling hills with views of the surrounding mountains. Tejon's Venado cabin is tucked under a mountainside making it feel like a secret you've accidentally stumbled upon. Endless views from the porch, the eagles, red tailed hawks and occasional condor flying overhead, deer roaming the hillsides above and below, and a horseshoe pit make sitting outside an easy all day activity. For those who want to explore the vastness of the ranch, miles of trails are available for hiking, biking, or a driving tour. There's also a fishing pond filled with bass and blue gill just below the cabin and a large meadow and huge oaks - the perfect place for an afternoon picnic.
At Tejon Ranch, Explore Ranches' guests can enjoy a wide range of activities. Book a photo safari and visit the most picturesque spots on the ranch while capturing the distinctive beauty of each of the four eco-regions and an abundance of wildlife. Schedule a dinner in the field under the stars or relax on your back porch with views that never end. Whether you are interested in horseback riding for the first time or are an experienced rider, take advantage of the opportunity to spend a morning or afternoon experiencing the beauty of the historic Tejon Ranch from the back of a horse on a guided horseback tour. The High Desert Hunt Club at Tejon Ranch is Southern California's premier upland bird hunting club and offers over 6,400 acres and 35 Hunting fields, each field providing different terrain and challenges. Guests can enjoy bird hunting and the comforts of the historic Beale summer home, which serves as the headquarters for the hunt club.
There are few opportunities to experience something awe-inspiring, to enjoy solitude and escape the daily routine in a place reminiscent of our great national parks. To escape to a magical place so few have enjoyed and to have access to such a place less than an hours' drive from one of the largest cities in the U.S. is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Request to book Hacienda for up to 4 people
Casa Grande for up to 8 people or Venado for up to 12 people