Missouri's ranches

While horse trails and campsites can be found throughout Missouri, the ranches listed here have both rental horses and overnight accommodations. At some ranches, most of the visitors bring their own horses. At others, personal horses are prohibited.

A first-time visitor might want to ask if short stays are permitted, about the type of accommodations and meals provided, if lessons are available and about other activities offered.

Dude ranches price their services differently throughout the state. Usually a weekly stay saves money off the daily rates, but shorter stays often are possible. At Golden Hills, for instance, the weekly rate was $199 for an adult, $154 for children 6 to 12, $86 for children 2 to 5, with smaller children staying for free. That rate included guided trail rides, meals and activities. Horse rentals were an additional $54 daily. Lodging, campsites and stall rentals were additional.

An overnight room for one night was $49, including meals. There's a $5 room fee for each additional person.For more information

Bucks and Spurs Guest Ranch in Ava: www.bucksandspurs.com, (417) 683-2381

Coldwater Ranch in Eminence: www.coldwaterranch.com, (573) 226-3723

Golden Hills Trail Rides & Resort in Raymondville: www.gold enhills.com, (417) 457-6222

Turkey Creek Ranch in Theodosia: www.turkeycreek ranch.com, (417) 683-4362