History

A Bar A Ranch has operated continuously since the early 1920s, maintaining its legacy as a guest and cattle ranch. Generations of visitors return for its authentic Western experience, historic cabins, and enduring traditions like the Friday night dinner ride. The ranch is part of a larger family-owned operation spanning multiple ranches, including Big Creek and State Line, documented in the award-winning book Three Ranches by Will and Deni McIntyre.

Practices

A Bar A offers all-inclusive stays that cover lodging, meals, activities, and kids programs. Key practices include:

• Guided trout fly fishing on rivers, streams, and ponds
• Horseback riding with experienced wranglers
• Children’s and teen programs with dedicated counselors
• Shooting sports (skeet, trap, sporting clays) using only steel shot
• Transportation within the ranch for fishing, picnics, and activities
• All-inclusive rates with clear extras (transportation outside the ranch, bar purchases, etc.)

Offerings

The ranch provides:

• Lodging in historic cabins and lodges
• All meals, including cookouts and dining with ranch staff
• Activities: tennis, nine-hole golf, heated swimming pool, arts and crafts, music, and drama
• Special events like the Fall Rendezvous, featuring live music, workshops, and cattle work
• Accommodations for children under 3 and nannies
• Expeditions with tailored pricing for summer and fall stays

Visiting and Staying

A Bar A welcomes large groups and offers seasonal stays from early June to late September. During peak season, the ranch hosts around 110 guests and 110 staff. Children’s programs run from 9:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., offering riding, fishing, sports, and educational games. Teens enjoy activities like river tubing and golf.

Booking and Policies

Reservations require a 50% deposit within two weeks of confirmation. Cancellations before March 1st receive a full refund; after that date, refunds depend on re-booking. Payments are made via personal check, not credit cards. A 15% hospitality fee supports staff, and a 13% lodging tax and 6% sales tax apply. Extra costs include off-ranch transportation ($300 to Laramie, $100 to Saratoga) and shooting sports ($40 per round).