SAN ANTONIO ATTRACTION FIELD GUIDE
Afternoon Ranch Escape: Horseback Trails, Pools and an Evening Campfire Just Outside San Antonio
Spend a half-day at Rancho Cortez—an afternoon of a trail ride, swimming, a hay-wagon ride and a campfire—packed with the essentials families need to plan the visit.
Afternoon Ranch Escape: Horseback Trails, Pools and an Evening Campfire Just Outside San Antonio.
Enjoy a half-day at a ranch near San Antonio with activities like horseback riding, swimming, and hay rides, along with a meal and a campfire; the offering is presented as a family-friendly afternoon outing with on-site entertainment and ranch chores to try.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Trail and Arena Riding
A signature trail ride is included with the half-day program, with arena rides offered for the youngest guests—this is the core ranch activity around which the afternoon is structured.
Indoor and Outdoor Pools plus a Hot Tub
The ranch maintains both heated indoor and outdoor pools and a hot tub, giving swimmable options whatever the afternoon schedule.
Hay Wagon Rides and Campfire Evenings
Hay-wagon rides, a campfire with marshmallow roasting and western-style entertainment round out the visit—simple, social ranch traditions included in the half-day package.
What the day feels like
What the Half-Day Feels Like
Arrive for an afternoon at Rancho Cortez and move through a compact program: a meal in the dining hall, a guided horseback experience, time for a swim or hot-tub soak, chances to learn ranch skills like lassoing and to help feed longhorn cattle, plus a hay-wagon ride and campfire with roasting marshmallows—an easy, activity-rich escape designed for families.
THE RIDES
Trail and Arena Riding
A signature trail ride is included with the half-day program, with arena rides offered for the youngest guests—this is the core ranch activity around which the afternoon is structured.
THE WATER
Indoor and Outdoor Pools plus a Hot Tub
The ranch maintains both heated indoor and outdoor pools and a hot tub, giving swimmable options whatever the afternoon schedule.
THE EVENING
Hay Wagon Rides and Campfire Evenings
Hay-wagon rides, a campfire with marshmallow roasting and western-style entertainment round out the visit—simple, social ranch traditions included in the half-day package.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this half-day suits—and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Closed-toed shoes are required for horseback riding; bring a bathing suit for the pool and jacuzzi; BYOB is permitted for the campfire.
For riding, pants and a long sleeve shirt are recommended, though shorts are allowed; closed-toed shoes are required for riding activities.
Pack swimwear and anything you want to BYOB for the evening campfire; the ranch supplies the campfire and roasting marshmallows as part of the visit.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What time does the half-day start?
The program starts at 1pm; guests are welcome to stay as long as they like, and the evening campfire start time varies with the season (around 9pm in summer and around 6:30pm in winter).
How much does the half-day cost?
The rate is $130 per person for ages 6 and up.
What is included in the half-day?
Included are one meal, one trail ride, instruction in lasso throwing, access to indoor and outdoor heated pools and a hot tub, western entertainment, help feeding longhorn cattle, a hay wagon ride, and a campfire with marshmallow roasting.
Are there age restrictions for riding?
Yes: the minimum age for the trail ride is 6 years old; arena rides are offered for children under 6.
What should I bring for the visit?
Bring closed-toed shoes for horseback riding (required), a bathing suit for the pool and jacuzzi, and BYOB items if you plan to enjoy the campfire.
Can I stay after the scheduled start?
Yes; you are welcome to stay as long as you like—the campfire marks the end of the day and its start time depends on sunset and the season.