Fossil, Oregon
Fossil, Oregon

Our authentic 9,000 acre Oregon ranch offers a variety of great outdoor activities! Saddle up for a horseback ride into the high desert hills, join in on a hike, or just plain mosey along while soaking up breathtaking views and big-sky horizons in all directions. Wander the expansive valley, dotted with century-old locust and fruit trees, watch songbirds migrate through the area, and enjoy the tranquil sight of cattle, deer, and quail that make Wilson Ranches their home.

Group on horseback in front of scenic eastern oregon
Horseback Riding

Immerse yourself in an authentic working cattle ranch experience on a scenic horseback ride, cattle drive, pasture move, riding for strays or checking fence lines as the Wilson family has for seven generations. Enjoy a couple of hours in the saddle for spectacular views of the Columbia River Plateau, John Day Basin, and the Cascade Mountain Range.

Hiking in hills

Hiking

Create your own path or hike on one of the many game and cattle trails through the high desert hills surrounding Wilson Ranches Retreat. The ranch crew can make recommendations for your exploration of Wilson Ranches with miles of unique geology, flora, fauna and awe-inspiring viewpoints.

Wildflowers

Flora & Fauna

The juniper and sage-covered high desert hills are magnificent for riding, birding, hiking, and photography. Wildflowers of lupine, mariposa lilies, Indian paintbrush and many more begin painting the range in late spring. Wilson Ranches is teeming with wildlife: Mule deer, pronghorn, elk, coyotes, badgers, squirrels, beaver, and birds of prey. Soak up nature and be replenished.

Bald eagle on branch in winter

Birding

Wilson Ranches Retreat is nestled in the Butte Creek Valley and is home to Upland game birds (Chukar, Quail, and Hungarian Partridge) and birds of prey (Red-tailed Hawks, Golden Eagles, Bald Eagles, and Great Horned Owls). Great Blue Herons can occasionally be sighted on Butte Creek. Guests enjoy relaxing in a serene environment with a spectacular view off the 400 square foot deck or on the lawn, where century-old locust and fruit trees provide a great setting to watch songbirds on migration through the area.

Hungarian partridge sitting in sunlight

Hunting

Wilson Ranches is located in the Columbia River Plateau and John Day Basin with varied terrain and thousands of acres to explore. Upland game birds (Chukar, Quail, and Hungarian Partridge) hunting is available exclusively to Wilson Ranches Retreat guests from October through January.

To book your hunt please contact us at 541.763.2227

Group Horseback Riding