Many years ago, the original property and thousands of surrounding acres were inhabited by the Seminole and Brahman Indians. Brahman Island in Lake Kissimmee is named after the Indian tribe used to hunt and fish on this land.

One of the ranch's original uses was a staging place for the herds of cattle from Sarasota and Melbourne that were exported to Cuba. The cowboys used the trail to move cattle was known as the Florida Trail, which still exists and can be found off the main boulevard entrance of River Ranch.

Kicco was the original town which developed into River Ranch, consisting of small cabins and a schoolhouse. Steamships delivered the mail to a hook system that was connected to the shore of the river. Food and other essentials were also delivered by boat.

River Ranch has a direct outlet to the Kissimmee River, known for some of the best bass fishing in Florida and where many tournaments are held. U.S. Skeet and Shoot World competitions were also held at River Ranch.

Perhaps the best-known fact about River Ranch is that it holds the record for the longest operating rodeo in Florida. Many local and national champions perform here every week. Tater Porter, who lives in nearby Kenansville, is a world champion Bull Rider. The Saloon, which was originally built in Texas in 1918, continues to be a favorite hot spot!

We hope you enjoy your stay at River Ranch. Take a horse ride, hayride, watch a rodeo, enjoy a night in the saloon, and relax in an authentic “Dude Ranch” setting!