“The organization’s core mission is to empower individuals of all ages and abilities to achieve life-changing experiences through equine companionship and compassionate support, while fostering growth, resilience, and a sense of community,” said office manager Alexys Thorson of Joy Ranch in Florence.
Joy Ranch—a 126-acre attraction—is full of experiences for any type of event a few miles outside of Watertown. Owner Joy Nelson purchased the land and started creating her vision of all types of people enjoying the trails, lake, horses, and wilderness.
Over time, Nelson kept adding to the dream with more buildings, including a vintage, fully restored one-room schoolhouse from a local farmer and an old church from Erwin.
“May 25 was the 25th anniversary of the church being moved to Joy Ranch and was commemorated with a community celebration,” said Nelson.
A barn and granary were also moved to the ranch, and in 2012 they finished a sprawling 1880s Town addition, designed to be a unique historical attraction.
Now the “Western getaway” hosts thousands of guests a year, whether it be church groups, corporate events, weddings, reunions, or more.
“Joy is the beating heart of joy ranch, Both the non-profit organization and the 126-Acreage itself.”
-Alexys Thorson
TAKE ME TO CHURCH
Joy Ranch hosts regular church services during the summer months, on Christmas Eve, and on Easter. Many guests who are at Joy Ranch for family reunions or weddings hold their own gathering time in the church.
In addition to events, the non-profit also is passionate about serving those in need with mission-based programming.
“Typical recipients of mission-based programming include everyone from foster children to those with life-altering conditions, disabilities, or diseases,” said Nelson. “Joy Ranch partners with countless organizations and businesses to provide camps and retreats.”
The equine therapy experience includes 23 “very social horses who love people,” and also includes other animals like ducks, chickens, turkeys, two pet pigs (Waylon and Willie), two goats, a miniature donkey, three mini horses, and cats.
“Guests are welcome to interact and play with all of them,” said Nelson. “The animals are very playful and love people.”
Nelson says while they love the mission-based programs, they also host businesses and organizations for strategic planning/corporate meeting needs. The atmosphere adds to the creativity and fun, the Joy Ranch team explains.
“The sprawling 1880s Town has instantly become a guest favorite,” said Thorson. “This Western main street will let you take a walk back in time.”
“sunrises and sunsets overlooking the lake and rolling praises cannot be beat. joy ranch is designed to be extremely peaceful and serene, and wildlife play a big part of that serenity.”
-joy nelson
Guests can play games at Wild Bill’s Game Room or have fun outside on the sports court and playground. When it’s time to relax, visitors have the option to cozy up to one of the 13 fireplaces found throughout the property; indoor and outdoor options available for roasting a marshmallow or enjoying a glass of wine.
There is also the Thirsty Boot Saloon where guests can unwind. If it’s an overnight retreat, there are a variety of lodging options that include the 16 Western-themed hotel rooms, the Coyote Campground, and the Bunkhouse.
“Our Bunkhouse can sleep an additional 72 people and is a great option for kids, camps, hunters, family reunions, and parties,” said Thorson.
Joy Ranch is located on Lake Lyle, which gives guests the option to swim, fish, canoe, kayak, ride on a pontoon, or to walk the trails along the lake.
“The canoes, kayaks, fishing rods, and paddleboats are favorite pastimes for all guests,” said Nelson. “And many nights, guests are by the lakeside firepit for campfire sing-alongs and roasting hot dogs and marshmallows.”
WATERTOWN RETREATS – Check out more retreat locations in Watertown
- Country Road Barn
- Lifesong Event Space
- Prairie Lake Ice Arena
- The Goss Opera House
- Watertown Event Center
- For more about the area, visit visitwatertownsd.com
“A couple newly-developing outdoor features include a horseshoe pit and a ‘human foosball’ experience.”
– Alexys Thorson
1880s Town also has plenty of catering and dining options for events.
“Flexibility is the key word for hosting an event or meeting at Joy Ranch,” said Nelson. “Joy Ranch staff can help design and serve the meals for guests can also provide their own catering services.”
A fan favorite is the Pitchfork Fondue. Joy Ranch’s commercial kitchen and dining room can accommodate up to 250 people. They also have three meeting rooms for smaller events, meetings, and corporate retreats.
Last fall, Joy Ranch hosted a Women’s Retreat during the South Dakota hunting opener in October. Guests came from
throughout South Dakota and Minnesota.
“The women had a great time with yoga, a self-defense course, and a competitive tournament of axe-throwing, gravity basketball shooting, archery, and beanbag toss,” said Thorson. “They were treated to a gourmet Italian meal and a fashion show, followed by a morning of flower arranging and honey sampling.”
Joy Ranch has been known to hold a lot of “friendly competitions.”
“Bean bags and basketball hoops are commonly seen on Main Street,” said Thorson. “It also offers the perfect setting for karaoke and dances.”
The ranch is known for its popular horse-led wagon rides (spring/summer/fall months) and sleigh rides (winter months).
Group-led retreats are also welcomed, like quilt or craft retreats.
“The wide-open spaces within our facility lend itself perfectly for crafting and quilting needs,” said Nelson.
No matter the request, owner Joy Nelson is also open to brainstorming.
“Those who know Joy, know she never says ‘no’ to a creative idea or opportunity,” said Thorson.
