“During the time of the Black Hills Gold Rush, a young man claimed a chunk of land just outside of present-day Rapid City, South Dakota. His name was John Harrison Hart,” said Hart Ranch Camping Resort Club manager Tim Schnabel.
Hart—a Civil War soldier—carved out his ranching empire, and within two years he was running his cattle on a freight line from Pierre to Rapid City and over to Cheyenne, making him one of the most successful ranchers in the region, Schnabel adds.
Hart lived on the ranch until he passed.
“One of John’s legacies is his willingness to take in wayfaring travelers and offer them a place to stay in exchange for helping around the ranch,” said Schnabel.
“To this day, that concept is alive and well with the on-going workcamper concept used throughout the camping industry.”
Over 140 years have passed, and Hart Ranch is still a destination for wayfaring travelers. The 195 acres is now a camping resort, originating in 1984.
The Hart Ranch membership resort provides various amenities with the ability for visitors to customize their stay. Full-time travelers or the once-a-year vacationer are both able to have their needs met.
“Members and visitors can enjoy the comforts of a modern cabin or one of our oversized, paved, full hook-up RV sites throughout the year,” elaborated Schnabel. “When it’s time for activity, there are plenty of recreational opportunities to suit every interest.”
THE RODEO CLOWNS EXPOSED
Scot Allerdings has a background in bull-fighting, combined with earning his Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) barrelman/clown card.
Jesse Larson has been voted by his peers to work some of the finest rodeo and bull-riding finals.
With rodeos, swimming pools, hot tubs, a rec center, and restaurant, there’s always something happening at the ranch.
“Hart Ranch is well-known for its numerous amenities, including an over-sized swimming pool, mini-golf course, 18-hole disc golf course, nine-hole par three pasture golf course, basketball, pickleball, and tennis courts,” said Schnabel.
There are playgrounds, hiking trails, dog parks, community garden plots, softball field, BMX course, and many kids’ activities, he adds. There’s constant security, 24-hour gas, picnic shelters, and a maintenance shop available for services like tire repair or replacement.
“Our greatest amenity is the simple Western lifestyle Hart Ranch has represented for over a century and our members,” said Schnabel.
GET EVEN MORE WILD IN THE WEST
MORE PLACES HAVE A CLASSIC, WESTERN EXPERIENCE:
Dakota Drum Company
Fort Hays Old West Town & Chuckwagon Supper
The Journey Museum | Pioneer Gallery
Mount Rushmore Rodeo at Palmer Gulch | Rapid City
Prairie Edge Trading Co. & Galleries
WESTERN EVENTS TO MARK ON YOUR CALENDAR
Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo® | January
Central States Fair & Range Days PRCA Rodeo | August
Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup & Arts Festival | September
For more information, visit VISITRAPIDCITY.COM+
MEET BUCKY THE BULL
Bucky was born to buck and quickly became a local legend – legend – not for his bucking skills, but for his big heart, fun-loving spirit, and ability to rally a crowd like no other. He’s also known for having the most selfies during each event.
Rodeos were a part of the original history of the ranch, but after about a 15 year break, they were brought back in 2013. In 2017, Nate Morrison of Spud Creek Rodeo Productions introduced the idea of the Wild West Wednesday Rodeo Series at the Macksteel Rodeo Arena at Hart Ranch.
“This series has really turned into a favorite local and regional attraction,” revealed Schnabel. “We frequently have people here from across the globe.”
Bareback, Saddle Bronc, Bull Riding, Breakaway Roping, and Barrel Racing are all featured rodeo competitions running mid-June to mid-August. Food trucks and giveaways are also part of the event.
“Perhaps one of the most rewarding things at the resort is seeing how the rodeos have grown over the years,” said Schnabel. “They truly have become a local attraction that brings in people from all walks of life.”
A BLEACHER MELTING POT
While many attendees are local residents and fart ranch members cheering from the stand, Schnabel says they’ve had guests from all over the world, including Ireland, Poland, Germany, Finland, and Asia.
“From First-time rodeo attendees to seasoned veterans, everyone that attends leaves with a littel bit more of our wild west culture.”
-Tim Schnabel
Upcoming themed nights at the rodeo include Educator Appreciation on August 6 and Military Appreciation on August 13.
Rodeo contestants are among the top regional talent with some appearances from cowboys as far away as Australia, Schnabel exclaims.
“These guys and gals are hungry to move up and continue competing on a high level in the rodeo world,” he adds.
Schnabel says the crowd at the Wild West Wednesday rodeos is as diverse and dynamic as the event itself, with an electric blend of local flair and global curiosity. The relaxed “come-as-you-are” vibe, blending with the high energy performances, resonates with nearly everyone.
“Many are first-time rodeo-goers, wide-eyed and grinning as they soak in the sights, sounds, and spirit of the arena,” said Schnabel. “It’s more than a show—it’s an experience they won’t forget.”
For more information, visit VISITRAPIDCITY.COM+
