Big Valley Ranch

Welcome to Big Valley Ranch, a sprawling expanse of land spanning 1,000 acres nestled within the picturesque Driftless Region of Wisconsin. Here, amidst rolling hills and valleys, our sanctuary beckons with over 50 miles of winding trails, inviting exploration and adventure at every turn. Embracing the rich tapestry of its past, Big Valley Ranch offers more than just a glimpse into history; it invites you to become a part of it. Our four charming houses stand as beacons of hospitality, providing a haven for those seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty and serenity of this sacred land. Beyond mere accommodation, we are a vibrant community hub, hosting an array of events that draw people from all walks of life to share in the unique experience of Big Valley Ranch. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life, we extend our warmest welcome to you. Come, join us, and discover the boundless wonders that await you at Big Valley Ranch. From the late 1990s to the early 2000s, our family experienced significant growth. With five children of varying ages and interests, I grappled with finding ways to bring us all together. Then, in 2003, everything changed when we acquired 650 acres of land nestled in the heart of Wisconsin. Once a buffalo ranch, this vast wilderness soon became our family’s cherished refuge. Having grown up in Wisconsin, my bond with the land was profound. My father, a forester and immigrant from Hungary, brought with him a heritage of forestry spanning over 500 years. It was this deep connection to nature that fueled our dream of creating a sanctuary where we could escape the modern world and reconnect with our roots. The land quickly became our passion, with nearly every weekend devoted to exploring nature’s playground. From horseback rides along the trails to splashing in the creek, there was always an adventure waiting. We began inviting friends and family to join us, engaging in lively games of capture the flag and evenings filled with music and laughter around the campfire. The infectious joy of this extraordinary place was meant to be shared, and we were determined to do so. Memorial weekends became a beloved tradition, drawing friends and families from far and wide to our campgrounds, where laughter and camaraderie echoed through the valley. Yet, amidst the joyous gatherings, our family yearned for more than fleeting weekends. We dreamed of a permanent oasis where our roots could deepen and our legacy could flourish. In 2009, a pivotal moment arrived when we collaborated with the Amish community to transform a dilapidated barn into a luxurious vacation home. Working tirelessly alongside friends and family, we breathed new life into the old structure, sparking a desire to continue our journey of transformation. This newfound passion led us to remodel existing homes on the property, creating what is now a thriving small business. We acquired more land and expanded our network of trails to accommodate our growing community. With over 50 miles of trails winding through the wilderness, each corner offered a new adventure waiting to be discovered. Throughout the years, we’ve had the honor of hosting a variety of significant events at Big Valley Ranch. We were privileged to hold the very first ACTHA in the area and were featured on Best of America by Horseback, marking a milestone as the first in the Midwest. From mountain bikers to musicians, family reunions to school field trips, our doors have welcomed countless families and communities. None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of our dedicated circle of friends. Big Valley Ranch isn’t just an event space; it’s a haven for all who visit, fostering lasting bonds and a strong sense of community. As the legacy of Big Valley Ranch continues, my daughter Anaka and I work together to fulfill our dream of preserving this land for generations to come. We welco