From the very first lesson, Bar SZ Ranch has felt like home. Our daughter has been taking lessons since April, and I honestly can't say enough wonderful things about this place. As a horse person myself, trusting someone else to teach my child was a little scary. But our daughter wanted more than just riding lessons at home--she wanted to be part of a real barn community, make friends, and spend time around horses. Bar SZ Ranch has given her exactly that and so much more. The Borland family is incredibly welcoming and makes everyone feel like part of the family. Michelle is an amazing instructor--kind, patient, encouraging, and knowledgeable. She meets each child where they are and helps them grow in both confidence and horsemanship. At just 8 years old, our daughter attended the week-long Wrangler Camp and says it was the best week of her life. Watching her riding skills improve each week has been wonderful, but what means the most to us is seeing how excited she is to go to the barn and how much she truly feels like she belongs there. If you're looking for a place where kids can learn to ride in a fun, safe, and supportive environment while becoming part of an amazing horse community, I can't recommend Bar SZ Ranch enough. We are so thankful we found this special place. read more

Bar SZ Ranch - Horseback Riding Near Me - Hollister, California

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We camped out on the property and had a wonderful experience. The ground was great for pitching tents, and there is a nice communal kitchen and campfire. FYI... no showers, and there are portapotties. But the camping on the ranch is limited to a small number, so it was quiet and peaceful. The ranch is only 15 minutes from the West Entrance to the National Park. We did several long hikes and covered many different trails. If you are going to Pinnacles there are showers and restrooms there that you can use. Our kids also got the experience of feeding all the animals and a great horseback riding lesson. Tim and Michelle were wonderful. We would recommend them and the ranch to everyone. read more

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We got a large group of friends and their families together and spent a weekend at the Bar SZ Ranch- everyone, adults and kids alike had the most amazing time meeting the animals, swimming in the Ranch House pool, and being out in nature. People are still raving about it months later. Hospitality was outstanding, the Borland family is something else and obviously LOVE what they do and are passionate about teaching and inspiring others. The sunset and stargazing from the Ranch House lawn was EPIC. It is a 10-15 min drive to Pinnacles National Park so many families used the ranch as a base to get to the park early and beat the crowds! We didn't feel like cooking for our group so we had Thyme Catering a local farm to table catering business make dinner for us one night- they catered to folks that were gluten-free, allergic, and were so attentive and most of all delicious! We were provided with a booking link for archery, BB gun lessons, and horseback riding lessons so families could book on their own. The horses were fantastic and well cared for! Also free experiences included helping with animal feeding (There are goats, chickens, a donkey, you name it!), and we got to meet a baby mustang they rescued which was more well behaved than our kids. :) We hired their well-spoken daughter Maddi to teach us a country line dancing lesson and it was a blast!! THANK YOU for providing a unique seriously unforgettable country experience!! It was just 1.5-2 hrs drive from the Bay Area but we felt like we were in another state and another time. We will be back again! read more

Stayed this past weekend with 5 other families and our 5 year old kids. The space was large, kitchen and house was well stocked, and kids could run around safely while the parents could enjoy and keep an eye on the kids. They did have to abide by 'safe pool rules', and we are fortune enough they understand that. There was large lawn area right outside the living area where we could eat and relax while the kids just played (and had a water balloon fight)! The hosts were wonderful in catering their activities to our age group. The kids loved horse-riding so much we added a last minute second session and they accommodated us. The archery/shooting was so fun for adults! And the farm time feeding and petting animals was great for the kids. We will all be back - most likely for a longer visit! read more

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Just stayed here for the weekend in the glamping tents. The plan was to spend some time here and some at Pinnacles park. We ended up spending 80% of our time here (though Pinnacles is definitely worth a visit). It was a great ranch experience. My daughter (9) is an animal lover and my son's (6) not far behind. They were thrilled to be able to see all the cats, dogs, horses, pigs, pheasants, bunnies, and more. The horseback lesson was reasonably priced and better than expected and the bb gun/archery session was good fun too. Possibly the best part was the feeding, where our kids got to help feed, hold bunnies, and so on. Their whole family is friendly and helpful. Their 14 year old daughter in particular was about as impressive as one could hope for, sharing lots of time and information with us about life on the ranch. It's a little hard to find btw - definitely put it in your map early as you'll have no cell reception the last 30 minutes of your drive (from the bay area). We expect to be back, and wish them the best of luck with the continued revamp of their ranch (they acquired it a little over a year ago when it was in rough shape) read more

My wife, son and I had one of the best weekends in a long while at Bar SZ Ranch! We were able to ride horses, feed and pet an amazing assortment of farm animals and relax in an incredibly beautiful place. Our hosts were all down to earth, truly kind and thoughtful people who you just want to spend more time with. We were hoping to find a place for a repeat visit and this is definitely it! read more

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My partner and I spent 2 nights at the ranch. He surprised me as he knew I was missing my horses As soon as we turned off the road I was so overwhelmed by the peace and beauty I started to tear up!! I had the Mustang experience which was awesome and the following day Michelle and I rode out for 3 hrs and the time went so fast. I was desperate to take it all in. The views, the ride, chatting to the lovely Michelle, the entire experience was so relaxing and views breathtaking. Amazing. I've been desperate to repeat it ever since and it's only been a couple of months! Should also add, my partner does not ride-he's a bit afraid of horses up close but he had a wonderful time relaxing and chatting to Tim about ranch life and how they came to be there. We went off season so the ranch house and lodge were both vacant and Tim invited us to check them out for future visits. I'm dreaming of a big family holiday in the ranch house in the not too distant future I know my animal crazy family would be so at home here. read more

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The experience, accommodations and people are second to none at Bar SZ! We booked a week long stay including a trail ride, archery and animal experiences. Everyone was friendly and took care of all our needs. The ranch is beautiful and you can't beat the views! If you came for a quiet getaway, you can find places to privately enjoy the scenery. If you came to ride, you'll get the chance. If you want to get your hands dirty, you can fit right in! This place feels like home away from home. read more

For my daughter's birthday, I booked a stay in one of their glamping tents. It happened to fall on the peak of the Perseid meteor shower this year and this place is in one of the darkest places possible in California. With a new moon on our first night, we saw a dozen or so shooting stars in a very short while. It was amazing and just the beginning of our incredible weekend adventure. We truly unplugged and connected to each other as a family and recognized how lucky we were to be able to experience the ranch life: dark night skies filled with the Milky Way and shooting stars, feeding the most adorable animals (pigs, cow, goats, sheep, horses and ponies, a donkey, a llama, an alpaca, chickens, guinea pigs, and bunnies), horseback riding, shooting guns, archery, sprinklers and slip n slides, s'mores, and a family style barbecue with everyone in camp. We can't wait to go back! Oh my gosh, I almost forgot to mention how welcoming and wonderful the staff and family are who run the place. Always smiling and helpful, making sure we were all having a good time. They made my daughter feel like part of their own family and it made me happy to see her so happy and feel so included in all the activities. read more

Over the last six months (or more; one loses track) we have boarded between two and seven horses at any given time for training, tune up and evaluation. The Borlands have made every effort to build an outstanding working ranch and it shows. The ranch facilities are immaculate, the trails well groomed and the training--both horse and neophyte rider (me)--are outstanding. Any horse boarded for training at Bar SZ comes out well toned and a far better ride. Morgan trains and exercises our horses as if they were her own. She's ridden our buckskin Paycheck at central coast events and has the ribbons to prove the quality of her efforts. At one event, Bar SZ intern Hallie rode our smokey buckskin Pockets nearly sweeping her class. Regardless of age, if you want to learn to ride, or have friends or relatives so inclined, Bar SZ is the place to go. Before I started learning to ride at Bar SZ the last time I'd been on a horse was in my teens in 1969 and I viewed mounting up with trepidation. Morgan trained my big girl Dolly then she trained me. After a few lessons we're a team and I'm comfortable in the saddle even on the steepest trails. The sense of satisfaction alone makes the hour and a half commute each way to a lesson, each week, worthwhile. There are not enough superlatives in the english language to describe Bar SZ and the staff... read more

I can't say enough wonderful things about this place and the amazing family who runs it. Their story is truly awe inspiring and just a few hours at the Bar SZ ranch will transport you to a stress free place where there is nothing but good people and beautiful country. The horses are all so well behaved and the trails are endlessly gorgeous. Ridding not your thing? No problem! Take a walk in the creek, a dip in the pool, or try your hands at BB guns or archery. Animal feeding time is a very special part of the day where you get to meet all the furry friends you could imagine! This place is perfect for kids, couples, and anyone who needs a vacation away from the city. Super reasonable prices are a plus, and safety always comes first. This is THE place to go, be it a family vacation, wedding or corporate getaway. ONE HUNDRED STARS!!! read more

Bar SZ Ranch - Trail riding - Horseback Riding Near Me - Hollister, California

Went with a church group and camped in this spacious place. With over 600 acres to explore, there are virtually no boundaries. Went on guided horseback riding, archery, and hikes. They also had hayrides, swimming and a playground for the kids. Michelle and her crew do excellent with getting horse newbies of most any age competent and comfortable with these large, powerful and beautiful animals. Tim and the ranch hands are very anxious to make your stay pleasant and enjoyable. And it was. Weather you are a group of 10 or 100, I recommended checking out the Bar SZ. read more

Bar SZ Ranch - Heading out on the trail with a bunch of 7 to 10 year olds after 45min of training in the arena. Superb staff! - Horseback Riding Near Me - Hollister, California

What a special place. So genuine, beautiful and comfortable. - Hosts-Tim, Michelle, and the kids are so welcoming and are part of the experience. Really hard to replicate and hard to find better folks. - Lodging-grate options, from camping to tents and houses. - Activities-blast riding, shooting, cooking, and a host of other fun things to do. read more

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Talk about a great experience. If this place showed up on your search for the ranch life experience this is the place to be. Talk about a complete experience, as soon as you get here you feel as if you are one of their own. The staff on site makes everyone feel as if they are not strangers. The main dude Tim Bis a great guy, very attentive if there is anything we needed at almost any time of the day he was helpful in every way. Ten stars for hospitality for sure! It is a good feeling especially during feeding time and the animals are ready to start their day. To see each animal and see heir habits is a great experience. I personally enjoyed seeing the show pigs and had no clue those types of pigs existed. The weekend consisted of waking up feelings the animals and gathering the fresh eggs from the hen house. I was able to step into someone else's shoes for a week and and I enjoyed every minute and moment. read more

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We stayed in the Art House for 3 nights in July 2018. It was perfect for our huge family of 5 children (ages 8,5,3,3 & 1), 2 Babysitter's and my husband and I. At first we were worried there wouldn't be enough things to do with our kids (considering their ages and attention spans), but we quickly found out there was plenty! We enjoyed feeding/petting the farm animals, horse back riding, shooting, archery, hayrides, fire pit & s'more action... going back to the house for lunch/naps, quiet time, BBQing and having all the luxuries of a house. There is a Costco on the way in that we loaded up at as well as farm stands for produce. We brought an ice chest the size of a small coffin and didn't hold back as there is no grocery store near by. But oh how beautiful is it to leave it all behind. We enjoyed fresh eggs from the ranch every morning. Our bigger kids couldn't wait to go "egg hunting" in the chicken houses. Our oldest learned how to rope a (pretend) cow. Our 3-year-old twins (who are apprehensive toward all animals and are absolutely terrified of the Chick-fil-a cow) loved riding lessons with the horses. The looks on their proud faces was priceless! This summer we went to Maui, Santa Cruz and Lake Tahoe with the family and our very favorite was the ranch. It's like nothing we had experienced before. Tim and Michelle are such wonderful hosts who attend to our every question and "farm dream". They are the heartbeat of the farm and bring so much warmth, kindness and hospitality to the experience. Their love and knowledge for animals are as present and contagious as is their hearts to serve, improve, encourage, nourish and grow all things. They take in rescued animals as well as train up college students through a work program/certificate with something to do with caring for animals (sorry, can't remember the specifics here). Knowing both only added to my depth of appreciation for them and the privilege I felt that I crossed paths with them, as well as the ranch, this summer. We had looked at other ranch experiences that were "all inclusive" and we couldn't justify it. The price was too high and the schedules were too strict. We wanted a space where we could be us (accommodating all the naps, melt downs and needs of our family) and spend as much or as little time doing activities as we wanted (priced accordingly). This was a no-pressure, family centered, adventurous and memorable vacation. read more

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Go to Bar SZ Ranch - I'll definitely be going back! First off, Tim, Michelle, and their 3 kids are an inspiring family and generous hosts. Bar SZ Ranch has it all: Horses, goats, ducks, cats, goats, 'faith' the dog, sheep, goats, donkeys, a giant turkey, and baby goats... Baby goats that will melt your ice-cold soul into a blissful pond that you can then sit down next to while enjoying a refreshing beer. A group of us rented the whole place out. We hiked, shot targets, biked, rode horses, pet goats, laughed at goats, cried with goats, stared deeply into a goat's eyes, and lived a thousand years in just one breath. And then we left the ranch.. stronger, wiser, rejuvenated. If you want to get away from it all for a few days, sit by the fire, meet some awesome people, help out around an active ranch, and leave your troubles behind you.. then check out Bar SZ Ranch. You won't regret it. Find your inner goat. read more

Bar SZ Ranch - Goats to melt your icy soul. - Horseback Riding Near Me - Hollister, California

We came to celebrate our friend's birthday and had such a blast! I can't say enough wonderful things about this place, it's such a treasure. Tim, Michelle and their lovely children were so warm and welcoming and they did everything to ensure that we had a great time. I never rode a horse before but Michelle stayed by my side so I felt more secure. Though, I don't think there is a more mellow horse than Deuce! I loved playing with and petting the animals, especially the kittens. When you're surrounded by beautiful vistas and hear nothing but animal sounds in the distance you know you're in paradise. A few tips for future guests: it does get cold at night so you may want to bring a warm jacket and perhaps a space heater since our pellet stove malfunctioned on our last night (we stayed in the cabin by the Art House). They do give you plenty of blankets and towels so no need to pack your own. Do bring your own cups, plates and utensils if planning to eat outside by the picnic tables or bar. Our friend hired a pit master to cook dinner one night and it was awesome, so I would look into doing that if you can (check with the staff for details). There were two outlets in our room that weren't right near the bed so next time I'd definitely pack an extension cord. Make sure to bring enough food and drinks to last your whole stay since the closest store is about 45 min away. The wifi signal was okay, not great, so to ensure that all your payments go through for the activities, try to pay online ahead of time. Also, the Pinnacles National Park is about a 15 min drive from there; try to leave early or else there may be a long wait for the shuttle. This place was so fantastic I am thinking about planning another trip out here next year! There's something for everyone so you can't go wrong. You'll wish you could live at the ranch by the time you leave. read more

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I think it's safe to say this is the single best wedding venue in California. Consider the reasons: - It's gorgeous. It's just you and nature, with 660 acres of golden hills, which make for an epic backdrop during your wedding. The structures on the ranch add to the rustic feel. And the Art House makes for beautiful photos, too, with solid wood design and amazing views over the valley. And then there is that old oak tree on the hill that has overseen so many couples get married, including us. It is magical. - It's remote. That means you can party all night and no one will care. But it's not that hard to get to: It's just 2.5 hours south of San Francisco. The closest town is 40 minutes north, along a winding road. Your cellphone won't get service, which is perfect. (There's still WiFi in the houses if you really need it.) - The Borland family and ranch staff. Tim, Michelle, James, Rebekah, the ranch staff, and TIm and Michelle's children work so hard to make your wedding dream come to reality -- while just being the nicest, warmest people in the process. We can't thank you all enough for allowing us to celebrate our special day on your magnificent property. And thank you all so much for being so welcoming and warm. They are truly wonderful people! - It's good value. Renting the ranch for your wedding typically means you get the entire property for the whole weekend, including beds for up to 35 people. Then there's ample space for other guests to camp. And otherwise there is plenty of infrastructure there. - Most importantly, you have freedom. We ultimately chose the ranch because they allowed us to create the wedding we wanted: a party in the middle of a field that lasted until 5 a.m. So many other venues we considered had countless rules about where we could go, what vendors we had to use, when we could be there, etc. Bar SZ Ranch has very little of that. The ranch is your canvas from when you arrive on Friday to when you leave on Sunday, enabling you to create your very own wedding weekend. We are so thankful we chose Bar SZ Ranch and highly recommend it for any other couple looking to create a memorable, laid back wedding. Jack & Sonia read more

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Spent an extended weekend at Bar SZ with 5 other families. Tim, Michelle, their children and staff were beyond amazing. The overall ranch experience was perfect for us. We got to do archery/BB guns, arena rides and the kids enjoyed spending their time down at the barn to hang out with all the animals (newborn kittens, the coolest dogs (Faith & Turbo), donkeys, pigs, goats, sheep, bunnies & more!). The Borland family were so awesome. Super down to earth, spent hours talking with us and teaching us about their working ranch. This ranch is truly a hidden gem and so close to the Bay Area. If you're looking for an amazing vacation, don't hesitate to book. read more

Our visit to the BarSZ Ranch was unforgettable!!! This family is the sweetest, most customer-service oriented business we've ever encountered. Everything from the activities offered to food,drinks, the options were endless! They made our special event the talk of our town, and a memory we'll never forget!!! read more

We camped for a weekend and had the best time! Tim, Michelle and family are genuine, great hosts. There are so many great activities for adults and kids - horseback riding, archery, skeet shooting, feeding and petting animals, tractor rides, BBQ and campfires to name a few. The animals were calm and friendly with kids. Great spot to rent out for a wedding or event too. read more

It was such an unique experience to spend a weekend on a Dude Ranch. My husband and I loved our stay here! There's not much cell service, so it really helps you unplug and get away from all the worries of the world. We got up early to help feed and groom the farm animals (pigs, horses, goats, sheep) and felt like we were part of the family. Tim and Michelle made you feel so welcomed and taught you all about what it takes to maintain a farm. We loved all the activities, especially the horseback riding, and would recommend this to any couple or family looking for a getaway. We would def. come back and camp too when the weather is warmer. read more

We held our wedding at Bar SZ Ranch in June of 2019. It is the most picturesque backdrop for a gathering and celebration; we still look at our photos in awe. Tim, Michelle, their kids, and Rebekah are so genuinely sweet and helpful throughout the whole process. The weekend was incredible - I can't count how many times our guests asked us how we found this gem of a place. Even though it is just a couple of hours from the busy Bay Area, it is a destination wedding location that would be worth flying across the country for. We plan to go back for a family trip once our newborn is a bit older and see it easily being a yearly thing. Highly recommend. read more

I was looking to get away to the country for the weekend and booked a camp site at Bar SZ ranch on Hipcamp. I'm so glad I did! From horseback riding on the trails with Michelle, shooting skeet with Tim, playing with kittens and farm animals, BBQing, archery, ping pong, and just relaxing in the rustic chic ambiance of the ranch, it was an awesome adventure. read more

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Bar SZ is absolutely amazing. What an unexpected gem that is only 2 hours away from the SF Bay Area. We were personally greeted by Tim after driving directly to our site. Michelle checked in on us throughout our stay. They tailored events based on how many kids were present. The activities span the day and are guided and amazing. * Playing with 2 week-old bunnies and kittens on the lawn. * Feeding the animals (donkeys, pigs, sheep, and even a cow by bottle) * Brushing horses * Shearing sheep * Running through the sprinklers * Nighttime capture the flag with glow sticks * Oak BBQ pit * Fire Pit * Shooting 22's and shotguns (adults) * Horseback riding * Learning safety and doing archery and BB guns (kids) We didn't just watch the above, we were encouraged to actively participate. Tim, Michelle and their amazing (and well-adjusted) kids brought us in to their life and we loved being part of it. We spent 2 nights and left with so many memories. Thank you Bar SZ for an amazing vacation - we look forward to seeing you very soon. The plethora of shooting stars was a nice touch :) read more

Just had our wedding there and it was incredible. The venue and the family were absolutely amazing. It's picturesque and although it was hot this time of year it didn't hold back any of our activities. The houses are well maintained and the activities are a blast! Highly recommend for large events and weddings. read more

We knew Bar SZ was going to be the perfect wedding venue the first day we saw it. The place is beautiful, the amenities are fabulous, and Tim and Michelle are the best Venue Coordinators/Activity Directors/Line Dancers you are ever gonna meet! Our 3 day wedding with horseback riding and range shooting turned out perfect. We look forward to visiting the ranch again soon. Thank you! read more

Bar SZ Ranch - Horseback Riding Near Me - Hollister, California

Tim and Michelle are two wonderful individuals who will put in the effort to make your wedding amazing. You won't be disappointed in the ranch- there are many different kinds of animals and attractions so you are sure to find one you'll like! read more

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I stayed at Bar SZ Ranch recently, and it was a wonderful experience. The hosts (Tim, Michelle and kids) were incredibly friendly and helpful. As just one example, it was wicked cold, and so Tim brought out heat lamps for us and got a fire going. There are many other examples. Also, in short, baby goats. They're adorable. Bar SZ Ranch is like a petting zoo on steroids: there are goats, sheep, horses, mules, ducks, turkeys, chickens, cats, dogs, and probably more I'm forgetting. But those goats. So cute. The cabins are rustic but comfortable. It's not fancy schmancy but nice. Plus lawn games, room for long walks, easy access to Pinnacles National Park, and more. Would definitely return. read more

Bar SZ Ranch is a must do if you want to get away from the city and practice being a rancher for a few days. Tim and Michelle are awesome hosts and can't do enough for their guests - only four hours from LA and two from San Fran, this has been an amazing experience for the family. Incredible accommodations, horse riding, shooting, feeding the animals, communal Bar-B-Q, swimming in the creek and loads of quiet time...this is a must do! read more

Bar SZ Ranch - Horseback Riding Near Me - Hollister, California

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I stayed at Bar SZ Ranch over the President Day weekend in 2018. We had a group of 60 people and were easily accommodated with the cabins plus campgrounds. Tim, Michelle and their kids make you feel welcomed and encourage you to hang around all of their animals. Thank you Tim and Michelle for the great experience and I look forward to coming again soon!! - Joey read more

So highly recommend Bar SZ Ranch as a wedding venue and here's why; as a wedding planner it is vital to work with venues that are focused on our shared client's happiness. Not only was the team at Bar SZ Ranch equally focused on making our client's happy, they were extremely great to work with by having positive attitudes and being solution oriented to any questions that came up. Tim, Michelle and James made it easy to do my job and I am grateful for everything they did for my client's July 2nd wedding. Together we worked hard and became a team. If you are a wedding couple looking for a ranch venue you will not find a more perfect location with a better team of people. There are a variety of spaces throughout the ranch to have each of your wedding events: ceremony, cocktail reception, dinner and dancing. They have created a fantastic bar space that will definitely add to your wedding experience at the ranch. Also, if you book the ranch for the weekend, your guests can experience fun ranch activities, such as horseback riding and shooting. The ranch houses 35+ guests and you can also add glamping tents in their meadow to accommodate more. Seriously, there are so many possibilities and the team is so open to finding creative ways to make your wedding vision come to life. read more

We just had our wedding at Bar SZ Ranch this May, and it was wonderful! Not only is the ranch beautiful, but the family that runs the ranch is incredibly helpful, friendly, sweet and accommodating (even the kids were helping - thanks!). They're constantly adding new amenities and responding to the needs of guests, and were very responsive to questions leading up to the event. Thanks so much for all your help, James and Tim! As the bride, I was pretty occupied on the day of the wedding, but I hear you guys were superheroes. And I hear from guests who went on a horseback ride that they had a great trip led by Michelle. The Art House was a great home base for the wedding party, and also ended up being a warm retreat that fit a ton of people when the weather was colder than expected for outdoor activities (we moved everyone there for pie after our BBQ on Friday night). Although we had planned to have dinner and dancing in the arena and near the bar, with the unseasonably cool weather (it was hot the weekends before and after!), the barn was a perfect backup to keep everyone totally comfortable and warm - it ended up beautiful, and actually more intimate and cozy. Best part: the tiny kittens! The baby goat was a close second. read more

Fantastic stay, can accommodate large groups. The property is beautiful and the host family is incredible. My friends and I had a great time. Friendly Cats and a big fluffy dog wander the property, so you're gaurunteed to make friends! read more

What a great experience! We went with a large group of dads and daughters (ages 6-11) and had an amazing time. Tim and Michelle and their kids are a wonderful family that took great care of us. We all had a blast with the activities they offer: horseback riding, skeet shooting and hay rides. There's plenty of farm animals for the kids and we were fortunate enough to be there when one of their cats AND rabbits had babies. Not sure if they can guarantee that experience for everyone though ;-) It was just great to be able to drive only 90 minutes from Silicon Valley to what seemed like a different world. Of course there is wi-fi and some Verizon wireless coverage if you need it, but hopefully you can shut it all down when you get there. Even though the activities were fun, it was just nice to be able to relax and take everything in. Together, with their ranch hands, Tim & Michelle made it an experience that we'll never forget. We'll definitely be back to check out the other homes on their ranch and do some hiking! read more

We held our wedding at Bar SZ ranch in June 2019. It was beautiful and exactly what we were looking for in a venue. Bar SZ allowed us to 1) host our families on-site for the weekend, 2) spread out our wedding activities, and 3) do what we wanted. And Tim and his family and staff were extremely helpful throughout! The ranch has three airbnb style houses that are well appointed and spacious. We had our families stay in the houses for our wedding weekend, and it was very special to hang out with them in the houses and the common areas before the hectic wedding reception. We had friends stay in the glamping tents, and they found the beds very comfortable (though the chickens encouraged them to wake up in the morning). A few friends brought their own tents and camped, and took advantage of the camping showers to clean up for the party. With these folks were on-site, the nights by the campfire were really fun. Our wedding activities were spread across the ranch. We held a Sangeet on Friday night on the slab, the ceremony on Saturday at the Eucalyptus grove, cocktail hour at the bar (along with general hanging out there throughout the weekend), and the reception on the grassy lawn. This helped each moment feel distinct. Thankfully, the friends and family on-site helped us move tables and setup decor. While all of this setup was our responsibility, Tim couldn't help but help us - he made the whole process easier. The ranch also let us do what we wanted for our wedding weekend. We brought in the food we wanted. We could chose where to hold each event. We were also offered horseback riding and skeet shooting activities for us and our guests. Neither activity were things that we, as the couple, were familiar with before, but it was such a cool way to make some special memories with our friends and family. The horseback riding was cooler than any other riding experiences we had had before - you could actually guide the horse, as opposed to just sitting there and letting the horse follow the horse in front of it. Skeet shooting was the first time many of us touched a gun, and it was safe and fun. And the scenery was beautiful. Tim, his entire family, and the ranch staff, were extremely welcoming and helpful throughout the weekend. They helped set things up and kept everything smooth through the weekend. They were even kind enough to accept deliveries from Amazon in the weeks before the wedding, which wound up being a lifesaver. We couldn't have chosen a better venue, especially with Tim and his team to make the weekend a success. We are excited to return to the ranch, hopefully soon! read more

Wow what an experience! We just went for a school field trip. Camping overnight at this awesome ranch! The kids have decided they are coming back every year. Thanks to Tim and Michelle for the awesome experience on a dude ranch in our own back yard! read more

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Tim and Michelle are awesome hosts! This is a working ranch and guests can "help out" as much or as little as they want. I loved watching the kids eagerly help feed all of the animals! Ashley is a natural with the kids! She is enthusiastic and very knowledgeable. I watched her give riding lessons then put the kids to "work" feeding and caring for the animals. There are activities that you can book like shooting, archery, and horseback riding. You can hike the beautiful grounds and this year the creek is still flowing. The ranch is just minutes to the east side of. Pinnacles National Park. Campsites are available for overnight camping, a much better alternative to the nearby crowded National Park sites. Contact Tim and Michelle on their website, they are very responsive! What a great location, so far away from civilization , but so close! A very doable short commute from Silicon Valley, but in the middle of nowhere. No cell service is available, but hey, isn't that why you came out here??!!?? If you really need it, there is some wifi to be had near the main house. Tent / car camping, several cabins available, or the whole venue for a wedding, family reunion..... I will be back!!! read more

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Our group of 10 airbnb'd their 'Bar SZ Ranch #2' house for a weekend and loved it. Michelle and Tim are some of the sweetest hosts you'll ever meet -- extremely thoughtful, friendly, and dedicated to making sure their guests are comfortable. The house is very well maintained and comfortably fit our entire group. Guests should make arrangements for their own meals, but the full kitchen made preparing food a breeze. Everyone loved horseback riding and skeet shooting, though my favorite part of the trip was getting to play with the kittens lounging around outside. Stargazers -- the sky is SO clear out here! Made for some amazing night views. Overall, our stay at Bar SZ was an amazing value for the price and I wholeheartedly recommend it for group getaways. read more

Just finished my third weekend at Bar SZ and I know I'll be going back. Tim and Michelle are fantastic hosts! Every time I've come back I've noticed that they've added something new (this time it was a bring-your-own-kegs beer truck they use for weddings). We always have a blast going out with the horses or heading back to the canyons and slingin' some clay targets. And of course Pinnacles N.P is only 15-20 minutes away! I generally do longer hikes at Pinnacles (High Rim Loop) but even something shorter (Moses to Reservoir) is time well spent. read more

Bar SZ Ranch - Horseback Riding Near Me - Hollister, California