This year Rankin Ranch is celebrating its 160th anniversary. The 31,000-acre ranch has been family-owned and operated since 1863 and opened to the public in 1965. Since then, it has been an outstanding destination for a California summer vacation. Rankin Ranch is a beautiful place with a ton of things to do, and it has a rich history that you can be part of when you stay here for your next California summer vacation.
Walker’s Basin
Ranch headquarters are located in the little valley of Walker’s Basin. This mountain valley is deep in the heart of California’s Tehachapi Mountains and at the southern end of the Sequoia National Forest. The valley was named for Joseph Reddford Walker, a pathfinder, and scout for General Fremont. Walker came through this area in 1834 when he came down the San Joaquin Valley from Monterey and led his party out of the valley and over the pass, which was also named for him. The first settlers came to Walker’s Basin long before roads came. The trail leading up Walker’s Basin Creek through the Basin and over the mountain pass was the route of the Union Soldiers during the Civil War as they journeyed between Fort Tejon and Fort Independence, near Bishop in northern California.
The Rankins
The Ranch is a family-run business, so meeting some of the Rankins during your stay is expected. Bill and Glenda, the 4th generation, are pleased to have their children and grandchildren working alongside them to continue the family tradition that started in 1863. Six generations have gratefully accepted caring for the land and the farm since 1863. Bill and Glenda raised their four children, Jason, Rebecca, Sarah, and Amanda, to respect the land and their family’s heritage. Bill and Glenda’s children all graduated from college, now live on the ranch, and are all involved in the agriculture industry.
Stay And Be Part Of The Ranch’s History
Rankin Ranch has been part of the history of the Walker Basin as a lovely California summer vacation spot. You can be part of that history like many others have before. Read through the Ranch’s guest testimonials and make your mark on the Ranch this coming year. Check out our website for off-season rates and packages! Please check availability online or call us at 1-661-867-2511.