Vacations in rural California allow you to get out of the busy city and reconnect with beautiful nature. Rankin Ranch is an ideal place to get some fresh mountain air. We want you to know what to expect when you visit because Southern California weather can be unique depending on the location and the season. We always feel like we have the best of the four seasons here at the ranch. Our headquarters sits at 3,500 feet in elevation in the little mountain valley of Walker Basin with its own little “micro-climate”. Here’s a peek at how southern California changes depending on the weather and the season.
Fall Vacations (Sept. – Oct.)
In September, you begin to feel the freshness of fall in the morning. It is a time for layers. You will wake up to crisp mountain air and want a sweatshirt or light jacket. It warms up nicely after breakfast, with daytime temperatures in the 80s to low 90s. By October, the daytime temperatures can be cooling down to the mid-70s.
Winter at the Ranch
The ranch is closed for guests from mid-October through early March. The ranch does see some cold days during the winter, with the occasional nighttime low in the teens. Walker Basin usually has a few snow storms each winter receiving 4-6 inches of snow on the valley floor, which usually only lasts for a day or two. There is more snow at the higher elevations of the ranch, which serves as “nature’s reservoir,” melting later and providing much-needed moisture for our mountains.
Spring Vacations (March – June)
Springtime wildflowers and green hillsides lure guests back year after year. It is a beautiful time of year with daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to mid-70s and chilly nights (30s – 40s). There is still a chance of stormy weather (rain or even possibly snow). On a chilly day, a warm cozy fire will await you in the recreation room after your horseback ride in the meadows and oak-covered hillsides. Weekdays are great for adult getaways with fewer guests, while weekends feature adult and family fun.
Summer Vacations (June – Aug.)
Summertime is a great time to be at Rankin Ranch. Our address says Caliente, but rest assured that we are not as warm as Caliente. We are 2,000 feet higher in elevation, and you can count on the ranch being 10-15 degrees cooler than the Caliente forecast during the daytime. The nighttime temperatures drop down in the 50s making for nice fresh mornings. All of the cabins, the recreation room, and the dining room have both air conditioning and heating to keep it a nice temperature for you. It is also the perfect time to enjoy the swimming pool, which is heated from May 1 to Sept. 30 each year.
Enjoy The Weather In Southern California
As you can see, no matter the season, you will be treated to beautiful weather while staying on Rankin Ranch. We want to make everything at Rankin Ranch as easy as possible, regardless of weather or season. We’ll serve you breakfast and dinner and invite you to square dance, play bingo, and more with the rest of the guests. Check out our website for off-season rates and packages! Please check availability online or call us at 1-661-867-2511.