Need a real cowboy vacation? Red Cloud Ranch is the venue with a little slice of heaven for everyone.
Hidden away in the rugged backcountry of San Diego County, the breathtaking Red Cloud Ranch stands as an idyllic escape for those in search of unforgettable experiences and lasting memories, as well as those seeking a setting for film, video and promotional photo shoots.
Red Cloud Ranch had its inception in 2016, when Craig and Marilyn Faulkner faced a serious health crisis in Craig’s life that inspired them to rethink their priorities. Founders of two financial marketing companies and long-time business collaborators, they had envisioned building a retreat where they could share time with their five children and their growing group of grandchildren. They decided that it was time to make that dream a reality.
The Faulkner’s secured one hundred acres of pristine land in the hills east of San Diego that combined complete privacy with the ability to access the city, the beaches and the mountains within an hour’s drive. The 3500-foot elevation promised four beautiful seasons with an array of recreational possibilities. And as the project developed, they realized that the ranch had the potential to be a venue for others to enjoy as well.
Sharing The Life We Love
Now, eight years later, what started out as a family retreat has evolved into one of the most unique properties in Southern California, for uses including but not limited to:
- An adventurous upscale venue for corporate and executive gatherings
- An exclusive family retreat that combines outdoor fun and luxurious accommodation
- A dream destination-wedding site
- A prime location for film, photo, or video shoots
Each season of the year brings its own unique look and feel to the ranch. At a 3500 foot elevation our mild winters make Red Cloud Ranch accessible all year long, with only a few snowstorms to add character and charm without ruining schedules. In the spring wildflowers paint the landscape with vibrant colors.
The ranch’s charming main residence is a 6,500 square foot farmhouse situated at the heart of the 100-acre property. Its design artfully marries modern elegance with the timeless essence of the Western classic style.
The centerpiece of the house is its spacious great room, a gathering place for guests that opens into the state-of-the-art kitchen, with its Wolf Range, two dishwashers and a generous island that invites conversation.
Taking the indoors outside, wall-to-wall sliders open onto the back patio room, with its built-in heaters, barbecue and stone fireplace for additional entertainment ease.
A large media/game room with projector and screen provides an opportunity to enjoy a board game or a movie. Four artful guest rooms and an upstairs bunk room comfortably accommodate a dozen guests.
The master suite with its wood-burning fireplace and free-standing copper tub offer both elegance and comfort in this rustic setting.
Adjacent to the main house stands the 2,400 square foot party barn, a versatile space with beamed ceilings, antique decor and convenient double rest rooms.
Iron work chandeliers and antique decor add to the rustic charm of a perfect site for weddings, anniversaries or other elegant occasions. Ample seating is also available for conferences and corporate gatherings.
I’ve photographed some of the most beautiful homes in the country, but there is something really special about RCR. I just love the atmosphere that Craig and Marilyn have created here, a joy for living and gathering that is infectious. My wife and I love to come and just soak it in.” ~ Brett B, Real Estate Investor and Photographer
Huge double doors open on both ends of the barn. The lighted patio extends the barn’s dance floor and is a great place for boot scootin’ dance parties.
When it’s time for fun and games, the possibilities are endless. The sports center features our signature game, Cowboy Croquet ™. Played on a field of decomposed granite with boulders for obstacles and Clydesdale horseshoes for wickets, it’s a unique take on the classic lawn game.
Red Cloud Ranch is a magical place. Whether it is a baby goat party, a book launch or a wedding luncheon, every event is just more special because of this beautiful setting. Our family had so much fun playing Cowboy Croquet! They take such a creative approach to everything they do.” ~ Cathy S, CFO and Corporate Visitor
A regulation pickleball court, Bocce ball, horseshoes and half-court basketball offer a perfect setting for tournaments and other group activities. The lighted courts allow groups to extend the fun into the evening hours.
After an active day, the hotel-style pool and spa is an inviting place to relax, and the outdoor speaker system makes it a perfect spot for entertainment. And, of course, everybody loves a poolside BBQ at the ranch!
Outdoor firepits with additional seating welcome those hungry for s’mores and good conversation.
Younger guests will love the quaint Miner’s Village, with its recycling rock creek, which beckons young prospectors with some shiny “gold” nuggets. Miner’s Village is built around large flat boulders that were used by indigenous tribes in this area, and their ‘metates,’ or cooking holes, are still there as evidence of meals prepared and shared thousands of years ago.
For those craving extra adventure, Red Cloud Ranch proudly boasts a 30 x 60-foot shooting structure, crafted from fallen oaks on the property. Here, under the watchful eye of our range master, guests can safely experience the thrill of shooting everything from handguns to long-range rifles into targets placed on the hillside.
Whatever they do here at RCR is done at the highest level. Their shooting facility was a big hit at our executive gathering, and the rangemaster gave us a great overview of gun safety. The accommodations rate 5 stars, and we had a great game day in the sports area. Any group looking for a perfect place to gather should look no further; you’ll find it here.” ~ Doug J., Business Executive
A full size arena and stalls for the variety of animals on the ranch offer a great location for photo shoots and film settings, as well as a hands-on experience for guests.
There are just so many things to do and beautiful spots to enjoy at Red Cloud Ranch! We shot a marketing promotion for our company here, and everyone involved had a great experience. In addition, we came away with a wealth of footage for upcoming promotions; it offers a great value as there are so many different settings in which to film.” ~ Andrea W., Founder International Skin Care Company
Picturesque Blackberry Pond is a seasonal pond stocked with bass and catfish for catch-and-release fun, and offers additional photo and film opportunities.
A Labor Of Love Is Shared
We are pleased to announce that Red Cloud Ranch will become available to selected gatherings beginning in 2024. Whether it is an annual family retreat, a corporate gathering, or a never to be forgotten destination wedding, events held at the ranch carry an extra touch of magic and significance that transcends the ordinary.
If you are scouting locations for TV, video and/or movie shoots, this may be the unique site you have been searching for. We invite you to explore the possibilities of Red Cloud Ranch as a setting for your next special event or gathering.
Craig and Marilyn love sharing the magic of Red Cloud Ranch with others. “Spending some time at Red Cloud Ranch can be an unforgettable experience for families, friends, and corporate groups. Our time here has been one of the happiest seasons of our lives, and we look forward to sharing that with special people who love the outdoors, adventure, and the joy of being with others.”
Want to know more about Red Cloud Ranch? Check out the website and social media.
