Educational Days

Now available: The Chuckwagon Casserole recipe, aka "Cowboy Lunch," is now available on this page! (scroll down)

Homeschooling families are welcome to take advantage of any of WLD Ranch's programs, but our Educational Days are designed with homeschooling families in mind. Our Educational Days include Cowboy Days, Indian Days, Pioneer Days, Nature Days, and Slavery/Civil War Days. Each day runs from 9:15am until 3:00pm and includes lunch. If you are interested in registering your family for an Educational Day, please contact Christy.

Cowboy Day invites you to step into the boots of a cowboy as we explore cattle drives, brands, and cowboy dress. After a cowboy lunch served from an authentic chuckwagon (weather permitting), participants can choose from a variety of activities, including horseback riding, lassoing and trick roping, and riflery.

Indian Day introduces you to the Cherokee Nation and the Trail of Tears. Classes include learning about Cherokee life, the contributions of Sequoyah, and the Trail of Tears. After an Indian lunch served from our tipi fire ring, families can choose from activities such as bareback horse rides, Cherokee games, and archery.

Pioneer Day brings pioneer life into focus as we explore the Oregon Trail. We will also learn about Marcus and Narcissa whitman, famous pioneers, and discover the ins and outs of pioneer life. After a pioneer lunch in our Longhorn Lodge, families can participate in an Oregon Trail game, make candles, or enjoy a horse-drawn wagon ride, among other activities.

Nature Day involves exploring God's creation using our five senses. This day is recommended for ages 10 and older due to the outdoor activities planned, including hiking, nature scavenger hunts, and identifying trees and leaves.

Slavery and Civil War Day pulls you into the life of a slave or a civil war soldier. Step into the 1860s with us as we explore slavery and how the War Between the States started. Families can also enjoy replicas of Civil War equipment throughout the day.

Teachers of public or private school students, contact Christy to find out if an Educational Day is available for your group.

Chuckwagon Casserole

1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1 pound ground beef
1 (15 1/2 oz.) can chili beans in sauce
3/4 cup barbecue sauce
1/2 tsp. Salt
1 (8.5 oz) package corn muffin mix
1 (11 oz) can Mexican-style corn, drained

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cook and stir onion, pepper, and beef over medium heat until beef is done. Drain. Stir in chili beans, barbecue sauce, and salt. Bring to a boil. Spoon into a square casserole dish. Prepare corn muffin mix according to package directions. Stir in corn. Spoon over meat mixture. Bake 30 minutes or until golden brown. Makes 6 servings.