News & Announcements
Walter Vail Biography
Posted on October 31, 2025Walter Vail: Arizona and California Rancher is the story of Walter Vail, who established the Empire Ranch in 1876 and later extended his ranching empire to Southern California. Published by the Empire Ranch Foundation and the Temecula Valley Historical Society the paperback version will be on sale in the Empire Ranch Foundation Gift Shop after November 10th. Kindle, hardcover, and paperback versions can be purchased directly from Amazon.com.
Christmas at the Empire Ranch
Posted on October 29, 2025Don’t miss Christmas at the Empire Ranch on Saturday, December 13th from 10am to 2pm. Join us for a bit of holiday cheer and some fun shopping.
Click on Read More to view the preliminary program.
Become an ERF Docent!
Posted on August 4, 2025Are you interested in learning more about the Empire Ranch and sharing your knowledge with visitors to the Empire Ranch? Then join us for the next ERF Docent Training Class on Saturday, September 20, 2025 from 9 am to 3 pm.
Volunteer docents conduct monthly tours of the Empire Ranch House that provide a general introduction to the history of the Empire Ranch, its buildings and its people. Each docent provides an average of four monthly tours annually. Upon completion of the Docent Training Class each docent receives individual tour training.
If you’re interested in participating as a volunteer docent, click here to register for the September 20th class. For questions or additional information contact Alison Bunting, Docent Coordinator, alisbunting@gmail.com.
Cowboy Festival
Posted on August 1, 2025About 1,500 excited visitors enjoyed a beautiful day at the Empire Ranch Cowboy Festival on November 1st.
Click on READ MORE to view photos of the day.
Volunteer Days
Posted on July 30, 2025Dedicated volunteers have been key to preserving the historic Empire Ranch House and Headquarters. Please join us on Saturday, December 6, 2025.
To volunteer, please submit a Volunteer Opportunities Form, and we will contact you with more details!
Monte Walsh
Posted on July 30, 2025The September 27, 2025 outdoor showing of Monte Walsh (1970) was attended by 150 Western film fans. Special thanks to Bunker deFrance and Marty Freese who provided background information on the filming of the movie prior to the showing.
National Day of the Cowboy
Posted on May 10, 2025Over 350 guests enjoyed the National Day of the Cowboy celebration on July 26, 2025. Click on the READ MORE link to view the final program.
South Barn Roof
Posted on March 28, 2025Recently a strong gust of wind significantly damaged the roof on the north end of the South Barn. To contribute for the supplies needed for the roof repair click on READ MORE.
Spring Trail Ride, April 5, 2025
Posted on February 6, 2025Over 100 riders joined us 4/5/25 to enjoy saddle time on the Las Cienegas National Conservation Area! Departing and returning to the Historic Empire Ranch Headquarters! The temperatures were perfect, the views were outstanding and the smiles will last for days!
Gift Shop Member Discount
Posted on February 6, 2025Did you know ERF active members receive a 10% discount at our gift shop? To join or renew your membership click on the READ MORE link below.