News & Announcements

Windmill Spins Again

For the first time since about 2009, the windmill at the Empire Ranch is spinning! Thank goodness for all the supporters that preserve this wonderful place!

Christmas at the Empire Ranch

Plan to join us on Saturday, December 12, 2026, 10 am to 2 pm, for Christmas at the Empire Ranch.  Enjoy the festively decorated Empire Ranch House, do your holiday shopping, and visit with Santa.

Cowboy Festival

Plan to join us on Saturday, November 7, 2026 for the 25th Annual Empire Ranch Cowboy Festival.

Click on READ MORE to view the schedule of events.

Volunteer Days

Dedicated volunteers have been key to preserving the historic Empire Ranch House and Headquarters.  Please join us on Saturday, December 5, 2026.

To volunteer, please submit a Volunteer Opportunities Form, and we will contact you with more details!

150th Anniversary Celebration

Over 300 history buffs, supporters, and friends attended the Empire Ranch’s 150th anniversary celebration on Saturday, August 22, 2026.  It was a special day enjoyed by all.

A Star Is Born (1976)

On September 27, 2026 over 80 attended the Empire Ranch benefit screening at the Loft Cinema in Tucson commemorating the 50th Anniversary of A Star is Born, starring Barbra Streisand and Kris Kristofferson.

Spring Trail Ride, March 28, 2026

Almost 100 riders participated in the Empire Ranch Spring Trail Ride on Saturday, March 28, 2026. Such a wonderful way to experience the beauty of Las Cienegas National Conservation Area.

Volunteer in our Gift Shop

We seek volunteers to work at our Gift Shop at the historic Empire Ranch.  Volunteers are needed for four hour shifts on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm.

Responsibilities include stocking, organizing, and cleaning the Gift Shop; processing sales using an iPad and Square software; providing general information about the Empire Ranch and Las Cienegas National Conservation Area; and completing various reports.  Training for all tasks provided.  Volunteers must be personable and willing to engage with visitors.

Click here to apply.

150 Years of the Empire Ranch

The January 2026 issue of Desert Leaf features an article by Steve Renzi on the 150th anniversary of the Empire Ranch.

Empire Ranch Trail Run

More  than 600 runners participated in the first-ever “Empire Ranch Run” on January 24, 2026.  Produced as a joint partnership between the Empire Ranch Foundation, the Bureau of Land Management, and Run Tucson, the Empire Ranch Run included a 10k Trail Run, a 5k Run/Walk, and a 1 mile family-friendly walk/run.