Florida’s sprawling landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and subtropical climate make it an ideal location for large-scale ranching operations. With vast wetlands, pastures, and forests, the state is home to some of the most expansive and historically significant ranches in the United States. The following list highlights the top 10 largest ranches in Florida, each contributing to the state’s agricultural legacy while preserving its unique natural beauty.
#1: The Deseret Ranch – 300,000 acres
The Deseret Ranch, located in central Florida, is the largest ranch in the state, covering a massive 300,000 acres. Established in the 1950s, the ranch is primarily known for its cattle operations, producing some of the highest-quality beef in the region. The ranch also operates in the citrus industry, with groves spanning thousands of acres.
In addition to its agricultural operations, the Deseret Ranch plays a significant role in conservation. It is home to diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, forests, and grasslands, which provide vital habitats for wildlife such as the endangered Florida panther and sandhill cranes. The Deseret Ranch is a key player in Florida’s agricultural and ecological landscape, blending ranching with land preservation efforts.
#2: The King Ranch – 130,000 acres
The King Ranch in Florida, part of the famous King Ranch family of ranches in Texas, spans 130,000 acres in the southern part of the state. This massive property is primarily used for cattle ranching and is one of Florida’s most historically significant ranches. The King Ranch is known for its high-quality beef and innovative ranching practices.
The ranch is located in the Everglades region, an area known for its unique ecosystem and biodiversity. In addition to cattle operations, the King Ranch also focuses on wildlife conservation, working to protect the Everglades’ delicate ecosystem. The King Ranch is a model for sustainable ranching practices, balancing agricultural production with environmental stewardship.
#3: The Four Rivers Ranch – 120,000 acres
The Four Rivers Ranch, located in the heart of Florida, spans 120,000 acres of diverse landscapes, including wetlands, pastures, and forests. The ranch is known for its cattle operations, producing high-quality beef for the local market. The ranch also focuses on preserving Florida’s natural beauty and has become a leader in wildlife conservation efforts.
The Four Rivers Ranch is named for the four major rivers that run through the property, providing vital water sources for both cattle and wildlife. The ranch is home to a variety of species, including alligators, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys. Its commitment to balancing ranching with land conservation has made it one of the most respected ranches in Florida.
#4: The Flying G Ranch – 100,000 acres
The Flying G Ranch, located in the central part of Florida, covers 100,000 acres of prime agricultural land. Known for its high-quality cattle herd, the Flying G Ranch also produces a variety of crops, including corn, soybeans, and hay. The ranch has been in operation for over a century and continues to be a key part of Florida’s agricultural industry.
The ranch is home to expansive grasslands and wetlands, which provide habitat for a variety of wildlife, including alligators, deer, and migratory birds. The Flying G Ranch is committed to land stewardship, working to preserve the natural resources that support both its agricultural and ecological operations. Its success in sustainable ranching makes it one of Florida’s most influential ranches.
#5: The Rocking P Ranch – 80,000 acres
The Rocking P Ranch, located in the southeastern part of Florida, spans 80,000 acres of rolling grasslands, wetlands, and forested areas. The ranch is primarily used for cattle grazing but also produces a variety of crops, including sugarcane and citrus. The Rocking P Ranch is known for its innovative water management systems and focus on sustainable ranching practices.
The ranch’s diverse landscape provides an ideal environment for grazing cattle, while its wetlands support a variety of wildlife species. The Rocking P Ranch is home to a variety of animals, including wild boar, deer, and a wide range of bird species. The ranch’s commitment to sustainability and conservation has made it a leader in Florida’s agricultural community.
#6: The Silver Saddle Ranch – 75,000 acres
The Silver Saddle Ranch, located in northern Florida, covers 75,000 acres of rolling hills, open grasslands, and wetlands. The ranch is known for its cattle operations, producing high-quality beef for local and national markets. In addition to its cattle operations, the Silver Saddle Ranch also focuses on conservation efforts, particularly in preserving Florida’s wetlands and wildlife habitats.
The ranch is home to a variety of wildlife species, including black bears, bobcats, and wild turkeys. The Silver Saddle Ranch is involved in restoring native habitats and managing the land in a way that benefits both agriculture and wildlife. Its commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable ranching makes it one of the most respected properties in Florida.
#7: The Big Cypress Ranch – 70,000 acres
The Big Cypress Ranch, located in southwestern Florida, spans 70,000 acres of unique cypress swamps, grasslands, and hardwood forests. The ranch is primarily used for cattle grazing but also supports a variety of agricultural operations, including vegetable farming and hay production. The Big Cypress Ranch is known for its scenic beauty and its commitment to preserving Florida’s natural landscapes.
The ranch’s wetlands and forested areas provide important habitats for a wide variety of species, including the endangered Florida panther and the Everglades snail kite. The Big Cypress Ranch is actively involved in habitat restoration and land conservation efforts, working to protect the region’s delicate ecosystems while maintaining a successful agricultural operation.
#8: The Calusa Ranch – 60,000 acres
The Calusa Ranch, located in the southern part of Florida, spans 60,000 acres of open grasslands, wetlands, and coastal ecosystems. The ranch is known for its sustainable cattle operations and its focus on preserving Florida’s coastal habitats. The Calusa Ranch is home to a variety of species, including alligators, manatees, and migratory birds.
In addition to its cattle operations, the Calusa Ranch is involved in wetland restoration and conservation efforts. The ranch works closely with local environmental groups to protect the state’s fragile coastal ecosystems. Its focus on conservation and sustainable ranching practices makes it one of Florida’s most successful ranches.
#9: The South Florida Ranch – 55,000 acres
The South Florida Ranch, located in the southern Everglades region, covers 55,000 acres of pristine wetlands and grasslands. The ranch is known for its large herd of cattle and its focus on producing high-quality beef. The South Florida Ranch is committed to land preservation and is involved in several conservation initiatives aimed at restoring the Everglades’ natural ecosystems.
The ranch’s location in the Everglades provides vital habitat for wildlife species such as the American crocodile, wading birds, and native fish. The South Florida Ranch works closely with state and federal agencies to protect the Everglades and ensure that the land remains healthy for future generations.
#10: The St. Johns River Ranch – 50,000 acres
The St. Johns River Ranch, located in northeastern Florida, spans 50,000 acres of river valleys, wetlands, and grasslands. The ranch is primarily focused on cattle grazing but also produces crops such as rice and hay. The St. Johns River Ranch is known for its beautiful views of the St. Johns River, which flows through the property, providing a vital water source for the land’s agricultural and wildlife needs.
The ranch is home to a variety of species, including wild boar, alligators, and white-tailed deer. The St. Johns River Ranch is committed to land conservation and has worked to restore the surrounding wetland habitats, ensuring that the land remains productive and ecologically balanced.
Florida’s top 10 largest ranches are a confirmation to the state’s rich agricultural heritage, from the vast Deseret Ranch to the scenic Big Cypress Ranch. These ranches play a crucial role in shaping Florida’s agricultural industry while preserving the state’s unique ecosystems and wildlife habitats. Whether focused on cattle ranching, wildlife conservation, or crop production, these properties continue to be an integral part of Florida’s rural economy and natural heritage.
