Nestled in the heart of Tennessee, Loretta Lynn’s Ranch spans a sprawling 3,000 acres of picturesque countryside. Located in Hurricane Mills, this expansive property offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re an adventurous spirit or someone seeking a quiet retreat, the ranch has something for everyone. With a variety of activities, a well-equipped campground, charming cabins, and museums dedicated to the legendary Loretta Lynn, there’s plenty to explore.
The ranch’s history adds to its allure. Originally a historic plantation, the site was linked to a Civil War battle where it is rumored that nineteen Confederate soldiers are buried. Tales of ghostly apparitions from the estate’s early days further enrich its intriguing past. In the 1960s, country music star Loretta Lynn and her husband, Oliver “Mooney” Lynn, acquired the town of Hurricane Mills and its surrounding properties. Since then, the ranch has evolved into a vibrant destination, offering a unique glimpse into Loretta’s life and career.
>>READ ALSO: Loretta Lynn’s Children: Meet The Coal Miner’s Daughter’s 6 Kids
When visiting the ranch, you’ll find a range of accommodations and activities to suit your needs. Stagecoach Hill is the ranch’s premier campground, featuring extensive amenities and a lively common area where live music and games are offered during peak seasons. The Camp Store provides morning coffee, snacks, and other essentials. For lodging, options include a fully-hooked-up RV, a stylish A-Frame log cabin, or a cozy cabin with scenic views, all designed to offer comfort and a memorable stay. Alternatively, the spacious bunkhouse provides a family-friendly option.
For those seeking a more private experience, Boone Hill offers a charming, motel-style layout. Its cabins provide a cozy atmosphere and are perfect for small groups or families. A central gazebo and charcoal grills add to the traditional camping experience. Lower Campground, located in the heart of the ranch’s activities, provides water/electric camping spots and tent sites. This area also features a bathhouse and opportunities for tubing and kayaking.
Pets are welcome at the ranch with a $50 non-refundable fee for cabins, and they must be leashed when outdoors. Please note that Lower Campground, Boone Hill, and Creek Area are closed from November to April.
>>READ ALSO: Loretta Lynn’s Homemade Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Western Town, the hub for museums and gift shops, is situated near the scenic Grist Mill and its waterfall. Here, you can explore the Grist Mill Museum, which showcases the machinery used in the late 1800s to produce cornmeal. Historical photos of Loretta’s home and the original generator and control panel add to the exhibit. The Grist Mill Gift Shop offers a selection of country foods, locally-made crafts, and Kentucky Coal memorabilia.
Western Town also features the Butcher Holler Home Replica, which mirrors Loretta Lynn’s childhood home in East Kentucky. Nearby, Loretta’s Frontier Homestead houses over 400 artifacts, including tools, cookware, and wagons from Loretta’s life. The Coal Miner’s Daughter Museum, spanning 18,000 square feet, tells Loretta Lynn’s “Rags to Riches” story, with significant items from her career on display. The Doll and Fan Museum showcases dolls and gifts collected throughout Loretta’s six-decade career.
For souvenirs, visit Loretta’s Shop, or enjoy a treat at Loretta’s Snack Shop, a newly-renovated diner offering handmade milkshakes. Tickets for tours can be purchased at the Western Shop, which also sells western wear for all ages. Full tours are priced at $30, with home-only and museum-only tours available for $17.50 each. Note that tours and museum access are not available on Mondays and Tuesdays.
