Rooster Cogburn’s Ostrich Ranch: A Quirky Attraction in the Heart of Picacho, Arizona
By Larry Nader, Larry Nader Photography & Art
Published December 26, 2023
If you’ve ever journeyed southward along Interstate 10 from Phoenix, your eyes might have been drawn to a unique spectacle. Located at the foot of the impressive Picacho Peak, Rooster Cogburn’s Ostrich Ranch stands as an enchanting oasis that has been winning the affection of locals and tourists for over two decades. This one-of-a-kind attraction seamlessly blends adventure, education, and a splash of fantastical whimsy, solidifying its reputation as a cherished spot in the Southwest’s heart.
Since relocating to the Phoenix area in 2007, I’ve driven from Phoenix to Tucson countless times, each time telling myself I’d stop at the Ranch, though never quite managing to do so. That changed in late October of 2023 when I finally paid a visit on my way back from covering Helldorado Days and the Wilcox Wine Festival. I am thrilled to report that it was well worth the stop.
But how did such a unique attraction find its home in the middle of the desert, positioned almost precisely between Phoenix and Tucson? The story behind its inception is as intriguing as the Ranch itself. Rooster Cogburn’s Ostrich Ranch is not just a pit stop; it’s a destination where the…
