Cowtown Range

In 1973 western movie stuntman Ron Nix decided to do something about Arizona’s rapidly disappearing old west heritage. So, he purchased a 78-acre parcel of land just south of Lake Pleasant on the banks of the Agua Fria River, and began to build props and infrastructure for what he originally named “A Day in the West” experience. His concept was to build an Old West town venue for weekend visitors, movie stunt training, photography and best of all, making old time western movies – to experience the west “the way it was.”  Apart from his movie stunt performances, Ron also was an accomplished builder, and he single handedly built most of the town in addition to building his own home on the property.  He literally lived “A Day in the West” every day.

Visitors experienced the old west buildings, small shops, “Miss Kitty’s Saloon” (christened by Amanda Blake, who played “Miss Kitty” on the 20-year hit Western TV series “ Gunsmoke ” staring James Arness), a blacksmith shop, a “jail,” shootout reenactments, live fire trick shooting, movie stunt demonstrations and rodeos. Catered special events of all kinds were popular, including corporate retreats, weddings, reunions and birthdays. Over time additional activities were offered on the property, including horseback riding, professional photography, ATV tours, a