Newsletter Issue: Arizona Ostrich Farm Edition | February 2026
\
Check out Arizona’s quirkiest roadside stop: Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch!
Hi DayTrippen travelers!
If you’re driving along I-10 between Phoenix and Tucson or looking for a fun family outing, take a quick detour to Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch in Picacho, AZ. This family-run ranch has welcomed visitors since 1999. It started as a simple ostrich-feeding stop and has grown into a hands-on animal adventure that’s fun, educational, and memorable.
Imagine feeding towering ostriches right from your hand. They’re gentle giants, and you can use a chute if you feel nervous. You can also pet soft stingrays in the desert, walk through a tropical greenhouse where rainbow lorikeets land to sip nectar from your palm, and meet miniature donkeys, fallow deer, Nigerian dwarf goats, ducks, and more in the petting zoo.
The main attraction is the Monster Truck Ranch Tours, offered on weekends, holidays, and select days. These 50-minute open-air rides take you through the working ostrich ranch, past hundreds of birds, egg nests, and Sonoran Desert views, including Picacho Peak. You’ll learn about ostrich farming, local wildlife, and even try ostrich fishin’. The tours are great for all ages and are wheelchair-accessible.
Admission is affordable and includes feed for most animals. Kids 5 and under get in free, and extra feed is $6. Monster truck tours are a separate cost, about $20 to $25, depending on age and season. Book online to secure a seat in the Monster Truck.
The ranch is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM through April, with admissions ending 30 minutes before closing. From May to September, summer hours are Friday to Monday, 8 AM to 2 PM. Check roostercogburn.com for weather closures or updates.
Why stop here? The ranch is clean, family-friendly, interactive, and offers unique experiences, such as feeding exotic animals from Africa, Europe, Australia, and beyond. You can also visit nearby Picacho Peak State Park for hiking, making it a perfect day trip. Visitors love the friendly staff, well-cared-for animals, and the fun atmosphere. One recent review said, “Non-stop fun—memories priceless!” Read the full article here.
Quick FAQ
- How long should I plan? 2–4 hours to feed everyone and enjoy the tour.
- Best time? Mornings for active animals and cooler temps; weekends for monster trucks.
- Tips? Wear closed-toe shoes, sunscreen, and bring water—it’s outdoors!
Plan your visit soon. It’s the “darndest place you’ll ever visit” and sure to make you smile! If Arizona is too far to travel, visit OstrichLand USA near Solvang, California.
Safe travels,
DayTrippen Team