A Place to Gather
Rooted in tradition and operated by our family, we open our ranch to special events that strengthen and serve our community.
LePlatt's Pond hosts weddings, company gatherings, milestone celebrations, and community events each summer. From employee picnics and anniversary parties to our own Locals Night and longstanding partnerships with organizations, every event is thoughtfully hosted.
Annual Tradition
24th Annual Chuckwagon Rendezvous
Experience one of Southwest Colorado's most cherished western traditions as seven authentic chuckwagon crews prepare an incredible meal over open fires beside the lake at LePlatt's Pond. Enjoy live music, cowboy hospitality, and an unforgettable evening celebrating western heritage on a historic 100-acre working cattle ranch.
Saturday
August 22, 2026
Dinner Bell
Rings at 5:00 PM
LePlatt's Pond at L-J Ranch
311A CR 501, Bayfield, Colorado
Event Highlights
Seven Authentic Chuckwagon Crews
Historic wagons and seasoned crews from across the region.
Historic Open-Fire Cooking
A hearty meal prepared over open flames, trail-side tradition.
Live Music by Timberline Cowboys
Western tunes carrying across the lake all evening long.
Lakeside Dining
Gather beside the water at historic LePlatt's Pond.
Family Friendly
An unforgettable evening for guests of every generation.
Western Hospitality
Genuine cowboy welcome rooted in ranching heritage.
Tickets
Reserve TicketsThis event sells out every year. Reserve your tickets online today or purchase them at Basin Co-op in Durango.
See Why This Event Sells Out Every Year
Watch highlights from last year's Chuckwagon Rendezvous and experience the authentic western hospitality, open-fire cooking, live music, and lakeside atmosphere that have made this one of Southwest Colorado's favorite summer traditions.
Watch Last Year's Chuckwagon Dinner
Community Tradition
Locals Night
Locals Night brings together Bayfield, Durango, and the surrounding communities for a summer evening on the pond. Locals and visitors alike gather across the lawn to cool down by the water, listen to live music, cast a line, and catch up with friends. Fishing is included — offering rare access to a privately stocked ten-acre pond in a setting that feels both relaxed and remarkable. Neighbors reconnect in a place that continues a long-standing tradition of bringing people together and holds memories for generations of residents in our community.
Tuesdays, June–July | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Gates Open at 5 PM for Fishing, Food & Visiting • Live Music Starts at 5:30 PM.
$10 Adults | $5 Kids Ages 3–12 | Ages 2 & Under Free
Rain or shine — we gather regardless of the forecast.
A Season to Remember
That's a wrap on Summer 2026.
Thank you to everyone who joined us at the ranch this summer for evenings of live music, food, friends, and community. Locals Night was created as a way to open the gates of L-J Ranch and share this special place with the community we love, and we're incredibly grateful for another wonderful season.
We'll see you back at the pond next summer.
A Look Around
Experience Locals Night
Planning Your Visit
Please note that occasional changes to our music lineup, food trucks, or event schedule may occur due to unforeseen circumstances. For the latest updates and any last-minute announcements, follow us on Facebook.
Locals Night Highlights
Relive the 2026 Season
Thank you to these local businesses for helping make Locals Night possible.
Private Event Inquiry
From company picnics and nonprofit fundraisers to family celebrations and milestone gatherings, we welcome events that align with the spirit of the ranch.
Inquire About Your EventWe'll respond within 48 hours to discuss your vision.