By entering Sinking Creek Ranch, you acknowledge and accept all inherent risks associated with a rural outdoor property and agree to follow all rules and policies below.
All activities are undertaken at your own risk — rules below are strictly enforced
1. Assumption of Risk
Uneven ground, rocks, hills, and natural obstacles throughout the property
All bridges on the property have no guardrails or handrails — use extreme caution at all times
Wildlife and livestock interaction
Water hazards including creeks and ponds
Fire-related risks
Weather and environmental conditions
Limited visibility at night — use extreme caution near bridges and water features after dark
Outdoor recreation and off-road vehicle use
2. General Safety
You are responsible for your own safety and your group at all times
The ranch does not supervise guest activities
Carry a flashlight at night — lighting is limited throughout the property
All bridges have no guardrails or handrails — use extreme caution, especially after dark
Emergency response may be delayed due to the rural location — you are responsible for your own medical care
3. Water & Creek
No lifeguard on duty at any time
Water depth, current, and footing change without warning — check conditions before entering
Surfaces may be slippery or unstable
Stay out of the creek during or after heavy rain
Cow ponds are not for swimming
Children must be closely supervised within arm’s reach at all water features at all times
Use of all water areas is entirely at your own risk
4. Off-Road Vehicles (ATV, UTV, SxS, Dirt Bike)
Helmets required for ALL riders — adults and children — strictly prohibited without one
Operating any vehicle under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited
Seat belts must be worn where applicable
Maximum speed of 15 mph near all campsites and guest areas
No riding during quiet hours: 9 PM to 7 AM
Daylight riding only unless approved by ranch staff
You are responsible for all passengers including minors
Vehicles must be properly maintained and operated safely
5. Trails & Property
All trails are unmarked — no maps, markers, or directional signage exist on the property
You are responsible for knowing your location at all times — GPS strongly recommended
Let someone know your plans before exploring trails or riding into the forest
Property borders Mark Twain National Forest — know where you are at all times
The ranch is not responsible for anything beyond property boundaries
6. Fire
Fires in designated fire pits only
Fires must be attended at all times
Fully extinguish fires before leaving your site or going to sleep
Obey all active burn bans — no exceptions
Do not gather wood from the property — purchase on-site or bring your own
No fireworks, sky lanterns, or open flame devices of any kind on the property
No open flames on or within 10 feet of any tent or deck — strictly prohibited
You are responsible for all fire use and safety
7. Ranch Animals & Guest Pets
Livestock including horses are present — animals can kick, bite, or react unpredictably without warning
Feeding animals including horses is permitted but entirely at your own risk
Some fencing on the property is electric — do not touch or lean on any fencing
Do not enter any area marked or posted as restricted
Children must be closely supervised around all animals at all times
Guest pets must be supervised and leashed in all shared areas
Pets must not disturb guests, livestock, or wildlife
You are responsible for all injury or damage caused by your animals
8. Conduct & Alcohol
Quiet hours: 9 PM to 7 AM — no exceptions
No disruptive behavior, parties, or unauthorized guests on the property
Alcohol is permitted for guests 21+ only — consume responsibly at all times
Operating any vehicle or engaging in any hazardous activity under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited
You are responsible for your behavior and the behavior of your group at all times
9. Site Use & Cleanliness
Leave your site clean and free of all trash, debris, and pet waste
Do not damage property, trees, structures, or land
No modifications to property of any kind
Keep all items within your designated site boundaries
Additional charges may apply for damage or excessive cleaning
10. Prohibited Activities — Violations Result in Immediate Removal Without Refund
Operating any vehicle or equipment under the influence of alcohol
Reckless or unsafe operation of off-road vehicles
Fireworks, sky lanterns, or open flame devices
Open flames on or within 10 feet of any tent or deck
Entering any area marked or posted as restricted
Disturbing wildlife or livestock
Illegal substances on the property
Firearms or weapons of any kind
Unsafe behavior around fire, water, animals, or other guests
Disturbances during quiet hours (9 PM to 7 AM)
11. Right to Enforce Policies
Sinking Creek Ranch reserves the right to enforce all rules and policies at its sole discretion
Failure to comply may result in immediate removal without refund
Additional charges may be applied for damage, excessive cleaning, or policy violations
Violations may result in restrictions on future bookings
Violations involving unsafe behavior, threats, or illegal activity may result in law enforcement involvement
Every guest 18+ must sign our waiver before entering the property.