K-12 Field Trips

Field trips are invaluable opportunities to enhance classroom learning by providing students with real-world experiences that complement their academic studies. The National Ranching Heritage Center (NRHC) is an exceptional destination for such an excursion. Located in Lubbock, Texas, the NRHC offers a unique and immersive experience that not only enriches students’ understanding of history and culture but also fosters a deeper understanding of contemporary ranching issues. 

When planning your field trip, there are three options to choose from:

• Proctor Historical Park (1.5 hours)
• Cash Family Ranch Life Learning Center featuring Hank the Cowdog (30 min for each group of 50 students)
• BOTH: Historical park and Cash Family Ranch Life Learning Center (2.5 hours)

Take Your Class on a Walk Through Time 

The National Ranching Heritage Center is not just a museum; it is a living testament to the rich history of ranching in the United States. By taking students to the NRHC, teachers can transport their classes back in time to the days when cattle drives and cowboys shaped the American West. Foy Proctor Historical Park is spread over 19 acres and features a meticulously preserved collection of 55 authentic ranching structures, including homes, barns, a schoolhouse and more which allow students to step into the shoes of those who played pivotal roles in the ranching industry. While we do not provide guides for field trips, our trails are wheelchair accessible and interpretive signage is available at each structure. In addition, resources are available for educators to help guide students as they explore the park. This experience is outdoors.

Let Hank the Cowdog Explain Ranching

The Cash Family Ranch Life Learning Center featuring Hank the Cowdog provides a fun and immersive experience for your students. This permanent exhibit features 3,500 square feet of indoor exhibits and a ½ acre outdoor park where students can explore all aspects of the ranching industry. All exhibits were designed with student learning objectives in mind. This amazing discovery center was inspired by the Ranch Life Learning series of books by John R. Erickson. These books explain ranching to students and have accompanying lesson plans that are free to educators. Social studies, science, literacy and more come to life for students through this experience. Learn more by visiting www.ranchlifelearning.com.  

Are there rules when we visit?

We do have a few rules to ensure the safety of students and our historical objects. Here are a few things to keep in mind while planning your visit: 

• We require that one adult chaperone be present for every 10 children in your group. Students must be accompanied by an adult while at the NRHC. 
• No more than 3 students are allowed inside Cogdell’s at the Ranch at a time, and they must be accompanied by a teacher/parent. 
• Students should use their “museum voices” while indoors.
• Students must stay on concrete pathways while visiting the historic park. Please do not go inside historic structures or climb hills. 
• There will be other groups touring the NRHC; please be considerate and share the spaces.
• Please remember it is your responsibility to ensure your group has picked up after themselves. 
• If the wind is excessive or other adverse weather conditions occur, the structures may be closed to protect the artifacts inside. 
• It is the teacher’s responsibility to share this information with ALL chaperones, fellow teachers, and parents. 

Educator Resources

We truly hope you will make the most of the learning opportunities at the NRHC. Take advantage of our educator approved resources to engage your students.  

• Click Here for printable lesson plans, activities and more! 
• A children’s guide to the historical park is available on site. (Have students bring pencils if you would like them to take notes.)