Biz Buzz: Popular RV park and campground reopens under new ownership
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Do you want to know what’s happening in the eastern Idaho business scene? We’ve got you covered. Here is a rundown of this week’s business news across the valley.
BIZ BUZZ
RIRIE
Rigby man revives longtime RV park and campground
RIRIE – A popular destination in eastern Idaho is back open under new ownership.
Mountain River Ranch, which closed last year after 35 years of business, has more than 47 acres of land near Kelly Canyon Ski Resort. It included an RV park and campground along with frontier town-styled buildings and 10 overnight cabins, tents, tepees and a riding arena. It offered horse and wagon rides every summer and was well-known for its western-themed variety show.
Trent Tyler of Rigby partnered with Blake and Scott Larsen to buy the RV park and campground portion of the property. It opened last weekend.
Tyler tells EastIdahoNews.com customers are happy to see the return of the iconic campsite.
“There are such limited spots in a unique scenario like that where you’re in the trees and by the river. We’re just thankful to be up and going and giving people that opportunity … to have that RV and camping experience close to home,” Tyler says.
The 14.5-acre RV park has about 64 spots available for campers, with several more in the works. Tyler says mountain bike trails are also available, and he’s planning to add paddleboards to the pond this year.
“Ultimately, we’re looking at trying to make this place bigger and better. Over time, we’re going to separate out the (RV) spots to allow people to have more room. We did buy some of the neighboring property to bring in more private and exclusive spots for RVs or tiny homes back in that wooded area to the west,” Tyler says.
RELATED | Mountain River Ranch closing its doors after 35 years of business
Many people have fond memories of visiting Mountain River Ranch over the years. Tran King, the original owner of the property, first opened it in 1985. One of the most popular attractions was the Christmas dinner show and horse-drawn sleigh ride.
King decided to pursue other interests and listed the business for sale last June at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“They just didn’t run it … last season, which is sad because it could’ve been one of their best years ever,” Tyler says.
Tyler is an avid RV’er and has always wanted to own an RV park. He decided to make his dream a reality when Mountain River Ranch became available.
He’s grateful to King for creating a beloved destination for so many people. Tyler is hoping to eventually revive the variety show and continue the tradition King started 35 years ago.
“It’s going to be a work in progress for us. We’ve never been RV park owners before. Getting the reservation site figured out and up and running is a lot of work, but we’re going to do our very best (to meet customers’ needs),” says Tyler.
Tyler worked with Kerry Howell at SVN High Desert Commercial and Century 21 High Desert in buying the property.
The business is currently taking reservations. To make a reservation or learn more, visit the company’s website.
BIZ BITS
Longtime radio DJ returns to eastern Idaho airwaves
IDAHO FALLS – After a hiatus from radio, Brad Barlow has joined Sandhill Media Group as program director and on-air host on NOW 105.1 FM.
For years, “Brad & Tara” entertained east Idaho’s Top-40 radio listeners with a down-to-earth wit and humor that cultivated one of the largest and most loyal audiences in the region. Recognized market-wide — and beyond — for his talent, Brad brings 24 years of successful programming and on-air experience to this new chapter in his career.
NOW 105.1 can be heard on 105.1 FM as well as 107.9 HD-2 in high definition.
Local animal shelter offering half-price dog licenses in May
POCATELLO – You can license your dog with Pocatello Animal Services for half the cost starting next month. Through May, the department is offering $5 dog licenses for dogs that are spayed or neutered and $10 licenses for dogs that are not spayed or neutered. Pet parents can pick up their half-price license at the Pocatello Animal Shelter, city of Pocatello Mayor’s Office, and local veterinary offices. For more information on Pocatello Animal Services or to view adoptable pets, visit the website or like the department’s Facebook page.
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