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A gorgeous view of the Box 8 Ranch
Located at the end of Smith Drive is the Box 8 Ranch. The property has been in the Smith family for generations. The 25-acre property has been used primarily for agricultural use and open spaces.
Suzie Ketron and her son Chris Ketron along with Tracy Norton have recently been making many improvements to the property including the demolition of old corrals and removal of dead trees. As those improvements have been made the family has also worked to make repairs to the swimming pool and other out buildings. Their plan for the property is to open a campground, event venue and winter visitor RV park. The family is also using many of the rustic finds from the property clean up to construct property fences and a bar that was built for the back patio of their home.
Currently, many through hikers from the Arizona Trail and Grand Enchantment Trail utilize the dry camping services of the ranch. At this time they are opening their property to these short term uses for no charge as they finalize their overall property development plans. In addition to the dry camping they also offer corral rental, recreational vehicle storage and some storage units. Their long term plans include the planting of a vineyard which will eventually allow for a wine tasting room on the property along with full service RV spaces with electrical and dump station. Guests to the property have access to a private shower and bathroom, laundry room, gym and swimming pool. These will be some of the amenities guest will have available to them once the full service campground/RV park is open.
The family is working with Pinal County and the Town of Superior to process all required development plans, but for now the family offers the dry camping at no cost.
Their advice to fellow entrepreneurs and business owners: “Hire people who believe in your vision and mission,” said Chris. Suzie added, “Be persistent and do not give up.”
Mila Besich is a resident of Superior with two children. She volunteers for many local organizations. She is an experienced fundraiser and event planner for Copper Corridor Economic Development Coalition. She covers some of the area town councils and schools.
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