Rancho De Los Cerros represents a unique investment opportunity
TUCSON, AZ (April 11, 2025) — Nestled within the picturesque expanse of Catalina State Park, the historic Rancho De Los Cerros, at 13500 N Oracle Rd, is now available for sale. This unique property, the sole private enclave surrounded by the Catalina State Park and Coronado National Forest, is transforming an executive residence back into a thriving guest ranch, offering prospective owners a rare opportunity to own a piece of Arizona's rich history.
Ranch History:
1906-1909
The Ranch's history has been traced back to Jesus M. Elias, who lived on the land with his family in a tent under a mesquite tree. In 1907, Elias filed a homestead application, and the patent was granted on January 30, 1914. In 1909, he and his son, Andres, built the original two-room adobe house and dug the well to 110 feet in the center of the patio. The materials used were sunbaked adobe bricks made nearby. It had a dirt floor, a saguaro ribbed ceiling, and a mud roof about two feet thick with grass growing on top. A corner of one of the rooms had a hearth with an opening in the ceiling. Cooking and heating were done using an open fire in the hearth. During the years, Jesus and Andres lived in the house and farmed the level areas of the valley, raising corn, squash, beans, and peppers.
1928-1934
On June 14, 1928, Jesus sold the homestead to Charles Sutherland. The home still consisted of two 10-by-10-foot rooms. They removed the partition between the rooms and made it one large room, added space for the kitchen, built a fireplace in the corner where the original hearth was located, and installed a wood floor. Over the next few years, they continued to add to the house, building a patio wall in front with an archway entrance and a split-level bedroom and bath.
1935-1940s
In April 1934, the ranch was sold to Harold Elliott, who operated it as a guest ranch. Leslie Kalman, a frequent guest at the ranch, purchased the property in 1942. The ranch offered Eastern visitors an authentic experience. Guests could stay at the ranch for $265 per month, immersing themselves in the ranch lifestyle amidst the stunning backdrop of the Catalina Mountains.
1961-1980s
In 1961, Ranch De Los Cerros was donated to the YWCA, transforming it into a summer camp for young women. The camp operated for several decades, providing outdoor experiences until it was vacated in the early 1980s.
1985-A Vision for Revival
In 1985, David Hoffman discovered the abandoned property during a horseback ride through the Catalina State Park. He recognized its potential and purchased the 10-acre estate. Under Hoffman’s stewardship, Rancho De Los Cerros underwent extensive renovations. He added a 43-foot bell tower, stables, guest quarters, and conference areas. It was transformed into a premier venue for events and his personal residence. The estate became renowned for hosting events featuring notable entertainers like the Beach Boys. At its peak, events at the ranch hosted up to 800 guests, solidifying its reputation as a premier event destination.
What sets this ranch apart is its unparalleled location. As the only private property encircled by Catalina State Park, it offers unmatched privacy and immersion in nature. The ranch holds exclusive concessions to conduct trail rides on state and federal lands, providing guests direct access to the park's extensive trail network and the Sonoran Desert's breathtaking beauty.
From Private Residence Back to Income-Producing Guest Ranch
Rancho De Los Cerros is now being offered for sale. What sets this ranch apart is its unparalleled location. As the only private property encircled by Catalina State Park, it provides unmatched privacy and immersion in nature. The ranch holds exclusive concessions to conduct trail rides on state and federal lands, providing guests direct access to the park's extensive trail network and the Sonoran Desert's breathtaking beauty.
The current owner, Frank Chapman, who also owns the renowned Heart Six Ranch in Moran, Wyoming, has initiated the property's transition back into a profitable guest ranch. Heart Six Ranch, located just outside Grand Teton National Park and Bridger Teton National Forest, is a historic establishment over 100 years old, offering visitors a blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. Drawing from this experience, Chapman's vision for Rancho De Los Cerros includes creating an authentic guest ranch experience that leverages its unique location and historical significance. This unique property is also being offered as an event center.
A Rare Investment Opportunity
The sale of Rancho De Los Cerros represents a unique investment opportunity. Its rich history, distinctive architecture, and exclusive location make it a one-of-a-kind property in the Tucson area. The potential for income generation as a guest ranch, combined with its appeal to those seeking a private retreat amidst natural beauty, positions it as a highly desirable acquisition.
Prospective buyers are invited to explore this exceptional property and envision their role in continuing its legacy. For more information regarding the investment opportunity or to schedule a viewing, interested parties should contact the exclusive listing agents below:
Tom DeSollar, EMS, Arizona First Properties, LLC, Direct: 520-400-2732 Email: tom@azfirstprop.com
Batoun Herrington, CCIM, CPM, Branel Real Estate Company, LLC, Phone: 520-524-5248 Email: batoun@branelre.com