Parker Ranch

Working Ranch

Parker Ranch originated as a cattle ranch more than 160 years ago, having been founded with two acres of land in 1847 by John Palmer Parker. Today, with approximately 150,000 acres of land, the Ranch is a diverse company whose businesses include cattle ranching, visitor activities, commercial leasing and real estate holdings. Between 30,000 and 35,000 head of Angus and Charolais cattle produce USDA choice beef marketed under two branded beef programs called Ranchers Renaissance and Country Natural Beef.

Parker Ranch is one of the largest cattle ranches in the United States. Approximately 90% of Parker Ranch’s lands are utilized for cattle grazing and related activities.

The Ranch contains 850 miles of fence, 300 paddocks and 15 corrals. The water system consists of 175 miles of pipeline, 4 reservoirs, 145 water tanks, 40 ground tanks, three water dams and 650 water troughs. Annual beef production of the cow-calf operation is in excess of 12 million pounds.

In the Big Island’s tropical climate, cattle graze year-round from the great plain between Kamuela and Mauna Kea, on the Mauna Kea volcano itself, and leeward towards Kohala. Cattle are under the watchful gaze of Parker Ranch Paniolo and their more than 125 fine horses. A combination of thoroughbred and quarter horse, they are bred for speed and utility.

Visit Parker Ranch Visitor Center and Museum to find out more about Parker Ranch and the Parker Family. Take a horseback ride or ATV ride. Or go to our Events page for information about rodeos and other ranch events.