Where was Lonesome Dove filmed?
1989
City Locations
Brackettville (USA), Santo Domingo Pueblo (USA), Angel Fire (USA), Black Lake (USA), Santa Fe (USA), Del Rio (USA), San Ildefonso Pueblo (USA), Austin (USA), Galisteo (USA)
Location Types
Ranch, House
Location Styles
Cabin, Dated, Retro, Ranch Style, Rustic
About Lonesome Dove
Lonesome Dove is an Emmy-winning American western miniseries about two aging Texas Rangers who set out on a cattle drive to Montana. Augustus McCrae (Robert Duvall) and Woodrow Call (Tommy Lee Jones) are old friends with very different personalities, but they have a dream to share one last great adventure.
Along the way, they meet many colorful characters, ranging from Indians to former adversaries, who provide insight and comic relief. Through their journey, they discover more than just their destination; they find friendship and a deeper understanding of themselves and life.
The production of Lonesome Dove was an epic undertaking that took six months to film in multiple locations across the United States. The four-part miniseries drew an estimated 26 million viewers when it aired on CBS from February 5th to 8th in 1989. It went on to win seven Emmy Awards plus four Golden Globes for Outstanding Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television, along with numerous other awards and nominations. The success led to the release of several sequels and prequels.
The premiere episode aired on 5th February 1989 and soared to the top of the Nielsen ratings for that week. It garnered an impressive 28.5 rating, with an estimated 44 million viewers tuning in. This remarkable achievement made it the highest-rated movie or miniseries of the entire season, surpassing other notable hits like The Karen Carpenter Story.
Even the first episode of the highly anticipated miniseries War and Remembrance could not come close, with a rating of 21.8. The fourth installment of the series continued its reign in the ratings for the following week, scoring a strong 27.3 rating. Parts 2 and 3 also performed well, landing in 8th and 4th place respectively.
Lonesome Dove Locations
Various locations across the Southwestern United States provided a backdrop for Lonesome Dove. The Moody Ranch, approximately seven miles south of Del Rio, Texas, provided the primary filming location. This area, set against open plains and vistas, is known for its rugged beauty, with rolling hills and mesas dotting the landscape.
In addition to Moody Ranch, the production crew used ranches in New Mexico and elsewhere in Texas to capture stunning images that add a sense of realism to the show.
A trip to the Lonesome Dove filming locations would certainly be worthwhile for anyone wanting to experience the unique atmosphere created by this beautiful region. One could explore the prairie views from high points on the mesas or take a guided tour of historic ranch buildings used during filming.
With Del Rio near the Mexican border, nearby attractions, including the Big Bend National Park and Amistad Reservoir, offer breathtaking hikes and camping opportunities. A visit to these locations featured in Lonesome Dove can provide an unforgettable journey into a land filled with wild landscapes and rich culture, all set amongst one of the most beloved American television shows!
Fun Fact:
Thomas Haden Church was offered the role of Jake Spoon in Lonesome Dove based solely on his performance in the 1988 movie Tombstone - even though he had no previous acting experience!
In the Lonesome Dove scene in Lonesome Dove
Moody Ranch Outfitters, Inc., 4609 Co Rd 190, Anderson, TX 77830, United States
Experience the wild world of Texas Rangers in the late 1870s. Join Captain Augustus "Gus" McCrae (Robert Duvall), a charismatic charmer who has known the pain of loss, and Captain Woodrow F. Call (Tommy Lee Jones), a stoic and dedicated leader. Together, they run a stable in the arid settlement of Lonesome Dove, right on the banks of the Rio Grande. Get ready for an unforgettable journey along the Texas border.
Moody Ranch Outfitters, Inc. is a renowned hunting and fishing outfitter in Anderson, Texas. Additionally, they provide exciting Bass Fishing excursions on their expansive grounds. With 5,000 acres along the Navasota River Bottom near Navasota, TX, Moody Ranch Outfitters offers excellent opportunities for Texas Duck Hunts in diverse environments.
Their lodge can accommodate up to 22 guests and provides a comfortable and convenient base for hunters and anglers. Are you planning a trip to 4609 Co Rd 190 in Anderson but do not know how to get there?
One option is to take a scenic drive and enjoy the sights. You can head north on Highway 59 until you reach Co Rd 190 and turn left. Alternatively, take Highway 105 east until Highway 90, then turn left and head north on Co Rd 190.
Stampede of horses scene in Lonesome Dove
Alamo Village, Highway 674, Brackettville, Texas, USA
A dramatic stampede of horses occurs through the town of Lonesome Dove. This intense sequence showcases the raw power and energy of the galloping horses as they thunder through the streets, creating a thrilling and visually captivating moment in the series.
Alamo Village is a historic movie set and tourist attraction north of Brackettville, Texas, in the United States. The first Texan movie location, constructed in 1957, gained fame as the set for John Wayne's film "The Alamo." The village features a replica of the 1836 Alamo mission/fortress, making it a unique destination for history enthusiasts and film buffs.
While Alamo Village is no longer open to the public, the actual Alamo, in downtown San Antonio, remains a popular destination, attracting visitors from around the world. The Alamo Village, however, still holds significance for its contribution to the film industry and its portrayal of the historic city.
The Alamo Village in Brackettville, Texas, offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience life on the range. But how do you get there? Easy! Begin your journey in San Antonio, where you'll drive west on I-10 for roughly 100 miles before turning off onto US-90 West. From there, it is a leisurely 35-minute drive to Alamo Village.
Montana scene in Lonesome Dove
Black Lake, New Mexico 87722, USA
Join Gus (Robert Duvall) and Call (Tommy Lee Jones) on an epic cattle drive through the harsh badlands of Wyoming and Montana. But when destitute Native Americans steal their horses, a thrilling pursuit ensues. Tragedy strikes as a misunderstanding leads to the fatal injury of a beloved companion. Experience the gripping moments as Deets takes his last breath in the arms of Gus and Call.
Nestled amidst the picturesque landscape of New Mexico sits a hidden gem - Black Lake. This stunning lake is a true wonder of nature, offering breathtaking views and a tranquil escape from the turmoil of everyday life. The crystal-clear water reflects the towering trees and the vibrant hues of the sky, creating a surreal panorama.
Dense woods and pristine vegetation surround Black Lake, enhancing its beauty. Whether you seek solitude in nature or are an adventurous explorer, Black Lake offers something for everyone. So, if you want a serene retreat to reconnect with nature, pack your bags and head to Black Lake, New Mexico.
Start by taking the Geronimo Trail, an unpaved road that winds through the rugged wilderness. The route is not for the faint of heart, but the stunning scenery will leave you breathless.
Conclusion
Several locations across the American Southwest provided settings for the production of Lonesome Dove. The Moody Ranch, seven miles south of Del Rio, Texas, provided the primary filming location.
Other ranches in New Mexico and Texas captured the sweeping beauty of the region. The series tells the story of two former Texas Rangers, Gus and Call, and other inhabitants of a small town in Texas, who join a cattle drive to Montana. They experience adventure and danger on their way through varied landscapes, from dusty plains to rugged mountains.
They confront vast vistas of spectacular Western scenery that have changed very little since the 19th century. Viewers get a sense of the early days of America's western frontier through this incredible panorama.