About Sirius Ranch
Sirius Ranch is a private multi-use ranch and arena tucked into the stark beauty of the high desert near Apple Valley, California. This ranch offers a large indoor arena and outdoor fields amid Joshua trees and open skies – one source describes it as “private land that is nestled in a beautiful remote desert valley near Apple Valley, CA” (www.ticketfairy.com). Originally developed for dog agility and equestrian training, it has become notable for its unique desert setting as well. Visitors note the “serene camping experience” and “stunning views of the desert landscape” with starry nights and Joshua trees (www.mapquest.com). The name “Sirius” evokes the brightest star, and the ranch’s clear night skies and wide-open terrain make it a special spot for stargazing and outdoor events. While not a historic landmark in the usual sense, it has local importance: it hosts dog-agility trials, seminars, and in recent years even electronic music festivals that draw audiences seeking an otherworldly desert vibe. In short, Sirius Ranch is a rugged high-desert venue with an indoor arena and outdoor grounds, famous locally for its natural setting and flexible event spaces (www.eventsfy.com) (www.mapquest.com).
Events and Programming
Sirius Ranch hosts a surprising mix of events. Most regularly, it is rented out for dog agility and equestrian events, training classes, and seminars. (The facility is typically booked by contacting the owners via email with your event details and dates (www.siriusranch.com).) For example, the ranch has held official dog-agility trials, including United Kennel Club (UKI) competitions. It is common to see agility practice sessions on the outdoor field during summer months (www.siriusranch.com). Aside from animal-sport events, Sirius Ranch made headlines for multi-day music festivals. In 2021 it hosted an EDM festival called Metatronica (May 28–30, 2021) that drew hundreds of ravers and DJs from across California (www.ticketfairy.com). More recently, the “Off The Grid Campout” electronic music and arts festival is scheduled there (e.g. Oct 2024 and Oct 2025 events). These festivals feature multiple stages, sound systems, and immersive activities; for example the 2025 lineup promises art cars, interactive installations, fire performers, a healing sanctuary, yoga, a marketplace and more (www.eventsincalifornia.com). The ranch’s schedule is ad-hoc: big public events happen only occasionally (typically late spring or fall), while leased private events and competitions can occur year-round. Recurring or annual events have included agility trials in spring/fall, and any booking from dog clubs or instructors is welcome if insurance and waivers are provided (www.siriusranch.com). In summary, expect a mix of active-sport events (agility, trials) and underground concerts or festivals depending on the season, with ticketed festivals happening less frequently than the day-to-day canine events.
Tickets and Booking
Because Sirius Ranch is privately owned and event-based, there is no permanent box office or single ticket seller. For public events (like concerts or festivals), tickets are sold through the event’s promoters or their websites. For instance, the Metatronica 2021 festival had its own ticket site (and was 21+ only) (www.ticketfairy.com). Another example: the Off The Grid music campout sold tickets (starting around $30 in 2025) via its organizer’s site (www.eventsincalifornia.com). In general, major events at Sirius Ranch go on sale weeks or months in advance online – often as general admission ground passes plus optional VIP or camping upgrades. Some large events may even offer limited at-gate sales if not sold-out, but the safe approach is to buy in advance. There is no year-round master schedule on the ranch’s site; instead, check festival/event listings (or the ranch’s Facebook page) for upcoming shows. Note that daily use of the arena for personal or club events is by reservation: to rent the facility, you must email the ranch (email published on their site) with your dates and plans (www.siriusranch.com). The owners then confirm availability (within 48–72 hours). For popular community events (agility trials, etc.), sign up on affiliated organizers’ schedules. In short, buy concert tickets through official event pages, and reserve arena time by emailing the ranch well ahead of desired dates (www.siriusranch.com). Ticket prices vary widely: small local shows might be free or under $20, while a three-day festival with camping was advertised “from $30” for a base pass (www.eventsincalifornia.com) (with multi-day or VIP tiers costing much more).
Seating and Layout
Sirius Ranch’s main indoor arena is an open-plan covered structure – think a large horse-riding or agility barn with a dirt floor – so there are no fixed tiered seats like in a theater. Typically, seating and viewing depend on the event setup. For dog agility or horse shows, portable crowd barriers and fold-out chairs might be arranged around the competition ring. For concerts or festivals, portable staging and sound rigs take one end of the arena (or a cleared area outside), and people stand or bring their own chairs. In general, most events are general-admission: visitors watch from the ground or occasional bench seating. A few bleachers may be brought in on the side walls, but it’s mostly floor viewing. Acoustically, the metal-roofed arena can be echoey, so major music events use very powerful sound systems – for example, Metatronica set up a 30,000-watt stack (QSC/Crown amplifiers powering six EAW tops and a dozen subs) for one stage (www.ticketfairy.com). Lighting also varies – overhead arena lights give basic illumination, but concert productions bring lasers, spotlights, or LED displays. Outdoors, the layout is even simpler: a flat fenced field for camping or performance areas, with stages and tents placed as needed. In summary, expect an open floor with modular arrangements: front-row or floor areas for best views (and sound), and mobile seating or blankets placed on the edges. There are no “bad seats” labels – it’s more about proximity to the stage, whether indoors or under the open sky.
Getting There and Parking
Sirius Ranch is quite remote, so driving is essential. The official address is on Chicago Road in Apple Valley, CA 92307 (San Bernardino County) (www.eventsincalifornia.com). In practice, visitors reach it via Highway 18 (Bear Valley Road) and local desert roads. From the west (Los Angeles/san Bernardino) take I-15 north to the Bear Valley Road exit and follow local roads into Apple Valley; from the east (Victorville), head west on CA-18. The ranch sits off a dirt feeder road (Chicago Rd) in the middle of town, so the last few miles are on quiet unmarked roads. GPS/map apps will get you there by searching “Sirius Ranch, Apple Valley.” Visible landmarks are minimal – just high desert terrain. There is no public transit that goes near the ranch, so rideshare or taxi options are limited out here; plan to drive. Once on site, parking is usually on grassy or gravel lots prepared for events. Large event staff direct cars to designated lots and camping spots when gates open (www.ticketfairy.com). Parking is generally free for event attendees, but spaces can fill up at big concerts – so try to arrive early. Preferred drop-off points (Uber/Lyft) are by the entrance gates. During multi-day festivals, people often camp with their vehicles nearby. On ordinary days (when the facility is used for training or smaller events), parking is in the arena’s fenced lot. Always heed the staff’s directions: at festivals, security will guide you to the correct areas. In short: expect a drive on desert roads, ample on-site parking arranged by event staff (www.ticketfairy.com), and minimal or no public transit access.
Inside the Venue
On entering Sirius Ranch, you’ll notice a rustic, utilitarian setup. There are no fancy lobbies – just functional entrances into a large show barn or fenced grounds. Entry procedures can vary by event. For big concerts/festivals, expect a check-in line where staff scan tickets and perform security (bag checks are standard) (www.ticketfairy.com). One festival notice warned that gates open in mid-afternoon with several stages of check-in for tickets, COVID checks and security screening (www.ticketfairy.com). Prohibited items are strictly searched for (see below). Once inside, you’ll find porta-potties placed around (no running water inside the arena) (www.ticketfairy.com). The barn itself has basic overhead lighting, and the concrete floor around the rings/arena edges. There are typically no concessions unless it’s a larger festival, so plan to bring your own water and snacks. Keep in mind utilities are minimal: one festival note explicitly cautioned that “the event is supplied with porta potties but there is no running water or electricity” – so attendees should bring all their own water, coolers, and packing-out supplies (www.ticketfairy.com). In the evenings or overnight, electricity is only available if you’ve paid for a powered camping spot (otherwise expect no power outlets). For events that allow on-site lodging, the main ranch house has a handful of guest rooms (each around $60/night) and shared facilities. These rooms include private bathrooms with tub/shower and a fully equipped kitchen (fridge, oven, stove, microwave, dishwasher, dishes, etc.) (www.siriusranch.com) and a communal living area with TV (www.siriusranch.com). However, when simply visiting for a daytime or evening show, you won’t typically use the living rooms – those are for multi-day events or clinic participants who reserved a room. Merch tables, if any, will usually be set up near the entrance or each stage during concerts. Throughout the venue, signage is sparse, so follow staff guidance. Overall, inside Sirius Ranch feel free-form and working-class: think camping/military style rather than polished concert hall. Expect staff directions to find restrooms (portable toilets) and vendors, and bring what you need (water, snacks, clothing) for a rugged, DIY environment (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.siriusranch.com).
Nearby Amenities
The ranch sits in a sparsely populated part of Apple Valley. There are no shops or restaurants right next door. The nearest services are a short drive away along the main highway (Bear Valley Road/Highway 18) through Apple Valley town center. If you have time before an event, consider stopping in town. Common nearby options include fast-food (McDonald’s, Subway, Starbucks), casual diners (like Denny’s or the Red Robin by Hwy 18), and convenience stores. For groceries or supplies (water, sunscreen etc.), the best bet is any neighborhood market in the Apple Valley area – plan to pick those up before heading to the ranch. If planning an overnight stay in town, Apple Valley has several motels and budget hotels: chains like Holiday Inn Express, Best Western Desert Villa or similar are typically found near the Bear Valley commercial strip (a few miles from the ranch). A few local inns and vacation rentals may be listed on lodging sites. However, visitors often simply camp on-site, as the ranch offers on-site camping (basic spots for $15/night; electric spots $20/night (www.siriusranch.com)) which is more convenient than driving back. In short, don’t expect hotels or nightlife right at the venue – fill up on gas and groceries on Hwy 18 in Apple Valley first, or plan to sleep/camp at the ranch itself after a show.
What Makes This Venue Special
Sirius Ranch’s charm comes largely from its unique high-desert character. Architecturally it’s nothing flashy – a simple covered arena and open field – but the setting gives it soul. The surrounding landscape of Joshua trees and vast sky make it feel like you’re “escaping” everyday life (as one description put it, “a surreal desert landscape on the fringes of Apple Valley” (www.eventsfy.com)). By day or night, the views are panoramic; at night the Milky Way can practically be seen with the naked eye. For performers and festival setters, this means an inspiring “canvas” – events can include art installations and even glow lights into the landscape. For local users (agility clubs, riders, hiking groups), it’s one of the only facilities of its size around, so it serves a strong niche role. Legendary moments aren’t exactly household-names, but fans remember the 2021 Metatronica rave as a wild example of a desert dance party, and others look forward to the annual “Off The Grid” camp-out festival co-produced by True Entertainment. The venue’s ethos is very do-it-yourself: organizers stress “Leave No Trace” camping and communal respect (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). There’s even a kind of culture around it – for example, DJs who’ve played here rave about the unique sound setup (one stage used 30,000 watts and giant LED acrobats (www.ticketfairy.com)). In short, the ranch is special as a blank-slate desert site: it’s rugged, unpretentious, and adaptable. Artists and audiences appreciate it for its vast open space and “cosmic night sky” ambience (www.eventsfy.com), while locals value it as a friendly off-grid community hub. Both riders and ravers end up loving the same thing: a true “leave your shoes at the gate” desert experience with a spirited, friendly vibe.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Sirius Ranch is somewhat rustic, so accessibility is limited. The main arena and rooms are ground-level, so mobility-impaired visitors might manage the main building, but the outdoor terrain can be uneven and unpaved. If you have special access needs, it’s best to contact the organizers in advance for guidance (some events may rent ADA porta-potties or have staff assist).
What to Bring: Always come prepared for desert conditions. Bring plenty of water (there is no drinking water on-site (www.ticketfairy.com)), sun protection (hats, sunglasses, sunscreen), and layers for temperature swings (hot days, cold nights). If attending a multi-day festival, pack camping gear, flashlights, and personal supplies. Some events advise “pack it in, pack it out” with waste bins used only for trash (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). Earplugs can be wise if there will be loud music. Also bring food or cash: small onsite events sometimes lack vendors, while larger concerts will have food trucks or concessions (see the “Events” note about vendors (www.eventsincalifornia.com)).
Restricted Items: Plan to pass through security at the entrance. Commonly banned items include glass bottles (bring drinks in plastic or cans), any weapons or firearms (strictly forbidden) (www.ticketfairy.com), illegal drugs, fireworks, and the like (www.ticketfairy.com). Also no open flames or campfires are allowed – only designated fire pits (if any) are provided (www.ticketfairy.com). ATVs and off-road vehicles are not permitted on-site (www.ticketfairy.com). Photography is usually fine for personal use, but professional cameras or drones may be restricted depending on the event, so check rules. There is no law enforcement at routine agility classes, but for big concerts the event security enforces these bans (they explicitly list firearms, glass, etc. and will search bags (www.ticketfairy.com)).
Age Restrictions: Event age rules vary. For example, the Metatronica electronic music festival was 21+ (www.ticketfairy.com). Other festivals like Off The Grid are often 18+ (or may allow older teens with adult supervision), and agility/training events are usually all-ages. Always check the specific event page for an age limit. If you’re bringing children to a small dog or horse show, they are generally welcome (and dogs must be on leash). But for night-time or campground events, keep an eye on curfews – often music stops by 7am every day (www.ticketfairy.com) and campsites close in the early afternoon for cleanup (www.ticketfairy.com).
Weather and Timing: Apple Valley weather can change quickly. Sunny days call for sunblock and hydration; spring and fall nights can be quite cool (bring jackets/blankets). Wind and dust are possible, so eye protection is wise if you plan to camp or sit on the ground. Check forecasts before you go, and note that the ranch is fully outdoors except for the arena roof – plan accordingly. If attending an event, arrive early: gates may open hours before the show starts (as one event did at 3pm) and late arrivals might face long queues or limited parking (www.ticketfairy.com). For multi-day events, note that Monday noon often marks the cleanup deadline (campers must leave by 1pm on Monday in that example (www.ticketfairy.com)).
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t underestimate how remote this place is. Bring cash and fully charge phones, because cell coverage can be spotty in the desert. Many visitors forget a flashlight or jacket and regret it overnight. Also remember that cell service may not be reliable at the site itself, so download directions or a map offline. Finally, heed any posted instructions: e.g. weigh your vehicle if there’s a system, fill out waivers if needed, and always "pack it out." The ranch and event organizers stress a clean-up ethic (the “Leave No Trace” note at a Metatronica event is a reminder) (www.ticketfairy.com).
Frequently Asked Questions
What kinds of events are held at Sirius Ranch?
Sirius Ranch hosts mostly private dog/agility competitions, training seminars, and the occasional public festival. Dog agility trials and horse clinics happen year-round (booked by local clubs). A few times per year it’s a concert or camping music festival (e.g. electronic dance events like Metatronica or Off The Grid). Check event calendars for concerts; all agility/bookings are by direct reservation.
How do I buy tickets for a show at Sirius Ranch?
There’s no central box office – each event handles its own tickets. Typically, concert/festival tickets are sold online through the promoter’s site, often well in advance. For example, the 2021 festival sold prepaid passes (21+ only) (www.ticketfairy.com). Dog agility trials sometimes have nominal registration fees by the club. Always check the specific event or festival website; occasionally a small number of door tickets may be sold if available. For arena use (non-ticketed), you must email the ranch to reserve a time (they’ll confirm by email) (www.siriusranch.com).
What are the parking and access options?
Driving is the only practical way to reach Sirius Ranch. It’s on Chicago Road in Apple Valley (remote, off Highway 18), with no public transit nearby. On arrival, event staff guide cars to onsite parking or camping areas (www.ticketfairy.com). Parking is open lot style (dirt or grass). During big events, arrive early to get a spot. Rideshare drop-offs can be made at the entrance. There is typically no parking fee, but large events may have a parking pass included in your ticket.
What should I wear and bring?
Dress for the desert: comfortable outdoor clothes, sturdy shoes, and layers for temperature swings. Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and a flashlight or jacket for evening. Importantly, pack plenty of water and snacks, since the site has none (one event notice explicitly warned “no running water” on site (www.ticketfairy.com)). If camping, bring all gear (tent, bedding, lantern). Also consider earplugs for loud concerts, and a trash bag – events are carry-in/carry-out style (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com).
Are there seating or VIP sections?
No fixed seating exists at Sirius Ranch. Most events are general admission picnic-style. At dog shows or admissions, folding chairs line the ring; at concerts, people stand on dirt floor or bring chairs/blankets. There typically is not a permanent VIP area, but some festivals sell limited VIP viewing areas or front-of-stage sections. For the best view, plan to get close to the stage or ring – there are no reserved seats, just open space.
What items are NOT allowed at Sirius Ranch events?
Events at Sirius Ranch typically ban outside alcohol, weapons, and illicit items. For example, one festival notice explicitly listed NO firearms, drugs, fireworks or glass bottles (www.ticketfairy.com). Open flames are prohibited (only staff-managed fire pits allowed) (www.ticketfairy.com). ATVs/UTVs are also banned on site (www.ticketfairy.com). Expect every bag to be checked at the gate. If in doubt, assume anything dangerous or messy is disallowed and leave them behind (e.g. coolers with glass, fireworks, large weapons).
Are there age restrictions?
Age rules depend on the event. Dance music festivals have been 21+ (the Metatronica 2021 event was 21+ (www.ticketfairy.com)). Others like family agility shows welcome all ages. Always check the event details: if it’s an all-night rave or camping festival, they often require 18+ or 21+. If you plan to bring minors, verify early – for daytime dog events it’s usually fine, but nighttime events may strictly enforce age limits.
Is Sirius Ranch wheelchair accessible?
The venue is rustic. The main arena is ground-level (no steps), so a wheelchair can roll in the barn area, but the floor is packed dirt. Outdoor camping areas are uneven desert ground. Restroom facilities (portable toilets) are basic and not fully ADA-equipped. Lodging rooms in the main house have ground-floor bathrooms (www.siriusranch.com). If you require full ADA compliance, it’s best to contact the ranch or event organizer ahead to discuss accommodations. In general, assume standard rural-desert accessibility (some ramps, mostly flat areas close to the arena).
Are dogs or pets allowed?
Dogs are central to this venue (it’s built for dog sports), so pets are welcome at agility/training events on a leash. However, for concert/festival days you should check event policy – some large music events may forbid pets due to noise and crowds. In general, if you bring a pet for a dog-agility show, they must be leashed and you clean up after them. No farm animals besides certified service animals are typically allowed.
Are there food options inside?
On normal days, Sirius Ranch does not operate a restaurant or concession stand – it’s essentially private property. At large events or festivals held at the ranch, food and drink are usually available from on-site vendors or food trucks. For smaller bookings, you should bring food with you (lunch or snacks). The main building has a full kitchen for overnight lodging guests (www.siriusranch.com), but that isn’t open to day visitors. Plan ahead with water, snacks or a packed meal if nothing is scheduled.
Is Wi-Fi or cell service available?
Expect minimal connectivity. There is no public Wi-Fi broadcast from the ranch. Cell phone reception in that high-desert location may be weak or spotty depending on your carrier. If you need internet, it’s safest to assume you won’t have it onsite – download directions or tickets ahead of time.
What is the capacity of the arena?
There is no official published capacity, as it varies by configuration. The indoor arena is large (hundreds of feet long) and during festivals it has held well over a thousand people when the outdoor grounds are used. For seated events it’s maybe a few hundred. In practice, capacity is controlled by fire code and the event organizers. If attending a ticketed show, assume it could sell out to 1,000+ if camping is allowed. For smaller indoor shows or clinics, expect a few dozen to a few hundred max.
Does Sirius Ranch have a weather policy?
Because it’s mostly outdoors, Sirius Ranch events are subject to weather. Light rain might not stop an agility show (if the barn is open-sided) but heavy storms could. Festivals are often rain or shine – you’ll need a covered tent or plan for mud. Hot summer months can exceed 100°F; winter nights can drop near freezing. There is no formal nap-shelter, so always check conditions and come prepared for high desert weather.
How early should I arrive for a show?
It pays to arrive early at Sirius Ranch. For major events, gates often open 2–3 hours before headliners, and parking can fill up. Early arrival means better parking and camping spots. For agility meets, arrive in time to sign in as instructed. A late arrival might mean parking farther or missing the start of the first race. In general, plan to be at least 30–60 minutes before any event starts (or when your tickets say gates open). Arriving on time also helps you get oriented (find restrooms, food/vendors) before the crowd comes in.
Can I buy tickets at the door (door sales)?
Occasionally, events may offer a limited number of tickets at the gate if not sold out. For big festivals it’s safer to get tickets online in advance, but smaller shows might allow walking up. If door sales are possible, it will be announced on the event’s page. There is no general “box office” at the ranch, so any at-gate sale is managed by the event’s staff, often subject to capacity.
Are age minimums enforced?
Yes, if the event specifies one. Festivals like the EDM campouts usually enforce “21+ only” or “18+” rules on entry, and will check IDs at the gate. Family-friendly day events generally don’t have formal age checks. Always check the ticket warning: for example, Metatronica was 21+ (www.ticketfairy.com), so no minors were admitted. If under the stated age, entry is not allowed.
What is the cancellation or refund policy?
Cancellation/refund terms depend on the event organizer. The ranch itself does not sell tickets, so it has no universal policy. Generally, standard practice is that ticket refunds and cancellation notices follow the event promoter’s rules. Often, tickets are non-refundable unless the event is outright canceled or rescheduled. For dog-agility or training bookings, the ranch may have its own terms (check email confirmation). Whenever in doubt, review the ticket/vendor site or contact the event directly as Sirius Ranch management won’t handle third-party tickets.
Are pets allowed on site?
Pets (especially dogs) are the reason this place exists, so well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome during agility events. For large music festivals, pets are generally discouraged except service animals. In all cases, pet owners must clean up after their animals. If you’re not sure, ask the event organizer – often dog shows allow pets, but concerts at the ranch might forbid all outside animals for safety.
Are smoking, alcohol, or drugs allowed?
Smoking (tobacco or cannabis) policies depend on the event. Some outdoor festivals may have designated smoking areas, but everywhere strictly bans open flames (no campfires) (www.ticketfairy.com). Alcohol is often controlled: at music festivals you might only be allowed to bring your own beer/wine and consume it in a designated camping area, or it may be sold on-site. Illicit drugs are always forbidden and party security will enforce that. Always follow the specific event’s policy – if you see “Legal**” on a ticket banner (e.g. “21+, no CIRA”) that means even alcohol isn’t allowed except in certain zones. At agility events there’s usually no alcohol policy, as it’s a daytime sporting context. In short, no illegal drugs at all, and treat alcohol like any regulated venue would (knowing your event’s rules).