Today’s blog is a tribute to Hee Haw Valley located in Vista, California and previously owned by Bob Tupa. My research indicates the place was open from 1957 to 1971. I recently went online and noted a tribute to Hee Haw Valley from the Retro Dad and decided to blog about my own experience there. Unfortunately, I don’t have any photographs of the place to share.
I’m not sure of the time frame, but I visited the place during the 1960’s. Apparently, they, also, had a train ride but I don’t remember seeing that or riding on it.
However, I’ve never forgotten my burro ride there.
There were several burros or donkeys at Hee Haw Valley lined up waiting for riders. The burros were smaller than a pony and brownish-gray in color.
Burro Rides
For the burro rides, the ride operator selected the burro the child was to ride. The child was placed on the burro. The burro went two oval laps in a fenced off area and then the ride was finished.
I was placed on burro who, I believe, was named Molasses. I was thinking OK this ride is going to be real slow. Much to my amazement, the burro took off running as I dearly held on. That burro ran the entire two laps and I didn’t have a chance to catch my breath. The ride was over in a flash.
Some of the younger children were placed on slower burros so it took much longer to finish their rides.
I guess Molasses wanted to finish the ride quickly and then get his break.
Petting Zoo
Hee Haw Valley, also, had a petting zoo. I remember in the petting zoo, there was a hen with several baby chicks. We all petted and held the cute baby chicks. My mother really wanted to ask if any of the chicks were for sale. But, she changed her mind and put the baby chick down. Perhaps she realized a baby chick wasn’t going to be a good pet and probably wasn’t for sale.
Ending Notes on Hee Haw Valley
I wish I remembered more about our Hee Haw Valley trip. I believe our family only went one time but it left a lasting memory.
It was also the first and last time I ever went on a wild burro ride.
Thanks for the good memories Hee Haw Valley.
Source Sites: The Retro Dad.com, Wikipedia, and a-z animals online sites