About us

Chesebro Canyon Ranch was originally owned by Robin “Bob” Burns, a well-known American musical comedian and the inventor of the bazooka, which would later become synonymous with a shoulder rocket launcher during World War II.

Bob Burns ventured from Arkansas to Hollywood, where he appeared in various radio and movie features alongside stars like Bob Hope and Bing Crosby. He had a penchant for the “cowboy” lifestyle and acquired several rural properties, including what is now Chesebro Canyon Ranch. Upon his passing, he left the property to his 16-year-old son, Steven Burns.

Steven Burns, though not an equestrian himself, had a passion for trees and cultivated a diverse collection of non-indigenous trees on the property. Notably, the Cedar Red Wood grove along the north side of the jumping arena is a testament to his enthusiasm for arboriculture. He primarily leased the property to boarding operators, with The Pony Club being one of the most well-known.

In 2015, the property changed hands, becoming part of Four Winds Ranch. Under the stewardship of Marie Sebastian, several equestrian features were introduced to the property. During the Woolsey fire of 2018, she played a crucial role in rescuing 85 horses from the ranch, which had suffered significant damage.

The ranch faced multiple challenges, including the devastating fires and the COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted its operations. In March 2023, the property was acquired by Robert and Jennifer Lopata. They wasted no time initiating the restoration and enhancement of the ranch, renaming it Chesebro Canyon Ranch in honor of the Chesebro Canyon Trail that traverses the property.

Chesebro Canyon Ranch is now in its early days of transformation into a world-class equestrian facility. It is dedicated to serving the passion of equestrians and the well-being of their horses for years to come.