Kevin's Catalog's Five-Star Couples’ Hunting Adventure at Sweetgrass at Thunderbasin

When Rick and Deirdre, the gracious owners of Sweetgrass at Thunderbasin, invited us (Kevin and Kathleen of Kevin’s Catalog) to co-host a couples’ hunting trip at their spectacular lodge, we knew it would be something special. What we didn’t anticipate was just how extraordinary the experience would be. From start to finish, the trip was five stars in every way—and what began as a gathering of 15 couples (and one bachelor, who kept us laughing the entire time) quickly turned into a circle of friends.

Arrival & First Impressions

The adventure began the moment Jeff greeted us at the airport. With his easygoing personality and knowledge of the Thunderbasin area, he set the tone for what lay ahead. Upon arriving at the lodge, guests were immediately treated to first-class shooting opportunities, including their five-stand and sporting clays course.

That evening, cocktails at the Lodge kicked off our time together. Phil, the bartender, impressed everyone with his signature cocktails, delicious wine and lively hospitality. Dinner followed, an exquisite ranch-to-table feast featuring game, garden-fresh salads, and decadent desserts—all beautifully presented and setting the bar for the days to come.

Day One: Hunting, Spa Time & Kevin’s Trunk Show

Mornings at the Rendezvous began with a breakfast menu including home-made breads, ranch-raised sausage and bacon, fresh eggs, pancakes, and more, and coffee bar worth waking up early for.

Guests divided into three hunting groups, heading into the sweeping prairies and hill country for driven hunts and tower shoots over high-flying pheasants and chukars. Watching the beautiful Labradors work under the guidance of expert handlers was a highlight for many. Throughout our stay, Rick’s three lively Corgis were part of the fun, tagging along at activities. On the final morning, they even joined Group One in the field, flushing and retrieving. Meanwhile, others enjoyed ATV tours, horseback riding, and massages.

Kathleen hosted a Kevin’s trunk show in the pro shop, where guests could explore our collection alongside Sweetgrass’s own curated offerings. Kevin shipped in guns to share as well. Many of the hunters were already sporting Kevin’s apparel, which was especially meaningful for us, seeing our brand at work.

Lunches were an experience unto themselves—served in African safari-style tents. Each of the three tents was set differently, with table settings from kevinscatalog.com, placemats, cushions, cloth napkins, and napkin rings, all beautifully styled to reflect the sporting life. The menus changed daily, and each meal was as memorable as the last. The evening was  just as special, with cocktails at the Rendezvous, live country music, and ranch-to-table dinner and dessert.

Day Two: More Birds, More Laughter, More Memories

The second day brought another round of five-star breakfast choices and new activities for non-hunters, including a culinary garden tour and more horseback riding. Hunters rotated to fresh areas of the property, where the laughter of new friends echoed across the prairie.

That evening, we gathered for a Sundowner at the Chuckwagon, located high above the rolling hills. Guests rode up by truck or horseback, and the panoramic views took our breath away. The night unfolded with roping, axe-throwing, cocktails, and an extraordinary dinner as the sun set before everyone returned to the Rendezvous for fireside camaraderie and more cocktails.

Day Three: A Perfect Finale

Our final day of hunting brought yet another new location and abundant birds and others filled their morning with hiking, massages, etc. 

The finale began at The Covey, where Geronimo from Cervantes Winery in Sonoma Valley led a wine tasting that had everyone engaged and delighted. His passion for winemaking was matched by his impressive shooting skills, which our group had the pleasure of enjoying.

Dinner at The Covey was a fitting conclusion to an unforgettable trip: expertly prepared ranch-to-table cuisine, Deirdre’s beautifully set tables, and heartfelt toasts to our hosts. We ended with hugs, laughter, and promises to reunite, knowing this trip had created friendships that will last well beyond Thunderbasin.

Final Reflections

Every detail of our stay at Sweetgrass at Thunderbasin was flawless. The staff’s hospitality, Rick and Deirdre’s thoughtfulness, the stunning natural beauty, the exhilarating hunts, and the genuine camaraderie made this one of the most special trips we’ve ever experienced.

For us, the greatest takeaway wasn’t just the world-class hunting or five-star accommodations, it was the friendships forged and the joy of sharing this remarkable adventure with others who love the sporting life.