Wyoming ranch once owned by ‘Gunsmoke’ writer Ron Bishop seeks $8 million

Four Bear Ranch, a 1,246-acre mountain retreat and hunting property once owned by “Gunsmoke� writer Ron Bishop, is for sale in Cody, Wyo., for $7.95 million.

Set within a basin adjoining the Shoshone National Forest, the ranch has art and literary ties that precede Bishop’s ownership. Printmaker, painter and sculptor Olive Fell once owned the property, which has a guesthouse named for the noted artist. Adding to its pedigree, author Ernest Hemingway purportedly visited the ranch on a number of occasions.

At the heart of the property is the main house, a modern structure designed in the 1970s by late architect Adrian Malone. The 6,800-square-foot residence was built to take in the view and takes in the dramatic mountain setting from every room. Decking extends the living space outdoors and is heated in certain areas.

A caretaker’s residence, a log-style dance hall/saloon and a steel barn are among the other structures.

Various game including elk, deer, turkey and upland birds reside within the rugged area. Natural springs fill various ponds and lakes, and a mountain stream also runs through the property.

Bishop, who died in 1988 at 66, was described by The Times in his obituary as a maverick war hero, an outdoorsman and a conservationist. His writing was used for such episodic westerns as “Gunsmoke,� “Reckless Gun� and “The Red Pony.�

James H. Taylor of Hall and Hall holds the listing.

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Twitter: @NJLeitereg

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