Getting Started with Homesteading in the Dead of Winter (and Why It’s Not as Crazy as Folks Think)

Hey y’all,

Let’s get real for a second. Most folks think you’ve gotta wait for spring to start a homestead. But if we’d waited for perfect timing, Olney Ranch would still be a Pinterest board and a pipe dream. So if you’re eyeing that patch of land or dreaming of a backyard full of chickens- even in January- this post is for you.

Why Winter Isn’t the Enemy

First off, winter gets a bad rap. Sure, the ground’s frozen and the mornings bite, but there’s a secret upside: you get to slow down and plan. Winter forces you to focus on what matters: like water systems, animal shelters, and fire preparedness (especially after living through our first Nevada wildfire… ask us how we know 😅).

What You Can Actually DO Right Now

  • Map It Out: Grab a hot mug (artisan, of course), your notebook, and start sketching. Where will your garden go? Where’s the best spot for animal pens? Use this time to dream big, then break it down into doable steps.
  • Start Small Projects Indoors: Bread baking, pasta making, and learning new skills don’t care about the weather. These “inside jobs” build confidence and fill your pantry.
  • Tackle Paperwork: Supply lists, floor plans, land plans- handle the boring stuff now, so you’re ready to roll when the thaw hits.
  • Connect with Community: Join local groups, hop onto our Facebook page, or just reply to this post with your wildest homestead questions. Winter is the best time to build your support network.

Real Talk: What We Wish We’d Known

We started Olney Ranch with a shovel, a stubborn streak, and not much else. If we could go back, here’s what we’d tell ourselves:
  • Don’t wait for “enough” money, time, or sunshine. You’ll never have it. Start with what you’ve got.
  • Fire breaks and water storage matter—like, a lot. Winter is prime time to plan for emergencies.
  • You’ll mess up. That’s part of the fun. Every mistake is a lesson (and a story for the blog).

Let’s Hear from You!

What’s your biggest homestead dream, or your wildest winter project? Drop a comment below or tag us on Facebook. We’re all about cheering each other on, swapping tips, and keeping it real.
Stay warm, stay stubborn, and remember: you don’t have to wait for spring to start building the life you want.
— Matt, Kristy and Vinnie
Olney Ranch

0 comments

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.