Daviess County CEO Cohort Discovers the Business Behind Lark Ranch. On Wednesday, October 7, 2026, the Daviess County CEO Cohort joined the Martin County CEO Cohort for a visit to Lark Ranch, where they met with owner Adam Lark to learn what it takes to build and sustain a successful seasonal business. The visit offered students an inside look at the creativity, planning, resilience, and relationship-building required to turn a fall attraction into a thriving enterprise.
Founded in Loogootee, Indiana, in 2001, Lark Ranch has grown considerably over the years. The business expanded to Greenfield in 2008 and recently added a third location in Lanesville. Today, Lark Ranch welcomes families looking for memorable fall experiences, offering attractions such as corn mazes, pumpkin patches, rides, and food stands.
Adam shared valuable lessons about the realities of entrepreneurship, including how to respond when things do not go according to plan. Reflecting on the tornado that struck the Loogootee location, he reminded students, “In business and in life you will have setbacks.” He explained that adversity reveals character, and people often pay close attention to how business owners respond when faced with difficult circumstances.
Rather than allowing setbacks to define the future, Adam encouraged students to remain creative, broaden their perspectives, and focus on what lies ahead instead of dwelling on the past. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and being willing to explore possibilities beyond what may initially seem achievable.
Another key message was that opportunities rarely produce results without action. As Lark explained, “Opportunities will come in life, but you have to make it happen.” Students were challenged to take initiative, pursue possibilities, and put in the work necessary to turn ideas into reality.
While visitors may see the excitement of a fall day at Lark Ranch, operating a seasonal attraction requires extensive preparation and careful management. Lark discussed the challenges of running a business that depends heavily on weather and has a limited operating season.
He highlighted the importance of using time strategically and finding ways to generate revenue beyond the traditional fall season. Corporate events and other activities during the off-season can help a seasonal business make better use of its facilities and create additional income opportunities.
Adam also discussed the importance of investing in infrastructure, refurbishing existing attractions, and making thoughtful improvements to support continued growth. Even practical considerations, such as whether there are enough restrooms to accommodate visitors, can have a significant impact on the customer experience. His examples helped students understand that successful businesses must pay attention to both the big-picture vision and the small details that keep daily operations running smoothly.
Partnerships were another important topic. He explained how relationships with other organizations can expand a business's reach and create shared opportunities for success. This year's collaboration with the Indianapolis Colts served as an example of how strategic partnerships can help businesses connect with new audiences.
Throughout the discussion, he reinforced a simple principle: business is built on relationships. Developing trust, maintaining connections, and working with others can open doors that might otherwise remain closed.
Building on a Vision
Adam credited his father, Matt Lark, with establishing the original vision that became Lark Ranch. That vision has continued to grow through hard work, innovation, and a willingness to think differently about what a seasonal attraction can offer.
He encouraged students to avoid limiting themselves when considering business ideas. Entrepreneurs should be willing to think outside the box, explore alternative revenue streams, and look for creative ways to build on what they already have. Success often comes from recognizing possibilities others may overlook and having the determination to pursue them.
Adam also reminded the cohort not to spend too much time looking in the rearview mirror. Learning from past experiences is important, but entrepreneurs must remain focused on future opportunities and be prepared to adapt as circumstances change.
The Daviess County CEO Cohort sincerely thanks Adam for sharing his experiences, business knowledge, and practical advice. The students enjoyed a memorable morning at Lark Ranch, including a train ride that added to the experience.
The visit demonstrated that building a successful business requires more than a good idea. It takes resilience when challenges arise, creativity when circumstances change, strategic use of time and resources, and strong relationships with the people around you. Lark Ranch is an excellent example of how a family vision, combined with hard work and entrepreneurial thinking, can grow into a destination that creates lasting memories for thousands of visitors.