Texas Ranches For
Sale
Texas Ranch History
American ranching was born in Texas and has deep roots in the state even
today. Cowboy images and ranch life lures visitors to the state every
year. Staying at a guest ranch or a working ranch are popular ways to
experience the life of the cowboy.
"Cowboy Capital of the World"
Bandera County beckons visitors to enjoy a slice of the Old West
surrounded by the spectacular scenery of the Texas Hill Country.
Bandera's title of "Cowboy Capital of the World" originated when it
became a staging area for the great cattle drives of yesteryear. When
ranching fell on hard times in the 1930's, an enterprising rancher
decided to take in "dudes" to help him through the depression and an
exciting new industry was born. It continues to flourish today with a
number of excellent dude ranches operating throughout Bandera County.
Confirming Bandera as the "Cowboy Capital of the World" is a bronze
monument on the courthouse lawn that honors the many National Rodeo
Champions who have called Bandera home.
King Ranch
King Ranch, the largest ranch in the continental United States, was not
only one of the first ranches in Texas, but also in the United States.
It's been a leader in the ranching industry through breeding, clearing
and maintaining pastures, and marketing livestock. Captain Richard King,
the founder of King Ranch, made major contributions to the American beef
industry by developing two successful new beef breeds. King Ranch is
located just outside Kingsville, and has been designated a National
Historic Landmark. More than 45,000 visitors tour the ranch annually and
stop by the King Ranch Saddle Shop and Museum in downtown Kingsville.
The King Ranch's Visitor Center is open Monday-Saturday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
and Sunday 12 noon - 5 p.m. There is a charge for ranch tours.
Ranching History
If you want to experience the real West, you can find what you’re
looking for at the Ranching Heritage Center in Lubbock. The site
encompasses 14 acres and includes 33 historic structures that illustrate
life on a Texas ranch from the 1830s to the 1920s. The center is open
Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. Closed
Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. There is
no charge for admission.
George Ranch Historical Park is a 484-acre living history site where
visitors can step back in time and experience Texas history. Guests may
visit a stock farm reminiscent of the 1820s, tour an 1890s-era Victorian
mansion, and see cowboys working cattle as they did in the 1930s. The
park is open year-round 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. weekdays, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
on weekends. George Ranch Historical Park is located 30 minutes from
downtown Houston on FM 762. There is a charge for admission.
Guest Ranches
With almost 100 ranches to choose from, visitors can experience Texas ranch
life in almost any region of the state. Visitors can choose to relax at
a guest ranch or try their hand at working the cattle on a real working
ranch. Most ranches offer horseback riding, hay rides, fishing,
swimming, and numerous other activities to make your vacation complete.
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