San Antonio is a little over 1.25 hours drive to the south, and Austin and San Angelo are both about 100 miles distant. This is a decidedly rural area, in big ranch country, not frequented by hordes of people. Cattle, sheep, deer and outdoor recreation rule this part of the Hill Country, and it is a rare, pristine zone that has much appeal to those searching for the feel of bigger country, yet still only 1.5 hours or slightly more from 3 large, vibrant cities.

WATER: The mystical, spring-fed James River passes thru the ranch in two places, each covering about 1.5 miles of both sides of river ownership. On its eastside passage, it is mostly a 75 yard wide, solid rock bottom stream after its confluence with the Little Devils River just south of this ranch. This water flows year round according to historical data, as there is a large spring just upstream from this part of the ranch that is quite impressive, and several smaller springs emanating from this ranch that have never gone dry, that keep the flow active. This section of the river is classic James, with gurgling waterfalls and wide riffles beneath towering limestone/sandstone, color-streaked bluffs. There are several good swimming holes, including a large, deep hole chock full of fish near the northern boundary that would be suitable for a small boat.

On the west side, the river is mostly a gravel streambed, pocked with deeper holes of water, some of which are present almost all of the time. There is flow in sections of this river much of the time, though during dry times, the water drops below the gravel in many areas. This section of river features beautiful bottoms of oak, elm and pecan, with deep alluvial soil on both sides.

It feels primeval and spacious as one wanders down the rock-bottom stream. Sighting of bald eagles is not uncommon, and there are fascinating, spring-fed side canyons, one of which features a 10 waterfall into a small pool enclosed by solid rock canyon walls lined with ferns and riparian plants. There is a spring-fed creek entering the ranchs western boundary, and passing thru for several miles, though the flow is strictly seasonal. Corn Springs trickle into a shallow canyon on the ranchs eastern section, then flows off to the northern neighbor.

The ranch is adequately watered by wells strategically placed, with pipes to pasture troughs as needed. For further information on area groundwater, please contact the Hickory Underground Water Conservation District No. 1 at 325.597.2785 or visit their website.

LAND: Variety is the hallmark of this ranch, with the majestic Blue Mountains rising to the west, giving way to fertile, clay soil plains moving east to the river breaks. These breaks have limestone outcrops, and roll gently down to the river streambed below. Moving east, dramatic cliffs rise above the tranquil river below, punctuated by deep canyons (some with spring creeks), rising once again to the clay plains. The overall topography of the ranch encompasses 400 of relief from the Blue Mountains down to the northernmost James River exit point.

Soil quality is very good for the area, with clays ranging from red to dark brown, with occasional rock and sandy outcrops, resulting in abundant forage production. There are unusual minerals and elements present in some areas, and there is a major gypsum quarry several miles to the east. The Red Hill is an unusual, colorful outcrop, the top of which is scattered with countless flint chips, likely the work of Native Americans on the lookout. And what a lookout point it is, with sweeping vistas of the surrounding hills and plains, a perfect spot to take in sunsets and sunrises, or spot wildlife.

The ranch has been historically managed for livestock and deer since the 1870s, evidenced by large areas that have been chained and planted in grasses over the years. This ranch will grow beef with adequate rainfall, make no mistake, and many large whitetail bucks (160 B&C harvested in 1997) have been observed on recent visits. This is definitely superior deer country, and strong soils produce high-protein grasses, forbs and shrubs most of the year, resulting in fat, healthy animals who reproduce well.

There are liveoaks over most of the ranch, and cedar, walnut, Spanish oak, mesquite, elm and pecan are also present. Much of the ranch has excellent mixed cover for wildlife, including quail and songbirds (which are heard and observed regularly). Turkey habitat is solid, and there are several prime roosting areas along the river and larger creek drainages. Feral hogs are present, but not overly so. Varmints such as fox, coon, bobcat, rabbit and skunk inhabit the site as well.

Intrigue is found in interesting caves nestled into the river bluffs, including pictographs of possible ancient origin. An area on the western section of the ranch features some ancient stonework in the vicinity of some rock bluffs above a spring creek. A small mountaintop was once mined, and the old operations shack still stands nearby as evidence of the long-ago venture.

IMPROVEMENTS: This working ranch is fenced and cross fenced into several large pastures, and there are several hunting camps located on site. The ranch HQs includes a livable ranch house, usable outbuildings and an outstanding set of cattle working pens. Ranch roads are adequate, and electricity is fairly well distributed throughout the parcel. There is also underground telephone service crossing much of the western section.

FINANCIAL/TITLE: Asking $2,695/acre, cash to Sellers, who will provide recent survey and basic title insurance. 25% of owned minerals under the ranch to convey. Recent title commitment available upon request. The property lies in the Mason and Harper School Districts, and current ag-exempt taxes are approximately $6000. Sellers will consider dividing the ranch into two parcels divided by the county road, at prices TBD.

SUMMARY: If youre looking for the real deal, big-time live water ranch in ranch country for a ranch country price, we invite you for a tour. There have been few offerings of this magnitude in this prized area, and they dont last long when they occur. Come to the big country of the western Edwards Plateau, where eagles and spirits soar, and find an investment/enjoyment opportunity that is priceless. Walk in the footsteps of Capt. Schreiner, spend a lifetime learning the ranch, transform it into the dream spot your family deserves. Relax, enjoy the solitude, while being within easy driving distance of major cities. We hope to hear from you soon, and appreciate your consideration.

The information contained herein has been diligently assembled and is deemed reliable, but is not warranted by Broker or Seller, express or implied, and is subject to change, prior sale, errors and/or omissions and withdrawal from market. Buyers must verify accuracy of representations on their own, as well as investigate potentially pertinent natural attributes, laws and regulations, and draw their own conclusions regarding the usefulness and value of the property for a given purpose. SHOWN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY, DO NOT TRESPASS.

Buyers brokers must be identified on first contact, and must accompany buying prospect on first showing to be allowed full fee participation. If this condition is not met, fee participation will be at sole discretion of LANDTX, David E. Culver, broker.