The 1897 James River Ranch – A Rare Legacy Opportunity:
Discover a unique chance to own a portion of a historic legacy ranch that′s been in the same family for over a century. Nestled along the scenic banks of the James River, just south of Mason, Texas, the 1897 James River Ranch offers unmatched natural beauty with deep river pools, fertile bottomland, and dramatic elevation changes—an inspiring blank canvas for your dream ranch.
Perfectly positioned for a private getaway, yet easily accessible and only a short drive from Fredericksburg, this property is not only an exceptional recreational escape but also a sound long-term investment.
Improvements
Modestly improved and ready for customization, the ranch includes:
•A foreman’s home set near the river (remodeled with anew fixtures and appliances in 2022)
•Quality cattle pens
•A walk-in deer cooler
•A large equipment barn
•Three operational water wells
•Electrical service in multiple areas
•An established road system that can be easily expanded
Water Features
Water is one of this ranch’s greatest assets, with nearly 1,500 feet of both sides of the spring-fed James River, plus an additional ±1,500 feet of high-bank frontage. The clear, rock-bottom pools—some over 5 feet deep—offer excellent swimming, fishing, and stunning scenery. The three wells supply water to multiple troughs for cattle and wildlife.
Terrain & Vegetation
This diverse property spans from rolling uplands to dramatic ridges, with elevations ranging from approximately 1,800 feet down to 1,420 feet at the river’s edge. The landscape is dotted with mature Oaks, selectively cleared Cedar, Persimmon, Elms, Mesquite, Mountain Laurel, and more. Towering river bluffs provide breathtaking panoramic views.
Wildlife
The ranch is a haven for native and exotic wildlife, making it a hunter’s paradise that has been enrolled in the MLD program for the past 15 years, and has been protein feeding for the past 5 years. It’s loaded with Whitetail deer, and sightings of Red Stag and Axis are not uncommon. The land also supports Dove, Quail, Hogs, and a variety of varmints. Located not far from the Eckard Bat Cave, with 4-6 million Mexican Free-Tailed Bats, this ranch has almost zero mosquito activity
Minerals
Owned minerals are negotiable
Taxes
Ag Exempt
School District
Mason ISD
Location
Located just 15 minutes south of Mason, TX in Southern Mason County. +-35 miles NW of Fredericksburg, TX, +-20 miles N of Harper, +-95 miles NW of Austin, and +-90 miles NW of San Antonio, TX
