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.
Modestly improved and ready for customization, the ranch includes: A foreman’s home set near the river (remodeled w/ new 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 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.
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.
The ranch is a haven for native and exotic wildlife, making it a hunter’s paradise that has been enrolled into MLD program for the past 15 years, 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 Tail Bats, this ranch has almost zero mosquito activity!
Owned minerals are negotiable.
Ag Exemption
Born and raised on a South Texas ranch, Robert Dullnig is a third-generation rancher with deep roots in land stewardship. As the best ranch broker in Texas, he brings 20+ years of expertise in wildlife management, hunting operations, and ranch real estate to every deal. Robert has closed over 500 properties, earning accolades like Top 50 Global Real Estate Advisor. Contact us today for an exclusive tour of this property and discover why clients trust him for Texas ranch real estate.
The Texas Hill Country is the crown jewel of ranch country — rolling limestone hills draped in century-old live oaks, spring-fed rivers, and panoramic views that stretch for miles. From Kerrville to Hunt and Bandera to Blanco, these ranches offer exceptional whitetail deer and turkey hunting, Guadalupe River frontage, and proximity to San Antonio. Whether you’re seeking a legacy estate, a recreational retreat, or a working cattle operation, Central-Hill Country delivers unmatched beauty and investment potential. Explore exclusive listings with Dullnig Ranches — contact us today to find your perfect Hill Country ranch.
