Since 1951, TECABOCA has been owned and operated by the Marianists, a Catholic religious order of brothers, sisters, and priests, serving as both a children’s camp and a spiritual retreat. For the first time in 74 years, this remarkable property along the banks of flowing Johnson Creek is being offered for sale. Live water of this caliber – abundant, pristine, and private – is an exceptionally rare find, particularly on a tract this size. TECABOCA offers unmatched serenity while being under fifteen minutes from Kerrville and a little over an hour from San Antonio, making it both private and accessible. With its rich history, prime location, and incredible natural resources, TECABOCA presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Whether envisioned as a private retreat, family compound, event venue, or unique hospitality venture, the possibilities are truly limitless.
Because this property has been operated as a camp, it includes a variety of structural improvements, outlined below. These facilities lend themselves to a wide range of potential uses depending on the vision of the next owner. The main house could easily be converted into a private family residence, while the numerous cabins, barns, pavilions, and outbuildings offer flexible options that would be valuable to almost any buyer, regardless of how they plan to use the property.
The highlight of this property is without question the spectacular, spring-fed Johnson Creek—one of the three legendary streams, along with the North Fork and South Fork, that merge to form the headwaters of the Guadalupe River. Flowing directly through the heart of the land for more than 2,200± feet, it offers private access to some of the most pristine and reliable live water in the Texas Hill Country. A dam along the creek forms a deep, lake-like stretch of water—perfect for swimming, canoeing, or fishing. As the creek spills over the dam in a cascading waterfall, it continues alongside a dramatic limestone bluff, shaping scenic rapids and tranquil pools before widening into another large lake on the southern end of the property. Johnson Creek is widely recognized as one of the strongest and most dependable waterways in the region, fed by substantial springs, including Fessenden Branch, a major tributary whose confluence lies near the northern boundary. In addition to this extraordinary live water, the property includes two water wells and a commercial-grade filtration and storage system that services all improvements.
Johnson Creek is framed by towering, centuries-old Cypress trees and accented with massive pecan trees that provide shade and a serene setting along the water’s edge. Throughout the property, dozens of stately live oaks are scattered among walnut, cedar elm, cottonwood, and juniper, creating a diverse and classic Hill Country landscape. Well-maintained St. Augustine grass carpets the banks of the creek, while several open fields provide opportunities for planting, cultivation, or recreation. The majority of the acreage consists of highly usable land with deep, fertile soils. A gentle rise on the northwest portion of the property offers elevated views of the surrounding Hill Country, adding both beauty and versatility to the landscape. Directly across Highway 27, a ±9-acre box canyon remains largely undisturbed, contributing to the property’s natural appeal. Elevations range from 1,920± feet ASL at the highest point to around 1,820± feet ASL at the lowest.
The property is alive with wildlife, including whitetail deer, turkey, wild hogs, and dove, with migrating waterfowl frequenting the area throughout the seasons. Free-ranging exotics such as Axis deer and Aoudad are also commonly seen, adding to the diversity of the wildlife population. Bird enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of native birds, including a variety of songbirds, making the property an inviting haven for birdwatching in addition to traditional hunting and outdoor activities. Johnson Creek itself supports a rich aquatic ecosystem and provides excellent fishing, with bass, catfish, and perch thriving in its clear, spring-fed waters.
Negotiable
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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.
