Purgatory Bend Ranch

Nestled in the Texas Hill Country, in southern Hays County, this exceptional conservation ranch offers a rare opportunity to own a property that harmonizes sustainable land stewardship with breathtaking natural beauty. Spanning 1,768.65+/- acres of diverse landscapes, the ranch offers trophy live oaks, deciduous hardwoods, incredible native grasslands, spectacular bluffs and lots of variable topography with over 250’ of relief. The views are incredible! Given its proximity to San Marcos, Austin and San Antonio, this very private ranch is a special place, unique in size and location. It is easy to get to, being only a few minutes from I-35 (but just far enough away to not worry about road noise). With the opportunities to further subdivide, this property would also make an interesting long-term investment. Whether you’re passionate about wildlife, sustainable ranching, or simply embracing nature’s splendor, this ranch is a one-of-a-kind gem waiting to be discovered. LOCATION The ranch is located about 6 driving miles from San Marcos at the end of W. McCarty Lane. There is a second entrance off Quail Run Drive as well. The ranch is only 37 miles from downtown Austin and only 49 miles from downtown San Antonio. Also, the drive time from Houston is only 2.5 hours, making this the closest true hill country property for a Houstonian. TOPOGRAPHY, RANGELAND & HABITAT This ranch has character and fantastic “pasture appeal” accented by trophy live oaks (many draped with Spanish moss), stands of cedar elms, bountiful native grasses, rolling uplands and incredible canyons and bluffs associated with Purgatory Creek as it winds it way through northern portions of the ranch for over 4 miles on its way to join the San Marcos River. The ranch has over 250’ of topographical relief, rising to elevations over 1,000’ above sea level, providing exceptional views and character. WILDLIFE The ranch has been actively managed for wildlife for years and offers high-quality populations of white-tailed deer, turkey, dove and other native species. The varied terrain also provides a home to feral hogs. High-quality hunting or simply wildlife viewing is part of the experience at Purgatory Bend Ranch. AGRICULTURE Although grazing is not part of the current management program, sustainable grazing can be added to the program on the majority of the ranch. Contact Broker for more details. IMPROVEMENTS The ranch offers water wells, troughs, roads, some pens, fencing and existing electrical service. One intriguing additional improvement on the ranch is the Storey-Robinson Dam on Purgatory Creek. The dam is one of several in the broader area. It was constructed in 1981 to both protect the citizens of San Marcos and help to recharge the Edwards Aquifer. Aside from doing its job during flood events, the dam is an incredible view location on the ranch and provides easy access to other portions of the ranch. WATER The ranch is watered by 3 windmills and 2 electric submersible wells. Each well has related troughs or natural features in place providing water for wildlife at present. ELECTRICITY Electrical service is available at several locations on the ranch. MINERALS The Seller’s owned mineral estate, if any, will convey at the asking price. CONSERVATION EASEMENT The ranch is protected by two conservation easements that allow typical and reasonable use by the owner and include the ability to subdivide. There are 6 building envelopes allowed (out of 8 total locations). Contact Broker for additional details. TAXES The property is currently managed for wildlife and benefits from 1D1 Wildlife management appraisal on its open space. At present, the owner uses the services of Blair Wildife Consulting to oversee the 1D1 wildlife management program. AREA ATTRACTIONS With its proximity to San Marcos, Wimberley, Canyon Lake, the Guadalupe River, the Blanco River, Austin and San Antonio, the area’s attractions are extensive. They include water-related recreation, museums, dining and shopping!