Bandera's Dude Ranches

The country around Bandera is dotted with dude ranches. Rates usually include three meals daily as well as family-style entertainment and supervised children's programs. Horseback riding is often part of the week-long package. A minimum stay of two or three days is required at most ranches during peak summer season.

For a complete listing of Bandera's dude ranches, as well as other accommodations and campgrounds, call the Bandera Convention and Vistors Bureau (800-364-3833).

Mayan Ranch. TX 16, two miles west of Bandera. For over 40 years the 60-room Mayan (pronounced MAY-an) Ranch has entertained vacationers with cowboy breakfasts, cookouts, horseback riding, fishing, and hayrides. Summer also brings organized children's programs. Rooms are appointed with Western-style furniture.

Dixie Dude Ranch. South on TX 173 1-1/2 miles to FM 1077, then southwest for 9 more miles. Five generations of the Whitley family have welcomed guests to this 19-room ranch since 1937. Rates include meals and two horseback rides daily.

Flying L Guest Ranch. From TX 16, turn south on TX 173 for 1-1/2 miles, then left on Wharton Dock Rd. This 542-acre ranch has 38 guest houses, each with two rooms, refrigerator, microwave, coffee pot, and TV. You can choose many different packages offering horseback riding, hayrides, and even golf at the ranch's 18-hole course. During the summer there's a supervised children's program, plus nightly entertainment ranges from Western shows to "branding" parties. This ranch offers many group programs, too, like Cowboy Olympics which are perfect for a family reunion.

The Silver Spur Dude Ranch. 10 miles south of Bandera on FM 1077. Pull on your boots and grab your Stetson before heading to this 275-acre ranch near the Hill Country State Natural Area. You'll stay busy out of the saddle with fishing, tubing, canoeing, and golf, plus swimming in the ranch pool.

Twin Elm Guest Ranch. 1/2 mile off FM 470 from TX 16 (four miles from Bandera). This 200-acre dude ranch is on the Medina River. All the usual cowboy activites are available, from fishing to horseback riding and horseshoe pitching. We love the look of this classic dude ranch, with its small cottages built overlooking the swimming pool and recreation area.

Back to Bandera Travel Guide

What's Happening Now...