Smith River Ranch Lampasas County
INTRODUCTION
Smith River Ranch is a rare and refined offering that seamlessly blends luxury living, recreational excellence, and productive land stewardship—all set along the iconic Lampasas River. This 293± acre estate captures the spirit of the Texas Hill Country, where clear flowing water, fertile pastures, and sweeping vistas define a landscape rich in heritage and natural beauty.
Whether envisioned as a turnkey hunting retreat, a working cattle operation, or a private riverside escape, Smith River Ranch offers an unmatched opportunity less than 70 miles from Austin and just 15 minutes from both Lampasas and Copperas Cove. With over a mile of pristine river frontage, a balance of high-fenced wildlife habitat and cultivated acreage, and a thoughtfully designed residence at its core, the ranch delivers lasting value and a lifestyle rooted in the land.
More than a property, Smith River Ranch is a legacy in the making—an exceptional example of Central Texas living, where open space, outdoor pursuits, and quiet luxury come together in perfect harmony.
BROKERAGE CONTACT
RANCHLAND REAL ESTATE (512) 829-5522 info@ranchlandrealestate.com
RANCHLAND REAL ESTATE, LLC
Buyers brokers must be identified on first contact, and must accompany buying prospect on first showing to be allowed fee participation. If this condition is not met, fee participation will be at the sole discretion of Ranchland Real Estate. If a Buyer Prospect makes initial contact with Ranchland Real Estate and then later brings in other broker, after the fact, the other broker shall not be entitled to fee participation and the buyer shall be responsible for paying the other brokers fee, if any.
Prospective Texas real estate buyers are advised that properties may be affected by various factors, including natural events, human activities, and more. These factors encompass, but are not limited to, droughts, weather-related incidents, diseases (e.g., Oak Wilt, Anthrax, Chronic Wasting Disease), invasive species, unlawful trespassing, actions of prior owners, neighboring properties, and government actions. It is recommended that potential buyers thoroughly research any concerns related to a specific property to ensure their satisfaction. The Information provided herein is deemed accurate, but subject to errors, omissions, price changes, prior sale, or withdrawal. Ranchland Real Estate and broker agents licensed by Ranchland Real Estate does not guarantee or is anyway responsible for the accuracy or completeness of information, and provides said information without warranties of any kind. Please verify all facts.
LOCATION
Situated in northern Lampasas County, Smith River Ranch is ideally located just 15 minutes from Lampasas and Copperas Cove, and only one hour from Austin. The property offers a peaceful Hill Country setting without sacrificing proximity to city conveniences. With extensive paved frontage along FM 1715, the ranch provides easy year-round access. For private air travel, the Lampasas Municipal Airport is just 10 miles away and features a 4,200-foot lighted asphalt runway. Smith River Ranch is a rare offering that combines the privacy and beauty of a true country escape with the convenience of nearby urban amenities.
TERRAIN & HABITAT
The terrain at Smith River Ranch is remarkably diverse, ranging from fertile bottomland to gently rolling hills with elevation changes of up to 100 feet, peaking at 960 feet. The eastern boundary of the property features 1.25 miles of frontage along the Lampasas River, enhancing both the scenic beauty and agricultural utility of the land. Upland soils include gravelly clay loam, Oglesby silty clay, and Seawillow clay loam, while the lower-lying areas are composed of Sunev and Boerne loams—ideal for cultivation and forage.
Vegetation across the ranch includes mature live oaks and cedar, with large elm and pecan trees concentrated near the river and intermixed with native brush. The bottomland is actively managed for hay and forage production, with 120 acres currently planted in oats, yielding up to 500 round bales annually. An additional 55 acres of established Coastal Bermuda grass produces up to 350 large bales each year. In total, 130 acres are under cultivation, providing a strong foundation for ongoing agricultural income.
WILDLIFE
The ranch is predominantly high-fenced and operates under a wellestablished wildlife management program. It supports an estimated 100 white-tailed deer, with a 2:1 doe-to-buck ratio. Among them are trophy-class bucks scoring in the 225–250” range, along with 10–12 additional bucks scoring between 165–230”. The property also sustains a healthy population of 30–40 axis deer, including several trophy-caliber bucks. The ranch is enrolled in the Level 3 Managed Lands Deer Program (MLD), offering extended hunting seasons and enhanced management flexibility.
Smith River Ranch Lampasas County
AGRICULTURE & PRODUCTION
Smith River Ranch offers strong agricultural capabilities with established hay and forage operations that support both income production and on-site livestock needs. The property includes 130 acres currently under cultivation, thoughtfully managed to maximize yield and efficiency.
Approximately 120 acres are planted in oats, providing seasonal forage and producing up to 500 round bales annually—an excellent resource for livestock feeding or supplemental income. Additionally, 55 acres are dedicated to well-established Coastal Bermuda grass, known for its drought tolerance and high nutritional value, capable of yielding up to 350 large bales per year.
With rich soils, reliable water sources, and expansive open fields, the ranch is well-positioned to continue—or even expand—its productive capacity. Whether for personal use, lease income, or as part of a larger livestock operation, the agricultural footprint of Smith River Ranch adds meaningful value and long-term sustainability.
Smith River Ranch Lampasas County
WATER RESOURCES
Water is abundant throughout the property, supporting both livestock and residential needs. Three strategically placed water troughs are plumbed into the Kempner city water line, ensuring consistent access to a reliable municipal supply. In addition, an old but dependable well services three more water troughs as well as the cattle working pens, providing a valuable secondary water source. The home and surrounding infrastructure are also connected to city water, offering convenience and peace of mind for future development or everyday use.
Surface water on the property includes one stock pond, which serves as an additional water source for livestock and wildlife. Most notably, the ranch boasts an impressive 5,040 feet of Lampasas River frontage along its eastern boundary. This stretch of the river adds not only natural beauty and recreational opportunity but also enhances the property’s agricultural and ecological value. Whether for watering livestock, supporting wildlife, or simply enjoying the riverside setting, water is a true asset on this ranch.
THE RANCH HOUSE
At the heart of the property lies a beautifully designed 3,000-square-foot stone home that blends timeless Hill Country charm with modern comfort. The home features three bedrooms, two full and two half baths, a wood-burning fireplace, and a surround sound system in both the living room and master suite. The spacious kitchen, renovated in 2024, includes a double oven and built-in ice maker, while the master bath offers a whirlpool tub for ultimate relaxation. Outdoor living is equally impressive with a 1,500-square-foot covered porch showcasing panoramic views, a new pool (2024), outdoor speakers, and a circle drive. Additional highlights include a metal roof, irrigation system, 500-gallon propane tank, one-car enclosed garage, and two-car carport—offering both style and practicality in a peaceful Hill Country setting.
ADDITIONAL IMPROVEMENTS
Smith River Ranch is exceptionally outfitted for both recreation and full-scale ranching. At the core of its infrastructure is a 65’x80’ metal building designed for versatility and efficiency, featuring five roll-up doors, an office, ranch shop, implement storage, half bath, RV hookups, and its own septic system. The building is equipped with LED lighting and flanked by two expansive covered overhangs (24’x120’ and 40’x40’), ideal for equipment storage or hosting gatherings. For livestock operations, the ranch offers commercial-grade working pens, a pipe-fenced cattle barn with electric lighting, and well-built pipe-handling facilities—fully equipped to support everything from daily work to large-scale cattle production.
The ranch features approximately three miles of galvanized high fencing, ideal for managing both whitetail and exotic game while enhancing overall property security. It’s well-equipped for hunting and wildlife management, with four strategically placed blinds—three within the high-fenced area— along with four protein feeders and four feed pens to support year-round nutrition and herd development.
Electricity is in place and located at the ranch house and barn.
MINERALS
The seller estimates ownership of approximately 100% of the mineral estate. Mineral rights will convey with an acceptable offer. There is no current oil and gas production or active lease in place.
TAXES
The ranch is appraised for ad valorem taxes under 1D1-Ag/Wildlife Management valuation on its open space.
AREA HISTORY
Nestled at the gateway to the Texas Hill Country, the town of Lampasas has a rich history shaped by its natural springs, rugged terrain, and strategic location. First settled in the 1850s, Lampasas quickly grew around the healing mineral waters of Hancock Springs, which drew visitors from across the state. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s turned the town into a regional hub for commerce and agriculture. Flowing through the heart of the area, the Lampasas River begins just west of town and winds its way southeast, nourishing fertile farmland and providing vital water resources for early settlers. The river, along with the area’s deep-rooted ranching and farming traditions, continues to define the spirit of Lampasas—a town where history, landscape, and community remain closely intertwined.
