The Evans Ranch is located 18 miles East of Silverton, Tx off of Highway 256 and is 9.5 miles North of Turkey, Tx off of Highway 70. The ranch has access from 2 State Highways and is located approximately 281 miles from DFW (4 Hours and 21 minutes), 116 Miles from Lubbock (1 Hour and 46 minutes), and 93 Miles from Amarillo (1 Hour and 25 minutes).
The Evans Ranch, once known as Burson Lake, stands as one of the most breathtaking and historically rich ranches on the Texas market today.
Spanning 9,586 deeded acres with an additional 160 +/- acres of state land, this ranch is a testament to the rugged beauty and timeless history of the Lone Star State. Having only two owners since 1940's, this property offers an unparalleled stewardship and conversation.
Tony Burson of Silverton purchased the Slaughter Ranch in 1949 at the age of 47. A man of many trades, Tony farmed, ranched, worked as a banker, and even owned a Ford auto dealership with his father and brothers. In 1952, he constructed a dam on the ranch creating what became a 25-acre lake. This lake, fed by a blue spring hole, served as both a water source and a crossing over Bluff Creek. The lake quickly became a community treasure. Willard Hudson of Clarendon and Dusty Taylor leased and operated the lake, which they named Burson Lake. It featured cabins, a snack shack, and recreational amenities opening to the public for approximately 20 years. During this time, it was a beloved spot for families and visitors alike.
Tony eventually retired from the cattle business, leasing the ranch to Bill Cushing and later to Mike Smith. In 1973 Tony passed away, leaving the ranch to his nieces and nephews in the Burson family. By the 1980's, the lake had silted in, and the family made the difficult decision to cut the dam.
Don Burson, Tony’s only nephew, leased the ranch for many years, maintaining its legacy until the property was put up for sale in the early 2000's. In 2024, the ranch found a new steward in Bill Evans of Kress, Tx. The Burson family couldn’t have been happier, knowing someone of Bill’s character would care for the land they cherished.
From 2004 to the present, Billy and his family have worked tirelessly to enhance the ranch. In 2014, Billy rebuilt the damn and cleared the silt from the lake, restoring it to its former glory. He also expanded the existing home overlooking the water, creating a haven for his family and guests.
One of Billy’s most significant contributions was solving the ranch’s water challenges. When the property was purchased, it lacked a reliable well. Billy struck water at the North end of the ranch near Highway 256 entrance and installed miles of underground poly pipe. This system delivers water to approximately18 troughs across the ranch ensuring an ample supply for both livestock and wildlife.
Now at 90 years old, Billy and his wife have decided it’s time to pass the torch. They hope another family will take on this historic property, continuing its legacy of love and care for generations to come.
At the heart of the ranch is an impressive 9-mile-wide stretch of the Little Red River, boasting consistent water flow year-round. Bluff Creek and Oxbow Creek also traverse the property, while multiple natural springs, a 25-acre spring fed lake, and several stock ponds provide an abundance of water. The stock ponds are stocked with Catfish, Bass, Bluegill, and Crappie, making the ranch a fisherman’s dream. Additionally, water resources include:
One well with a storage tank, piped to 18 strategically placed cattle troughs.
Two solar wells, one of which is shared with the neighbor but does lie on the ranch providing reliable water sources across the property.
There is an additional windmill that blew down but could easily be restored to working condition.
The Evans Ranch is exceptionally equipped for cattle operations with:
A capacity to comfortably support 200 mother cows.
Four strategically placed sets of cattle pens for efficient livestock management.
Well-maintained pastures that have been thoughtfully grazed and grubbed to preserve native grasses.
The large 5-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers a commanding view of the 25-acre lake, featuring both upper and lower outdoor patios where you can watch fish swim and ducks float serenely.
The guest house, designed in a hotel style, overlooks the lake, providing comfort and convenience for visitors.
A barn located near the lake includes a lean-to for equipment storage and currently houses a pontoon boat, fishing gear, and other essentials.
Boat dock equipped with a fish feeder.
17 miles of exterior barbed wire fence.
4 sets of cattle pens. 20+/- miles of underground water line.
26 acres of cultivated wheat field. -18+/- water troughs -4 water wells
8200
The Evans Ranch is a hunter’s paradise, offering diverse and abundant wildlife, including: Aoudad Sheep, highly prized for hunting Mule Deer and Whitetail Deer populations that have matured under county antler restrictions. Wild Hogs, Quail, and even the occasional Mountain Lion (Two have been harvested nearby in the last eight years).
A 26-acre fenced wheat field near the Little Red River draws deer, sheep, and hogs, enhancing the ranch’s exceptional hunting opportunities.
With over 46+/- miles of improved trails and roads, the ranch is leased year-to-year by the Post Enduro Association for recreational riding. These trails provide easy access for exploring th vast property.
From its Native American history to its days as the publicly celebrated Burson Lake, The Evans Ranch offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and modern ranching excellence. Whether you envision this ranch as a working cattle operation, a hunting retreat, or a family legacy property, the Evans Ranch stands ready to make your dream a reality
Please contact 402 Main Street, Silverton, Texas 79257, United States
To schedule a showing or for additional information.
