Red Sands Ranch River Resort -- Tennis\/Pool\/Pickleball, Airstrip -- Sleeps 12-37
![A heated pool](https://vr-thumbs.vacationrenter.com/480/vrbo/33574384/bcb530.jpg)
![1 bedroom, travel crib, free WiFi, bed sheets](https://vr-thumbs.vacationrenter.com/480/vrbo/33574384/7facdf.jpg)
![Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop](https://vr-thumbs.vacationrenter.com/480/vrbo/33574384/17f643.jpg)
![Combined shower/tub, hair dryer, towels, soap](https://vr-thumbs.vacationrenter.com/480/vrbo/33574384/e088ae.jpg)
![1 bedroom, travel crib, free WiFi, bed sheets](https://vr-thumbs.vacationrenter.com/480/vrbo/33574384/a2a953.jpg)
About this house rental
PLEASE NOTE: CURRENTLY THE VRBO QUOTE SYSTEM WILL ONLY GIVE THE BASE RATE FOR THE RESORT AND THREE (3) CABINS WITH THE SELECTED NUMBER OF GUESTS (WHICH INCLUDES ANY EXTRA GUEST FEES BEYOND THE FIRST 12 INCLUDED FREE). ANY EXTRA CABINS OR LISTED OPTIONS ARE NOT INCLUDED in the base quote but can be invoiced later when the final payment is due. Larger groups may want the optional extra cabins (all 4 for $295/nt) for a total of 7 units. There's also some optional recreational equipment (golf carts, Jeep, kayaks, mtn bikes, etc) which are priced near the bottom of this description, or you're welcome to bring your own. _________________________ Imagine flying into your own private ranch resort with charming native-stone cabins, poolside cabana, 140' 4-story waterslide, lighted tennis court, 3000' airstrip, fitness center, full-court basketball, pickleball, game room, horseshoes, hot tub, river rapids, fishing, abundant wildlife, miles of trails, and plenty of other activities for all ages. Red Sands Ranch is located on the crystal clear Llano River between the towns of Mason and Fredericksburg and is the perfect spot for family or friends reunions, corporate gatherings, or even tennis team retreats. There are four self-contained rock cabins plus two separate bunk-type units, a vintage '68 Airstream, a Party Shed with TV/Video games, billiards and ping-pong, and a tennis/pickleball court, all surrounding a massive 53ft pool with spa and grotto. The main gathering area is an open-air Cabana with full stainless kitchen, WIFI, and 65in TV. The nearly 1/2 mile of fast-flowing, rock-bottom Llano River runs from the deep pools and spectacular 200ft red sandstone cliffs (featured on the cover of Texas Monthly Magazine) at the west end of the ranch, to more deep water and limestone bluffs to the east. A meandering path leads down to the perfect spot in the river to set a few lounge chairs and relax under an umbrella while the kids shoot the rapids in a tube or kayak. For fisherman or paddlers, there is an amazing 2-3 hour trip that terminates at the Ranch which is the highlight of one of the top ten paddling trips in the state of Texas. The ranch foreman lives on the property about a mile away and is usually available to assist with whatever arises. For horse owners, there is a corral, tack room, covered stall, and miles of trails. And of course there are plenty of lounge chairs around the pool with separate hot tub and a secret 'mine shaft' cave with a little surprise inside the kids will enjoy. Red Sands Ranch is a special place you'll want to come back to year after year. Accommodations: Total of seven (7) separate units -- ONLY THREE (3) ARE INCLUDED IN THE BASE PRICE. All are air-conditioned with additional space heating, and hot water (plus spa heat) provided by one of the largest private solar heating installations in the Hill Country. - There's a Bunkhouse with 4 twin beds, a Loft room with 4 full beds, a vintage Airstream with queen bed and 2 twins, plus four (4) self-contained rustic cabins that sleep from 6 to 8 (with additional cots and sleeping pads for kids), each with a wood fireplace*, full bath, stained concrete floors, covered porch, bedroom or sleeping loft, WIFI, satellite TV, and kitchenette (sink, microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, toaster oven and one-burner cooktop). *Sunday House sleeps two (adults only, no pets) in a king bed and does not have fireplace. INCLUDED IN THE BASE PRICE (the following 3 units and up to 12 guests): (1) The Fish Camp - a native sandstone cabin with local river-rock fireplace. The covered back porch includes a hammock and overlooks the river and huge pecan trees below. There is a full size pull-out futon downstairs and two full size beds in a sleeping loft -- accessible via ladder, plus an extra rollaway bed downstairs. The bath features an antique clawfoot tub and an outdoor hot shower. (2) Lorenz House - the largest of the 6 cabins, named after the pioneer family that settled this section of the ranch in the mid-1800's. There is a queen futon sofa down and stairs lead to an upper loft with a queen bed and a trundle with two twin beds. This cabin is also built with local materials and sandstone walls inside and out from the century old rock fences found throughout the ranch, and includes a covered porch swing with views of the bluffs and mountains across the river. (3) The Bunkhouse - 4 twin beds and a sink/vanity with beautiful views from a balcony cantilevered out over the pool. Note that access to the detached full bathroom is via lighted gravel pathway so this unit is best for older kids. OPTIONAL UNITS ARE $95 per night OR ALL FOUR MAY BE RENTED FOR $295/nt): (4) Riverside Cottage - This Fredericksburg limestone cabin is the most private and has the best views of the river from inside the cabin or on the covered back deck from the hammock, rocking chairs, or cedar porch swing. There is a large masonry fireplace and the unit sleeps 6-8 with a queen bed and futon sofa down and a full bed in the upstairs bedroom, along with two twin beds. (5) Sunday House (adults only, no pets) - an updated historic representation of the quaint Fredericksburg homes built by the German pioneer ranchers for weekend stays when they came to town for church and supplies. This luxury unit features a king bed with full ADA compliant (wheelchair accessible) bathroom and covered porch with swing and easy wheelchair access to the pool area and Cabana. (6) Sunday Loft - this bunk-style unit is located on the upper level of the Sunday House (with a separate entrance) and sleeps up to eight with four double beds and a half-bath. (7) The 'Sixty-Eight' - Beautifully renovated (retro-modern) vintage airstream with a queen and two twin beds plus a kitchenette and full bath. The cabins are situated around a poolside cabana and a beautifully landscaped grilling area which includes a large charcoal grill, picnic table, smoker, firepit, and covered 'cantina' with four lounge chairs. Common Area: - Striking 53' free-form pool and poolside open-air cabana with full kitchen constructed of old barn wood ceilings supported by huge hand-made wooden trusses. There is an over-sized gas grill, 2 small ovens, dishwasher, two refrigerator/freezers, built-in microwave, two sinks, soapstone countertops, marine-grade mahogany cabinetry, WIFI, 65in LCD satellite television, BluRayDVD, and BlueTooth/iPod/Aux inputs with speakers located throughout the pool complex. In the wintertime or during inclement weather, the unique steel and glass doors can be lowered to fully enclose the room. - 'The Shack' Party Shed. A favorite hangout area for the kids, features a flatscreen TV with Wii game console, billiards with a competition-grade, removable top for table tennis, and lots of eclectic neon lighting and decor. - Fitness Center with commercial elliptical machine and recumbent bicycle, universal weight machine, sit-up bench, and pull-up/dip bars -- satellite TV, and workout towels provided. - The fully lighted tennis court includes a practice wall, pickleball lines, and full-court basketball. EXTRAS: - Pair of off-road golf carts $375 per stay - Recreation Pkg (4 kayaks, 3-4 mtn bikes, 4-5 tubes) $375 - Both of the above for $695 - NEW: 'The Whole Enchilada' ($1595) includes all of the above toys plus a red 1948 Willys Jeep (std transmission) with an 8' trailer for ‘hayrides’ and hauling gear/umbrellas/coolers to the river or shuttling kids to tube the rapids. Also included is a pair of Standup Paddleboards (SUPs) and a bag full of RS logo gear (t-shirt/lantern/tumblers/stickers) and more. Property: - Rolling hill country terrain with large stands of Live Oaks hundreds of years old and mountain views in all directions. At the ranch entrance you'll notice the Simons House, built in 1860 by Conrad Simons and currently occupied by the ranch caretakers, Danny and Becky. It's a classic German story-and-a-half structure with 2ft thick sandstone walls and hand-hewn oak beams and is beautifully restored to much of its original character and charm. In addition to horses and Angus cattle, wildlife is abundant and includes whitetail and axis deer, antelope, turkey, foxes, coyotes, bobcats, quail, dove, roadrunners, ducks/geese, eagles and more. The breath-taking stretch of river on the ranch includes everything from fast-moving rapids over a solid rock bottom for most of the length (where hard-fighting Guadalupe Bass are common) to slow, deep water at either end (where catfish as large as 35 lbs have been caught). Note: river activities may be affected by drought conditions. Disclaimer: Red Sands is a working Texas cattle ranch with inherent risks and hazards including, but not limited to, rough terrain, heavy equipment, deep and/or fast-moving water, wild animals, livestock, etc. and may not be ideal for vegetarians or poorly supervised children. Note: Privately owned family-oriented resort. No Youth groups, grad, Rave, or keg parties. Minimum age of 30 required to register your group. Absolutely NO diving or doubles/headfirst sliding allowed. Slide security camera may be active. © 2024 Red Sands Ranch, LLC. All materials contained on this listing are protected and may not be copied, distributed, or published without the prior written consent.
Amenities
Pool
Air conditioner
Pets allowed
Kitchen / Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Fireplace
Parking
Laundry
Balcony / Patio
Dishwasher
Hot Tub / Spa
TV
Wheelchair accessible
Gym / Fitness Center
Garden
Family friendly
Map of Texas
House in Texas
Reasons to book
People love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Great for pets
Includes essentialsGarden, Pool, Pets allowed and more
$$$$
Reviews
4.8/5.0
Outstanding(179 Reviews)
5.0
Heart and Soil treats their company employees to a short mid-year working "get away" trip every year. Our CRO, Dillon Randolph, found this great location in Mason County, which is not far from our Dripping Springs HQ! The Red Sands Resort is a 250 acre, working cattle ranch that the owner originally bought for him and his family and he personally built the gorgeous cabins and houses, with beautiful detail and care in each one. It has a big tennis/basketball court which our group never left, a pool AND a huge water slide, not for the faint of heart!!! When the owner, John Gilbert flew over us, out on the river, we knew we wanted to see that view, and at our pleading, took a couple of us up in his plane!! The views are incredible, as are the sunrises and sunsets as well as a great view of a thunderstorm!Don't know when his staff picked up our trash and we had a ton but NO ONE ever saw them! We met his amazing Chef Tammy Rippy Friedrich, who crushed our Animal Based way of eating with sides she came up with and sides from one of our tribe members sister, Ashley Rothstein. We wrapped up the week with entertainment from Justin McFarland, A great guitarist! His voice is beautiful, his originals GREAT and we had fun with his cover choices! This is a perfect location for family reunions and company retreats. Heart and Soil highly recommends this property! Thank you John Gilbert and the Red Sands Ranch staff!
4.0
One golf cart would not reverse but was fixed. Another cart had ignitIon problems but was fIxed. Jeep had to have an existing flat tire fixed. Fitness equipment not working right. No treadmill there, though it was advertised. One bicycLe had a broken pedal. No storage space for food in the cabana. The microwave oven broke, but was replaced the next day. The river level was so low it was barely usable. The pool was awesome. The air conditioning was great in the sleeping spaces. All living areas were clean. We loved the tennis court, horse shoes and corn hole toss, ping pong and pool tables. The slide was enjoyed.
4.0
One and done due to the price. But fantastic time had by all ages! Would not have changed my mind to spend the money. I personally lived in the pool, rode around on golf cart to river and to see wild life, even shot some pool. Stairs to lofts in cabins as well as slide were steep! Difficult for small kids to climb by themselves. We had a wide range of ages and made it work. Some equipment seemed like it had seen better years and time. There is NO OVEN!! Grills only, toaster oven.
The GOOD definitely out weights everything else. Didn’t want to come home!
Thanks for a great stay
5.0
All 32 of us had a wonderful experience!! We loved everything about Red Sands Resort!! So much to do, for everyone from 2 years old to me & everyone between!!! We loved it!!!
5.0
I was with a large group- 14 in total.
Each family had their own cabins to stay in. The cabins were very nice, each having it's own bathroom, kitchenette and air conditioning units.
The pool was the main attraction for the kids! They have a trunk FULL of pool toys that we enjoyed the entire time! When they grew tired of that (which wasn't very often) there was always something else to do! Tennis, horseshoes, tubing down the river, ping pong, board games, etc. There is so much to do at this resort that we didn't get to it all!
John, the host, answered all questions that we had immediately via text and was extremely helpful throughout our entire stay. He even checked in a few times to make sure we were enjoying ourselves.
The cell reception was hit or miss because the resort is in such a remote location, but nobody seemed to mind because it added to the overall experience.
Everyone that came enjoyed themselves, ages ranging from 5 years old - 70 and everywhere in-between! It was so relaxing to be able to do what we wanted without worrying about anything or anybody. If you are looking for a place to truly unplug from the world, look no further! The views are amazing and it's truly a one-of-a-kind place!
5.0
We travelled out to Red Sands for a weekend getaway for 15 friends, and it was the perfect oasis in Texas. Between the activities, the pool and land to explore, we found epic adventures and idyllic places to unwind and connect with nature.
John was a great host who communicated every step of the way and helped us ensure we were set from the moment we arrived to have an incredible time. Hope to return and slide again soon!
5.0
This is a great place for our big family to stay. Having the separate cabins allowed each family their only privacy but yet we were able to all be together and enjoy ourselves.
5.0
RSR is an amazing property. It is built for medium sized groups to enjoy the outdoors and the beauty of the Llano River country. I am a repeat visitor for 4-5 years. Each time we head that way excited about the trip and go home more relaxed than arrived. Thank you John, Danny, and Becky for your hospitality and attention to detail. I look forward to visiting for years to come!
5.0
This ranch is amazing. The landscape and location are beautiful, the owner and caretakers are very nice and communicative, and it’s an outstanding overall experience. Hope to be back very soon.
5.0
We had the most wonderful experience at the Red Sands Ranch! Traveling with family is one of life's greatest gifts.
There are plenty of things to do for any age. Kids swam, played basketball, tennis, rode down the waterslide, walked the trails and had just a marvelous time. Adults took to the cabana and the lounge chairs outside with adult beverages and enjoyed the time reminiscing with each other. We took incredible pictures. Life is meant for good families and GREAT adventures! This was one of the best. There was no time to be bored in a place like this. One early morning the 4 & 5 year old's were caught walking on the trails with such amazement at the birds and the rabbit they came upon. If you want to feel like a child again and have such a wonderful experience, this is the place. We are already planning our next trip here.
Thank you Red Sands!!
Julie
5.0
We just visited Red Sands last week. The property was great and everything was in working condition. We were checked on frequently by Becky to ensure things were working or if we needed anything. She was very helpful! Our family group of multiple generations utilized the pool area daily. The kids had so much fun swimming until the wee hours of the night. We used extra services like Chef Sam - the sweetest chef! Her food was delicious and it made it easier for our group of 24 to not cook big meals in the TX heat. Her prices were extremely reasonable! She just delivered meals to the kitchen. Justin came and sang for us, it was definitely a treat and a good time. We had massage therapist that came straight to the house. Extra services like golf carts were a great addition. We just had such a great time and would love to go back!
5.0
We had a great time. Make sure to read all of the details. They help understand the cabins and amenities. We had a great time and enjoyed the pool and slide the most. Definitely a place for people that enjoy the outdoors. Any issues that came up the staff assisted immediately and the owner was very responsive to any question or problem. We had three families and 10 kids total. They enjoyed the camp like atmosphere.
5.0
College Friends Getaway!
We took our daughter and her college friends for a few days before school stated back up. The property was so fun! John and his staff were so kind and attentive. We had the best time “off the grid” for a few days relaxing by the pool and hanging by the river. The slide is so fun and the adult kids loved it! We took our own food and drinks. We did order pizza from Mason the last night. I do recommend taking lots of ice (they provide several bags, we just went through several) if you are going during these extra hot months along with extra fans for the cabana area. We then used them in the cabins at night for extra air. We will be back!
5.0
Family Fun
The family had an incredible time. RS Ranch was great. The grandkids had the best time ever. They had time to just get together in the bunk house type rooms, play in the pool, river(even low they said was fun) tennis, ping pong etc.. Be sure to rent all the extras(jeep, golf cart, bikes,etc), we rented all the cabins plus the airstream. Every family had their own space. Owner was very responsive. If you are planning on working through your vacation you better have AT&T, Verizon was out unless you drove to certain areas of ranch. You probably need a break anyway. We were there when it was really hot 105+, but managed the heat with some breaks in the cabins. We found the city of Mason to be a nice town with enough shopping for any of your grocery needs, and restaurants if you don't want to cook. Also, took some drives to sitesee. It was a great experience!
1.0
Let me begin by acknowledging that resort host does not control the weather. I fully expect the response to this review will be to attack the messenger and not acknowledge that problems exist which could have been managed and should be corrected. Expect a response suggesting "the customer is never right". See prior responses to negative reviews. All that follows is factual. Our family of 18 have visited multiple locations for annual family gatherings over the past 10 years including Colorado, Texas and Florida and can easily agree that this was the worst experience and worst value for the dollar invested. In fact, we have never left a facility early prior to this one with half of the group leaving two days early and the remainder leaving one day early primarily due to the sleeping facilities being unable to cool appropriately at night. One full day of rental forfeited. Seems that a reasonable response would have been to refund at least one full day of the rental. We were offered a refund of approximately $500 of a $16,000+ bill. You may see a landlord response that they included the Sunday House for $1 but do not be deceived. The Sunday House was part of a last-minute offer by the landlord to rent an additional three cabins for the price of two and subsequently we paid an additional $1,395 to get this offer. Not a gift or compensation for the condition of the rooms..
Regarding the facilities there were multiple issues:
1. Air Conditioning -antiquated and inadequate for the Texas heat. Cabins would not cool below 78-80 until early morning hours. We never set thermostats below 72 so watch for that false accusation. Fish Camp, Bunk House and Airstream basically uninhabitable.
2. Cabana -exhaust fan above grill coated with grease which dripped down when heated. TV would not work with message displayed that set top box was to hot at 134 degrees. Generally insufficient circulation
3. Game Room Shack- Inadequate ventilation or cooling. No TV with similar message on set that set top box was to hot 132
3. No adequate shaded or ventilated gathering space. More umbrellas or awnings could have solved
4. Propane tanks - three advertised, two provided, one empty. Caution one tank has a significant leak (safety Issue)
5.Golf Carts - One worked, one did not
Safety and Risk Issues:
1. Propane tank
2 .Grill Hood
3. Water Slide - you are asked to sign a waiver and wear a helmet for a reason. Caution
Consider the negative reviews in the most recent ones posted.
1.0
Disappointing
Let me begin by acknowledging that resort host does not control the weather. I fully expect the response to this review will be to attack the messenger and not acknowledge that problems exist which could have been managed and should be corrected. Expect a response suggesting "the customer is never right". See prior responses to negative reviews. All that follows is factual. Our family of 18 have visited multiple locations for annual family gatherings over the past 10 years including Colorado, Texas and Florida and can easily agree that this was the worst experience and worst value for the dollar invested. In fact, we have never left a facility early prior to this one with half of the group leaving two days early and the remainder leaving one day early primarily due to the sleeping facilities being unable to cool appropriately at night. One full day of rental forfeited. Seems that a reasonable response would have been to refund at least one full day of the rental. We were offered a refund of approximately $500 of a $16,000+ bill. You may see a landlord response that they included the Sunday House for $1 but do not be deceived. The Sunday House was part of a last-minute offer by the landlord to rent an additional three cabins for the price of two and subsequently we paid an additional $1,395 to get this offer. Not a gift or compensation for the condition of the rooms..
Regarding the facilities there were multiple issues:
1. Air Conditioning -antiquated and inadequate for the Texas heat. Cabins would not cool below 78-80 until early morning hours. We never set thermostats below 72 so watch for that false accusation. Fish Camp, Bunk House and Airstream basically uninhabitable.
2. Cabana -exhaust fan above grill coated with grease which dripped down when heated. TV would not work with message displayed that set top box was to hot at 134 degrees. Generally insufficient circulation
3. Game Room Shack- Inadequate ventilation or cooling. No TV with similar message on set that set top box was to hot 132
3. No adequate shaded or ventilated gathering space. More umbrellas or awnings could have solved
4. Propane tanks - three advertised, two provided, one empty. Caution one tank has a significant leak (safety Issue)
5.Golf Carts - One worked, one did not
Safety and Risk Issues:
1. Propane tank
2 .Grill Hood
3. Water Slide - you are asked to sign a waiver and wear a helmet for a reason. Caution
Consider the negative reviews in the most recent ones posted.
4.0
Great place.
It was a good get away for us all. We were thankful for the rain showers a couple days as it was so very hot. The river was very low so could not float much at all. The flies were beyond terrible. Maybe some kind of auto repellent would be very helpful. We have reccommended to friends.
4.0
Glorified Glamping - set your expectations properly
This is a really hard review to write, but I think people booking it should know exactly what to expect. The place is super cool. It will probably be the kid's top 5 vacations they ever take in their childhood. Family time is so valuable & cherished & we have great memories to take home with us. The downside is for the nightly rate being charged we thought the accommodations would have been a bit higher end. This place is being presented as a Texas hill country ranch/resort...not the case. It is a true glamping experience. Had we gone in with the correct expectations I think we would have had a better understanding of what we were getting into.
Be advised there is no oven or cooktop to cook for large crowds. You have to be creatvie on how to use a grill to heat up all your dishes. There is no central 'kitchen'...it's an outdoor patio only. There is a leak in the grill's propane line, so it's pretty strong when you fire it up. The ACs in the buildings are old & limping along. Again, for what the nightly rate is I would think a $200 window unit upgrade in each building could be easily addressed. We paid extra for the tube/kayak package only to find out when we got there the river is down so much that the package was a waste of money. It would have been a nice southern gesture to clue us in when we requested. Neither here nor there - my fault for not asking the extra question. The pool, slide, and tennis court combination is super cool. Again, kids loved it. Adults felt like we had been in a car wreck after one trip down the slide...it's a tough ride. There is a small toaster oven & when we went to use it the door pulled out of the hinge. We fixed it, but again, just shoddy. We really wanted to love it, but for the price, we expected more. As long as you know this going in & set your expectations accordingly maybe will be a different experience.
5.0
Family Fun at Red Sand Ranch
Enjoyed this rental from beginning to end. Host was very accommodating with general information about property from time it was booked until checkout. Addressed any issues we had during our stay immediately. This property is perfect for all ages, something for everyone. Very well stocked for all cooking needs as well as fun activities at tennis court, pool, ping pong, pool table, river etc. Great place for our outdoor loving family of 28. Would definitely recommend to anyone who enjoys the outdoors. Hope to visit again in the future! Thanks John!
3.0
This review is a mixed bag. There are so many amazing things that RSR has to offer to create magical memories, it's unfortunate that in some ways it simply missed the mark.
When I saw pictures of the Ranch I was sold. I had visions of my loved ones, riding the pony (found out it was dead when we were looking to ride it), having a large group tubing experience down the river(not enough tubes/ no trailer to haul like in the pics), riding in airplane (I knew this was just a fantasy), playing tennis, pingpong, sliding, jumping off the platform and adventuring. I read all of the reviews, and with mostly positive reviews and comments I felt at ease that this experience would be nothing short amazing. Unfortunately, my fantasy and the reality had a few gaps.
I scheduled this space to bring a bunch of loved ones together to celebrate my 40th birthday. There were a total of 25 of us, ranging from 4 months old to 70+. 15 adults and 10 kids. We booked the property for 3 nights.
The listing mentions that it is expensive, it does not lie. My rating is a direct reflection of the value and experience I had at the ranch given the amount we paid. About $14k for three nights after charges for addl rooms, addl people and the rec package that is pretty key to enjoying the full property.
Initial communication with the owner felt good. I asked a question about booking a caterer for the property immediately after I booked and asked if he had any contacts to share. He sent the contact for Becky the groundskeeper saying people usually just order from town and she delivered. After resigning myself and realigning my thoughts to 'the takeout version', they provided me with the caterer’s info 2 weeks before my stay… and of course she was already booked. It is one thing to not have a contact- another to simply not send it.
Also after staying at lot of VRBO’s, I have never bumped into being expected to bring and supply my own trash bags… but I don’t know why that caught me by surprise when after we booked I was sent an email noting that someone in our party should bring a well stocked first aid kit. They also noted that we would have to pack our own beach towels and lifejackets. Given the activities on the property and the reservation cost, it shocked me that they would not consider a first aid kit, life jackets and pool towels a cost of doing business.
FYI:
Fraying cable on bridge- check before use
Gross/dirty toilet in airstream
Pony is dead
Property Magical
3.0
I imagined magical vacation possibilities when I saw RSR Pics... In many ways it did not disappoint
This review is a mixed bag. There are so many amazing things that RSR has to offer to create magical memories, it's unfortunate that in some ways it simply missed the mark.
When I saw pictures of the Ranch I was sold. I had visions of my loved ones, riding the pony (found out it was dead when we were looking to ride it), having a large group tubing experience down the river(not enough tubes/ no trailer to haul like in the pics), riding in airplane (I knew this was just a fantasy), playing tennis, pingpong, sliding, jumping off the platform and adventuring. I read all of the reviews, and with mostly positive reviews and comments I felt at ease that this experience would be nothing short amazing. Unfortunately, my fantasy and the reality had a few gaps.
I scheduled this space to bring a bunch of loved ones together to celebrate my 40th birthday. There were a total of 25 of us, ranging from 4 months old to 70+. 15 adults and 10 kids. We booked the property for 3 nights.
The listing mentions that it is expensive, it does not lie. My rating is a direct reflection of the value and experience I had at the ranch given the amount we paid. About $14k for three nights after charges for addl rooms, addl people and the rec package that is pretty key to enjoying the full property.
Initial communication with the owner felt good. I asked a question about booking a caterer for the property immediately after I booked and asked if he had any contacts to share. He sent the contact for Becky the groundskeeper saying people usually just order from town and she delivered. After resigning myself and realigning my thoughts to 'the takeout version', they provided me with the caterer’s info 2 weeks before my stay… and of course she was already booked. It is one thing to not have a contact- another to simply not send it.
Also after staying at lot of VRBO’s, I have never bumped into being expected to bring and supply my own trash bags… but I don’t know why that caught me by surprise when after we booked I was sent an email noting that someone in our party should bring a well stocked first aid kit. They also noted that we would have to pack our own beach towels and lifejackets. Given the activities on the property and the reservation cost, it shocked me that they would not consider a first aid kit, life jackets and pool towels a cost of doing business.
FYI:
Fraying cable on bridge- check before use
Gross/dirty toilet in airstream
Pony is dead
Property Magical
5.0
Family Western Adventure
Great venue for family togetherness. Need to like the outdoors to really appreciate this property. Liked the fact that it was just our family there, would have been difficult to share facilities. Would happily return.
5.0
Great property to take your friends and kids to. Spacious beautiful river front with no shortage of things to do
5.0
We enjoyed our weekend so much. The owner and staff were responsive and so helpful in planning. The property is just as described, clean, and provided the perfect setting for our weekend. We will be back next year!
5.0
Family stay
Great property to take your friends and kids to. Spacious beautiful river front with no shortage of things to do
5.0
Perfect Mother Day Weekend
We enjoyed our weekend so much. The owner and staff were responsive and so helpful in planning. The property is just as described, clean, and provided the perfect setting for our weekend. We will be back next year!
5.0
I hosted a women's adventure retreat with 37 women from all across the country here. It was absolute perfection. We floated down the river on tubes, we hired Justin for live music, we catered in delicious local BBQ, we did all the things!!!!!! John was truly so generous and the ranch team was kind and helpful.
We’re coming back!
5.0
Perfection In the Form of a Ranch
I hosted a women's adventure retreat with 37 women from all across the country here. It was absolute perfection. We floated down the river on tubes, we hired Justin for live music, we catered in delicious local BBQ, we did all the things!!!!!! John was truly so generous and the ranch team was kind and helpful.
We’re coming back!
2.0
Nice place but could use some upgrades and updated pics of the “Vintage AIRSTREAM” living area. Communication while there with the owner and Ranch Hands could have been better. Communication is a must and sometimes urgent when things breakdown. Overall a ok experience just not great for the 23 of us.
2.0
Might be good for some but not for us….
Nice place but could use some upgrades and updated pics of the “Vintage AIRSTREAM” living area. Communication while there with the owner and Ranch Hands could have been better. Communication is a must and sometimes urgent when things breakdown. Overall a ok experience just not great for the 23 of us.
5.0
Family ThanksMas
Our family searches for the perfect location every year to celebrate a combined Thanksgiving and Christmas. Red Sands Ranch quickly became the Family Favorite! The property is so unique and well thought out. There is something for everyone! We were constantly discovering all of the fun details. The owner was so easy to communicate with and Danny went far and above with helping us with our stay. If you are looking for a memorable place to spread out with your family, Red Sands Ranch is the spot for you!
5.0
Return guest. Excellent Stay!!
RSR is without a doubt a gem of a property. This is my 5th year to host a corporate retreat at RSR. I continue to be pleased with the property and the managers. If you are looking to unplug, experience nature, and enjoy the Llano River, pool, and other amenities, this is your spot!
5.0
Amazing Stay at Red Sands Ranch
We had an incredible time, the property is gorgeous, a perfect setup for a group of friends with kids. Thanks for everything!!!
5.0
Great time!!!! Will return again!!!!!
5.0
Ploss Family Vaca 2021
Great time!!!! Will return again!!!!!
5.0
We loved our time at red sands. The location is magazine worthy and something you cannot get anywhere else. We would absolutely go back and have recommended to friends and family to go for sure.
5.0
We had an amazing time at Red Sands! John and Becky were very accommodating and easy to work with. We loved the pool and river and had no problems getting around. We will definitely be back someday! Our children and guests had a blast!
2.0
11
5.0
Everyone in our family had a good time.
5.0
Great trip!!
Everyone in our family had a good time.
FAQs
How much does this house cost compared to others in Texas?
The average price for a rental in Texas is $157 per night. This rental is $1,771 above the average.
Is parking included with this house?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Red Sands Ranch River Resort -- Tennis\/Pool\/Pickleball, Airstrip -- Sleeps 12-37. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this house?
Yes, a swimming pool is available for use at Red Sands Ranch River Resort -- Tennis\/Pool\/Pickleball, Airstrip -- Sleeps 12-37. Enjoy the water!
Is Red Sands Ranch River Resort -- Tennis\/Pool\/Pickleball, Airstrip -- Sleeps 12-37 pet friendly?
Yes! This house is pet-friendly. For more information, we recommend contacting the booking provider about animal policies.
What amenities are available at Red Sands Ranch River Resort -- Tennis\/Pool\/Pickleball, Airstrip -- Sleeps 12-37?
We found 16 amenities for this rental. This includes pool, air conditioner, pets allowed, kitchen / kitchenette, and internet / wifi.
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