By Gabriel Romero, Hill Country Reporter, Aug 31, 2023
When a ranch hits the market, it’s almost certain to appeal to anyone who wants great space, privacy, or even hunting opportunities. A $17.2 million Central Texas ranch has all of that, with plenty of turkey and deer on site, but also ponds that are perfect for fishing lovers.
El Chaparral Ranch in Smithville, roughly 52 miles from Austin, is a high 866-square-foot property that is on the market from agent Jeff Boswell with Republic Ranches.
The biggest lake stretches over 4.7 acres in a canyon above Cedar Creek. It is great for kayaking to the large island in the middle of the lake. Another lake reaches over two acres with a water line run to stay full. Two other acre-size ponds are also stocked with fish, according to the listing.
Now this ranch does have some great hunting opportunities on land as well. Deer, turkey, dove, ducks, and hogs roam the land and high fences allow the new owner to continue to manage the deer herd or even bring in exotic animals to the property, the listing reads. That deer herd has only been hunted by the current ranch owners.
The expansive herd of deer makes it another spot perfect for any Texas hunter, not unlike the massive G2 Ranch in Frio County. Yet while El Chaparral may not be as expansive as G2, it makes up for its size with its beautiful landscapes.
“With the heavy forested areas, many of the deer on this ranch have likely rarely seen people and it has provided for a great age distribution of the herd,” the El Chaparral listing reads.
Recent improvements include a barndominium and two casitas that overlook a pond. Of the 865 acres, 235 acres are native grasslands with oak trees to give a “park-like” feel, according to the listing.
https://www.mysanantonio.com/realestate/article/el-chaparral-ranch-smithville-18336786.php