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Red Sands Ranch River Resort -- Tennis/Pool/Pickleball, Airstrip -- Sleeps 12-37

Photo gallery for Red Sands Ranch River Resort -- Tennis/Pool/Pickleball, Airstrip -- Sleeps 12-37

Resort setting at Red Sands Ranch.
Entry to the nearly 1/2 mile of riverfont on the ranch
Cabana from Grill Area
Poolside cabana/kitchen with a few of the guest cabins in background.
Poolside Cabana with full kitchen. (Main gathering area).

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
9 bedrooms6+ bathroomsSleeps 37464.5 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Air conditioning
  • Pool
  • Breakfast available
  • Hot tub
  • Dryer

Explore the area

Map
Mason, TX
  • The Odeon Theatre
    ‪23 min drive‬
  • Enchanted Rock Fissure
    ‪72 min drive‬
  • Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
    ‪91 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

9 bedrooms (sleeps 37)

BunkHouse

4 Single Beds

FishCamp

2 Double Beds, 1 Single Bed and 1 Double Futon

Lorenz Downstairs

1 Double Futon

Lorenz Upstairs

2 Single Beds and 1 Queen Bed

Riverside Downstairs

1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Futon

Riverside Upstairs

1 Double Bed and 2 Single Beds

Sunday House (Optional)

1 King Bed

Sunday Loft (Optional)

4 Double Beds

The 'Sixty-Eight'

1 Queen Bed and 2 Single Beds

6 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Airstream

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shampoo

Central Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo

FishCamp

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Lorenz Bath

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Riverside

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Sunday House

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Sunday Loft

Soap · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Red Sands Ranch River Resort -- Tennis/Pool/Pickleball, Airstrip -- Sleeps 12-37

PLEASE NOTE: CURRENTLY THE VRBO QUOTE SYSTEM WILL ONLY GIVE THE BASE RATE FOR THE RESORT AND ANY 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.
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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 -- YOUR CHOICE OF ANY THREE 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, streaming 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 (your choice of any 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.

(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.

Additional units are $95 per night or all four extras may be rented for $295/nt): 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. There is an over-sized gas grill, large toaster oven plus built-in mid-size oven, dishwasher, two refrigerator/freezers, built-in microwave, two sinks, soapstone countertops, mahogany cabinetry, WIFI, 65in LCD television with Roku streaming or direct HDMI from guest devices or the privided BluRayDVD. Music available with BlueTooth/iPod/Aux inputs and 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, and WiFi TV with workout towels provided.

- The fully lighted tennis/pickleball court includes a practice wall 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.

© 2025 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.

Property manager

John Gilbert
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 30
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Adequate supervision req'd for toddlers.
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Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
No keg parties or 'Youth Groups'. Weddings <45.
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs and cats less than 23 kg per pet (limit 3 pets total)
Considered but discouraged. FEE APPLIES PER PET!
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Not allowed in any structures. No butts.
CANCELLATIONS BEFORE 60 DAYS IN ADVANCE WILL RECEIVE FULL REFUND OF ALL AMOUNTS PAID LESS A $500 REBOOKING FEE. PET FEE IN ADVANCE @$95EA.
QUOTE INCLUDES ONLY 3 UNITS THAT SLEEP UP TO 16, ADD'L CABINS AVAILABLE FOR EXTRA CHARGE. Day Guest fees ($50/day ea) -- not to exceed max.
Required WAIVERS will be emailed. Unauthorized pets/guests may lead to loss of deposit. Under 21 yrs should be listed as 'Kids' in the guest count.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 45
Note from host: No keg parties or 'Youth Groups'. Weddings <45.
This property uses solar energy
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock

About the area

Mason

Located in Mason, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Local landmarks include The Odeon Theatre and St. Joseph Catholic Church, and travellers wishing to experience a bit of culture can try Mason County Museum. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Mason, TX

What's nearby

  • The Odeon Theatre - 23 min drive - 15.9 km
  • St. Joseph Catholic Church - 24 min drive - 16.6 km
  • Enchanted Rock Fissure - 72 min drive - 66.5 km
  • Enchanted Rock Cave - 91 min drive - 107.0 km
  • Enchanted Rock State Natural Area - 91 min drive - 72.0 km

Frequently asked questions

Does Red Sands Ranch River Resort -- Tennis/Pool/Pickleball, Airstrip -- Sleeps 12-37 have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool. Pool types include heated pools.

Is Red Sands Ranch River Resort -- Tennis/Pool/Pickleball, Airstrip -- Sleeps 12-37 pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 3 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.

What time is check-in at Red Sands Ranch River Resort -- Tennis/Pool/Pickleball, Airstrip -- Sleeps 12-37?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Red Sands Ranch River Resort -- Tennis/Pool/Pickleball, Airstrip -- Sleeps 12-37?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Red Sands Ranch River Resort -- Tennis/Pool/Pickleball, Airstrip -- Sleeps 12-37 located?

This family-friendly Mason holiday home is located on the waterfront, steps from Llano River and within 12 mi (20 km) of Mason County Museum and The Odeon Theatre. St. Joseph Catholic Church and M. Beven Eckert Memorial Library are also within 12 miles (20 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 170 out of 190 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 17 out of 190 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 190 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 190 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 190 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Danny L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Friends Get together

We booked this resort for a getaway for a group of friends. All of us enjoyed the stay and the resort for the weekend. The privacy, amenities, the river and everything was perfect.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Andreah F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely Amazing

We did a company retreat here about 10 years ago and everyone loved it so we had to do it again. 10 years later and it is still amazing and out of all the places we have done retreats this one is everyone's favorite. The kids had an amazing time as there was so much to do. It was a wonderful get away for all our employees and their families from the daily grind. We look forward to many more trips here! The owner and his staff are just as amazing as the place!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic Place

This is such a wonderful place. Great for all ages. Our grandchildren ages 1-20 had a fantastic time along with their parents!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ryan C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Stay. Plan to come back.

Great getaway. Something to do for all ages.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kenneth O.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Our family reunion was perfect. 12 adults and 17 grandkids 6 to 18

Great pool and slide great court and river. Suggest you plan to go eat in Mason during the hottest time of day. Individual cabins were comfortable.. great family pictures. In a beautiful place.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

David M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Escape

The arrangements here let you spend time together and still have a place for each couple or family to retreat (to their own cabin). Perfect for mingling people of all ages. Our extended family loved it. Owner is very responsive and nice to deal with. Plenty to do, but also a nice place to relax and visit.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brian J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

TONS OF FUN!

We had an absolutely amazing time at Red Sands. The property is absolutely beautiful and you cannot ask for a better host that John Gilbert. He's overally accomodating, extremely personable, and incredibly nice. He even took time take us out flying, and definitely has regenerated my personal passion for aviation. Thanks again Red Sands!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

ryan r.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

perfect group getaway

We had such a blast! The property is so well maintained, the landscaping blends seamlessly into the natural beauty of the area. Pool was perfectly maintained throughout our stay. Tennis court is professionally lit and maintained and there are 2 great areas in the river to sit in the water and hang all day. Cabins are rustic-chic, very clean and well appointed. All in all it is a luxury rustic experience. Would definitely recommend to any group. Thanks again!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Vacation

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.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

allison d.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best 30th birthday!!

Had a large group of friends get together for a 30th bday! Enjoyed all the activities, and the river was absolutely perfect! Tons of room for everyone in the cabins. You will have spotty phone signal but wifi is great. Who needs their phones anyway?! Slide is not for the faint of heart but we all went down it multiple times! Everyone is already asking to do it again next year. Thank you, John and Becky!!!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely Fabulous

We had the most incredible time at Red Sands Ranch! The property has outstanding views of the bluffs and river and each cabin is perfectly outfitted with everything we needed. The cabins were definitely more than glamping?? In fact, the bed in the Sunday Cabin had the most comfortable and adjustable mattress just like our bed at home - wasn't expecting such a high end mattress, but it was wonderful! We played tennis and pickleball all day and because of the lights on the court - we played well up into the night time hours. Then we laid on the court and stargazed!! Tammy prepared all of our meals which made it a real vacation for the adults! John was SOOO generous and attentive and helpful!! Becky answered all of our questions and showed us around and Danny saved the day for us when we needed help with a critter. The entire crew at Red Sands Ranch enhanced our visit immensely and the property, all of the amenities especially the slide and pool and cabins and outdoor kitchen made this a truly special place!!! Absolutely, hands down, had the best weekend outdoors at RSR!! Well worth it!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carol D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Adventure

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!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Joan H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Spencer A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

An Epic Oasis

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!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lindsay B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

We LOVED Red Sands Ranch!!!

We had the best week at Red Sands Ranch!! John is an exceptional host!!! Becky is wonderful and will do grocery and dinner runs so you don’t have to leave paradise!! Justin plays great live music and Eric was an awesome tennis pro!!! We will definitely be back!!!!!! Thank you, John, for sharing a piece of heaven with us!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Clint M.

ONE OF KIND!

Red Sands Ranch was a wonderful vacation stay. John the owner of the ranch, was extremely accommodating. He made sure everything was working correctly and answered all of our questions. Absolutely everything was beautiful and unique, from the classic rusted truck to the beautiful red cliffs. Each cabin had its own rare decor and were completely comfortable. The pool and slide were the most fun and tubing in the river was great with the recent rainfall. The Cabana made a perfect place to relax near the pool with food and drinks at hand. This is a great place for just a couple on their honeymoon or a large group on a family gathering. We will definitely be visiting again very soon. Thanks again to our host for a magnificent stay. Clint & Mirella
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2018

8/10 Good

Oswald S.

Liked: Check-in, location

Everybody had a great time

So much to do. Easy access to great river where kids and adults could enjoy kayaks and catch/release fishing. Good pool for kids. But Would never do it if temp was 90. This is not luxury, but accommodations are comfortable and adequate if you can be flexible. Would recommend preparing some meals in advance, especially for groups over 12 (no large oven, some limitations on pots/pans). This is remote. We had no TV in common area (cabana) over the weekend; wifi download speed was about 5Mb/sec.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2020

4/10 Poor

angela h.

Liked: Check-in, location
Disliked: Communication

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.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Mel G.

A fantastic family vacation away form the outside world with absolutely all the amenities !

We loved the Red Sands Ranch! The accommodations were top notch. The pool was fabulous as the cabana kitchen and the tennis court right beside us. Just wish the water in the hot tub was hotter and hotter running water for showers. If the weather had been warmer those issues would not have been so much a problem. John was easy to get ahold of and helpful but a bit more supplies and a bit more general maintenance before hand would have been good and had saved a few texts etc... but inspite of those small issues we would definantly return. The river would have been a fabulous if the weather was warmer!!! Also highly recommend getting Donya to make you a cake. She made us a Black Forest cake and it was absolutly fantastic. So good!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2017

8/10 Good

Stacy C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Elaborate Texas vacay

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
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

8/10 Good

Walter C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication
Disliked: Listing accuracy

Problems in paradise

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.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Stacie G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent place to unplug

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!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Laura Kelly H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Heart and Soils Company Tribe Trip

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!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

8/10 Good

Sherri S., Prosper, TX

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022

6/10 Okay

Therese S., Bloomington MN USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy

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
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

About the host

Hosted by John Gilbert

Host profile image
I grew up in Baytown, TX working in construction in the summers and earned Petroleum Engineering and MBA degrees (along with my pilot's license) at Louisiana State University (LSU). After spending a few years in California and Australia with various software companies, I moved to Austin, TX in 1991 and started my own business. Upon selling the company and retiring in my late 30's I quickly learned that I needed more activities than just playing sports all day, and wound up with a nail-gun and 250 acres of raw land on the Llano River. Originally conceived as a few head of cattle and a couple of rustic, riverfront cabins around a firepit mainly to spend time with friends and my wife and three kids -- it's since grown in scale and maintenance to the operation that exists today. Although years later, as a 5th generation engineer and wanna-be architect, I'll probably always be designing or building another project at Red Sands but it has finally evolved to the stage where I can (almost) call it complete.

Why they chose this property

For other aerial tours, news stories, and more:
https://youtu.be/Q-ktPvut5CI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ifJLhda8wbs
http://www.youtube.com/embed/Q-ktPvut5CI?rel=0
https://www.facebook.com/thrillisttravel/videos/326478261440777/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-ktPvut5CI
https://youtu.be/ZTOY_RoU47c
https://www.today.com/home/vacation-rental-houses-indoor-outdoor-slides-t135936

Realtime weather is available at the Red Sands Airport: https://www.wunderground.com/dashboard/pws/KTXMASON3

What makes this property unique

Check out the vibe at Red Sands Ranch along with layout and scenery at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5ELULG_dp0 (paste in new window).

Red Sands is a unique property specifically for guests that prefer an exclusive, private outdoor resort experience in a rustic, natural setting unlike anything available at the large hotel chain resorts. Although expensive, the total rental for a large group is actually much less than a hotel resort stay even before you buy that first $8 beer -- and you won't have to share the pool with 150 kids in swim diapers.

The ranch elevation (1280-1420ft) and semi-arid climate of the area offers more comfortable summer breezes and cooler nights than most of the large metropolitan areas of the state. Other than the spectacular Texas Hill Country setting, the most unique feature of the property is the layout where the pool, cabana (kitchen/dining), firepit, tennis, and all the other resort amenities are part of the main gathering area (rather than some back parking lot) while the separate cabins offer peace and privacy just a few steps away. In addition to all the activities, kids are always captivated by the abundant wildlife, crystal clear river, and the sheer number of stars visible in the clear night sky. Come make some memories and experience the real Texas!

Languages:

English

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