Entire home

RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD!

Photo gallery for RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD!

Picture taken in the swimming hole at the base of Howdy's steps- looking left
Picture taken in the swimming hole at the base of Howdy's steps- looking right
You can't beat the crystal clear waters of the Frio!!
Swimming hole to the left of Howdy's banks
Picture of Howdy's from the river...just look at that deck and view it provides!

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Balcony
    A rare find - enjoy views from the balcony.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Walk to Frio River
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 12

Popular amenities

  • Balcony
  • Toys
  • Barbecue grill
  • Air conditioning
  • Free WiFi
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

View in a map
Leakey, TX
  • Place, Frio River
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Garner State Park
    ‪18 min drive‬
  • Place, Lost Maples State Natural Area
    ‪25 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 12)

Guest House- One Large Bedroom

2 Queen Beds and 1 Twin Bunk Bed

Main House- Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Bunk Bed

Main House- Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Guest House- Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Main House- Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Outdoor Shower

Outdoor shower

Spaces

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

About this property

RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD!

CHECK OUT OUR LOW OFF-SEASON RATES! The most peaceful views can be found at Howdy's!

***WE NOW HAVE WIFI***

***COME ENJOY OUR NEW UPDATES! We've been busy in January of 2024, replacing the original floors in the Main House as well as updating with new furniture. December of 2025- we now have 4 queen beds on the property in addition to keeping our 2 sets of bunks. A new walking path between the houses was put in as well.***

Howdy's on the Frio is a charming property located in Leakey, TX, RIGHT ON THE FRIO RIVER! Howdy's provides a beautiful, entertaining, and relaxing vacation spot for your family and friends. Howdy's sits on just under 2 acres of land and boasts breathtaking views of the river from its 400 sq. ft. deck. As you enter the river from Howdy's, you can enjoy a deep swimming hole that never goes dry, small rapids for the adventurous, and shallow water for the little ones- not to mention no across the river neighbors! Don't want to get wet? Then enjoy sitting on the large covered deck where you can watch your friends and family enjoy the river, while taking in the fantastic unspoiled views of the surrounding hills and Texas Hill Country sunsets. Once the sun goes down, light a fire in the fire-pit and roast marshmallows under the bright stars or play a game of dominoes out on the deck, all set to the sounds of the Frio.

Howdy's sleeps up to 12 people and consists of the main house (2 bedrooms/1 bath) and the guest house (1 large room/1 bath), which is just 10 yards from the main house. The main house bathroom has just been remodeled in 2021 and new kitchen counter tops and sink in 2022! The main house has steps with railings and a relaxation landing heading down to the river. With the river and huge outdoor entertaining space within your fingertips, you may never find yourself inside. The children are sure to love the swing set and the see-saw on property. But if you do find yourself inside, you will love the Texas-made-comfortable and cozy feel of the house and guest house. In charge of the evening's meal? Then you won't miss out on any conversation while cooking in our open, fully-stocked, kitchen. The view of the Texas hills through our beautiful new double French doors will make cooking seem like anything but a chore. Need to holler at your kids to come eat? Do so from the grill area overlooking the river. At the end of the day, bask in the warmth of the wood-burning fire place while reconnecting with family and friends within the spacious, high-ceiling living space. Open the many windows at night to enjoy the cool fresh air and sounds of the river running below.

Since the river is in your backyard, you may never need to leave the property. But the surrounding area has much to offer as well. Howdy's is only a mile to the main street of Leakey, TX and a few miles north of Garner State Park. The Three Sisters Drive is also only minutes away, with Lost Maples State Natural Area only 25 miles down the road.

There are year-round activities in the Frio Canyon area ranging from tubing/kayaking the Frio in the summer, enjoying the fall foliage in autumn, hiking/hunting in the winter, and viewing wildflowers in the spring. The bird and deer watching are fabulous year round. World Class Golf is available at Concan Country Club. Don't forget the outdoor summer time concerts at House Pasture Cattle Company and of course the dances at Garner! Made in Texas!

A vacation at Howdy's on the Frio is the perfect getaway for everyone!

One note: All beds have quilts/comforters and pillows. Guests provide their own sheets, pillowcases and towels.

Call Diane to learn more about Howdy's on the Frio. Please be sure to contact us if you'd like to stay for less than 3 nights during the summer season. Anytime there are less than three nights between other bookings, we are happy to make those nights available.

Come make memories at Howdy's on the banks of the river!

Also visit our property, Four Frio Sisters, #321679 in Leakey, TX. Instagram: @howdysonthefrio Facebook: Howdy’s on the Frio
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0-17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No smoking on the property
Guest must provide own linens and towels. If evidence of sleeping on mattress pads, loss of security deposit possible.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 1068345
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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the neighborhood

Leakey

Located in Leakey, this vacation home is on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Frio River and Garner State Park. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and water tubing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and rock climbing.
Map
Leakey, TX

What's nearby

  • Frio River - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Bushong Mountain Park - 6 min drive - 2.9 km
  • Garner State Park - 18 min drive - 18.7 km
  • Lost Maples State Natural Area - 25 min drive - 36.6 km
  • Concan Golf Course and Country Club - 31 min drive - 33.8 km

Restaurants

  • ‪Frio Coffee Leakey - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Stripes Convenience Store / SUBWAY - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Bent Rim Grill - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Mama Chole's Mexican - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Mill Creek Cafe - ‬4 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD!?

As of Jun 9, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD! on Oct 3, 2026 start from $441, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD!?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD! located?

Situated on the waterfront, this vacation home is steps from Frio River and 1.7 mi (2.8 km) from Bushong Mountain Park. Garner State Park is 11.1 mi (17.9 km) away.

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 153 out of 183 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 24 out of 183 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 4 out of 183 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 183 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 183 reviews

9.0/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kim T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This place is awesome! Awesome location on the river.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Misty B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We absolutely love this house…perfect location and the river frontage is so good!!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Glenn G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Exactly as described and Leslie Ann was a pleasure to work with! Property is quiet with beautiful views, deep water hole at the ladder to the river and small shallow rapids you can see and hear! Grill is charcoal and good size and kitchen is well stocked with utensils. Town is roughly 2 miles away and easy to get to. We had a wonderful time and will definitely go back when the opportunity arises!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Debra D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Group of 5 adults and 3 grand kids ages 16-10. Property as described conveniently located to Frio River and downtown Leaky. Nice area on river bank to sit and watch kids swing on rope out into a deeper section. Our grand kids enjoyed this tremendously! Access to a private dumpster was nice as we brought several ice chests filled with home made meals and disposable serving ware to save both time and expense. Outside fire pit was a great evening wind down. We brought cut fire wood but plenty was available.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amber G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved it! Thank you
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Feb 25, 2026
Thank you so much for your 5 star review! We are so happy to hear your group enjoyed Howdy’s. We sure hope you return!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had the best time at Howdys! Everything was great! We highly recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 17, 2025
We are so happy to hear you all had a wonderful stay! Please come back and see us!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Juan V.

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

Family Vacation

Great place for quiet family time.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

April N.

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

Awesome place

Very nice property. We had a great family vacation.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Nov 7, 2022
Thank you so much for your review April! We are so happy to hear you all had a wonderful time making memories with your family. Please come back and visit us again soon! Marbach & Frazier Families
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Reyna S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The property was an excellent choice to serve as for our home base to visit Dollywood and Great Smokie Mountains. The rooms were perfect for our kids and the grandparents. Clean, quiet, well designed appointed.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrew H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was clean and in good order. The houses are more like cabins in nature versus what one would find in connection with a weekend VRBO. The kitchen was equipped. There is no washer or dryer on property. The bedrooms were clean and spacious in both houses. The fire pit, children’s play equipment and grill area were a great bonus. River entry is good for younger families or those who have no difficulty with three levels of steps. The host’s instructions were clear and concise. The house is tucked away in a quiet neighborhood with easy access to Garner State Park and Lost Maples State Park. The stars at night were beautiful. The mornings were crisp, cool, and the river so very clear. We enjoyed our stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kristina U.

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

Amazing

Smooth check in process and wonderful views.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 14, 2025
We are so happy to hear you had a wonderful stay at Howdy's on the Frio! Please come back and see us!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Avery W.

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

Great stay

Great
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 13, 2022
Thank you for your review Avery! Please come back and visit us! - Marbach & Frazier Families
Verified

8/10 Good

Kathleen H.

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

Great River Location

Nice place on the river, property was as depicted on VRBO
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Dec 29, 2024
Thank you Kathleen! We hope to have you return in the future!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sheryl M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This location is absolutely fantastic. Direct access to the Frio river for swimming, fishing or just enjoying the beautiful view. We were a family group of all ages, and everyone had a wonderful time. Easy communication with the owner for questions. Highly recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Dec 30, 2025
Thank you for the great review! It warms our hearts to read that you enjoyed Howdy's on the Frio. We agree that the location and views can't be beat. It is a wonderful spot for a family group of all ages, and we would love to have you all come visit again! Marbach and Frazier Families
Verified

10/10 Excellent

maria G.

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

It was a wonderful stay hope to come back again

Beautiful ❤️
Stayed 2 nights in May 2021
Response from VrboOwner on Dec 22, 2021
Beautiful is just one of many ways to describe our little piece of Frio river front. Thank you for staying with us at Howdy's on the Frio. We look forward to seeing you again soon. Marbachs & Fraziers
Verified

10/10 Excellent

LUIS R.

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

Great outdoors!

If you're looking for a relaxed time and some fun activities outdoors...then this is the place. Great place to fish as well.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Oct 16, 2022
Thank you Luis! We hope you all come back to visit us!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brad S.

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

Second time here and it was great again

We had a great time. The place is great for all ages. We will Be booking it for next year!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 25, 2023
Thank you for the great review, Brad! We are so grateful for our wonderful guests. We are looking forward to your next stay! -Diane & Leslie Anne
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Monica C.

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

Perfect get away

This place had everything you needed for a weekend getaway or longer ,from the amenities to the views everything was perfect. Best spot I have been to in all my years visiting the Frio area.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Oct 16, 2022
Thank you so much for the review Monica! We hope you all come back to visit us again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Reed M.

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

Weekend Trip

The view was great, access and space was better than expected. We had a great time.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Dec 1, 2023
Thank you Reed! We are so happy to hear you all enjoyed your stay and the beautiful Hill Country views. Please come back and see us!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amanda C.

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

Wonderful property-nothing better!

Beautiful property in a wonderful location! River is perfect for all ages. Lots of room for large groups. We had a great time and highly recommend this property!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 23, 2021
We are so happy to hear you enjoyed your stay at Howdy’s! We are grateful for our wonderful guests, and we would love to have you return!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jaime F.

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

Vacation

Love it me and my family had a blast scenery was spectacular and water was beautiful stayed here before and will again
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Angela D.

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

Ahern family reunion.

We stayed here during our family reunion which was held just down river. We had a great time and we’re very comfortable. We enjoyed the river and the deck so much. Great place to stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 22, 2021
We are so happy to hear you all had a wonderful stay at Howdy’s! The river front and deck are our absolute favorite as well. We are grateful for our wonderful guests, and we would love to have you visit us again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Melissa R.

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

Beautiful views

Had a small get away with my husband and family. It was great, enough beds and beautiful place to explore.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laura Mae and Blake C.

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

Girls weekend

Perfect girls getaway
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Steve O.

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

Howdy’s

We had a great time
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Dec 1, 2023
Thank you Steve! So glad y’all had a great time!

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