Remote Hill Country Home at Guadalupe River Headwaters, Priv. Lake, Pet Friendly
If your family is looking for a private getaway or a quiet romantic location, The GateHouse at Guadalupe Bluffs Ranch is perfect. The GateHouse and our location on the Guadalupe River were not affected by the July 4th floods.
We are located outside Hunt, Texas approximately 22 miles west of Kerrville, The Gatehouse allows for comfort and great location to enjoy nature on this historic Hill Country Ranch. We are pet friendly, so please bring along the family dog(s). They will love to romp in the water and check out the new sights and smells! Your canine family will LOVE being at The GateHouse!!!
We are located at the spring fed waters at the head of the Guadalupe River. Step into the cool water for swimming and fishing. One section has an area with easy access that is larger than an Olympic pool. Great swimming area for families and children. Bring your ice chest & picnic for a day on the river, just steps from the cabin. A perfect place to enjoy a warm Hill Country Day in Texas.
Fall and winter are great times to visit The GateHouse. The house is warm and cozy. The firepit is available to sit around, tell stories or make S'mores. We even provide the firewood, complimentary!
You are free to hike around the ranch, to see the animals, the beautiful cliffs and crystal clear waters. When the weather is cool, the deer, turkey, foxes and other animals also enjoy the cool weather so you will have greater chances to see them. In November and through December, the hillsides and roadways are covered with multi-colored trees before they lose their leaves. You will see bright reds, yellow and amber colors as they reflect on the waters. Truly a beautiful site.
The Springtime is a beautiful time to be in this area of Texas. You will be sure to see the famous Bluebonnets and all the other wildflowers that line the roads and fill the neighboring ranches.
The Gatehouse overlooks a large private lake for your use. Be sure to bring along your fishing pole as this lake is stocked with Guadalupe bass & catfish. Most recently, we had a group of guests who caught 10 bass in just a few minutes in the private lake! No worry, they did catch and release so there are still many bass and catfish for you to get.
Stroll past the 8 acre pecan orchard to The Guadalupe River. Great swimming, floating, paddleboarding and fishing along the river with easy access. Our guests enjoy fly-fishing in the river.
We have dark skies for your night studies and private rural location for relaxation for your daytime use. You are welcome to bring along your telescopes to check out the skies. You are welcome to pick your best spot on the ranch to do your viewings.
The Gatehouse has 3 bedrooms with sleeping for 6. Bedroom 1 has a double bed and Bedroom 2 has a queen bed; both on the first floor. Bedroom 3 is a full height loft on second floor with one queen bed and 3 twins. One bathroom with full shower with glass enclosure and washer/dryer for your use. The kitchen is fully outfitted, you only need to bring along your food and personal items. We provide paper goods, linens & towels. Central air & heat. BBQ pit for your cooking enjoyment. Don't forget to bring along your favorite charcoal, starter and seasonings for your outdoor cooking. We have complimentary WIFI and multiple TV Channels. & music. There is a phone line available for our guests use as many cell service providers to not work in this area. We even provide complimentary firewood for the firepit. So, be sure to bring along the makings for S'mores. We have made every effort to think about your comfort and convenience.
The Gatehouse is on the over 100 acre Guadalupe Bluffs Ranch. This historic ranch offers a large private stocked lake. Other than the Main House, which is on the other side of the ranch, there are no other cabins to share the area. It is your private location. You are free to hike the ranch or stroll through and relax in the 8 acre pecan orchard that is adjacent to the Guadalupe River. While you hike, you may see our herd of friendly donkeys, our rescue cow, Maisie (she the queen of the ranch), and our herd of Texas Longhorns.
We are located in the Texas Hill Country. With easy access, just 26 miles south of I-10 at Exit 490.
Want to enjoy one of the most beautiful drives in Texas? Make the trip from Kerrville to Ingram and follow Hwy 39 to Hunt, Tx. Turn right on 1340. Go 11 miles, after the Mo Ranch sign, turn left on Rock Bottom Road. This drive will take you over and along the Guadalupe River, past magnificent bluffs, fine ranches, camps and houses built along the river. Note the mighty cypress & pecan trees along the way. Deer graze along the roadside. Check out the birds and other wildlife that can be seen as you drive along.
We have a three night minimum stay requirement. We offer the 3 night stay minimum because we are remote and our guests come from great distances to stay. To truly enjoy the ranch, 3 nights is a minimum. We encourage a 4 night stay, to get the full benefit of getting away at "the ranch" . However, if you are only able to visit for 2 night stay, please check our calendar for open dates and send an inquiry to check if we can do a 2 night stay for the dates you are wanting. Our ability to offer a 2 night stay, often is driven by the availability of staff to clean before and after the stay. Advance reservation is required, but if you are looking for a "last minute getaway", don't hesitate to check with us.
We are about an hour or less from many popular areas, such as Fredericksburg, Lost Maples State Park, Twisted Sisters Highway, Leakey, Junction, Kerrville, Camp Verde, Bandera. There are many summer camps close by. Kerr Wildlife Management is about 2 miles. So you can enjoy rest, privacy and venture out to these locations for shopping, dining, wine tasting, and scenic sites.
As a note: We welcome pets. When the VRBO system gives a rate quote when a guest indicates they will be bringing pets, they only give a quote for one pet staying. Our pet rate is $35.00 a night, per pup. So when there are multiple pups staying, we have to manually update the rate quote. Our pet guests LOVE the ranch. They are free to run without leashes (with their People's permission) to enjoy the freedom of running, sniffing and just rolling in the leaves or jumping in the water. The area around The GateHouse is fenced and when fully gated allows for a contained area for our canine guests.
We hope to have you as our guests soon!
Thank you for checking out The GateHouse at Guadalupe Bluffs Ranch. A Hill Country favorite!
Your Hosts, Sandy & Mike
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Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
Please ask owner for party rates & policy.
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Pets
Pets allowed: dogs (limit 3 total)
Dogs welcome. Pet fee: $35.00 per pup per night.
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Outside smoking only w/ careful use of "butt" cans
No off road vehicles. No hunting or use of firearms without property owner permission.
Please include number of pets in request. There is a per night/per pet fee that will be adjusted post-booking. Notify host if requesting 2+ pets.
For ranch security and registration, guests will be asked to provide vehicle information, driver's license, home address and cell phone numbers
Important information
You need to know
Property # 4810083
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: 50
Note from host: Please ask owner for party rates & policy.
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
About the area
Hunt
Located in Hunt, this cabin is in a rural area and on a river. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Guadalupe River and Lost Maples State Natural Area, while Kathleen Cook Art Studio and Hill Country Arts Foundation are cultural highlights. Duncan-McAshan Visual Arts Center and Texas Wildlife Park and Education Center are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and snorkelling nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with ecotours and hiking.
Hill Country Arts Foundation - 29 min drive - 32.3 km
Schreiner University - 43 min drive - 47.3 km
Lost Maples State Natural Area - 60 min drive - 101.0 km
Getting around
San Antonio International Airport (SAT) - 101 min drive
Restaurants
‪Alexandra's Tea House - ‬25 min drive
‪Creekside Resort - ‬13 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Remote Hill Country Home at Guadalupe River Headwaters, Priv. Lake, Pet Friendly pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 3 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much does it cost to stay at Remote Hill Country Home at Guadalupe River Headwaters, Priv. Lake, Pet Friendly?
As of 17 May, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Remote Hill Country Home at Guadalupe River Headwaters, Priv. Lake, Pet Friendly on 6 Jan, 2027 start from S$424, 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 at Remote Hill Country Home at Guadalupe River Headwaters, Priv. Lake, Pet Friendly?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Remote Hill Country Home at Guadalupe River Headwaters, Priv. Lake, Pet Friendly?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Remote Hill Country Home at Guadalupe River Headwaters, Priv. Lake, Pet Friendly?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Remote Hill Country Home at Guadalupe River Headwaters, Priv. Lake, Pet Friendly located?
Situated on a river, this cabin is 11.7 mi (18.9 km) from Guadalupe River and within 20 miles (32 km) of Kathleen Cook Art Studio and Hill Country Arts Foundation. Duncan-McAshan Visual Arts Center and Stonehenge II are also within 20 miles (32 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Absolutely lovely stay! We were in town for a sporting event and this rental was in a great location for getting back and forth to the venue. Super charming, clean, comfy beds... plus the river is right around the corner so you can jump in for a swim! We BBQ'ed and sat in the rocking chairs in the evening listening to nature. It was a 10/10!
Wonderfully quiet and serene. We hiked and swam in nearby lake and river, stargazed and headed into Kerrville one afternoon for lunch. The scenery of the Texas Hill Country always is amazing.
Mark C.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Sept, 2025
We are so happy you had a good time at the ranch. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We are looking forward to having you back again soon!
Thank you for being our guests!
Your Hosts,
Sandy & Mike
Fun place and area. Perfect for the weekend. Enjoyed the stay.
Jose S.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 27 May, 2025
So pleased you had a good time at The GateHouse and this area of the Texas Hill Country. We thank you very much for taking the time to share your experience online. Hope you will come back to visit again, soon.
Thank you for being our guests!
Your Hosts,
Sandy & Mike
Such a cute cabin - even better than the pictures. We enjoyed our time there - plenty of animals to look at and space to relax!
Stacey W.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Oct, 2024
We loved having you at the Gatehouse. Hope you had a good time in Hill Country. We are looking forward to your next visit. So very much appreciate you taking the time to write a review.
Thank you for being our guests!
Your Hosts,
Sandy & Mike
Beautiful area, very nice house, great hosts & fantastic fishing.
Matt M.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Aug, 2020
Congratulations on catching the Bass...it may be the big guy that has been eluding all of us for a long time. So glad you and your family had a good time.
Thank you for taking the time to share your comments...and thank you for being our guests!
Your Hosts,
Sandy & Mike
Everything exactly as described. The house is cozy and comfy. We loved seeing all the animals and enjoying the private river access.
Katie S.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Mar, 2025
We enjoyed having you at the ranch. So glad you had a relaxing time together. The calves are going to miss having you around.
Thank you for being our guests!
Your Hosts,
Sandy & Mike
Wonderful getaway from the hustle of the city. Comfortable and cozy cabin with serene surroundings.
Ansylma L.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Sept, 2024
We are so happy to have had you back at The GateHouse. Glad to hear that the pups had a good time too.
Looking forward to having you back "at the ranch" soon.
Thank you for being our guests!
Your Hosts,
Sandy & Mike
This is such an incredible place, love the terrain, the views, the cabin, and all the animals. Already booked to come back next month!
Parth M.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Nov, 2024
Thank you very much for taking the time to share your experience at The GateHouse. We are so glad you all had a good time and are looking forward to your next visit.
Thank you for being our guests!
Your Hosts,
Sandy & Mike
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Chad H.
5 Oct, 2018
The property was beautiful and very well kept.
The property was absolutely beautiful. Very relaxing and well kept location. We will definitely visy many more times.
Chad H.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Mar, 2020
We are so happy you all had a relaxing time at The GateHouse. Thank you for visiting and taking the time to share your experience. We are looking forward to your next visit!
Thank you for being our guests,
Sandy & Mike
Your Hosts
So glad you had a good time at the ranch again. Glad to have back. Looking forward to your next visit.
Thank you for being our guests!
Your Hosts,
Sandy & Mike
It was very relaxing, great weather and loved the Guadalupe river time.
Steve T.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Jun, 2024
Thank you for sharing your experiences at The GateHouse. Looking forward to having you back again.
Thank you for being our guests!
Your Hosts,
Sandy & Mike
Verified
8/10 Good
Amanda B.
15 Oct, 2018
A Hill Country hidden gem
Perfect peaceful retreat to get away from the city. Beautiful property.
Amanda B.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Mar, 2020
So happy you were able to get away from the city and enjoyed your stay. We are looking forward to your next visit.
Thank you for being our guest!
Sandy & Mike
The place is beautiful. Wildlife everywhere and the hosts where kind and informative.
Thomas R.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Jul, 2021
We are so happy you and your family had a good time at The GateHouse and the ranch.
Thank you for sharing your experience online.
Hope you will come back to visit again soon.
Thank you for being our guests!
Your Hosts
Sandy & Mike
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Lindsay G.
20 Mar, 2018
Great Getaway
This property was great! I definitely recommend staying here, the property was great and the house is adorable. Very clean, comfortable beds, quiet and pet friendly, while being quite affordable. The scenery is amazing. We will def stay here again!
Lindsay G.
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Mar, 2020
We are so happy you had a wonderful time at The GateHouse. Thank you for taking the time to post your comments.
Now that Spring is officially here, the river water will get warmer and a lot more fun for your swimming and fishing.
We are looking forward to your next visit.
This cabin was too cute and hosted my entire family and dogs. The hosts are gracious and fishing is good. We truly enjoyed our stay and left refreshed.
Laura E.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 24 May, 2022
So glad you and your family had a good time at The GateHouse. Come back to visit again. We appreciate you taking the time to share your experience online.
Thank you for being our guests!
Your Hosts,
Sandy & Mike
We had a great stay. Our kids had so much fun exploring the river and the property. We will be back!
Nina M.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Jul, 2022
So glad you all had a good time at The GateHouse. Glad you hiked the river, the ranch and visited several places in our area. We hope you will come back to visit again.
We thank you for being our guests!
Your Hosts,
Sandy & Mike
Very nice location . House was really nice and clean . Quiet location . I had a good time with my wife and dogs .
Luiz R.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 8 May, 2023
So glad you had a good time. Thank you for your visit and for taking such good care of the house & property. We are looking forward to your next visit. Thank you for being our guests!
Your Hosts,
Sandy & Mike
Spent 4 nights at the gatehouse with my husband to celebrate his birthday. Enjoyed the property. Mike and Sandy are wonderful hosts.
Anissa and Jason L.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Apr, 2024
We are so happy you all had a good time. We enjoyed having you at The GateHouse. Thank you for sharing your experience online. Hope you will come back to visit again.
Thank you for being our guests!
Your Hosts,
Sandy & Mike
We enjoyed the quiet on the farm. We were able to interact with donkeys, and see the stars at night. I loved being able to bring our dogs. Peaceful stay.
Our family of 6 with young children had a great stay here with so much to do outside from swimming to fishing to seeing all the animals of the owners. Owners were so nice to work with. Home was so clean!! And our dog loved it too. Would highly recommend and would stay here again with our family who LOVED their vacation!
Margot H.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Aug, 2024
Thank you!!! We appreciate you taking the time to share your experience at "the ranch" and The GateHouse. We loved having you and your family & hope to have you back again.
Thank you for being our guests!
Sandy & Mike
Great for folks familiar with the river and the area. Sandy and Mike were accommodating and patient.
Amanda H.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Jun, 2022
We so appreciate you sharing your thoughts on your visit to The GateHouse. We hope you will come back to visit again soon and bring your friends.
Thank you for being our guests!!
Your Hosts,
Sandy & Mike
Cute, cozy cabin, nice and quiet ranch. Lots of open space and plenty of outdoor activities to do around the area. Owners were polite and helpful, and we enjoyed getting away from the city for a few days.
Bryan G.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Oct, 2023
So glad to hear you had a good time. Hope you will come back to visit again soon.
Thank you for being our guests!!!
Your Hosts,
Sandy & Mike
About the host
Hosted by Sandy Hightower
Our family has owned ranch land in the Texas Hill Country for over 40 years. We have loved The Guadalupe River for it clear flowing fun and abounding wildlife & fish.
We are grandparents. We treasure our time away in the country with our kids and grandchildren. We are hoping that you will have the same enjoyment as we have had. Note: You don't have to have grandkids to have fun at The Gatehouse.
We also are dog lovers and know how important it is to have our furry family members with us. We have created the opportunity for our guests to bring along their pup(s) with little restrictions at a reasonable price. Our canine guests can freely run, sniff, play in the water. Many of our guests come so they can get their pups out of the city to run and play.
Why they chose this property
We recently purchased the Historic Guadalupe Bluffs Ranch seeing the opportunity to offer The Gatehouse to the public.
This is a wildlife management location so we find this a wonderful opportunity to share this with our guests.
It is a very nice cabin overlooking a private lake. Beautifully made with native materials and finely updated. It is a short walk past a prolific pecan orchard to The Guadalupe River.
We strive to provide a very clean, safe location for our guests.
Just a beautiful, relaxing place!
What makes this property unique
We own vacation rentals on The Colorado River, east of Austin. We have enjoyed the opportunity to visit with our wonderful guests who consider our rentals their "home away from home".
Come see how The GateHouse will become your preferred getaway location!
Languages:
English, Spanish
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests