July 30 / 2020
John Knox ranch is the perfect place for an individual retreat or family vacation.
Family Rentals at John Knox Ranch
John Knox ranch is the perfect place for an individual retreat or family vacation. While we can't host large groups due to Covid19, we plan to serve our community through family rentals. Family groups are required to stay 6 feet away from other groups while on site. We cannot offer food service at this time. In accordance with Texas Health and Human Services Guidelines, family groups are limited to 10 people and JKR will be limited to 50% rental capacity. Dogs are not allowed.
Self-Guided Activities Included
During your stay, take advantage of our self guided activities like: visiting our Labyrinth and meditation garden, swimming in the Blue Hole or Blanco River (after signed swimming waiver), hiking (look out point has a great view!), bird watching, self-guided nature trail, mountain biking with your own bike, disc golf, catch and release fishing, and more.
Learn more here
During your stay, take advantage of our self guided activities like: visiting our Labyrinth and meditation garden, swimming in the Blue Hole or Blanco River (after signed swimming waiver), hiking (look out point has a great view!), bird watching, self-guided nature trail, mountain biking with your own bike, disc golf, catch and release fishing, and more.
Learn more here
Guided Adventure Activities for an add on fee
At its heart, John Knox Ranch is a summer camp. We have learned that all people (young in age and young at heart!) love the summer camp classics. All Add on activities cost $30 per hour per family group and must be scheduled prior to arrival.
At its heart, John Knox Ranch is a summer camp. We have learned that all people (young in age and young at heart!) love the summer camp classics. All Add on activities cost $30 per hour per family group and must be scheduled prior to arrival.
- Canoeing
- Archery/Sling Shots
- Swimming in the pool
- Screamer (Giant Swing!)
- Rock climbing
- Tractor pulled Hay Ride
- Dip fishing for perch in the creek
- Tie Dyeing. Bring your own 100% cotton T shirt, socks, pillow case, anything 100% cotton will work! Requires two 30 min time slots on different days. First, to add the dye. Second, to rinse after a day of letting the dye set.
- Guided Birdwatching Walk: Local bird guide Jesse Huth will lead you on a walk around the property to locate and view a number of different bird species. You will learn about differences in habitat, bird behavior, identification skills, and birding by ear as well as by sight. While the species may vary from season to season (contact for details), there is always something interesting to see on a walk around the ranch. Mornings are the best time to bird, but evenings can also be good. Mid-day birding is only recommended for the cooler months.
- Owl Prowl: These mysterious birds of the night are always fascinating to see. Starting just after sunset, you will venture into the woods with local birding guide Jesse Huth to try and locate some of these amazing avians. A few that call the ranch home include Barred Owl, Great Horned Owl, and Eastern Screech-Owl, with other nocturnal species like Chuck-will's-widow and Common Nighthawk possible as well. Raccoons, Opossums, bats, and more may also be found.
Overnight Family Rental Options
Primitive Campsites
Enjoy the quiet grandeur of the outdoors by sleeping under the stars, or tent camping in one of our primitive campsites. Located on JKR's 220 acre nature preserve, each of these sites has a campfire ring, benches/logs on which to sit, and ample space for a tent or four. If you enjoy "roughing it," the Primitive Camp Sites are for you! There are plenty of trails to hike, and sites to see. $20/night for up to 6 people. Fresh water is a short walk away. Fire ring and metal grate for cooking.
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Screened Cabins
Ten Screened Cabins are nestled in pairs throughout the Ranch among old growth oak and cedar trees, with 2 cabins per site. They are equipped with electricity and ceiling fans. Each cabin has canvas siding that can be rolled up or down, depending on the weather and the comfort needs of guests. Guests may use the Main Shower House for restroom and bathing facilities. $50/night for one screen cabin. Fresh water is a short walk away. Fire ring and metal grate for cooking. Propane grill available for $25 add on for the length of your stay.
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Duplex Cabins
We have 4 Duplex Cabins for guests to enjoy on the property. The cabins have a queen bed, and 3 sets of bunk beds on each side, and are divided by double doors. Each side has a private bath. These cabins are heated and air conditioned, and have a back porch with a view of JKR's wooded landscape. $100/night for one side of duplex. Fire ring and metal grate for cooking. Propane Grill available for $25 add on for the length of your stay.
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Calvin Cottage
The Calvin Cottage is the most historic facility at John Knox Ranch. Rough-hewn on the outside, the Cottage is newly remodeled indoors, and quite comfortable. Guests are invited to make themselves at home in this 2 bedroom/2 bath, air conditioned and heated house. $150/night. Linens provided.
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Ranch House
The Ranch House is a 3-bedroom, 2-bath house. It is air-conditioned and heated and is perfect for larger families. It is centrally located on the property and surrounded by huge oak trees, which create a spirit of tranquility and peace. $350/night. Linens provided.
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