Camping
Unlike state parks that are frequently cramped with boy scouts and other weekend escapers, the Homer Martin Ranch offers genuine seclusion. We guarantee that you will not hike to your campsite and find another seeker of solitude. You will be out on the range. With roughly 2,500 acres to choose from, there is a vast expanse where you can pitch your tent. Ever wish you could experience real backcountry camping? Well, here you are welcome to horseback ride, mountain bike, 4-wheel, or hike to an undesignated camping site tucked away between the hills. Leave your cars at the Martin Ranch House and head into the wilderness. Or if you’re not the overly rugged type, you may drive to your spot-of-choice. We’d suggest one of three destinations: Bast Creek, the River Pasture, or the Cabin Pasture.
Bast Creek, a shaded clear bed spring that feeds the Llano River, is a watering hole for turkeys, whitetail deer, hogs, and cattle. It is also home to one of our favorite swimming holes. Located not too far from Bast Creek is the River Pasture. Thanks to gargantuan cretaceous limestone cliffs jetting into the Llano, at this campsite, there isn’t a lack of scenery. Last, though not least, is the Cabin Pasture, a place of higher elevation, rockier terrain, and panoramic views of the countryside. If you desire a brisk hike, the climb to the top will satiate. But don’t forget to bring your water!
We offer primitive camping, which means there will be no running water or latrines at your site. Gathering of firewood is permitted; however, if you would prefer to pack in firewood, you may do so as well. The only thing we ask is that you camp 100 feet away from rivers and streams to prevent water contamination, and that you notify Homer Martin or Joe Hartwell, the Ranch Manager, of where you intend to camp and for how long. In case of emergency, it is important that we be able to locate your site.
It should also be mentioned that during the months of October - December, the Homer Martin Ranch is not available for camping, as it is hunting season. We would appreciate our visitors adhering to the Leave No Trace Camping Ethics Guidelines. We’d like you to cherish and protect the ranch as much as we do.