Texas, known for its vast landscapes and rich cowboy heritage, is home to some of the largest ranches in the United States. These sprawling properties, some stretching over hundreds of thousands of acres, have shaped the state’s identity and economy for generations. The ranches of Texas are more than just agricultural operations; they are historical landmarks, centers of cattle production, and symbols of the Wild West. With fertile land, diverse terrain, and a rich cultural heritage, Texas ranches continue to thrive in the modern era. Here is a list of the top 10 largest ranches in Texas, highlighting their size, significance, and fascinating stories.
#1: King Ranch, 825,000 Acres
The King Ranch, located in Kingsville, Texas, is the largest ranch in the state, covering an astounding 825,000 acres of land. Founded in 1853 by Captain Richard King, the ranch has played a pivotal role in the history of Texas ranching. It has been a significant part of the state’s development, with its vast land stretching across the Texas Coastal Bend region. The King Ranch is known for its innovative cattle breeding programs, particularly the development of the Santa Gertrudis breed, a hybrid of Brahman and Shorthorn cattle that was created on the ranch. Over the years, the King Ranch has become a symbol of Texas ranching culture and has influenced agriculture across the state. The ranch’s impact extends beyond cattle ranching; it is also involved in wildlife conservation, oil production, and farming. One of the most iconic features of the King Ranch is its sprawling landscape, which includes grasslands, wetlands, and coastal areas, making it a haven for diverse wildlife. The King family, who has owned the ranch for generations, continues to manage the property and uphold its legacy as a vital part of Texas’ agricultural heritage.
#2: XIT Ranch, 3,000,000 Acres (Historical)
The XIT Ranch, once the largest ranch in the world, spanned a staggering 3,000,000 acres, though much of the land has since been sold off. Located in the Texas Panhandle, the XIT Ranch was founded in 1885 as a land grant to provide funding for the construction of the Texas State Capitol in Austin. The land was purchased by the XIT Land and Cattle Company, and it quickly became one of the largest cattle operations in the country. The ranch was known for its vast size, as well as its role in the development of the cattle industry in Texas. One interesting aspect of the XIT Ranch is the construction of the ranch’s famous “XIT house,” a massive structure made from the very materials of the ranch, including stone and timber. The ranch became a symbol of Texas’ cattle-ranching dominance and played a critical role in the economy of the state. Although much of the original land has been sold and divided into smaller ranches, the XIT Ranch remains a key part of Texas history, and its legacy is remembered in the region through monuments and historical markers.
#3: Waggoner Ranch, 535,000 Acres
The Waggoner Ranch, located in North Texas, covers 535,000 acres and is one of the largest ranches in the state. Established in 1849 by Daniel Waggoner, the ranch has remained in the Waggoner family for over a century and has played a significant role in the development of ranching in Texas. The ranch has been known for its commitment to cattle breeding, as well as its diverse operations, including farming and oil production. One of the most interesting facts about the Waggoner Ranch is its involvement in the history of Texas rodeo culture. The ranch has produced some of the state’s most famous rodeo stock, and many of its cowboys have gone on to achieve national recognition. Over the years, the Waggoner Ranch has also been involved in wildlife conservation, preserving native species and habitats. In 2016, the ranch was sold to the billionaire Stan Kroenke for an estimated $725 million, marking the end of an era for the Waggoner family. Despite the sale, the ranch’s legacy as one of Texas’ largest and most historically significant ranches remains intact.
#4: The Briscoe Ranch, 506,000 Acres
The Briscoe Ranch, located in South Texas, spans 506,000 acres and has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Established by the Briscoe family, who were key figures in Texas’ political and agricultural development, the ranch is known for its focus on cattle production, particularly its prized herd of Briscoe cattle. The ranch has also been known for its land management practices, including sustainable grazing and habitat restoration. The Briscoe family’s influence on the ranching industry in Texas is immeasurable, and their work in improving cattle genetics and breeding techniques has had a lasting impact on the industry. In addition to cattle, the Briscoe Ranch is home to a variety of wildlife species, including deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species, making it a popular destination for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. The ranch’s expansive landscape is dominated by rolling hills, mesquite brush, and live oak trees, offering a glimpse into the diverse terrain of South Texas. Today, the Briscoe Ranch continues to be a vital part of the state’s agricultural landscape, producing top-quality cattle and maintaining its rich family legacy.
#5: The Gilbert Ranch, 500,000 Acres
The Gilbert Ranch, covering 500,000 acres, is located in the heart of West Texas and is one of the largest private ranches in the state. The ranch has been in operation since the late 1800s and has been known for its impressive cattle herd, which has been bred for both beef production and show purposes. The Gilbert family has been at the helm of the ranch for generations, and their influence on the ranching community in Texas is profound. The ranch is also home to a variety of wildlife, including antelope, mule deer, and wild boar, and offers excellent hunting opportunities. One of the most significant aspects of the Gilbert Ranch is its role in shaping the local economy, providing jobs for numerous families in the region and supporting local businesses. The ranch’s vast landscape is characterized by desert terrain, high plains, and rugged canyons, making it a true representation of the beauty and harshness of West Texas. Today, the Gilbert Ranch continues to thrive under the management of the Gilbert family, maintaining its reputation as a leader in the Texas cattle industry.
#6: The Matador Ranch, 130,000 Acres
The Matador Ranch, located in the Texas Panhandle, covers 130,000 acres and is known for its distinctive blend of cattle ranching and wildlife conservation. Founded in 1879, the ranch has been in operation for over 140 years and has been a key player in the development of the Texas cattle industry. The ranch is known for its breeding programs, focusing on both cattle and horses, and has produced some of the finest livestock in the region. In recent years, the Matador Ranch has also become known for its work in wildlife conservation, particularly in preserving native species and their habitats. The ranch has worked closely with local environmental groups to restore prairies and wetlands, ensuring that the natural landscape remains healthy for generations to come. One interesting aspect of the Matador Ranch is its role in the Texas oil industry. The ranch sits atop significant oil reserves, and its production of natural resources has been a key part of its economic success. Despite its success in the oil and cattle industries, the Matador Ranch continues to prioritize sustainability and land conservation, ensuring that its legacy will endure.
#7: The W.T. Waggoner Estate Ranch, 510,000 Acres
The W.T. Waggoner Estate Ranch spans 510,000 acres and is located in North Texas. It is one of the largest ranches in the state and has a fascinating history. The ranch was established in the late 1800s by W.T. Waggoner, a prominent figure in Texas agriculture and ranching. The ranch became a major player in the cattle industry, known for its top-tier livestock and cutting-edge farming practices. Over the years, the ranch expanded its operations to include oil and gas production, significantly increasing its value. The Waggoner Estate Ranch is also known for its scenic beauty, with wide open spaces, expansive grasslands, and numerous water features, including lakes and ponds. One of the most interesting facts about the W.T. Waggoner Estate Ranch is its role in the development of modern cattle breeding techniques. The ranch pioneered many practices that are now common in the industry, including the use of artificial insemination to improve cattle genetics. Today, the ranch continues to be a major player in the Texas agricultural industry, producing high-quality cattle and maintaining a strong presence in oil and gas.
#8: The O’Connor Ranch, 100,000 Acres
The O’Connor Ranch, located in Central Texas, covers 100,000 acres and is known for its focus on sustainable ranching practices. Established by the O’Connor family in the 1800s, the ranch has been in operation for over 150 years. The ranch is recognized for its dedication to conservation, particularly in the areas of soil health, water management, and habitat restoration. The O’Connor Ranch is one of the few ranches in Texas that has implemented a rotational grazing system, which allows for the regeneration of native grasses and helps prevent overgrazing. In addition to its commitment to sustainable farming practices, the O’Connor Ranch is home to a variety of wildlife, including whitetail deer, wild turkeys, and bobcats, making it a popular destination for eco-tourism. The O’Connor family’s legacy in Texas ranching continues to be felt today, as the ranch remains a beacon of environmental stewardship and responsible land management.
#9: The Rolling Plains Ranch, 85,000 Acres
The Rolling Plains Ranch spans 85,000 acres in North Texas and is known for its rich history in the cattle industry. The ranch has been in operation for over 100 years and has been a cornerstone of Texas ranching culture. The Rolling Plains Ranch is recognized for its superior cattle herds and its innovative breeding programs, which have made it a leader in the region’s agricultural community. The ranch is also home to various species of wildlife, including deer, quail, and pheasant, and offers exceptional hunting opportunities. One of the most interesting aspects of the Rolling Plains Ranch is its role in Texas history. The ranch was a vital part of the state’s cattle drives, and its pastures were used to graze cattle that were driven to market in the 19th century. Today, the Rolling Plains Ranch continues to be a major player in the Texas cattle industry, producing top-quality beef and maintaining a reputation for excellence.
#10: The Lazy Y Ranch, 55,000 Acres
The Lazy Y Ranch covers 55,000 acres and is located in the rugged terrain of West Texas. Known for its expansive desert landscapes, the ranch specializes in breeding cattle and horses. The Lazy Y Ranch has a long-standing tradition of ranching excellence, and its operations are focused on sustainable practices and land conservation. The ranch is also known for its iconic windmills, which have become a symbol of Texas ranching culture. Despite its smaller size compared to the other ranches on this list, the Lazy Y Ranch plays a significant role in Texas agriculture and continues to be an important part of the state’s ranching heritage.
These top 10 largest ranches in Texas highlight the immense scale and historical significance of the state’s ranching industry. From the massive King Ranch to the iconic Lazy Y Ranch, each of these properties tells a story of hard work, perseverance, and a deep connection to the land. Together, they represent the heart and soul of Texas ranching, continuing to shape the state’s agricultural landscape and cultural identity.
