Rancho Buenas Noches--Heaven on the Brazos River, just 90 minutes from Dallas

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Entire home

Aerial view of main house and lookout (not for rent) and surrounding pastures.

The front porch of the main house with hammock and swing.

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 10195.1 sq m

Popular amenities

Parking available
Dryer
Washer
Fireplace

Explore the area

Mineral Wells, TX

Mineral Wells Fossil Park
‪8 min drive‬
The Baker Hotel and Spa
‪13 min drive‬
Crazy Water Bath House & Spa
‪13 min drive‬
Weatherford, TX (WEA-Parker County)
‪50 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

Bunk Room

2 Single Bunk Beds

Central Bedroom

1 Double Bed

Common area 1

1 Double Futon

Queen Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Spaces

Porch or lanai

About this property

Spend a weekend or more on a cliff high above the Brazos River in the North Texas Hill Country of Palo Pinto County. A stone stairway cuts through giant boulders down to the river and several fishing spots, plus kayak and canoe launch points. Enjoy a large barbecue grill (charcoal) and views of the sunset and river from a covered pavilion. There is a heated pool (heated March to October) and hot tub that overlooks the river, amongst ancient live oaks and a regulation horseshoe pit. For the adventurous, there's also a primitive cabin (no power, no plumbing). Just 90 minutes from North Dallas and less than an hour to Fort Worth, yet you will feel you are a thousand miles away. Welcome to the Brazos de Dios.

Inside, (if you ever come in from the views) you will find one full-size, one queen and four bunk beds, plus a sleeper sofa (sleeps one, maybe two little ones) in the family room. In the family room, you will find a pool table and fireplace. Ideally, this place is for two couples and kids. Maximum 8. It is not ideal for packing in 8 grown men to save money. Do that and you'll be way more cozy and way less comfy than you may like, plus we're on a septic system that's not made for that. . Just sayin'.

Full disclosure: cell coverage can be spotty inside the house but outside it's fine. I do not provide Wi-Fi. Wireless hotspots are recommended for internet access and generally work quite well.

Property manager

Michael Renfro

Premier Host

Languages

English, Spanish

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool

Hot tub

Washer

Dryer

Free WiFi

Air conditioning

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Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM

Check out before 12:00 PM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Remove all trash, remove all items from fridge and turn all air, fans and lights off when leaving, failure to do so will result in loss of deposit.

Never leave pool toys, trash or food items lying around overnight. Weather changes fast here and can blow items left lying around down the cliff.

Important information

You need to know

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

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

This property uses solar energy

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 deadlock

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Mineral Wells

Located in Mineral Wells, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. The Baker Hotel and Spa and Famous Mineral Water Company are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Lake Mineral Wells State Park and Mineral Wells Fossil Park. Clark Gardens Botanical Park and Sandy Beach are also worth visiting. Looking to get your feet wet? Kayaking, power boating and fishing adventures can be found near the property.

Mineral Wells, TX

What's nearby

Mineral Wells Fossil Park - 8 min drive - 4.1 km
West City Park - 12 min drive - 9.5 km
The Baker Hotel and Spa - 13 min drive - 9.8 km
Crazy Water Bath House & Spa - 13 min drive - 10.1 km
Famous Mineral Water Company - 13 min drive - 10.6 km

Getting around

Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) - 96 min drive

Restaurants

‪Mi Fiesta Restaurant - ‬14 min drive
‪Sonic Drive-In - ‬14 min drive
‪Whataburger - ‬15 min drive
‪Taco Casa - ‬14 min drive
‪Jesse's Drive In - ‬14 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Rancho Buenas Noches--Heaven on the Brazos River, just 90 minutes from Dallas have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool.

Is Rancho Buenas Noches--Heaven on the Brazos River, just 90 minutes from Dallas pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Rancho Buenas Noches--Heaven on the Brazos River, just 90 minutes from Dallas?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Rancho Buenas Noches--Heaven on the Brazos River, just 90 minutes from Dallas?

Checkout is at 12:00 PM.

Where is Rancho Buenas Noches--Heaven on the Brazos River, just 90 minutes from Dallas located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is 2.5 mi (4 km) from Mineral Wells Fossil Park and within 6 miles (10 km) of Christ the King Covenant and West City Park. The Baker Hotel and Spa and Crazy Water Bath House & Spa are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Tiffany S.

12 December 2024

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

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Libby A.

29 October 2024

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

Family getaway

Home was cozy and had everything you could need. The views were beautiful and animals are friendly. The kids didn’t even miss their electronics! It was an amazing getaway for the family. One warning though don't try to walk barefoot on the grass you will get grass stickers! My husband found that out the hard way.

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Marisa J.

26 October 2024

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

Relaxing trip

Great location with river, animals, and near the fossil park. Beautiful view of the comet. The kitchen is well stocked for cooking. No Wifi, but you can get a few bars of cell signal outside.

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Susan P.

5 September 2024

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

Family Time

Pool and pool table were great amenities. Super clean. Sleep number beds. We had 6 adults, so we didn't use the bunk beds, we used the couch and pull out. Kitchen was well supplied. Quiet. Owner was great. Absolutely loved the disconnection, walked around outside if needed connection so most stayed off their phones - blessing.

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

8/10 Good

William W.

31 August 2024

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

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Drinda M.

4 August 2024

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

Girls weekend

Girls getaway it was relaxing and just beautiful if we do it again we will be back there. We all just loved this house and pool setting!!!!!!

Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

28 June 2024

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

Get away

Very nice place and highly recommend it.

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Barbara M.

9 June 2024

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

What a great place

Great location. Plenty of amenities. We hope to do it again. Loved it.

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laura G.

8 January 2024

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

Weekend Getaway

The place was perfect for getting out of the city and enjoying the Texas countryside, picturesque views, relaxing, and enjoying quality time with the family!

Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

John A.

18 November 2023

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

Quiet Retreat on the River

Beautiful setting on the Brazos - literally unbeatable views. Very quiet. We had such a relaxing time reading books and sitting on the patio overlook. Only a few minutes to Mineral Wells and 20 minutes to Mary's in Strawn for one of the most famous chicken fried steaks around... but once you get out to this peaceful place, you won't want to leave it, even for a quick supper. On top of everything, the host was very helpful and friendly. Will definitely visit again.

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kelly R.

13 November 2023

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

Amazing views - perfect place to relax & unwind

Before arriving I knew what to expect as the host provided accurate information on the listing AND he was extremely responsive to my questions. The home is off-the-beaten path and SO worth the drive. We were greeted by the host who was on-site when we arrived. Super friendly guy. We were in town for a baseball tournament at Rocker B Ranch about 25 minutes away, and were tired from a late game - so we were grateful for the Sleep Number beds in both rooms (without bunk beds). We found the home to have everything we needed for a comfortable stay - and had I looked a little harder, before my WalMart run the next day - I wouldn’t have had to purchase some of the stuff I did - as it was already there!! Outside - you’ll find no view like it. God’s paintbrush didn’t disappoint with the sunset off the covered back patio where we grilled burgers and roasted s’mores in the fire pit while overlooking the Brazos River below. The paved steps (that became easier every time I climbed up them) going down to the water were met by kayaks and a canoe. Had we had time, I know we would have done those activities! Too bad we didn’t bring our fishing poles - we saw some great honey holes! I’ll come back just to drop a line in one. And the kids LOVED the hot tub and cold pool! When they weren’t swimming, they played horse shoes, pet the paint horse who came up to the fence, played whiffle ball, and cleared the property of snipes. We all had so much fun relaxing at this beautiful property.

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

8/10 Good

Jennifer B., Frisco, Tx

6 November 2023

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

Nice getaway

We had a great time being off the grid. We enjoyed the canoes and hot tub during our fall visit. Mark was super helpful and welcoming. My only disappointment was that I was the dishwasher for the weekend. 😂 We used the kitchen. We forgot butter and there was no cooking spray so make sure you bring some. Otherwise it had everything we needed to cook at the cabin.

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nancy R.

31 October 2023

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

Grandeur

We have enjoyed many stays in vacation rentals over the last decade+ and Rancho Buenas Noches beats them all! A perfect river retreat! Host was top notch and a really nice guy. We plan to return very soon. Rancho Buenas Noches is a true Texas experience -- don't miss it!

Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Viviana A.

17 August 2023

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

End of Summer Vacation

My family and I had a great time! The house was clean and organized. The historical information throughout the house, both from Texas and Mr. Renfro's family makes the stay interesting. The highlight of our trip was the pool, access to the river was much more than we expected! The kids enjoyed the end of their summer vacation.

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mo S.

9 August 2023

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

Mineral Wells

Everything about this property is amazing! The Absolute Perfect Getaway!

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ian P.

5 August 2023

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

Base Camp on the Brazos

Our stay coincided with the hottest week so far in Texas. Mike, the owner, was super friendly and helpful. The views were great, accommodations nice, and pool was refreshing. This was a great location to base out of while we explored the surrounding areas (Possum Kingdom, Mineral Wells, etc).

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lisa A.

23 July 2023

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

Great time!

The pool is a wonderful asset to the property! Very roomy cabin and was in good working order! Teenagers had issues with no Wi-Fi and spotty phone reception but the adults thought it was good for them ! Wonderful view of the Brazos especially at sunset !

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Shawndi G., Stephenville, Texas

30 June 2023

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

Redneck Aruba (our nickname for our vacation)

We loved our stay. The views were beautiful. The pool was amazing. We came during the hottest week so far of the year and didn't even know we were in a heat wave. The trees cover the pool perfectly to give you some shade. We had hoped to kayak but decided the entrance to the river was a little steep for us since two of us had recent knee surgeries.

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sara L.

15 June 2023

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

You need to be here!

My family and I had a great time. The home is very clean, and had everything we needed during our stay. It was such a needed relaxation experience. Michael and Sharon were really nice, and everything was explained upon arrival. You can tell from the pictures around the home, this place has made many memories for the family over the years. From fishing the river (you will get a workout on those stairs lol), to swimming in the pool and relaxing in the hot tub, we enjoyed it all. Just sitting outside taking it all in was nice. Town is not too far away, so we were able to get everything we needed easily. You wont find a better host. He was very responsive to anything i messaged him about or questions i had. He wants you to enjoy your stay and feel at home. I definitely hope we can visit again. This place had lots of things to keep my 11 and 16 year old entertained, and gave me a chance to relax and do some reading. Something i hadnt taken time to do in a long time. Thank you Michael!

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Scott H.

10 June 2023

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

Great place!

Absolutely amazing views, nice clean house, and great place for peace and quiet.

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Chris V.

10 May 2023

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

Buenas noches ranch

Our stay here was wonderful,we enjoyed everything the property had to offer.hands down one of the best properties we have been to.

Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kristopher W.

17 March 2023

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

Honeymoon location

We had a wonderful time on our honeymoon here! The hot tub was clean, and worked great on cool nights and hot days, the house was clean and tidy, and the property manager Sharon is fantastic! She's quick to respond to any questions we had, and was very friendly and informative, but we never felt crowded and had the entire place to ourselves! Thank you for giving us such a memorable time!

Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Justin J.

17 March 2023

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

Nice country getaway.

Great views from above the Brazos, but cliff-top location makes for freakishly high winds! Don’t go in March! Inside was very comfortable, and the boys loved the pool table.

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

John U., Austin, TX

7 November 2022

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

Great location, beautiful views

Mike has done a beautiful job creating a fun space. Highly recommended.

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Veronica M.

1 August 2022

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

Excellent getaway

Property is in such a great location, beautiful views, and great fishing. Plenty of room and all the necessities needed for fun and relaxing time with family. Would recommend for sure.

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022

About the host

Hosted by Michael Renfro

I am a freelance writer and the author of several books, including "Shine On," the history of Texas icon Shiner Beer. I've been coming to the Brazos ever since I read John Graves' "Goodbye To A River" in the early 1980s. You will find a large collection of Texas history books here in the main house. I live full-time on the property in my "fire lookout/office" located on the edge of the cliff.

Why they chose this property

There aren't many views like this within a short drive of the Dallas-Fort Worth area. You'll think you're much farther away.

What makes this property unique

Solitude, isolation, beauty you will not forget.

Languages:

English, Spanish

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests

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Rancho Buenas Noches--Heaven on the Brazos River, just 90 minutes from Dallas

Photo gallery for Rancho Buenas Noches--Heaven on the Brazos River, just 90 minutes from Dallas

Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

Bunk Room

Central Bedroom

Common area 1

Queen Bedroom

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Spaces

About this property