The Latest from Stone Creek Ranch

The Journey of the Tahr: From the Himalayas to the Heart of Texas If you’ve ever seen a Himalayan Tahr standing proud on a rocky ledge, thick mane blowing in the wind, you’d swear it was built for the wildest terrain on earth. And you’d be right. These mountain-dwelling goats hail from the rugged cliffs […]

Stone Creek Ranch offers an unparalleled blend of rugged Texas hunting and luxurious accommodations, making it a top destination for hunting enthusiasts or those just seeking an outdoor escape from the city. Located just two hours south of Dallas/Fort Worth, our premier hunting ranch combines world-class hunting experiences with top-tier hospitality. The lodge at Stone […]

Late-season whitetail deer hunting in central Texas presents a unique challenge and an exciting opportunity for hunters. As the season progresses, deer behavior shifts due to colder weather, hunting pressure, and the need to find reliable food sources. Success in the late season often hinges on preparation, strategy, and adaptability. Here are five tips to […]

Bow hunting in Texas is an exciting challenge that takes the hunting experience to a whole new level. Unlike rifle hunting, which allows you to harvest game from hundreds of yards away, bow hunting requires patience, precision, and close encounters. The thrill of getting within 30 to 40 yards of a whitetail deer, undetected, adds […]

Hunting in Texas offers a unique opportunity for families to bond and create lasting memories. Whether you’re seasoned hunters or introducing the younger generation to the outdoors for the first time, there’s something deeply enriching about spending time together in nature. As the cool November breeze sweeps across Texas, it signals the arrival of one […]

The rut is the most exciting time of year for whitetail deer hunting, especially in Texas, where the state’s weather and deer population make for an unforgettable experience. In central Texas, the rut typically occurs from late October through mid-November, making this the best time to hunt whitetail deer. Understanding the timing of the rut […]

Texas may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of elk hunting, but the Lone Star State offers excellent opportunities for harvesting trophy elk, particularly during the rut. The rolling hills, diverse terrain, and well-managed private ranches in central Texas create an ideal environment for these majestic animals. Understanding the timing […]

For many hunters, the ultimate prize is a trophy whitetail deer. One of the most exciting aspects of deer hunting is the pursuit of a truly unique specimen, and in the world of whitetail deer, that often means distinguishing between typical and non-typical bucks. Understanding the differences between these two categories is essential for any […]

To make the most of your fall hunting experience, it is crucial to prepare. This preparation includes not only booking your hunt and guide early but also ensuring you have the right gear to maximize your chances of success. Here is some essential gear every hunter should consider bringing for a fall deer hunt and […]

Nilgai hunting in Texas offers a unique and exciting opportunity for hunters looking to add an exotic trophy to their collection. The Nilgai, also known as the blue bull, is a large antelope native to India and Pakistan. Introduced to Texas in the 1920s, Nilgai have thrived in the state’s diverse landscapes, particularly in the […]

Texas offers some of the best hunting opportunities in North America. Among the state’s premier hunting locations, Stone Creek Ranch is a top destination for hunters seeking the ultimate trophy whitetail experience. Situated just two hours south of Dallas/Fort Worth, SCR provides an unparalleled hunting adventure. The Allure of Trophy Whitetail Hunting Trophy whitetail hunting […]

Texas has long been a top destination for hunters seeking exotic game. Among the many exotic species available for hunting in Texas, the Axis deer is one of the most sought after. Summer, with its unique conditions, offers a prime time to hunt Axis deer.  Why Summer is Ideal for Hunting Axis Deer Summer in […]

Texas has long been a haven for hunters seeking the trophy of a lifetime. Texas offers an unparalleled hunting experience, particularly in the summer. Summer hunting in Texas is unique for several reasons. The long, sunny days and warm weather make for ideal hunting conditions. You can extend your hunting season by hunting exotics during […]

Corporate hunting retreats at Stone Creek Ranch offer a unique and immersive experience for companies looking to foster teamwork, camaraderie, and a deeper connection to nature among their employees. Located in the Texas Hill Country just 2 hours south of Dallas/Fort Worth, Stone Creek Ranch provides the perfect setting for corporate groups to escape the […]

Axis deer hunting in Texas is a rewarding experience for hunters of all skill levels. With their unique characteristics and abundance, the Lone Star State is a prime destination for pursuing Axis deer.  Axis deer, also known as chital deer, are native to the Indian subcontinent but were introduced to Texas in the 1930s for […]

The Texas Ram Slam is a unique hunting achievement that requires a hunter to harvest four different species of rams in one season: Texas Dall Ram, Black Hawaiian Ram, Corsian Ram, and Mouflon Ram.  At Stone Creek Ranch, we have the best selection of Trophy Texas Dall Rams, Trophy Black Hawaiian Rams, Trophy Corsican Rams, […]

Texas offers an unparalleled array of big game hunting opportunities. From trophy whitetails to elk and exotic species like kudu and blackbuck, the Lone Star State boasts a bounty of game that promises unforgettable hunting experiences.  Situated in the heart of Texas Hill Country and within close proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, Stone Creek […]

During the heat of the Texas summer, hunters across the state eagerly anticipate the arrival of fall hunting season. Texas offers a wealth of hunting opportunities for enthusiasts of all levels. However, to make the most of the fall hunting season, it is essential to plan ahead and book your hunts early. Let’s explore why […]

In the fast-paced world of business, finding opportunities to connect with clients and employees in a meaningful way can be a challenge. However, there is one setting that offers the perfect blend of excitement, relaxation, and camaraderie: a luxury corporate hunting retreat at Stone Creek Ranch. Nestled in the heart of Texas Hill Country and […]

In Texas, a unique hunting adventure awaits those who seek the challenge of pursuing the Scimitar Oryx. Originating from the arid regions of North Africa, these majestic antelopes have found a new home in the Lone Star State. As hunters venture into the heart of Texas, Scimitar Oryx hunting beckons offers an experience steeped in […]

In the rugged terrain and sprawling landscapes of Texas Hill Country, a unique hunting experience awaits those who seek the thrill of pursuing one of the most majestic game species – the Blackbuck. Originating from the Indian subcontinent, these elegant antelopes have found a second home in the Lone Star State.  The Origin and Species […]

Located in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, Stone Creek Hunting Ranch offers luxury accommodations that set it apart as one of the best hunting lodges in Texas. Our exclusive retreat offers an unparalleled hunting experience intertwined with luxury accommodations and a wealth of recreational activities. As you step onto the grounds of Stone Creek Ranch, […]

Stone Creek Ranch, Texas’ premier hunting ranch & outfitter, is renowned for its exquisite cuisine. Our private ranch offers a dining experience like no other, where every meal is a feast to remember. A Culinary Journey with Chef Nick Foster At the heart of Stone Creek Ranch’s culinary excellence is Chef Nick Foster, a maestro […]

In the hills and sprawling landscapes of Texas Hill Country, a new hunting trend is emerging, drawing enthusiasts from far and wide: Nilgai hunting. While native to the Indian subcontinent, these creatures have found a second home in the Lone Star State. With their imposing stature and elusive nature, Nilgai have captured the imagination of […]

Fallow deer hunting in Texas has gained significant popularity among hunters in recent years. Fallow deer (Dama dama) are native to Europe and Western Asia but have established thriving populations in Texas, where they roam freely across expansive ranches and woodlands. Renowned for their distinctive spotted coats and elegant antlers, fallow deer are a sought […]

Elk hunting in Texas offers a unique and thrilling experience for hunters, with the Lone Star State providing a surprising opportunity to pursue them. While traditionally associated with states like Colorado, Wyoming, and Montana, Texas has emerged as a viable destination for elk hunting, offering enthusiasts a chance to test their skills against one of […]

Blackbuck hunting in Texas has become a sought-after experience for hunters looking to challenge their skills against one of the most iconic antelope species. The Blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra) is native to the Indian subcontinent but has found a thriving population in the grasslands and savannas of Texas. Renowned for its striking appearance, with distinctive spiral […]

The allure of big game hunting has long captivated enthusiasts, and in Texas, the pursuit of exotic species has gained significant traction. Among the most coveted trophies for hunters is the majestic Kudu, a symbol of Africa’s vast wilderness and a challenging breed prized for its elusive nature and impressive antlers. While traditional Kudu hunting […]

Amidst the rolling hills and picturesque vistas of central Texas, one particular species has captured the attention of hunters far and wide: the Axis deer. Known for their striking appearance and great tasting meat, Axis deer hunting has seen a remarkable surge in popularity in recent years. Axis deer, also known as Chital or spotted […]

Antelope prized for meat contributes to service industries and conservation. By ROBERT KROGER and DAVID SCHLAKE The nilgai antelope, often referred to as the “blue bull,” is an iconic species found on expansive private ranches and public scrublands across South Texas. Native to the Indian subcontinent — specifically India and Pakistan — these robust antelope […]

Maybe hunting with a firearm isn’t your cup of tea. Or, perhaps, you want to pick up a new hunting method you’ve never tried before. In any case, bowhunting may be just the thing for you. Not only is it great recreation, but it’s also an excellent way to build coordination, stealth skills and precision […]

As a responsible hunter, you probably know there’s much more to wild game than just a trophy. Harvest an animal, and you are harvesting a valuable source of meats, skins and other usable but it’s the meat that we are here to talk about today. In this blog, we’ll discuss five types of wild game […]

In our previous blog, we discussed how you have the unique opportunity to harvest a trophy Aoudad right in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. However, this striking member of the wild sheep and goat family is just one of several related species that call Stone Creek Ranch home. Each is unique, from its pelt to its horns, […]

The diverse species that make up the wild sheep and goat family exists across continents and habitats. With that diversity come beautiful pelts, striking antlers, and other features that make amazing trophies for any hunter. Perhaps one of the most striking of all these species is the exotic Aoudad, also known as the barbary sheep. […]

Texas has plenty of game birds to offer hunters, and one of the most sought-after is the phenomenal Rio Grande turkey. With its beautiful plumage, notable size, and wide range of habitats, this striking bird is a great start for any Grand Slam hunter. And there’s no better place to bag yours than at Stone […]

If you’ve ever heard the old ballad, Home on the Range, you probably know the opening lines:     “Home, home on the range. Where the deer and the antelope play….” In our previous blog, we discussed the identifying characteristics of the various types of deer you’ll find at Stone Creek Ranch. So, now that we’ve […]

In our previous blog about identifying different types of deer, we pointed out that 43 species exist worldwide. Two of these species that you might not realize are part of the deer family are moose and elk. Even though they are known by different names, moose and elk share many of the same characteristics as other […]

According to Encyclopedia Britannica, 43 unique species make up the deer family. While the family shares many features, each branch is still unique. When hunting, it is essential to notice these identifying traits. This may mean the difference between harvesting the deer you’re after or drawing down a different animal. Stone Creek Ranch is home […]

One meat you often don’t see in abundance in your average grocery store is deer and elk meat, better known as venison. However, as a hunter, you probably know that the great outdoors teems with these four-legged, antlered creatures, and you’ve probably even harvested a few of them as trophies in your time. Hopefully, you’ve […]

What’s better than a hearty meatloaf? Our Red Stag meatloaf is just one of the many trail-inspired recipes we prepare here at Stone Creek Ranch, and it’s also great to feed the family at home anytime. The key to this recipe is to prepare it in a smoker. But, if you just have a conventional […]

As the annual mating season between whitetail bucks and does, the rut offers hunters excellent chances to harvest the trophy of their dreams. After all, given the exceptional amount of activity during the rut… we’ll wait for you to make any colorful jokes…bucks and does are out in the open much more during daylight. This […]

The whitetail deer rut—the annual mating season—is rapidly approaching, and it’s one of the best times to nab the trophy stag you’ve wanted to add to your collection. During the rut, whitetail bucks are much more likely to be active during the daylight hours, offering hunters prime opportunities to take the perfect shot. The rut […]

Hunting Elk is always sure to be exciting, and when you choose to hunt at Stone Creek Ranch, you can be certain it will be a one-of-a-kind experience. While many people feel daunted to hunt Elk for the first time, we’re here to make it a great new adventure for you and anyone who comes […]

Where can you hunt whitetail deer in Texas? The answer is Stone Creek Ranch. Located just two hours south of Dallas/Fort Worth, we offer world-class Texas whitetail hunts alongside five-star hospitality. That’s why we are one of the best hunting ranches in Texas to snag a trophy whitetail and why your next trip to the […]

There are few feelings as amazing as the excitement you have after hunting your first Texas Whitetail deer, particularly if it is a large buck. After all, a lot of preparation, waiting, practice and patience goes into taking a shot. In fact, many hunters are so focused on actually harvesting a deer that they forget […]

This delicious trail-inspired recipe will warm you up in the morning before you head out on the hunt. And it’s great for a delicious everyday meal at home, too. Ingredients: 10 eggs, beaten 1 lb. venison breakfast sausage (you can also use wild boar, elk or any other wild game breakfast sausage) 1 24 oz. […]

In the arcade game at your favorite bar, taking down deer with a rifle is probably pretty easy. There are crowds of them in front of you, you aim, and it takes very little to hit one (or multiple) of them. You can even get a top score within a few seconds! Here in the […]

Even if you’re a new Texas hunter, you probably already know you don’t want to go around shooting at anything and everything. There are rules and regulations to follow regarding hunting, including those that apply to trophy whitetail deer. Whitetail deer are found throughout the United States, and Texas Parks & Wildlife estimates that there […]

For many hunters, harvesting an elk is a bucket list goal. And if you’re finally ready to cross it off your list, then you have a lot of planning to do. The first and most important part of your plan should be to ensure you’re in the right area at the right time. This means […]

This chorizo and potato hash recipe is super easy to make and will satisfy the heartiest of appetites, at breakfast, lunch or dinner. Ingredients: Feeds roughly 4-6 People – 1 pound Venison Breakfast Sausage – 1 pound Chorizo – 3 cups cube butternut squash (about half inch cubes) – ½ cup minced yellow onion – […]

Planning a trip to one of Texas’ many hunting ranches is exciting, and like with any other trip, you have a lot of plans to make beforehand. You need to pack all of your gear, and if you have a favorite rifle or bow, you’ll certainly be bringing that along, too, plus the appropriate ammunition. […]

You are finally ready to book that hunting ranch trip you’ve been dreaming about. How exciting! Spending a few days at a hunting ranch is a fantastic way to get away from your troubles, relax, spend quality time with friends and family, and have the opportunity to harvest animals you wouldn’t normally get to hunt. […]

How Much Does it Cost to Go Elk Hunting in Texas? If you are going elk hunting in Texas, you want it to be an exciting experience. And if it’s your first hunt, you also probably have a lot of questions. One we hear often at Stone Creek Ranch is how much is this hunting […]

As you plan your next hunting trip, you have one thing on your mind: making it as successful as possible. This means bringing along the right gear to harvest a buck, and as big a buck as possible. While there’s tons of hunting tips from wearing the right odor to selecting the perfect blind, the thing that […]

You know it’s fun and rewarding, but what is hunting exactly? Is it a hobby? Is it a sport? If it is a sport, which many people consider it to be, does that mean you need to be in good shape to hunt? After all, the average rifle weighs about 12 pounds. During the duration of […]

Elk are highly coveted for their spectacular antlers, and elk venison is widely considered to be one of the most delectable of wild game meats. It’s lower in fat and higher in protein than beef or chicken. It’s no wonder why Texas elk hunts are so popular! As you prepare for your first time hunting […]

This smoked venison backstrap is marinated in a ranch favorite before spending time in the smoker. It’s tender, flavorful and easy to do. The Meat: Serves 4  – 1 whole venison backstrap trimmed and cut into 1½ to 2inch filets The Marinade: Enough to do 1 backstrap, 1½ cup – 1¾ cup, lasts about a […]

In general, the Texas whitetail hunting season begins in early November and wraps up in mid-January. That means if you haven’t yet harvested the buck of your dreams, you still have time to do so this season- but not much. There’s no need to wait for the next rutting season, book now while there’s still […]

There are many hunting lodges in Texas, and while it’s great to have so many choices, it can also make you feel overwhelmed when trying to decide where to book your hunt. Many people find it helpful to ask a few questions before they book to ensure a perfect hunting experience. If you’re looking for […]

Stone Creek Ranch offers world-class exotic hunting, with experiences available year-round. Exotic hunts offer hunters like you many action-packed options and benefits that are not available in more traditional or conventional hunts. In fact, there are many reasons to opt for our exotic hunt packages rather than selecting to hunt deer or other native species. […]

Texas is world-renowned for its impressive whitetail deer, and Stone Creek Ranch is the premier destination for Texas whitetail hunts. Few experiences in hunting are as thrilling as drawing down on a world-class, trophy whitetail buck. When hunting Texas whitetail deer, you have several choices to make such as: destination, rifle or bow, and ground […]

Made with strips of bacon, bourbon bbq sauce, and all the cheese you could want, this venison burger quickly became a favorite on the ranch. Served up with homemade onion rings it’s sure to be a winner in your home. The Burger: Makes 3-4 burgers – 1 pound ground venison – 1 tsp Burger House […]

Few experiences in hunting are as thrilling as drawing down on a world-class, trophy whitetail buck. You agree, which is why you want to hunt — but it’s not going quite as well as you had planned. For one, where are all the deer? You can’t seem to find any! Without whitetail deer, a day of Fort […]

October and November are the best times to hunt. Deer rutting season, known as “the rut,” is the highlight of the year for any seasoned deer hunter. With bucks on the chase for mates, unique behaviors emerge that make them much more vulnerable and easier to hunt. With testosterone building, the buck is ready to breed, […]

You’ve been interested in hunting for a while now. There’s many health benefits to hunting, both physical and mental. Plus, it looks like a fun and relaxing way to spend the day. You want all of the benefits of a great day of hunting, but there’s one problem. You need to start hunting in Dallas and you really […]

One of the most common misconceptions about hunting is that it is shooting animals just for the fun of it. Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, many if not most of our hunters do so for the mental and physical health benefits of hunting. Plus, one of the best advantages of hunting whitetail deer in […]

Have you ever heard hunting referred to as a sport before? You probably have, and you may have even wondered why this is. A sport is something you do to be healthy and strong, after all. A sport builds muscle and stamina. You must be an athlete to play a sport. You may be surprised […]

There are quite a few misconceptions in our society surrounding hunting. While some people thoroughly enjoy the sport, others cannot seem to understand it. Because of this, some myths are far too pervasive. Let’s dispel these misunderstandings right now! Have you ever heard of any of these? “Hunting exotic wildlife means going to Africa.” You […]

Did you know that hunting is one of the best ways of controlling the deer population and actually allowing it to thrive? It’s true! While this may be brand new information to you, controlling an animal population by well-regulated hunting isn’t a new idea by any means. Theodore Roosevelt, a President and an avid hunter, […]

At Stone Creek, we believe it’s beneficial for older kids and teens to learn how to hunt. However, not everyone is lucky enough to grow up in an environment where hunting skills are highly valued. If this describes you, you may be an adult now, and we’re here to let you know, It’s never too […]

Few things in life are as exciting as hunting a whitetail deer. That being said, few things ruin a shot, like getting too nervous or excited as you pull the trigger. Your ability to stay calm may be the difference between a hit or a miss and potentially ruining your whitetail deer hunting experience. It is essential […]

Pulling the trigger and taking down a whitetail deer is the thrill of a lifetime. Once your excitement has died down, you have one big question: how big is it? Measuring a whitetail deer is a bit more complicated than many people realize. Here’s what you need to know: #1 Do you think your deer […]

There are plenty of ways to hunt Whitetail Deer. In fact, there are so many tips and tricks out there that it’s hard to know which ones to follow! We’re here to help you cut through all of that noise and find Whitetail Deer hunting advice that actually works. If you want to be successful on […]

Hunting offers a thrill like nothing else. For you, hunting isn’t just an “every once in a while” thing. It’s more than a random hobby. You are passionate about hunting and want to be as successful as possible when doing so. Good for you! This kind of drive and determination is the first step in […]