Things to Do

3 Reasons to Visit the Hidden Paradise That is Cedar Cove Ranch

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Tony Maples Photography

 

Located an hour away from the Dallas metroplex, the city of Eustace, Texas holds one of the best-kept secrets in the state. Cedar Cove Ranch is a quiet paradise, tucked away amongst the lakes and trees of the eastern region. From kayaking on the private lake, enjoying horseback riding adventures, and watching outdoor movies, to staying in five-star accommodations, the ranch is teeming with activities for the whole family. Below are three reasons you should pack your bags and head to the ranch as soon as you can!

1. Outdoor Aventures

Horseback Riding at Cedar Cove Ranch

Photo: Facebook/Cedar Cove Ranch

For the outdoor adventurer, Cedar Cove Ranch is the closest thing to Heaven on earth. The 700-acre spread is home to a large lake, perfect for fishing, swimming, paddle-boarding, kayaking, and water-skiing. Guests can hike a number of trails that wind their way around the property, or participate in horseback rides or ATV ventures. The ranch also boasts sand volleyball and badminton courts, as well as shooting and archery ranges.

When the sun sets, its time to sit back and enjoy a movie under the stars. For a small fee, visitors can have all the equipment necessary for an outdoor film provided to them along with all the “fixins” for delicious smores. For more information regarding all the activities available at the ranch, please follow this link to their website.

2. Beautiful Views

Sunset at Cedar Cove Ranch

Photo: Facebook/Cedar Cove Ranch

Take the time to slip a kayak into the calm waters of the lake just as the sun begins its slow descent below the treeline. As the paddle creates soft ripples in the water, crickets chirp and frogs croak out an instinctual song, almost as if bidding the sun goodnight. Before the last ray of light disappears, the sky bursts into a myriad of color. Pinks, oranges, and purples all combining to paint a gorgeous masterpiece in the east Texas sky.

Though the communities of Athens, Eustace, and Gun Barrel City are all within a short driving distance, Cedar Cove Ranch feels secluded away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This seclusion grants its guests the opportunity to absorb the beauty of nature all around them.

3. Luxurious Lodging

Grand Chateau at Cedar Cove Ranch

Photo: Facebook/Cedar Cove Ranch

Two cabins provide lodging for guests at the ranch. The Grand Chateau, the larger of the two, can sleep anywhere from 10 to 18 people and is located close to the shore of the private lake. A game room, fire pit, gas fireplace, and complimentary Wi-Fi make this abode the perfect home-away-from-home.

The smaller of the two lodges, Whitetail Lodge, provides enough sleeping space for up to 16 individuals. The main differences between it and the other cabin being fewer bathrooms and a location slightly farther away from the lake. However, all the amenities associated with the Grand Chateau can also be found at this lodge.

Those interested in “roughing it” can snatch up one of three primitive camping sites. These sites have enough room for two cars and are within easy access to all of the outdoor activities.