Deep South Texas
As a direct result of the Valley Land Fund Wildlife Photo Contests, landowners in South Texas have learned to landscape portions of their property for attractive wildlife photo settings. Regular water and feed attracts a variety of wildlife and customized photo blinds provide shelter for photographers without disturbing established wildlife behaviors. The set-up offers astonishing opportunities for candid photography.
Participating Ranches
Dos Venadas Ranch
Dos Venadas Ranch, in Starr County, is operated jointly with neighboring Campos Viejos Ranch, to offer 1370 acres of native habitat with a dozen permanent blinds.
Martin Refuge
The Javelina is 300 acres of thick South Texas brush located NW of Mission, Texas. Martin Refuge is the original home of private nature photography in the Rio Grande Valley. Owned by John and Audrey Martin, who were the force behind the Valley Land Fund Photo Contest and the ICF Pro-Tour, the ranch has been hosting happy photographers since 2003.
Santa Clara Ranch
The Santa Clara Ranch is located in the Rio Grande Valley of southern Texas, nine miles west of McCook lies the Santa Clara Ranch. Owned and operated by Dr. Beto Gutierrez this 300 acre wildlife sanctuary is comprised entirely of virgin brush land.
Tacubaya Ranch Wildlife
Tacubaya Ranch Wildlife is a 3200 acre ranch located in Brooks County that has recently opened its gates to the public for the purpose of wildlife photography, birding and experiences with nature. Whether you are a novice birder, a professional photographer, or a city slicker looking for some great outdoors experiences, Tacubaya Ranch Wildlife is the place for you!
The Weaver Ranch
"The longer we owned the place the more we came to appreciate the diverse wildlife and the less we hunted." - Kent Weaver
