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Laf ranch

Hosted by Fritz · Medina, Texas

20 sites · RV, Tent, Lodging · 1100 acres

99%

226 reviews

Best van & overland spots in the US

Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2026.

Best Hipcamps in Texas

Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2026.

Amazing views

Hipcampers say this spot has amazing views.

Family-friendly

Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.

1100 acres of gorgeous natural land at the headwaters of the Medina River. Crystal clear and clean spring feed water. Fourth-generation family owners. Remote camping. Very private with plenty of varied terrain for hiking swimming, tubing, biking or just hanging out in a hammock enjoying the breeze and peace and quiet. About 2 miles as a crow flies from Lost Maples State Park. You drive through a 13,000-acre ranch to get to us. We are at the end of a dead-end road with one way in and one way out. NO FISHING As our topo map shows we have a wide variety of terrain ranging from steep cliffs with huge views to shady canyons. The river cuts through the middle of the place and is surrounded by four hills that each have their unique characteristics ranging from flat oak-covered to rocky steep ridges. I guarantee you will find beauty all around. We do have a couple of fun areas to try your 4-wheel drive out. Please dont make your own....stay on trails. There are plenty of places to swim. When the Ladder is reserved, you may not swim there. Please be respectful. We have 1.5 miles of both sides of the river so plenty of places to swim. It varies a lot in depth and width over the ranch. Every camp spot has access to all the swimming holes except the ladder when it is booked. The main swimming holes are-- 1. Below the Green Cabin 2. Another my brother likes that has a cypress tree submerged you can sit on he calls the 1000 waterfalls 3. big pond Please note all pictures taken on and of the ranch remain the property of the LAF ranch and are to be used for personal or promotional purposes only. No sales of images allowed. Follow us on Instagram and FB for updates, events and discounts. Discounts to repeat campers. Reach out to me when you are interested in coming.

Select a site

Tent-only sites

1 site

Big Pond Tent Site

100%

(38)

Tent site · Sleeps 4

This is an intimate spot on a large pond area of the river down from the road. When I was growing up my parents threw epic keg parties at this spot. I followed suit in college and [xxxxxxxx] was tons of fun while everyone floated on tubes and had the occasional moss fight. One side is mossy bottom and the other rock. Perfect for swimming and a 150 foot zip line across the river is in the works. For camping It’s the ideal romantic spot with a canoe thrown in to boot. Drive along the bank to your spot. You will be camping on the river bank. Adventurous campers can use the canoe to pack into a spot across the pond in between two gigantic cypress trees. When you book here the entire “pond” is yours for your privacy. See video a camper did on the site. It came out nice! [xxxxxxxx] If you have a big group and want to relive the days past, sans keg…. Book both this spot and the big camp spot which will accommodate many rvs tents etc….

Short walk to site

Campfires allowed

No toilet

No potable water

Pets allowed

No showers

RV/tent sites (dispersed)

18 sites

The Ladder Swimming Hole

99%

(57)

RV/tent site · Sleeps 4 · Vehicles under 20 ft

Gorgeous Spring-fed swimming/bathing hole. This location is what I think is the best swimming on the place. Its my favorite place to take a bath. There are tons of fish and it is like an aquarium. They hear my Kubota and come to the bank waiting for me to feed them kernel corn and the bass love their worms. Absolutely no fishing at this hole. [xxxxxxxx]

Campfires allowed

No toilet

No potable water

Pets allowed

No electrical hookup

No water hookup

The Ridge

100%

(51)

RV/tent site · Sleeps 4 · Vehicles under 1 ft

The Ridge is the highest spot on the ranch at 2400 feet. It has the most spectacular view as well. At the edge of a sheer 250 drop off you need to be careful taking in the view! You have an unobstructed view of the sky and the horizon. You wont see any lights out here!! I think the Ridge is one of our most private spots. It is a mile off the main ranch road on a pasture road. Small fires are ok as long as it is not too windy. There are a couple of well placed Live Oaks on the edge which are perfect for a hammock. Please note--the Ridge is a must-see for any camper. If you book the ridge you need to be ok with allowing other campers to make a one-time short visit to check out the view. You may have access to the river for swimming except in reserved designated camp sites.

Campfires allowed

No toilet

No potable water

Pets allowed

No electrical hookup

No water hookup

The Teepee

100%

(27)

RV/tent site · Sleeps 4 · Vehicles under 1 ft

My brothers favorite spot to camp with his kids. Very shady and cool and you are lulled in relaxation by the sound of the waterfall below. Nestled at the base of a steep hill on one side and the river on the other shaded by a thick canopy of trees. You will have your own private part of the river to enjoy during your stay.

Campfires allowed

No toilet

No potable water

Pets allowed

No electrical hookup

No water hookup

Laf ranch open camping

95%

(21)

RV/tent site · Sleeps 4 · Vehicles under 20 ft

The Laf undefined is anywhere on the ranch that is not a defined campsite. Most spots would be on hilltops in open areas. There is plenty of land for privacy and finding a flat spot for a tent and if you have a rig with camper top that would be even better. Some would be suitable for small RV's. You have swimming access to any unbooked campsite on the river…eg ladder, big pond, green cabin plus any other undefined swimming hole.

Campfires allowed

No toilet

No potable water

Pets allowed

No electrical hookup

No water hookup

The Big Pond Big Camping Spot

100%

(18)

RV/tent site · Sleeps 4 · Vehicles under 25 ft

An approximately 5-acre flat field is perfect for several travel trailers or several tents. It is right across the road from a big part of the river we call The Big Pond. Great sky views. The field will be shredded and can be weed eated by me if you like it super short

Campfires allowed

No toilet

No potable water

Pets allowed

No electrical hookup

No water hookup

Rough Ridge

100%

(10)

RV/tent site · Sleeps 4 · Vehicles under 1 ft

The demand for the Ridge has been so great we are creating another campsite on the opposite side! Both Ridge sites will have total privacy and a great view. The difference is the Rough Ridge will be accessed via the Ridge Challenge Trail and you will need a 4x4 and a little nerve. There is currently a fire ring and picnic table. There is room for a tent and a rig with a rooftop tent would be perfect. Same sheer 250 drop off you need to be careful taking in the view! You have an unobstructed view of the sky and the horizon. You wont see any lights out here!! Please note-If you book the ridge you have access to the river for swimming except in reserved designated camp sites. Thanks Fritz [xxxxxxxx]

4WD required

Campfires allowed

No toilet

No potable water

Pets allowed

No electrical hookup

The Big Spring

100%

(9)

RV/tent site · Sleeps 4 · Vehicles under 20 ft

The Big Spring is at the far back of the place. It is very isolated and about a mile off the main road. There are numerous places to camp ranging from in an open field for RV's to farther back for tents and camping rigs but no trailers. Low-clearance vehicles would be best as you are winding through and under huge hardwood trees. The Piece de resistance is the Big Spring itself. It is not easy to find or get to, but it is a strong running spring coming out of the side of the mountain into a small pool before the water goes underground to feed the lower river. You access it by descending a natural rock staircase.

Campfires allowed

No toilet

No potable water

Pets allowed

No electrical hookup

No water hookup

Ken's Running Pools

100%

(8)

RV/tent site · Sleeps 4 · Vehicles under 15 ft

A friend of the family-Ken-has a knack for discovering great campsites so it is time to honor him. This is a fantastic cozy site off the road among beautiful old growth cedar trees so there is plenty of shade. It is a flat nice ground for a tent and you can hear the water from nearby waterfalls.

Campfires allowed

No toilet

No potable water

Pets allowed

No electrical hookup

No water hookup

Deer Path Hilltop

100%

(1)

RV/tent site · Sleeps 4 · Vehicles under 1 ft

Deer Path Hilltop is a flat elevated area of about two acres. To access it you go up a short path off the road. It's only about 6 feet in elevation--so it's just a bump up and you are up there. The area has a gentle hillside at your back, the road and river in front, and the bluff of the ridge to the other side of you. We call it Deer Path because the deer come off the hill behind you to get a drink from the river each night before going to bed so don't be surprised if they wonder what you are doing there!

Campfires allowed

No toilet

No potable water

Pets allowed

No electrical hookup

No water hookup

Devils Dogleg(prev Gentle Spot)

Booked 4 times

RV/tent site · Sleeps 4 · Vehicles under 30 ft

Everyone wants a spot right on the river, but due to the topography at the ranch that is hard to come by. We do have the Ladder, Teepee and Tent site but you figure with 1100 acres and almost two miles of both sides of the river we would be able to come up with more spots....not so!!!...until now. Our good friend of the family, Ken is known for sniffing out great campsites. (We named Kens Pool after him)....Well, in May of 2026 he somehow saw the potential in this spot and removed all the rocks, cut the grass and scrub out, built a firepit and worked on cleaning the area on the riverbank. He stayed there four days. When I went to look at it I felt immediate peace. Its just the right mix of shade, privacy and easy river access. Now granted the part of the river it is at is only two or so feet deep but it reminds me of a time when my sister and I would bring lawnchairs to a certain part of the river and talk. I didnt realize at the time how special it was to be sitting there with our legs in the cool water sharing that moment with her. So Gentle Spot was born. I hope you enjoy it. We will see how it evolves. I am so excited about it I am thinking of building a special ramp and floating area to make it easy to get in without getting dirty. It would be especially good for small children. I am going to wait on that to see peoples reaction and feedback.

Campfires allowed

No toilet

No potable water

Pets allowed

No electrical hookup

No water hookup

Lodging

1 site

The Green Cabin

100%

(17)

Cabin · Sleeps 4

The Green Cabin is a rustic one-room cabin with a stove, refrigerator, bed frames with clean new mattresses, and wood stove for heat. It has running water both hot and cold and a very cool outdoor shower!! Outside is a fire pit and bbq. It has the next best thing to a flush toilet… it’s own outhouse. (6-9 update--the outhouse is closed until further notice due to someone putting their trash in the hole) The cabin is at the base of a steep hill on one side and down the hill is your own private swimming hole. It is situated on the prettiest, shadiest, largest flat spot on the ranch. You have the option of staying in the cabin or just having plenty of space for campers and tents. Please note you need to bring your own plates, glasses and utensils. Don’t forget the garbage bags!

Campfires allowed

No toilet

Potable water

Pets allowed

Showers

Picnic table

Reviews

99% Recommend268 ratings · 226 reviews

LAF Ranch offers a serene camping experience with its beautiful landscape and seclusion. Many campers have praised the clear and cool watering holes, perfect for a refreshing dip. While most reviews highlight the tranquility and stunning views, one review mentioned that the ground at Rough Ridge can be uneven for ground tents. Overall, Fritz, the host, is noted for his friendliness and helpfulness, making campers feel welcomed and well-informed.

Summary AI-generated from real reviews

Recommends

· October 2026

Tent ·

Devils Dogleg(prev Gentle Spot)

I almost hesitate to write this review because part of me wants to keep this place a secret, but it’s too good not to give Fritz the credit he deserves for sharing with visitors. I’ve lived in Texas for 35 years, and this might be my favorite place in the entire state. Between the springs, the mountains, and the sheer beauty of the property, LAF Ranch is truly incredible. Our campsite was private and perfect for a trip with the kids, with a dock for swimming. We couldn’t have asked for a better spot. Fritz was a great host and has an amazing property. One tip: coordinate with him beforehand and save the directions and arrival instructions before heading out. There’s no cell service, so unless you have Starlink, plan on being unplugged which, honestly, is part of the appeal. We didn’t find 4×4 necessary during our visit, but I’d recommend bringing a higher-clearance vehicle, like an SUV or truck, for the stream crossings. We had a wonderful trip and can’t wait to go back. Just don’t tell too many people.

Recommends

· October 2026

Tent ·

The Big Spring

Absolutely beautiful property, that is also accessible with 2wd. The owner was a very nice guy and helped me with any questions.

Recommends

· October 2026

Tent · With pets ·

Laf ranch open camping

Fritz was a great host and the land was beautiful. Would definitely come back again!

Recommends

· September 2026

18 ft rooftop tent · With pets ·

Rough Ridge

The ranch was great. As mentioned in the description, Rough Ridge is OK for a rooftop tent if you can get level enough, but a ground tent isn't ideal. Fairly uneven and sloped ground unless set up in the road. The views are indeed excellent. Loved the various watering holes to cool off. Crystal clear water and chilly. Fritz is very responsive and helpful.

Recommends

· September 2026

14 ft travel trailer ·

The Ladder Swimming Hole

Everything was excellent. Fritz’s land was so quiet and clean. Talked with Fritz for over 30 minutes and very friendly. Will definitely be booking again.

Recommends

· August 2026

The most beautiful place in Texas

Tent ·

The Ladder Swimming Hole

This is one of the most beautiful places I visited in Texas. I would definitely come back again and again and again. The host was so nice and kind. Can’t wait for the next time I will open a tent there

Recommends

· August 2026

We will be back :)

Tent · With kids ·

The Ladder Swimming Hole

Incredible spot. Great host. We will be back. Thank you for an unforgettable meteor shower night.

Recommends

· August 2026

Tent · With pets ·

The Ladder Swimming Hole

Beautiful HipCamp! I can’t wait to plan another trip out there!

Recommends

· August 2026

Texas Wonderland

Tent ·

The Ladder Swimming Hole

LAF ranch is a magical place that is hard to describe with words. Divine would be my choice. There aren’t many places in Texas that yield such pristine and untouched property so we will certainly return time and time again. Fritz is an excellent host who will ensure you have a great trip and provides awesome background on the history of the area and resources for the property. 10/10 stay

Recommends

· July 2026

12 ft rooftop tent ·

The Ladder Swimming Hole

We loved our stay at LAF Ranch! Super relaxing… nice to have a private spot to unwind. The place is beautiful and the river felt amazing. Fritz was incredibly helpful, friendly and all around just a great host. We hope to return soon.

Recommends

· July 2026

20 ft truck camper ·

The Ladder Swimming Hole

Amazing property with beautiful scenery and perfect swimming hole. We'll be back for sure! Our two frenchies enjoyed it as well.

Recommends

· July 2026

Tent ·

Big Pond Tent Site

What a treat it was to spend the weekend here. Fritz is an incredible and accommodating host. The campsite was absolutely perfect, the water and trees are amazing. It was such a peaceful and restorative experience. We couldn’t recommend it more.

Recommends

· June 2026

Tent ·

The Big Pond Big Camping Spot

We had a great time. It was beautiful and peaceful. Will definitely visit again.

Recommends

· June 2026

The Ladder Swimming Hole

This is a true gem. Me and my boys explored all terrains of this land and didn’t even make a dent into it. It’s a beautiful natural environment with no noise or light pollution and no cell service, which made it perfect for me. Already planning another trip.

Recommends

· May 2026

Beautiful Property

16 ft car ·

The Ridge

Beautiful ranch and Fritz is a great host. Had a great time and would definitely go back .

Recommends

· May 2026

Tent ·

Big Pond Tent Site

Great spot ! Would definitely come back again We went hiking and used the canoe that was provided at tent campground

Recommends

· May 2026

Camping with dog

Tent · With pets ·

Rough Ridge

This place is beautiful, pictures do not do it justice! Beautiful meadows, access to the river, and stunning views. You could spend days exploring on foot if you wanted. Bring your hiking shoes because you’ll want to hike around. Gorgeous trees and wildlife to spot too! We will be back.

Recommends

· May 2026

Ken’s pools

Tent ·

Ken's Running Pools

The ranch is amazing! Fritz was super nice and understanding. If you’re having 2nd thoughts about booking this place, dont! You wont regret staying. Hands down the best place in Texas ive ever camped at.

Recommends

· April 2026

Absolutely wonderful experience.

Tent · With kids ·

The Teepee

We camped at the Teepee and everything about our stay exceeded my expectations. As an avid camper, lover of secluded places with great vibes, this is the place. The flow of the creek was perfect for my young daughters to play and explore in. The cypress, and ferns that grow there are stunning. The seclusion is SO great. We felt a million miles away from it all, exactly what I wanted. The drive is was SO fun, with river crossings - and the feeling of disappearing further and further into the wild. Fritz was away while we were there, but Ken met us and was delightful. We felt so welcome, and while we knew we had hosts near to help, we never saw or heard a thing but the river flowing, frogs, and birds. Stunning property, great vibes and cannot wait for our next visit.

Recommends

· April 2026

Hidden Treasure

Tent · With pets ·

The Ladder Swimming Hole

We have camped at Laf a few times and will be going back. Fritz is a great host and im grateful he shares his lil slice of paradise with us.

Recommends

· April 2026

Tent · With pets ·

The Ridge

Beautiful property with great views. The long roads winding around to get to the property were taken care of and beautiful. Arrival instructions were clear. Fritz was responsive and accommodating. Very reasonable host. I definitely plan on going back.

Recommends

· March 2026

16 ft car ·

The Ladder Swimming Hole

Our trip to Laf Ranch was great! We stayed at The Ladder and felt that it was a beautiful campsite, it felt private and really enjoyed having the swimming hole right next to us. Fritz was a great host and very friendly and gave us good information about the ranch. If you enjoy off roading as well this site has some good trails, we drove up the ridge road and really enjoyed it. Would definitely recommend this spot!

Recommends

· March 2026

A must!

4 ft rooftop tent · With pets ·

Rough Ridge

What a great experience. The land is some of the most beautiful in Texas. If you want a private area with no phone service this is the place. Thanks to the host for a great weekend.

Recommends

· March 2026

Loved how private it was!

Tent ·

The Big Spring

Great spot I would’ve never found without hipcamp. Fritz is awesome and this piece of land is really neat. We camped 2 nights in Big Spring and loved it, there’s tons of variety to explore, the drive in is incredible and it seems like Fritz is working on making lots of improvements to the land for better camping spots. He’s got a great HQ spot with a message board for camp/updates. Oh and lastly we loved that we couldn’t get any cell service but that wifi was available at HQ if we needed it. Definitely camp here! Try to get big pond if you can, but all the camping is great.

Recommends

· March 2026

Tent ·

The Big Spring

Wow! What a special, beautiful place Fritz has. The drive to get to his land is beautiful as well. One of the best Hipcamps I have been to yet!

Recommends

· March 2026

Tent · With kids ·

The Teepee

We had a 10/10 experience at LAF ranch. I stayed at the Teepee site with my 5 and 3 year old. The ranch is stunningly beautiful, we found several watering holes, and just had an incredible time overall. Fritz' directions were spot on, and the ranch is meticulously kept. Looking forward to going many more times.

Recommends

· March 2026

Tent · With pets ·

The Big Pond Big Camping Spot

I had a blast camping on Fritz’s land! I’m definitely going longer next time! One night was not enough!

Recommends

· March 2026

Tent ·

Rough Ridge

Fun rugged off grid camping with no cell service! I love the 4x4 route to get to the camp sites. Multiple water crossings to get to property too.

Recommends

· March 2026

SPRING(fed) Break!

Tent ·

Big Pond Tent Site

We had a beautiful spot next to a spring fed creek that was perfect for us. The drive in rivals state/national park vibes and is located relatively close to a few parks, Garner being the closes. Our spot was nestled between a rockwall and a large hill that made it secluded even from the road you drive in on. A huge plus was the canoe that was there for us to use at our leisure. Also worth mentioning, our dog had the best time. Fritz was very welcoming and a great host. Definitely would recommend!

Recommends

· March 2026

10 ft pop-up camper · With kids ·

The Ladder Swimming Hole

Very secluded spot on a ranch with a number of wonderful views and varied topography. Water is crystal clear and I would recommend this as a great place to unplug and experience the beauty of Texas hill country.

Location

Medina, Bandera, Texas, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking

Laf ranch

Select a site

Tent-only sites

Big Pond Tent Site

RV/tent sites (dispersed)

The Ladder Swimming Hole

The Ridge

The Teepee

Laf ranch open camping

The Big Pond Big Camping Spot

Rough Ridge

The Big Spring

Ken's Running Pools

Deer Path Hilltop

Devils Dogleg(prev Gentle Spot)

Lodging

The Green Cabin

Reviews

Location

Hosted by Fritz F.

Things to do nearby

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