Nestled along the line where Hughes County meets Coal County lies one of the most impressive ranches in the area. Located just 159 miles from Dallas and 107 miles from Oklahoma City, the property offers convenient access via US-75, with its western boundary just a half mile east along E 154 Rd. Crystal Springs Ranch spans 488 +/- acres and showcases a rare blend of crystal-clear water, productive pasture, mature timber, and elevated views. While the entrance presents a modest first impression, the true character of the ranch reveals itself beyond the gates, where careful stewardship and pride of ownership are immediately evident. Portions of this land have remained in the same family for over a century, and it shows. This is more than a ranch, it is a legacy property.
The ranch offers an ideal balance of open ground and timber, with approximately 75% open pasture and 25% wooded cover. The most productive areas lie along the northwestern and southeastern portions, where roughly 190 +/- acres of Stidham loamy fine sand (Class III soils) support strong grazing and hay production, with potential for cultivation. Overall, more than 60% of the ranch consists of Class IV soils or better. A nearly 140 +/- acre primary pasture is cross-fenced and has consistently produced 300 bales of hay annually. This same ground was historically farmed in peanuts, once a key driver of the Hughes County economy for decades. Within this pasture, and the adjoining 40-acre south of it, lies a unique feature: a private grass airstrip. Known as Christopher M. Rippee Memorial Airport (5OK2), the 3,600-foot runway (15/33) offers a rare opportunity for the aviation-minded buyer. The ability to fly directly into your own ranch is something few properties can offer, and even fewer can do well.
Water is where Crystal Springs Ranch truly separates itself. The property features natural springs and nine spring-fed ponds, totaling nearly 16 surface acres. The three largest ponds measure approximately 1.78 acres, 2.5 acres, and 5.2 acres. The clarity of the water is stunning. Standing on the bank, you can often watch a spinnerbait move through the water as you retrieve it. These ponds have provided years of recreation and fishing and will continue to do so for generations to come. There is also an opportunity to construct an additional 6-acre pond on the western portion of the ranch.
Along the eastern boundary, a secluded wooded area reveals a unique ecological feature. This pocket of timber includes river birch, winged elm, oak, sycamore, and notably, unusually large hickory trees. Supported by a shallow water table and natural springs, these trees have reached sizes rarely seen in this part of Oklahoma. The combination of water, cover, and forage creates excellent wildlife habitat. With roughly 25% timber and abundant edge, the ranch provides ideal bedding areas for whitetail deer. Sign is evident throughout the property, and with thoughtful management, this ranch has the potential to produce high-quality, mature whitetail deer. Opportunities for food plots and feeders are abundant, making this an outstanding recreational and hunting property.
Several exceptional build sites have been identified across the ranch, with rural water and electricity available nearby. One location, tucked between two groves of mature hardwoods, stands out above the rest. Positioned near the highest point on the ranch, it offers a setting that is both private and visually striking. We envision a custom limestone home here, timeless in design, inspired by the Hill Country of South Texas, yet perfectly suited to this Oklahoma landscape.
Now, imagine the evening settling in. The sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow across the spring-fed ponds below. A fire pit crackles nearby, connected to the home by a simple stone walkway. After a day spent fishing, exploring, and enjoying the land, family and friends gather along this ridge. Laughter carries through the still air as the last light fades. Another log is added to the fire. The sweet, earthy aroma of pinon wood drifts upward, curling into the night air. Above, the sky opens into a vast canopy of stars, bright, endless, and untouched, the way only country nights allow.
If you have been searching for a ranch that offers water, productivity, privacy, and a true sense of place, Crystal Springs Ranch deserves your attention. For more information or to schedule your own private showing, please call Alex Leach at 580.272.3953 or drop him a line at .