Notice to Prospective Buyers and Agents:
All showings must be scheduled with listing agent Cayson George. No one is to contact the seller directly or enter the property without prior approval. This is private propertydo not trespass. Serious inquiries only. 806-341-8524 | 806-823-2040
The Wharton Ranch | 1,455.88 Acres | Wharton & Matagorda Counties, TXColorado River Frontage | Award-Winning Cattle Operation | Turnkey & Income-Producing
Just west of Houston lies a rare offering: The Wharton Ranch, spanning 1,455.88 acres across Wharton and Matagorda Counties. With approximately 1.8 miles of Colorado River frontage, this ranch combines top-tier production, natural beauty, and long-term investment upside.
Cattle Operation & Improvements The ranch is fully set up for a turnkey cow/calf operation, comfortably running 500 head without the need for fertilization. Pastures are a mix of native and improved grassesincluding Gordo Bluestem and strong Bermudarooted in highly productive soils. The land features over a dozen soil types including Brazoria clay, Clemville silty clay loam, and Laewest clay, known for their moisture-holding capacity and suitability for both grazing and row crop farming. Historically, the ranch supported corn farming and is still registered with base acres in corn.
The seller has spent years optimizing a rotational grazing system supported by 8 water wells and numerous strategically placed troughs. About 300 acres are currently leased to a neighbor, generating steady lease income.
This ranch has a deep legacy in the Brangus world, producing award-winning genetics recognized nationwide. Infrastructure includes multiple sets of working pens, with the main set built from W&W panels set in concrete and protected under roof. A hydraulic squeeze chute is in place and conveys with the property. You'll also find a large livestock barn for hay and cover, an equipment barn with partial concrete flooring, and an air-conditioned managers office.
Recreation & WildlifeThe Colorado River acts as a natural highway for wildlife, supporting a wide range of species including whitetail deer, wild hogs, waterfowl, and the occasional alligator. The ranch features large live oaks, pecan trees, and native cover along the riverbanks, creating excellent habitat and shade for both wildlife and livestock.
Importantly, the property has not been actively hunted in over 10 years, allowing wildlife populations to thrive undisturbed. With no hunting lease in place, this land has been carefully stewarded and is ready for private recreational enjoyment or the implementation of a premium hunting program.
Water, Wind & Opportunity
In addition to river frontage and stocked ponds, the ranch is watered by 8 water wells.
Wind energy adds a strong income component8 wind towers are currently being installed with a wind contract already in place. Seller will reserve 50% of wind rights.
Soils & ProductivityThe Wharton Ranch features a diverse and productive soil profile ideal for both grazing and farming. Over 1,455 acres of the ranch are composed of prime coastal prairie soils that historically supported corn production and now sustain improved grasses with no need for fertilization.
Key soil types include:
Brazoria Clay (Br & Me): Making up nearly 450 acres, this deep, well-structured clay holds moisture well and supports high forage yieldsideal for grazing and rotational pasture systems.
Clemville Silty Clay Loam (Cn & Cm): Over 450 acres of this soil type offer good drainage with excellent fertility, capable of supporting row crops or lush native grasses.
Laewest Clay & Silty Clay (LaA & LoA): Together these account for about 245 acres and provide stable, productive ground with good water retention, especially beneficial during dry seasons.
Lake Charles Clay (LcA) & Edna Loam (EdA): These contribute a combined 150+ acres of strong subsoil support, suitable for both pasture and cropland rotation.
Dacosta Sandy Clay Loam (DaA & BcA): Covering roughly 60 acres, these lighter soils are valuable for their workability and drought resilience.
Bernard-Edna Complex & Norwood Loam (BeA & No): Known for their versatility, these combined 115+ acres can be used for pasture, wildlife plantings, or row crop use.
Together, these soil classes are rated as highly productive (most with a capability class of 2w or 2s), making the ranch an excellent fit for high-performance cattle operations and crop potential. According to USDA data, the ranch carries a strong NCCPI (National Commodity Crop Productivity Index) average, further underlining its agricultural value.