In the far reaches of northwestern Texas, just 1.5 miles south of the historic ghost town of Pandale, lies one of the most extraordinary river ranches in the state. Encompassing approximately 8,499 acres and held in single-family ownership for more than 40 years, this legacy property offers an unmatched combination of accessible Lower Pecos River frontage, rich prehistoric history, abundant wildlife, reliable water infrastructure, and well-built functional improvements — all set within an extremely private and untouched landscape.
The defining feature and true crown jewel of Norsworthy Ranch is its two miles of pristine frontage along one of the most beautiful stretches of the Lower Pecos River, 2.7 river miles south of the Pandale Crossing. Unlike many river properties defined by sheer bluffs and inaccessibility, much of this frontage is gentle, usable, and easy to enjoy. The river here delivers exactly what discerning recreational ranch buyers seek: deep, turquoise blue swimming holes exceeding 20 feet in depth and width, fast-moving shallow rapids, dramatic limestone canyon walls, and remarkable privacy without sacrificing access. Widely regarded as one of the cleanest natural freshwater rivers in the country, this stretch of the Lower Pecos offers exceptional swimming, fishing, paddling, and quiet enjoyment in a setting that feels untouched by time.
The Pecos River has served as a lifeline for thousands of years. No river in Texas — and few in the United States — passes through as many sites of prehistoric human habitation. Paleo-Indians once lived in these canyons, leaving behind ancient rock art in caves and shelters throughout the region. On Norsworthy Ranch, caves along a major rock canyon feeding into the river show signs of possible prehistoric habitation, connecting the land to one of North America’s most culturally significant archaeological landscapes. Ownership in this region represents more than just land acquisition, but stewardship of history.
The ranch’s 8,499± acres offer exceptional hunting opportunities across rugged canyon country and native brushland. Native species include whitetail deer, blue quail, mourning dove, turkey, javelina, and mountain lion. Non-native species include aoudad sheep, feral hogs, and the occasional black bear. Approximately 80% of the perimeter is low-fenced, with high fencing along the northern boundary. Native plant species observed across the ranch include persimmon, mesquite, huisache, mountain laurel, prickly pear, ocotillo, sotol, cedar, shin oak, guayacan, and tasajillo — all contributing to healthy habitat and ecological diversity.
Water infrastructure is a particularly valuable asset in this arid, low-rainfall region of northwestern Val Verde County. The ranch is equipped with five functional domestic water wells, with several additional wells capable of being serviced and returned to operation. Domestic wells show static water levels around 200 feet below the surface and produce approximately 5-15 gallons per minute. Two 30,000-gallon Pioneer water storage tanks support the ranch’s residential and operational improvements, providing both reliability and long-term sustainability.
All structural improvements are positioned in close proximity to one another near the main entrance off Langtry Rd. The main ranch home, originally built in the 1960s, encompasses approximately 2,523 square feet and features a classic limestone exterior with a standing seam metal roof. Extended covered front porches invite relaxed country living. Inside, an open-concept living and kitchen area showcases Saltillo tile flooring in the kitchen, custom hardwood cabinetry, tiled countertops and backsplash, and bar seating for casual dining. Hardwood floors run throughout the living areas and bedrooms. The focal point of the living room is a wood-burning stove set upon a raised natural stone hearth, framed by a dramatic floor-to-ceiling stone accent wall. A walk-behind bar enhances the lodge-style atmosphere. The home offers two large bedrooms and three baths, with wood-burning stoves in each bedroom, an attached two-car garage, and a fenced backyard. A rock water fountain and concrete wildlife trough add charm and functionality to the exterior.
A second residence, built in 1970 and measuring approximately 1,660 square feet, provides additional accommodations This vintage mid-century stucco home includes two bedrooms and two baths. Its kitchen features dark-stained flat-front wood cabinetry, brown hexagonal tile flooring, and exposed red brick elements that preserve its authentic character.
Equestrian and operational facilities are equally impressive. A horse barn built in 2017 features steal beam construction with a metal roof and a wide concrete center breezeway. Eight stalls with pipe runs release into a pipe-fenced three-acre irrigated grazing field. Priefert stall fronts with stucco divider walls create durable, comfort for horses. Opposite the stalls, a finished laundry room and an air-conditioned residential bunk room with kitchenette and bath provide functional versatility. Several additional barns across the compound offer ample equipment storage. A newer, clean single-wide mobile home near the main entrance houses the resident ranch manager and provides oversight and security.
The balance of the ranch is expansive, dramatic, and private. Wide-open views stretch across rugged canyon terrain and native brush country. Large neighboring ranches and long-range undeveloped vistas reinforce the sense of isolation that defines this part of Texas. The property has no present or past oilfield surface activity and is void of oil and gas pipeline easements — a rare and increasingly valuable attribute. At night, the dark skies are brilliant, uninterrupted by artificial light, creating a setting that feels truly removed from the modern world.
Norsworthy Ranch is more than acreage — it is river, canyon, wildlife, water, history, and infrastructure woven together across 8,499± acres of extraordinary terrain. Properties offering this combination of accessible Lower Pecos River frontage, archaeological significance, abundant hunting, strong water resources, and well-maintained improvements rarely come to market.
For those seeking value in a generational ranch defined by water, heritage, and untamed beauty, Norsworthy Ranch stands as a singular opportunity in Val Verde County, Texas.
Financial:$1,100/acre or $9,348,900. Surface sale only. Seller to provide basic title insurance policy and will convey surface rights via Special Warranty Deed.
**Information contained herein is deemed reliable, but is not warranted by Broker or Sellers, and is subject to change, errors and/or omissions, prior sale and withdrawal from market. Buyers are urged to verify representations on their own regarding the usefulness and value of the property for a given purpose. Property is sold as is where is, with all faults and without warranty other than that of title. Showings by appointment only with Bluestem Ranch Group only. Do not trespass John L. Lynd, Listing Broker. Buyer’s representative must be identified on first contact, and must accompany buying prospect on first showing to be allowed full fee participation. If this condition is not met, fee participation will be at sole discretion of Bluestem Ranch Group, John L. Lynd, Broker.**
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