Rare 886-acre Texas ‘safari’ with its own exotic wildlife lists for $42.5 million

A mammoth 886-acre ranch in the heart of the Texas Hill Country has gone on the market for an eye-watering $42.5 million, offering an unparalleled mix of luxury, history — and even wildlife.

Known as 3 Creeks Ranch, this sprawling estate in Fredericksburg’s scenic wine region is the latest big-ticket property to turn heads.

Owned by former attorneys Michael and Susan Price, the property has served as a personal retreat and a haven for exotic animals, according to the Wall Street Journal.

The couple, who raised Japanese Akaushi cattle and a variety of rare species, including red deer and blackbuck antelope, have now decided to leave the ranch lifestyle behind as they move to Austin.

The farm is a real rarity, even by Texas standards. With more than 2.5 miles of creek frontage, six stocked fishing ponds, and wide open spaces designed for hay production and grazing, it is a well-maintained ecosystem.

There is also a 120-acre pen specifically designed for the collection of animals that Prices feed on the property.

“It’s like a viewing safari,” Susan Price told the Journal. “You get a mule [four-wheeler] in and just enjoy yourself.”

In addition to exotic animals, native species such as white-tailed deer, turkeys and pigeons call the farm home.

Five active wells ensure the property remains well watered, while five dams manage the natural flow of water through its six ponds.

Fishing enthusiasts will enjoy the largemouth bass and catfish stocked in these waters, offering year-round recreation.

But beyond the natural beauty, 3 Creeks Ranch is a historic site. The main residence, a stone house originally built in the 1850s, has been meticulously renovated—first in 2007 and then again in 2011—into a grand 5,300-square-foot home that expertly blends old-world charm with modern luxury.

French doors line the two-story living room, and the open-concept kitchen is equipped with high-end stainless steel appliances and a massive stone island.

The luxury extends outside, where a screened-in porch includes a built-in grill and pizza oven.

For more active pursuits, there’s a tennis court with basketball hoops, and for wine lovers, a wine cellar awaits to store those local Fredericksburg vintages.

Other historic homes on the property add even more appeal. The Petsch House, originally built in the 1800s, was completely remodeled in 2020 with modern amenities while maintaining its rustic appeal – think custom wood ceilings and wide-plank floors.

The Jenschke House, dating back to 1874, offers panoramic views of the property’s ponds and rolling hills.

Gary Dolch with Compass Real Estate Texas holds the listing.