Entire home

RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD!

Photo gallery for RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD!

A river surrounded by dense trees.
A modern living room with a sectional sofa, a red armchair, a small table, and a ceiling fan.
A wooden deck with two rocking chairs and a table, overlooking a forested valley.
A wooden structure with a balcony, surrounded by trees and a rocky landscape.
A cozy room with a wooden interior, a dining table with chairs, a blue sofa, and large windows with a view of a deck and trees.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • The great outdoors
    Guests love the outdoor space here.
  • Private garden
    A rare find — relax in the peaceful, private garden space.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Walk to Frio River
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 12

Popular amenities

  • Balcony
  • Toys
  • Barbecue
  • Air-conditioning
  • Refrigerator
  • Internet

Explore the area

View map
Leakey, TX
  • Place, Frio River
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Garner State Park
    ‪19 min drive‬
  • Place, Lost Maples State Natural Area
    ‪26 min drive‬

Where you'll sleep

3 bedrooms (sleeps 12)

Guest House- One Large Bedroom

2 Queen Beds and 1 Single Bunk Bed

Main House- Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed and 1 Single Bunk Bed

Main House- Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Guest House- Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Main House- Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Outdoor Shower

Outdoor shower

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Outdoor shower
Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD!

CHECK OUT OUR LOW OFF-SEASON RATES! The most peaceful views can be found at Howdy's!

***WE NOW HAVE WIFI***

***COME ENJOY OUR NEW UPDATES! We've been busy in January of 2024, replacing the original floors in the Main House as well as updating with new furniture. December of 2025- we now have 4 queen beds on the property in addition to keeping our 2 sets of bunks. A new walking path between the houses was put in as well.***

Howdy's on the Frio is a charming property located in Leakey, TX, RIGHT ON THE FRIO RIVER! Howdy's provides a beautiful, entertaining, and relaxing vacation spot for your family and friends. Howdy's sits on just under 2 acres of land and boasts breathtaking views of the river from its 400 sq. ft. deck. As you enter the river from Howdy's, you can enjoy a deep swimming hole that never goes dry, small rapids for the adventurous, and shallow water for the little ones- not to mention no across the river neighbors! Don't want to get wet? Then enjoy sitting on the large covered deck where you can watch your friends and family enjoy the river, while taking in the fantastic unspoiled views of the surrounding hills and Texas Hill Country sunsets. Once the sun goes down, light a fire in the fire-pit and roast marshmallows under the bright stars or play a game of dominoes out on the deck, all set to the sounds of the Frio.

Howdy's sleeps up to 12 people and consists of the main house (2 bedrooms/1 bath) and the guest house (1 large room/1 bath), which is just 10 yards from the main house. The main house bathroom has just been remodeled in 2021 and new kitchen counter tops and sink in 2022! The main house has steps with railings and a relaxation landing heading down to the river. With the river and huge outdoor entertaining space within your fingertips, you may never find yourself inside. The children are sure to love the swing set and the see-saw on property. But if you do find yourself inside, you will love the Texas-made-comfortable and cozy feel of the house and guest house. In charge of the evening's meal? Then you won't miss out on any conversation while cooking in our open, fully-stocked, kitchen. The view of the Texas hills through our beautiful new double French doors will make cooking seem like anything but a chore. Need to holler at your kids to come eat? Do so from the grill area overlooking the river. At the end of the day, bask in the warmth of the wood-burning fire place while reconnecting with family and friends within the spacious, high-ceiling living space. Open the many windows at night to enjoy the cool fresh air and sounds of the river running below.

Since the river is in your backyard, you may never need to leave the property. But the surrounding area has much to offer as well. Howdy's is only a mile to the main street of Leakey, TX and a few miles north of Garner State Park. The Three Sisters Drive is also only minutes away, with Lost Maples State Natural Area only 25 miles down the road.

There are year-round activities in the Frio Canyon area ranging from tubing/kayaking the Frio in the summer, enjoying the fall foliage in autumn, hiking/hunting in the winter, and viewing wildflowers in the spring. The bird and deer watching are fabulous year round. World Class Golf is available at Concan Country Club. Don't forget the outdoor summer time concerts at House Pasture Cattle Company and of course the dances at Garner! Made in Texas!

A vacation at Howdy's on the Frio is the perfect getaway for everyone!

One note: All beds have quilts/comforters and pillows. Guests provide their own sheets, pillowcases and towels.

Call Diane to learn more about Howdy's on the Frio. Please be sure to contact us if you'd like to stay for less than 3 nights during the summer season. Anytime there are less than three nights between other bookings, we are happy to make those nights available.

Come make memories at Howdy's on the banks of the river!

Also visit our property, Four Frio Sisters, #321679 in Leakey, TX. Instagram: @howdysonthefrio Facebook: Howdy’s on the Frio

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
No smoking on the property
Guest must provide own linens and towels. If evidence of sleeping on mattress pads, loss of security deposit possible.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 1068345vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Leakey

Located in Leakey, this holiday home is on the waterfront. Concan Golf Course and Country Club and Frio Valley Ranch Golf Club are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Frio River and Garner State Park. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and water tubing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with horse riding and hiking/biking trails.
Map
Leakey, TX

What's nearby

  • Frio River - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Garner State Park - 19 min drive - 18.7 km
  • Lost Maples State Natural Area - 26 min drive - 37.4 km
  • Concan Golf Course and Country Club - 33 min drive - 34.1 km
  • Frio Bat Cave - 40 min drive - 46.2 km

Restaurants

  • ‪Common Grounds - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Mama Chole's Mexican - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Bent Rim Grill - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Mill Creek Cafe - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Frio Coffee Leakey - ‬4 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD!?

As of 23 Sept 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD! on 8 Dec 2026 start from AU$1,117, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD!?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD! located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is steps from Frio River and 1.7 mi (2.8 km) from Bushong Mountain Park. Garner State Park is 11.1 mi (17.9 km) away.

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 162 out of 195 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 26 out of 195 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 4 out of 195 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 195 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 3 out of 195 reviews

9.0/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful views and the perfect river spot for all ages.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Aug 2026
We couldn't agree more! We have a wide range of ages in our family, and we always marvel at the fact that everyone has a great time. We are so glad to hear you enjoyed the views, and we look forward to hosting you in the future!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful location, there were 9 of us and we were all very comfortable, plenty of room and beds. Big, beautiful porch to watch magnificent sunsets over the Frio River. We spent most of our time in the water. There are many stairs to the water but once you are down along the river, it is gorgeous! Great place for families! Host was wonderful in communicating with us along the way. Highly recommend!!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The perfect place to stay on the Frio!!! Second year to stay at Howdy's and we love it!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Aug 2026
We were so happy to host you again! We are grateful for you! We look forward to hosting you again <3
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great stay! Beautiful view!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Aug 2026
We are dreaming about the view right now! We are so happy to hear you had a wonderful stay. Please come back and see us!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful experience!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Aug 2026
Thank you for your 5 star review! We look forward to hosting you in the future!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Howdy's was perfect for our family. Had space for the kids play end explore. The area was quiet and the view was beautiful.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Aug 2026
Thank you so much for the great review! Our kiddos are in Heaven when at Howdy's. We are so happy to hear your crew had a great time as well. The beautiful views, peaceful atmosphere, and serene experience help create wonderful memories. Please come back and see us!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This place is awesome! Awesome location on the river.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Aug 2026
We are so happy to hear our river location can't be beat! Come back and see us!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We absolutely love this house…perfect location and the river frontage is so good!!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Aug 2026
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We are so happy to hear you all enjoyed Howdy's on the Frio. You are always welcome!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We really had a great experience. The property was as depicted and described, and the river was a blast. We didn’t do anything else except hang out on the amazing covered deck, cook, eat, rest, and play in the river.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Aug 2026
It sounds like you were living out our dream! Thank you so much for the great review. We truly appreciate it- you are welcome back any time!
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The place is a fantastic cabin and bunkhouse with enviably quiet and beautiful river access. I stayed the weekend with my five older sons as part of our annual retreat. We had a great time. However, for us the stay and cost were offset by having to provide all of our linens and towels. We had one roll of paper towels and one trash bag which were insufficient for a group this size. Leaving with all the dishes done; not just running in the dishwasher, was an added inconvenience relative to the cost. Again a wonderful place but the pre- and post-trip labor felt more like camping with walls and a/c than we had hoped for.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Aug 2026
We are so happy to hear you and your 5 sons had a wonderful trip! We enjoyed communicating with you prior to your trip, and we know how much you were looking forward to this time with your sons. That being said, we are very transparent on our site that linens are not provided. Until you see or hear otherwise, please do not book Howdy's if you cannot provide linens. We also are very up front and honest about what we provide amenities wise. We do not claim to be a Ritz Carlton. We send a detailed list of amenities and instructions- we give guests enough to get their stay started as far as supplies. Camping at Garner, without AC and having to bring your own supplies, dishes, and dishwasher, would have cost you just a bit less than what you paid at your discounted rate for a great home on a gorgeous and untouched portion of the Frio. We thank you for washing your dishes before leaving. We understand this can be a big ask, but when we have turnarounds, it is very helpful to us. We hope you were able to enjoy your stay and make memories on the beautiful Frio!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Exactly as described and Leslie Ann was a pleasure to work with! Property is quiet with beautiful views, deep water hole at the ladder to the river and small shallow rapids you can see and hear! Grill is charcoal and good size and kitchen is well stocked with utensils. Town is roughly 2 miles away and easy to get to. We had a wonderful time and will definitely go back when the opportunity arises!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Aug 2026
It brings us joy to hear you had a wonderful experience! Thank you for being a delightful guest. We appreciate you, and we welcome you back any time!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Group of 5 adults and 3 grand kids ages 16-10. Property as described conveniently located to Frio River and downtown Leaky. Nice area on river bank to sit and watch kids swing on rope out into a deeper section. Our grand kids enjoyed this tremendously! Access to a private dumpster was nice as we brought several ice chests filled with home made meals and disposable serving ware to save both time and expense. Outside fire pit was a great evening wind down. We brought cut fire wood but plenty was available.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Aug 2026
We are so happy to hear your family had a wonderful time! Some of our most cherished family memories have occurred at Howdy', and it brings us a lot of joy to know others are creating memories as well <3
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved it! Thank you
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Feb 2026
Thank you so much for your 5 star review! We are so happy to hear your group enjoyed Howdy’s. We sure hope you return!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Vacation

Great place for quiet family time.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had the best time at Howdys! Everything was great! We highly recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 17 July 2025
We are so happy to hear you all had a wonderful stay! Please come back and see us!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome place

Very nice property. We had a great family vacation.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Nov 2022
Thank you so much for your review April! We are so happy to hear you all had a wonderful time making memories with your family. Please come back and visit us again soon! Marbach & Frazier Families
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

Great
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Sept 2022
Thank you for your review Avery! Please come back and visit us! - Marbach & Frazier Families
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing

Smooth check in process and wonderful views.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 14 July 2025
We are so happy to hear you had a wonderful stay at Howdy's on the Frio! Please come back and see us!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

It was a wonderful stay hope to come back again

Beautiful ❤️
Stayed 2 nights in May 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Dec 2021
Beautiful is just one of many ways to describe our little piece of Frio river front. Thank you for staying with us at Howdy's on the Frio. We look forward to seeing you again soon. Marbachs & Fraziers
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great River Location

Nice place on the river, property was as depicted on VRBO
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Dec 2024
Thank you Kathleen! We hope to have you return in the future!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great outdoors!

If you're looking for a relaxed time and some fun activities outdoors...then this is the place. Great place to fish as well.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Oct 2022
Thank you Luis! We hope you all come back to visit us!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Second time here and it was great again

We had a great time. The place is great for all ages. We will Be booking it for next year!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Sept 2023
Thank you for the great review, Brad! We are so grateful for our wonderful guests. We are looking forward to your next stay! -Diane & Leslie Anne
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This location is absolutely fantastic. Direct access to the Frio river for swimming, fishing or just enjoying the beautiful view. We were a family group of all ages, and everyone had a wonderful time. Easy communication with the owner for questions. Highly recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Dec 2025
Thank you for the great review! It warms our hearts to read that you enjoyed Howdy's on the Frio. We agree that the location and views can't be beat. It is a wonderful spot for a family group of all ages, and we would love to have you all come visit again! Marbach and Frazier Families
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect get away

This place had everything you needed for a weekend getaway or longer ,from the amenities to the views everything was perfect. Best spot I have been to in all my years visiting the Frio area.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Oct 2022
Thank you so much for the review Monica! We hope you all come back to visit us again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was clean and in good order. The houses are more like cabins in nature versus what one would find in connection with a weekend VRBO. The kitchen was equipped. There is no washer or dryer on property. The bedrooms were clean and spacious in both houses. The fire pit, children’s play equipment and grill area were a great bonus. River entry is good for younger families or those who have no difficulty with three levels of steps. The host’s instructions were clear and concise. The house is tucked away in a quiet neighborhood with easy access to Garner State Park and Lost Maples State Park. The stars at night were beautiful. The mornings were crisp, cool, and the river so very clear. We enjoyed our stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Aug 2026
We are so happy to hear you enjoyed your stay! The Hill Country stars are an absolute treat!

About the host

Hosted by Owner

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