Think of it as rural living with all the comforts and a huge backyard. This freshly remodeled home sits amid some of East Texas' best attractions! Lake O' the Pines and the Big Cypress Bayou are within a half-mile, the uniquely historic town of Jefferson is eight miles, and the unparalleled beauty of Caddo Lake is about twenty miles. The bedrooms are cozy, the kitchen is fully stocked, and the backyard boasts a fire pit and grill. The cows may graze along the back fence as you enjoy your morning coffee in the sunroom. So whether you want to explore what our area has to offer or stay in and relax, The Ranch House is a great place. And if you must work or use wi-fi, we have just installed the long-awaited Starlink system so that you'll have that capability with faster speeds - best of both worlds!
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Amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
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No smoking inside - there is a receptacle outside of the sunroom.
No events or parties.
No more than six guests without prior approval - it is possible, but we need to make sure everyone is comfortable.
Important information
You need to know
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 is a carbon monoxide detector 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
About the area
Jefferson
Located in Jefferson, this holiday home is in a rural area and on a river. Museum of Measurement and Time and Jefferson Historical Museum are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Big Cypress Marina and Enoch's Stomp Vineyard & Winery. Travelling with kids? Consider Haley's Antiques and Old Mill Antiques. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and waterskiing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with cycling and hiking/biking trails.
Longview, TX (GGG-East Texas Regional) - 56 min drive
Restaurants
Serenity Ranch - 20 min drive
Kellyville Pub - 10 min drive
Crumps Country Kitchen - 5 min drive
Raye's Cafe - 11 min drive
Red Barn Grill - 12 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is The Ranch House at Lake O' the Pines pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows pets (limit 2 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much does it cost to stay at The Ranch House at Lake O' the Pines?
As of 26 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Ranch House at Lake O' the Pines on 1 Jan 2027 start from AU$270, 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 The Ranch House at Lake O' the Pines?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at The Ranch House at Lake O' the Pines?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at The Ranch House at Lake O' the Pines?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is The Ranch House at Lake O' the Pines located?
This family-friendly Jefferson holiday home is located on a river, within 1 mi (2 km) of Buckhorn Creek Park and Lake O' the Pines. Lakeside Park and Sandy Beach are also within 3 miles (5 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Our family had a wonderful Christmas at this property. It was so well decorated and the personal touches were great. Hope to be back again!
Darin H.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Jan 2024
Thank you, Darin! We love hosting families at The Ranch House and are so happy that you all had a wonderful Christmas! We do hope you come stay with us again, and that your 2024 is filled with blessings!
What a perfect hub to go to all the east Texas towns and lakes. Comfortable and perfectly decorated for Christmas. Our hosts provided us with great information, snacks and a great firepit. We will be back!
Kristi is the most caring and thoughtful host I have encountered in years of travel. The decorations and details were exceptional. Beds were comfy, kitchen fully loaded and cozy and warm for Christmas. Definitely plan on returning.
Thank you, Ellie! We loved meeting you all, and are happy that you enjoyed your family time at The Ranch House! Glad the guys had a good day fishing, too! We sincerely hope you come our way again, and take care in the meantime!
Cody, we are glad we could get you guys in at the last minute for New Year’s Eve with plenty of wood in the fire pit. It’s unfortunate the weather didn’t cooperate for you, but of course, we can’t control that! Have a great year.
The owner made our stay fill like home! From the welcome and snacks when we arrived to all the extras, to the cleanliness of the rental everything was perfect! This is the best vacation rental I’ve ever stayed in. Communication was perfect!
Randall B.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Aug 2022
Thank you so much, Randy! We hope you can get back our way someday because we would love to host you again. I was hard-pressed to be sure you all stayed - the house was in such excellent shape! Thanks for helping make hosting so rewarding!
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Rhonda
2 July 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Such a wonderful place to relax and enjoy a week with family. Our hosts were wonderful and available for every need. The Ranch House is clean and a safe place to stay. Loved the wildlife we saw, besides the beautiful cattle. We plan to make this an annual outing. Thank you, Kristi!
Thank you, Rebel! As you know, I botched your review and the 5th star on the house rules metric didn’t “take” on my iPad - I’ve asked VRBO to correct that as it was final before I even realized what had happened. You were the BEST of the best guests and we can’t wait for you to come back. Thank you, Gene, and your friends for EVERYTHING!
The flowers, pasties and the welcome signs were all so nice and above expectations!! The house is so well maintained and clean. It was so sweetly decorated!!! I would Love to come back to this place sometime!!!!
Letty T.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 11 May 2023
Thank you, Letty! You were all awesome guests, and we hope you do come back! We hope the fur babies loved the yard, too, despite the rainy times! Thank you again!
We loved our stay and had a great time visiting Jefferson each day. It is a little drive through the country to get to Jefferson but it’s an easy and scenic drive. I loved the outdoor fire pit space with light. It was so pretty at night.
I would recommend this to anyone needing more space than a hotel or BnB coming to the area.
Ronny N.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 15 July 2024
Thank you, Ronny, we are so happy that you and your family had a good time visiting! I love the outside lights too, and are glad you enjoyed them and the space around the fire pit! We hope you may come back this way sometime and hope you stay with us again!
We stayed for a week with 3 trucks and boats for a fishing tournament. The house accommodated all of us and parking was easy with outside plugs on both side of the house for charging batteries. The host was amazing and we really enjoyed the treats made for us. Highly recommend this place.
Donna H.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Oct 2023
Thank you all so much! You were wonderful guests, and we love hosting families who fish! We hope y'all stay with us again if you come back to East Texas for a tournament or for any other reason. Have an awesome holiday season as we finish out 2023!
Our family has a mini getaway every year after Christmas. This place was perfect for what we were looking for; quiet, peaceful, and quality time together as a family. The host, Kristi, was great. She communicated with us before, during, and after our stay. When we arrived, we were treated with a personal welcome sign, treats, and a bottle of wine. Definitely recommend and would certainly stay here any.
Jerry T.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Dec 2023
Thank you so much, Jerry! We love hosting families and yours was awesome. We are so happy The Ranch House worked well for y’all, and we wish you many blessings in 2024! ❤️
This was our 1st time staying at a property like this. It was a great experience. The owners are super nice and helpful. The house was very nice and clean. The beds were so comfortable. I would definitely recommend this property and wouldn't hesitate to rent again. Thank you Kristi and Jerry.
Howard U.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Mar 2022
Thank you so much, Debbie and Jerome! You all were great and we hope you consider staying with us again next year when you're in the area! We really appreciate you, and are so glad we got to meet you on Sunday!
Beautiful, comfortable house in serene, secluded rural area, near LOP. Fantastic host who has thought of everything! Communication was fantastic. Loved the fire pit and the apple streusel cake and treats were over the top! One of the best vrbo experiences ever. Great location. 8 miles to Jefferson.
Jodie C.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Jan 2023
Thank you, Jodie! Your family rocks, too! We are so happy that you stayed with us at The Ranch House, and we hope that you come back our way again! Have a bountiful and healthy 2023! Kristi
Kristi, Thank you so much for allowing us to stay at The Ranch House. We could not have asked for a better hostess. The house was so comfortable. Felt like we were at home. Bandit especially liked the cows. Hope to return this summer with the grand kiddos. Thank you again.
Susan R.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 2 May 2023
Thank you so much, Sue, and we wish the weather had been a bit better for Walt in the tournament - at least the first if the week was pretty! We look forward to seeing y’all with the rest if the family!
This place is a treasure! Hosts provided such a welcome atmosphere. The baked goodies were so good. It is so convenient to Jefferson. The house had a wonderful table and a living room for my family to gather an relive our childhood memories. Two bathrooms for six seniors was definitely something we appreciated. My sisters all loved the pink bathroom. The only regret was I did not book enough time to enjoy the fire pit. Wonderful host and wonderful property.
Bill & Kathy W.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Apr 2023
Bill and Kathy, we are so happy that you enjoyed your time in East Texas with family! It’s so rewarding to provide a place for families to spend time together. You all were awesome guests and we hope you stay with us next time! Thanks again!
I have traveled alot and used VRBO's over 10 times and this little gem just north of Marshall Texas was PERFECT! Felt special with the notes, the set up and the communication....our only regret is we wished we had more time to enjoy the house and everything this VRBO had to offer. Amazingly decorated, super comfortable and like being at home! If we come back to area, we will be using again, for sure!
Mark B.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 24 May 2022
Mark, we really appreciate that, and our only regret is also that you didn’t get to spend more time at the property. We sincerely hope y’all do come back this way and will stay with us again! Thank you all for being such awesome guests!
Kristi the hostess was amazing. She was accommodating and thoughtful. Always available when called or texted. The house was impeccably decorated and had a wide selection of coffees and cream for the coffee aficionado. A welcome sign greeted us along with a few delicious pastries and snacks. The backyard had a fire pit , already filled with logs for use and the enclosed patio had an amazing amount of games for a family or friends to enjoy. There wasn’t anything she didn’t think of. Even more importantly the beds were delightfully comfortable. Can not think of anything she could have improved on to make our visit more memorable!! An enchanting home to stay in while enjoying the beautiful East Texas area!!
Wanda V.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Apr 2023
Thank you so much, Wanda! You all were the absolute best guests, and we hope you come back this way! We love sharing all our area has to offer, and we’re thankful for great guests like y’all. You truly make hosting so rewarding!
This property is well maintained and very personable. My 4 sisters and myself came to enjoy time together and celebrate our oldest sister’s birthday. Kristi left special touches around the house to welcome us. The house is very well decorated, the games are a nice touch, and the internet is great. We enjoyed everything about the stay. The check in is very easy and the checkout is just as easy. (We felt we should do more) There is anything you would need at this home away from home. Kristi even had a wonderful cake to help us celebrate our sister’s birthday. The wine and coffee were a big hit as well. This is the best place I have ever stayed, and it was so welcoming. Thank you very much.... I might add the photography hanging is personally Kristi's and they are phenomenal.
Kasandra S.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 6 June 2023
Thank you so much, Kasandra! We are so glad you and your sisters enjoyed the weekend, and we hope you come back! Have an awesome summer! 😊
We won't stay any other place than The Ranch House!!
I don't know where to begin. So many great things about the host and our stay at the Ranch House! The moment we walked up to the front porch, our Super Host had a personalized welcome sign with our name, making us feel right at home. She was so thoughtful that she even baked an apple streusel cake just for us. The house was nothing short of amazing. No detail left out - wine, butter, snacks, ice, deodorant, laundry and cleaning supplies, iron, extension cords, mirrored closets, extra towels. It was like we didn't even need to pack for the trip - we could have just shown up since the house was stocked with everything we could imagine. Although the house only had one shower available to share among several people, the host had a warm and cozy second bathroom with a large tub lavished with bath salts and bubble bath allowing us to soak any and all problems away. The outside grounds were just as amazing as the house. The sprawling open fields were filled with grazing cows. Like clockwork, the cows greeted us each evening at 4:30 pm, mooing their hellos as the egrets followed at their feet. Each night, we sat around the cast iron fire pit in the backyard, gazing at the pitch black sky filled with twinkling stars in the far distance. The property was so wonderfully remote and private, we almost missed the driveway entrance when we returned from a night of watching the exciting fireworks show in downtown. So maybe add a few lights along the drive to help us always find our way back to The Ranch House:)
Aaron W.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 8 July 2022
Aaron, thank you so very much! What a wonderful way with words you have! We're so glad you made it to town to see the spectacular show, and we appreciate the suggestion for added lights to highlight the driveway - the way the drive circles through, we might be able to add more reflectors at both points, so look for changes next time you come - and we do hope you come back! Your family was a joy to host, and we are so happy that you had a wonderful 4th in East Texas! Have an awesome summer, Aaron.
This home is incredible. It is spacious, beautiful and inviting. The host included many personal touches - fire pit was loaded and ready, several special treats, nice linens and towels, LOTS of games, kitchen had everything imaginable, even the toilet paper was nice :) Kristi even messaged us about pulling our car in the carport because a storm was coming through. There are several sandy beaches within a few miles of the house. Downtown Jefferson was a great with entertaining restaurant, antique shops, and more. I highly recommend staying here.
Selena D.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2022
Thank you so much, Selena! We love that you enjoyed The Ranch House, and are so happy that we hit our mark on creating an atmosphere of comfort! You and your cousins were awesome, and we hope you will stay with us again. Thanks for being the best part of what we do!
Bob, we'd give your group ten stars if we could - thank you for being so great! We look forward to having you stay with us again - I am on a mission for that futon for you know who!
About the host
Hosted by Kristi Thomas
Hi, I'm Kristi, and my husband Jerry and I have retired from civil engineering and accounting careers, respectively. We are both life-long residents of Lake O' the Pines and are nature-lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. We love anything that has to do with water and kayak a lot. If you have any questions about outdoor recreation, ask us! To that end, we love helping guests to our East Texas area discover and explore all there is to see and do here.
Jerry's father built The Ranch House in 1963 as the family residence, and it sits on several acres over the hill from our place. After retiring, he was sheriff of Marion County and loved watching the Red Brangus cattle in the pastures outside of the fenced areas. We have remodeled the space and believe that he and his wife Priscilla would be happy to see families and friends enjoying the comforts of their homeplace.
We have listed the property on another platform with great success and have honestly had some of the best guests! Although we haven't "met" most of them in the traditional way due to the current state of Covid affairs, we love the communication and the opportunity to share our East Texas home with travelers from so many places. We've been satisfied with many repeat guests, also, and that makes our hearts happy!
Overall, sharing The Ranch House with others has been a wonderful experience, and we have a mission to continue to evolve as one of the most inviting and comfortable stays you can choose!
Why they chose this property
The Ranch House at Lake O' the Pines is in a great location if you value privacy and want to be close to Jefferson, the Big Cypress Bayou, Lake O' the Pines, and Caddo Lake. How cool is that? There's a huge parking lot area in the front and a circular drive outside the extensively fenced yard. This makes it easy for anglers with boats, and there is an electrical outlet on the end of the garage for charging batteries.
No matter which direction you choose if you plan to explore, you're right in the heart of it! Many guests enjoy the comfort level so much that they take the opportunity to relax and unwind, never even leaving the property. We have an excellent selection of board games, outdoor games, and amenities to choose from, and the kitchen is stocked with everything you might need, including common spices and other perks. We will also provide a packet of information before your stay on events, restaurants, and things to do and see in our area. We want you to know about all the things our East Texas area has to offer so that you may have the best experience while you are here!
What makes this property unique
We have a unique situation in that we are right over the hill if you need us, yet we are out of sight. You will feel like you have a slice of rural life while you're at The Ranch House, with plenty of room to enjoy the outdoors. The fire pit will be loaded, and we provide all the necessities for grilling on the charcoal grill. If you bring a pet(s), they will have two fenced areas to go outside safely. We are fortunate that the parking area is extensive and that you will not have neighborhoods to navigate during your stay. You will feel that you have your own home on the ranch, and we feel confident that it will be both a refreshing and relaxing stay!