Santa Clara Ranch
The Rio Grande Valley has rapidly emerged as a top destination for wildlife and nature photography enthusiasts across the world, thanks to its rich and diverse ecosystem. It is a world class haven for birds, reptiles, and mammals. Since 2007, Santa Clara Ranch has been a sanctuary for the diverse Texas wildlife species that call it home.
In-Ground Blinds:
Santa Clara’s four meticulously designed in-ground blinds are thoughtfully arranged into two morning and two afternoon setups to optimize lighting conditions for photography. Each blind is strategically positioned in front of a small waterhole, complemented by year-round maintained feeding stations, ensuring regular wildlife visits. Crafted with water-resistant lumber, these blinds feature insulated roofs and carpet-lined floors, providing a comfortable, quiet environment for photographers. Spacious enough to accommodate 6-8 photographers, they offer ample room for equipment and personal comfort.
Photographers are equipped with folding chairs and can position their lenses at ground and water level, perfectly aligning for that ideal shot as wildlife emerges. The success of these blinds is a testament to our commitment to continuous improvement, incorporating innovative ideas over the years to enhance the wildlife photography experience. These enhancements have made our blinds not just a structure but a haven for photographers seeking the ultimate shot in the heart of nature.
Raptor Blinds:
Santa Clara proudly features two specialized elevated photo blinds, meticulously designed for capturing stunning images of raptors. These blinds have surpassed all expectations, consistently attracting numerous raptors that perch at an intimate distance of 35-40 feet. Photographers are afforded the rare opportunity to photograph these majestic birds at eye level, against the serene backdrop of a softly muted green landscape, rather than the harsh glare of the sky.
Our meticulously designed blinds offer photographers unparalleled opportunities to capture the essence of South Texas wildlife, amidst the natural beauty and diversity of the ranch's ecosystem.
Guest House:
Santa Clara Ranch is proudly equipped with a modernized guesthouse that lets you sleep 5 minutes away from all of the action at any of the photo blinds on the property. Nestled in native Texas brush; the guest house has four bedrooms, each with 2 single beds and 2 full bathrooms. The house can accommodate 8 photographers in total. The house is outfitted with a range of amenities, including:
Central heating and air conditioning
A fully equipped kitchen
A large dining table for 8
Ample space for laptops
Washer and dryer
WiFi internet access
Digital projector for presentations
Bungalows:
If you prefer a more private stay, Santa Clara is also outfitted with 4 private bungalow suites. Recharge, rejuvenate, take a walk outside to draw some Texas inspiration, and edit all of those photos in complete privacy. Just like the guesthouse, the bungalows have WiFi internet access to keep you connected to the outside world. For rare moments when work calls and emails have to get answered, each bungalow is outfitted with a dedicated work desk to answer emails or edit photos. Each private suite has 2 single beds and a full bathroom.
In total, Santa Clara Ranch has the ability to accommodate 16 photographers at one time.
PRICING
Daily Use of Ranch
1 photographer - $360
2 photographers - $315 each
3+ photographers - $270 each
Night at Main Guesthouse (shared accommodations)
$60.00 a night per person
Night at Private Bungalow Room (private room w/ full bath)
$130 a night per person
$180 a night per couple
