Restored 1893 Rock Ranch Home~Buffalo Gap~Abilene
Entire home in Tuscola, Texas
- 5 guests
- 2 bedrooms
- 3 beds
- 1.5 baths
Hosted by Lisa
- Superhost
- 1 year hosting
Listing highlights
Top 10% of homes
This home is highly ranked based on ratings, reviews, and reliability.
On a private ranch near Abilene State Park
About a 5-min walk to Abilene State Park, with Perini Ranch Steakhouse just a short drive away
Smithsonian-featured 1893 homestead
An 1893 native-rock homestead featured by the Smithsonian, with original wooden floors throughout
Spotless and consistently praised
Guests call it spotless, comfortable, and better than expected. Many mention returning for another stay.
Welcome to Henry & Tood's at Ellinger Ranch Estates-Our beautifully restored 1893 Smithsonian-featured rock ranch homestead on our Tx family ranch.
Stay in our great grandparents’ 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath home.
5 min to Buffalo Gap | 20 min to Abilene | 30 min to ACU/Downtown/Dyess AFB.
One simple price-We pay Airbnb fees!
Enjoy:
Scenic porch views
Dog-friendly | Fenced yard-Approval + $75 fee
Outdoor Shower
WiFi
Outdoor grill
Easy keypad entry
Cont breakfast + Fully equipped kitchen
Relax-Enjoy!
The space
Welcome to Henry & Tood's Place at Ellinger Ranch Estates, LLC.
Experience a true piece of Texas history at the original Ellinger Ranch homestead where we lovingly restored our family's native-rock home, built in 1893 nestled on our family ranch in the Callahan Divide near Buffalo Gap, Texas.
In recognition of the home's historical significance, it was featured by the Smithsonian's Crossroads for Rural America project in Buffalo Gap because our great grandparents were one of Buffalo Gap's pioneering families.
Throughout the homestead, guests will discover framed stories in each room sharing the history of the home, and the 5 generations of the Ellinger family who lived here. We hope these personal pieces of history help guests connect with the home and appreciate the legacy that has been preserved for future generations.
LOCATION:
Ellinger Ranch Estates, LLC is about:
--1 mile to Abilene State Park
--3 miles to the famous Perini Ranch Steakhouse
--4 miles West of beautiful Buffalo Gap, Texas
--10 minutes to Tuscola, Texas
--20 minutes to Abilene, Texas
30 minutes to downtown/ACU/North Abilene/
Dyess AFB.
Perfect for guests who want to be close to events--without staying in the middle of the city!
THE SPACE:
Carefully restored by our family to preserve the home's historic character while offering modern comforts travelers expect.
- ACCOMMODATIONS: Perfect for family!!!
-- 2-bedroom, 1 1/2- bath ranch house comfortably
sleeps up to 5 guests.
--Each room is thoughtfully decorated to honor
our grandparents' ranch home's original charm
while ensuring modern comforts.
BEDROOMS & BATHROOMS:
--Master Bedroom--King with adjoining
full bathroom
--Second Bedroom--Full bed and daybed
downstairs
--Outside Laundry room includes the half
bathroom with an outdoor shower (with hot
water) available during the warmer months!
LIVING AREA:
--Living room featuring beautifully restored
wooden floors from 1893!
--Cozy sofas perfect for movie nights or
relaxation.
--Smart TV with access to streaming apps and
complimentary YouTube TV and Prime Video.
(Please ask before renting movies--these are
private accounts).
KITCHEN:
--A fully equipped kitchen, featuring vintage
cabinetry alongside modern appliances.
--Cookware, utensils, main staple spices
--A well-stocked coffee bar offering local
Cowboy Coffee from Perini Ranch Steakhouse,
assorted teas and k-cups.
--Coffee pot and Keurig included.
DINING & FAMILY ROOM:
--Gather at the dining table, seating up to 6 for
family meals or gatherings.
--Enjoy cozy moments on the sofa with a book, a
quick nap, or playing board games with loved
ones.
GUEST FAVORITES:
--Outdoor shower with hot water
(available April 1-October 1)
--Chain-link fenced yard for children and dogs.
--First morning continental breakfast
--Coffee, teas, and bottled water
--Fully furnished kitchen with main staple spices
--High-speed WiFi and dedicated workspace
--Central heat and air
--Washer & Dryer
--Smart TV for streaming services
--Complimentary natural bathroom toiletries
--Linens & Towels
--Extra blankets and pillows
--Natural/Clean products used
--Easy access keypad for front/back doors
--Free parking available right outside your door.
OUTDOOR ENJOYMENT:
--Welcoming front porch with rocking chairs
to rustic scenic views.
--Backyard ideal for grilling Texas steaks
(lighter fluid provided in the laundry room)
--Firewood is stacked by the front yard fence.
--Outdoor fire-pit available for evening relaxation
(Unless burn ban is in effect).
--Extra chairs for the porch or fire-pit are in the
laundry room.
PET FRIENDLY (Only Dogs Accepted)
--Please message hosts for pet policies and
approval and read house rules before booking.
--Pet fee is $75 for the stay (Register pet AT
BOOKING to apply fee to your total stay price)
--Please contact us if you have more than 2 pets.
--Dog bowls and treats, and blankets for furniture/
bed are provided.
ADDITIONAL PERKS
-- Nothing better than a West Texas sunrise or
sunset!
--Peaceful environment, yet only a short drive
from local attractions, shopping, and dining
options.
--Don't miss the world-famous Perini Ranch
Steakhouse only 3 miles from the ranch.
(Reservations required).
--Prime stargazing with minimal light pollution for
stunning night skies.
RULES
UNDER 21: We will not rent to anyone younger than 21 years old unless accompanied by an adult guardian/parent.
1. NO Smoking/Vaping/Drug Use Inside/Outside:
$1,000 fine for violations.
2. PETS (Dogs Only)
--All pets must be registered when booking! If
not, you will be sent a money request for $75
through Airbnb.
--Clean up after pets
--Please crate your pet while you’re away
--We can provide a crate upon request.
--Only allow pets on the furniture/bed with dog
blankets provided.
--Please leash pets outside the fenced yard for
their safety.
--Extra $100 fee for rule violations or unregistered
pets.
3. Trash: Dispose in outside containers; use
dumpster south of home if needed.
4. Fire Safety: Never leave fires unattended;
extinguish fully when done.
5. No Parties or Extra Guests
6. Respect Property & Furnishings:
--Outside security cameras in use (front entry &
back driveway)
--Report any damage immediately
--Remove muddy shoes at the door
--Keep windows/doors closed with AC/Heat
running
--Don’t re-arrange furniture
--No food or drinks in bedrooms
--NO Fireworks allowed--$500 if caught w/ them
7. Ranch Rules:
**If interested in exploring our private ranch trails, a release agreement is required (sent via email for digital signature)**
--No exploring before contacting hosts for waiver
--Don’t cross fences
--Stay WEST of homes
--Keep gates shut
--Don’t enter sheds
8. Wildlife and Nature:
As with any rural Texas property, guests may encounter native wildlife from adoring deer, birds to not so nice insects, wasps/bees, scorpions and snakes, etc. Please use caution outdoors and enjoy wildlife from a safe distance.
**By booking, guest acknowledges these risks and
holds the hosts harmless from related claims.**
--Guests assume all risks associated with wildlife
encounters.
--Enjoy wildlife from afar; don't feed or leave food
outside--keep lid on outside trash bins
--Rattlesnakes may be present, especially in
warmer months.
--Use a flashlight at night as snakes can be active.
--Stay on cleared paths; wear closed-toe shoes/
boots
--If you see a snake, retreat and contact us only if
you need help.
--Feel free to kill any snakes or bugs
--Extermination is done, but it is the country and
critters live here!
Detailed house rules are available on our Airbnb
house manual, and in our online & in-house
guestbook.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS PLACE!
The property is surrounded by natural, rustic beauty, providing plenty of chances for deer and bird watching, walking, or merely savoring the serenity of the Texas landscape.
A Perfect Getaway for Everyone!
Whether you're searching for a quiet weekend retreat, a family getaway, or a unique historic stay, the Ellinger Ranch Homestead offers an unforgettable experience rooted in history, heritage, and hospitality.
We look forward to welcoming you to our family's ranch and sharing a small piece of Texas history with you.
Book your stay and let the spirit of the ranch rejuvenate your soul!
Guest access
The whole house is available to you with easy keypad entry on front and back doors. (The door will automatically lock once closed).
You may park at the front or back entrance.
-------------------------------------------------------------
Please contact us if you are interested in exploring the trails on the ranch. (For liability reasons, a release agreement must be signed, as the ranch operates separately from the Airbnb property.)
Via email, we can send you the release agreement for digital signatures.
Note--read ranch rules--Don't cross fences as you may be trespassing.
Other things to note
Lake Abilene is located 2.5 miles from the ranch. Here, you can enjoy activities such as boating, kayaking, fishing, and hiking!
Key Points Include:
--No Texas fishing license is needed if you fish from
the banks at Abilene Lake, as the lake is owned by
Texas State Parks.
--A small fee is required as Abilene Lake is managed
by Abilene State Park, which is 1 mile from the ranch
--There is ample space to park your boat at the ranch
-----------------------------------------------------------------
If you’re planning to attend an event in Abilene, Texas, but prefer to stay outside the city, our ranch is the ideal getaway! We provide a tranquil and peaceful place just 20 minutes from Abilene!
(30-minute drive to downtown/ACU/North Abilene area.
Stay in our great grandparents’ 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath home.
5 min to Buffalo Gap | 20 min to Abilene | 30 min to ACU/Downtown/Dyess AFB.
One simple price-We pay Airbnb fees!
Enjoy:
Scenic porch views
Dog-friendly | Fenced yard-Approval + $75 fee
Outdoor Shower
WiFi
Outdoor grill
Easy keypad entry
Cont breakfast + Fully equipped kitchen
Relax-Enjoy!
The space
Welcome to Henry & Tood's Place at Ellinger Ranch Estates, LLC.
Experience a true piece of Texas history at the original Ellinger Ranch homestead where we lovingly restored our family's native-rock home, built in 1893 nestled on our family ranch in the Callahan Divide near Buffalo Gap, Texas.
In recognition of the home's historical significance, it was featured by the Smithsonian's Crossroads for Rural America project in Buffalo Gap because our great grandparents were one of Buffalo Gap's pioneering families.
Throughout the homestead, guests will discover framed stories in each room sharing the history of the home, and the 5 generations of the Ellinger family who lived here. We hope these personal pieces of history help guests connect with the home and appreciate the legacy that has been preserved for future generations.
LOCATION:
Ellinger Ranch Estates, LLC is about:
--1 mile to Abilene State Park
--3 miles to the famous Perini Ranch Steakhouse
--4 miles West of beautiful Buffalo Gap, Texas
--10 minutes to Tuscola, Texas
--20 minutes to Abilene, Texas
30 minutes to downtown/ACU/North Abilene/
Dyess AFB.
Perfect for guests who want to be close to events--without staying in the middle of the city!
THE SPACE:
Carefully restored by our family to preserve the home's historic character while offering modern comforts travelers expect.
- ACCOMMODATIONS: Perfect for family!!!
-- 2-bedroom, 1 1/2- bath ranch house comfortably
sleeps up to 5 guests.
--Each room is thoughtfully decorated to honor
our grandparents' ranch home's original charm
while ensuring modern comforts.
BEDROOMS & BATHROOMS:
--Master Bedroom--King with adjoining
full bathroom
--Second Bedroom--Full bed and daybed
downstairs
--Outside Laundry room includes the half
bathroom with an outdoor shower (with hot
water) available during the warmer months!
LIVING AREA:
--Living room featuring beautifully restored
wooden floors from 1893!
--Cozy sofas perfect for movie nights or
relaxation.
--Smart TV with access to streaming apps and
complimentary YouTube TV and Prime Video.
(Please ask before renting movies--these are
private accounts).
KITCHEN:
--A fully equipped kitchen, featuring vintage
cabinetry alongside modern appliances.
--Cookware, utensils, main staple spices
--A well-stocked coffee bar offering local
Cowboy Coffee from Perini Ranch Steakhouse,
assorted teas and k-cups.
--Coffee pot and Keurig included.
DINING & FAMILY ROOM:
--Gather at the dining table, seating up to 6 for
family meals or gatherings.
--Enjoy cozy moments on the sofa with a book, a
quick nap, or playing board games with loved
ones.
GUEST FAVORITES:
--Outdoor shower with hot water
(available April 1-October 1)
--Chain-link fenced yard for children and dogs.
--First morning continental breakfast
--Coffee, teas, and bottled water
--Fully furnished kitchen with main staple spices
--High-speed WiFi and dedicated workspace
--Central heat and air
--Washer & Dryer
--Smart TV for streaming services
--Complimentary natural bathroom toiletries
--Linens & Towels
--Extra blankets and pillows
--Natural/Clean products used
--Easy access keypad for front/back doors
--Free parking available right outside your door.
OUTDOOR ENJOYMENT:
--Welcoming front porch with rocking chairs
to rustic scenic views.
--Backyard ideal for grilling Texas steaks
(lighter fluid provided in the laundry room)
--Firewood is stacked by the front yard fence.
--Outdoor fire-pit available for evening relaxation
(Unless burn ban is in effect).
--Extra chairs for the porch or fire-pit are in the
laundry room.
PET FRIENDLY (Only Dogs Accepted)
--Please message hosts for pet policies and
approval and read house rules before booking.
--Pet fee is $75 for the stay (Register pet AT
BOOKING to apply fee to your total stay price)
--Please contact us if you have more than 2 pets.
--Dog bowls and treats, and blankets for furniture/
bed are provided.
ADDITIONAL PERKS
-- Nothing better than a West Texas sunrise or
sunset!
--Peaceful environment, yet only a short drive
from local attractions, shopping, and dining
options.
--Don't miss the world-famous Perini Ranch
Steakhouse only 3 miles from the ranch.
(Reservations required).
--Prime stargazing with minimal light pollution for
stunning night skies.
RULES
UNDER 21: We will not rent to anyone younger than 21 years old unless accompanied by an adult guardian/parent.
1. NO Smoking/Vaping/Drug Use Inside/Outside:
$1,000 fine for violations.
2. PETS (Dogs Only)
--All pets must be registered when booking! If
not, you will be sent a money request for $75
through Airbnb.
--Clean up after pets
--Please crate your pet while you’re away
--We can provide a crate upon request.
--Only allow pets on the furniture/bed with dog
blankets provided.
--Please leash pets outside the fenced yard for
their safety.
--Extra $100 fee for rule violations or unregistered
pets.
3. Trash: Dispose in outside containers; use
dumpster south of home if needed.
4. Fire Safety: Never leave fires unattended;
extinguish fully when done.
5. No Parties or Extra Guests
6. Respect Property & Furnishings:
--Outside security cameras in use (front entry &
back driveway)
--Report any damage immediately
--Remove muddy shoes at the door
--Keep windows/doors closed with AC/Heat
running
--Don’t re-arrange furniture
--No food or drinks in bedrooms
--NO Fireworks allowed--$500 if caught w/ them
7. Ranch Rules:
**If interested in exploring our private ranch trails, a release agreement is required (sent via email for digital signature)**
--No exploring before contacting hosts for waiver
--Don’t cross fences
--Stay WEST of homes
--Keep gates shut
--Don’t enter sheds
8. Wildlife and Nature:
As with any rural Texas property, guests may encounter native wildlife from adoring deer, birds to not so nice insects, wasps/bees, scorpions and snakes, etc. Please use caution outdoors and enjoy wildlife from a safe distance.
**By booking, guest acknowledges these risks and
holds the hosts harmless from related claims.**
--Guests assume all risks associated with wildlife
encounters.
--Enjoy wildlife from afar; don't feed or leave food
outside--keep lid on outside trash bins
--Rattlesnakes may be present, especially in
warmer months.
--Use a flashlight at night as snakes can be active.
--Stay on cleared paths; wear closed-toe shoes/
boots
--If you see a snake, retreat and contact us only if
you need help.
--Feel free to kill any snakes or bugs
--Extermination is done, but it is the country and
critters live here!
Detailed house rules are available on our Airbnb
house manual, and in our online & in-house
guestbook.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS PLACE!
The property is surrounded by natural, rustic beauty, providing plenty of chances for deer and bird watching, walking, or merely savoring the serenity of the Texas landscape.
A Perfect Getaway for Everyone!
Whether you're searching for a quiet weekend retreat, a family getaway, or a unique historic stay, the Ellinger Ranch Homestead offers an unforgettable experience rooted in history, heritage, and hospitality.
We look forward to welcoming you to our family's ranch and sharing a small piece of Texas history with you.
Book your stay and let the spirit of the ranch rejuvenate your soul!
Guest access
The whole house is available to you with easy keypad entry on front and back doors. (The door will automatically lock once closed).
You may park at the front or back entrance.
-------------------------------------------------------------
Please contact us if you are interested in exploring the trails on the ranch. (For liability reasons, a release agreement must be signed, as the ranch operates separately from the Airbnb property.)
Via email, we can send you the release agreement for digital signatures.
Note--read ranch rules--Don't cross fences as you may be trespassing.
Other things to note
Lake Abilene is located 2.5 miles from the ranch. Here, you can enjoy activities such as boating, kayaking, fishing, and hiking!
Key Points Include:
--No Texas fishing license is needed if you fish from
the banks at Abilene Lake, as the lake is owned by
Texas State Parks.
--A small fee is required as Abilene Lake is managed
by Abilene State Park, which is 1 mile from the ranch
--There is ample space to park your boat at the ranch
-----------------------------------------------------------------
If you’re planning to attend an event in Abilene, Texas, but prefer to stay outside the city, our ranch is the ideal getaway! We provide a tranquil and peaceful place just 20 minutes from Abilene!
(30-minute drive to downtown/ACU/North Abilene area.
Where you’ll sleep
What this place offers
Mountain view
Kitchen
Wifi
Dedicated workspace
Free driveway parking on premises
Unavailable: Carbon monoxide alarm
Select check-in date
Add your travel dates for exact pricing
Rated 4.96 out of 5 from 27 reviews.
Guest favorite
This home is in the top 10% of eligible listings based on ratings, reviews, and reliability
Overall rating
- 5 stars, 96% of reviews
- 4 stars, 4% of reviews
- 3 stars, 0% of reviews
- 2 stars, 0% of reviews
- 1 stars, 0% of reviews
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars for cleanliness
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars for accuracy
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars for check-in
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars for communication
Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars for location
Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars for value
Guest reviews mention
Where you’ll be
Tuscola, Texas, United States
Exact location will be provided after booking.
Neighborhood highlights
This is an active private ranch where you can relish the serenity and stunning landscapes. There are only four homes located on Ellinger Ranch Rd.
If someone approaches you to inquire about your presence on the road, please don’t take offense. They are simply looking out for their privacy.
Kindly introduce yourself and mention that you are staying at Lisa Gibbs' home for your designated duration.
If someone approaches you to inquire about your presence on the road, please don’t take offense. They are simply looking out for their privacy.
Kindly introduce yourself and mention that you are staying at Lisa Gibbs' home for your designated duration.
Meet your host
Born in the 60s
My work: Retired Teacher
Lisa and her husband, Kendall, are the fourth generation owners of Ellinger Ranch and its homesteads, alongside their daughter, Mackenzie, who is the fifth generation to own the ranch.
Lisa is a retired business educator and an alumnus of Jim Ned CISD, while Mackenzie is an ACU graduate and a licensed speech language pathologist. Both ladies spent their childhood on the family ranch and are excited to share their beloved home places with you!
Lisa is a Superhost
Host details
Response rate: 100%
Responds within an hour
To help protect your payment, always use Airbnb to send money and communicate with hosts.
Things to know
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