Austin
Canyon of the Eagles LodgeIf your family wants to get away from it all, this remote lodge not too far from President George W. Bush's ranch in Crawford is a perfect place to escape. The 64-room lodge is spread over 940 acres on Lake Buchanan, northwest of Austin. You can unwind in rocking chairs on the huge porch and glimpse deer passing nearby. Tent and RV facilities are available, too, and you can rent kayaks and canoes. There's a full-service restaurant, so you won't have to rough it. During summer and holiday periods, the lodge offers kid-friendly programs, ranging from reptile shows to singing cowboys. Stargazing parties are held year-round at the lodge's Eagle Eye Observatory. The lodge is located at the end of RR2341, about 18 miles west of Burnet. Get complete directions and a calendar of upcoming events at Canyon of the Eagles (800) 977-0081; (512) 756-8787.
Four Seasons Austin
Yes, it's pricey, but this upscale hotel pampers you and your kids, making it worth the splurge. Special kid treatment includes a snack package--a tin bucket filled with cookies and milk with your youngster's name inscribed on the outside in chocolate; be sure to request it when making reservations. Also, upon request, the housekeeper will stock your room with a video game or old-fashioned board game--and even kid-size bathrobes. The luxury of the place will appeal to Mom and Dad; the pool and all the other kid-friendly goodies will keep the youngsters content. The hotel affords a nice view of Town Lake and is within walking distance of the bats at the Congress Avenue Bridge. You can also rent bikes through the concierge and hit the Town Lake Trail. Two restaurants can be found for family dining. 98 San Jacinto Blvd., Austin; (800) 332-3442; (512) 478-4500; Four Seasons.
Hill Country
Dixie Dude RanchPopular with families looking for hayrides and kitschy cowboy entertainment, this ranch also offers guests beginning riding lessons. There's no organized children's program, but baby-sitting can be arranged and kids under age 6 can ride with an adult as long as together they don't exceed the 250-pound weight limit. All rides are guided, and go no faster than a trot. Fishing (catch-and-release) and nature hikes are also available. All meals are provided in a central mess hall, and evening entertainment includes two-stepping hoedowns. Be sure to bring your own towels for the pool and hot tub. FM 1077, Bandera; (830) 796-4481; Dixie Dude Ranch.
Flying L Guest Ranch
During summer, spring break, and other school holidays, the Flying L offers a children's program, including storytelling, fishing, and crafts. Kids ages 6 and older can enjoy trail rides. There's a Texas-size pool, plus Medina Lake and San Julian Creek are on the property. Meals are often served creekside, and entertainment includes a rodeo, marshmallow roasts, and sing-alongs by the campfire. Off Hwy. 16 and Hwy. 173, 40 miles outside San Antonio
on Flying L Drive, Bandera; (800) 292-5134; (830) 460-3001; click here.
Guadalupe River Ranch
Once home to actress Olivia de Haviland (Melanie in "Gone with the Wind"), this ranch offers upscale digs with a down-home feel. In the summer, it offers children's programs that include crafts and nature hikes. In the evening, hayrides and fireside sing-alongs are on the schedule. Hike or horseback ride on the ranch's trails--or simply sit on the porch swing and take in the view. 605 FM 474 in Boerne; (800) 460-2005; Guadalupe River Ranch.
Mayan Dude Ranch
Another family-friendly place, the Mayan Ranch offers stone cottages and a central lodge nestled on the banks of the Medina River. Guests here can get two trail rides a day, or ride once and take the afternoon to go tubing in the river. The children's programs--offered two hours in the morning and two hours in the afternoon--are geared to kids ages 6 and older, with arts and crafts, games, and outings. Don't sleep in or you might miss the ranch's famous Cowboy Breakfast, which includes flapjacks and bacon by the campfire. Book early: the ranch gets plenty of repeat customers. 301 Mayan Ranch Rd., Bandera; (830) 796-3312; Mayan Ranch.
