Lindsay Ranch Guesthouses

The Llano Uplift, also known as the central mineral region, is an island of volcanic and metamorphic rock very different from the surrounding Edwards Plateau.

Containing 5,000 square miles, the uplift, restricted to Llano, Mason and adjacent counties, contains some of the oldest exposed rocks in Texas, including pink crystalline granite, schist and marble.

Geologically the region is a large dome with rolling to hilly topography. Granite exfoliation domes, the largest of which is known as Enchanted Rock, are common.  

COMANCHE CREEK 

During their Spring raids, the Comanche Indians roamed from Palo Duro Canyon to the Gulf Coast and they passed through Mason County. 

Many arrowheads and other artifacts are found.

 Mr. Gary Crouch found this 20.32 carat topaz  9/19/2017.

Mr. Grote at Country Collectibles said that this topaz was one of the largest he had seen in fifteen years. 

This nearly perfect arrowhead was found June 28, 2019. Great find Suzanne S. of Lousiana. 

Sonia from Wisconsin found this wonderful quartz crystal. Congratulations!



 

Daniel and Crystal came from Houston and found this 20 gram 100 carat stone. It was not gem quality but Crystal was happy.



Angie B and her family from Chattanooga, TN  found this wonderful topaz. This was Angie's first visit to Texas. I think she will be back.


Both the Eastern and Western branches of Comanche Creek flow through the Lindsay Ranch.

 

Blue topaz is the big treasure in Mason County for gem and mineral collectors. Some blue pieces have been found on the Lindsay Ranch but most have been clear stones. 

This 263.5 carat topaz and spear point was found by Billy Holt.

Topaz and quartz (including smoky quartz) can be found along the creeks in northern Mason County.

Most streams in the area run through the pegmatite-bearing granite where the topaz and quartz crystals were formed. 

As the erosion processes wear it down, more and more of the gems are freed and deposited in streambeds, washes and other low-lying areas.

 This beautiful stone  was found by 10-year-old Riley.

Topaz is the official Texas State Gemstone and the Lone Star Cut, named for the state slogan "Texas - The Lone Star State", is the official State Gemstone Cut of Texas. 

The Lone Star Cut displays the familiar five-pointed Texas Star of the state seal. 

This cut demands very precise cutting with particular attention paid to the meeting of angles, facet edges, and facet points so that the "star" virtually leaps out of the stone.

The most prized material for this cut is topaz that is mined in Texas. 

 FAQ's

What does it cost? 

To rock hunt for the day, the cost is $20.00 for everyone 18 and over.

$10.00 for guests  age 12 to 18.

Children under 12 are free. 

To stay at the Cabin on Comanche Creek or Mason Mountain Manor, the cost is $150.00 per night for 2 people.

For additional people over 18, add $50.00 per person per day.

There is also an additional  rock hunting fee. 

We have a 2 night minimum.

What do I need to bring? 

Gloves, walking shoes and comfortable clothing. We have tools for your use. 

 Is Topaz easy to find?

No. We guarantee you'll find a lot of rocks but finding Topaz requires more luck than skill.  

How do I get to the Creek? 

The Eastern branch of Comanche Creek is beside the Cabin.

It is an easy drive down Tombstone Trail to get to the Western branch of Comanche Creek.   

We give you directions and maps. 

What kind of vechile do I need?

You can get to the Cabin and Comanche Creek in most vehicles.

If you are staying at Mason Mountain Manor, a pickup or something similar is suggested. 

What else do I need to know?

Everyone who comes on the Lindsay Ranch is required to sign a Release of Claims and Waiver of Liability.

It says, in a lot of legal words, that if anything happens to you,  anyone or  anything you have with you, it's not my fault and you can't sue me.

If you have any questions, please call 325-347-4052 or email DHL4668@yahoo.com. 

Still have questions? Please contact us anytime! We look forward to hearing from you. DHL4668@yahoo.com or call 325-347-4052.