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5 Shocking Facts About Elkmeadow Game Ranch & Pavilion: Trophy Hunts, Texas Weddings, And The Elkins' Empire

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The Elkmeadow Game Ranch & Pavilion is one of Northeast Texas's most unique and multifaceted rural enterprises, operating as both a premier high-fence hunting destination and a rustic, all-inclusive event venue. As of the current date, December 24, 2025, the ranch remains a top destination for hunters seeking guaranteed trophy animals and couples looking for a true Texas-style wedding, a testament to its successful diversification strategy. This 1200-acre property, distinct from other "Elk Meadow" entities in Colorado or Montana, has carved out a profitable niche by combining the thrill of exotic game hunting with the charm of a countryside pavilion, all managed by a dedicated family. This comprehensive guide will explore the latest updates, the specific hunting packages offered, the transformation of the property into a sought-after event space, and the vision of the family behind this distinctive Texas operation.

The Elkins' Vision: Elkmeadow Game Ranch & Pavilion Profile

The story of the Elkmeadow Game Ranch & Pavilion is rooted in a passion for the outdoors and a clever business evolution, spearheaded by owners Danny and Sharon Elkins.

Elkmeadow Game Ranch & Pavilion Biography & Profile:

  • Name: Elkmeadow Game Ranch & Pavilion
  • Owners/Operators: Danny Elkins and Sharon Elkins
  • Location: Near De Kalb and Texarkana in Northeast Texas (Bowie County)
  • Size: Approximately 1200 acres
  • Key Features: Rolling hills, dense woods (Red Oaks, Post Oaks, White Oaks, Loblolly Pines), 4 private lakes, enclosed Pavilion event space. [cite: 2 (from step 1), 4, 8 (from step 2)]
  • Primary Services: High-Fence Exotic Game Hunting, Fishing, and Event Venue Rental (Weddings, Corporate Events).
  • Establishment: The business has been operating for a significant period, with the event venue aspect evolving from a focus primarily on hunting during the summer and slow seasons. [cite: 8 (from step 2)]
The Elkins initially focused on creating a top-tier hunting experience, but they recognized the potential of their 1200 acres of beautiful Texas countryside. The evolution into a dual-purpose facility—a hunting ranch and a wedding venue—was a strategic move to maximize year-round revenue and utilize the stunning natural landscape, which includes four private lakes and a variety of native Texas trees. [cite: 4, 8 (from step 2)]

A Deep Dive into Elkmeadow's Trophy Hunting & Exotic Game Packages

Elkmeadow Game Ranch is positioned as a high-quality destination for hunters seeking guaranteed success on a variety of exotic and native species. The ranch operates on a "high-fence" model, which is common among Texas exotic game ranches and ensures a controlled, managed hunting environment. This model guarantees a high opportunity for a successful harvest, making it popular for hunters seeking specific trophy animals.

Exotic and Native Species Available for Hunt

The ranch offers a diverse menu of animals, catering to different hunting preferences and budgets. Unlike a traditional whitetail hunt, Elkmeadow focuses on introducing non-native species that thrive in the Texas climate. This diversity is a major draw for hunters across the United States.

Featured Hunting Packages and Species:

  • Axis Deer: A popular exotic species known for its beautiful spotted coat and large, impressive antlers. Axis deer hunts are a staple of Texas exotic hunting.
  • Red Deer: Often sought after for their impressive size and massive antlers, the Red Deer is a premier trophy hunt.
  • Rams: Various ram species are available, including Corsican Ram and other exotic sheep.
  • Hog Hunts: Feral hog hunts are offered as day hunts, providing an affordable and exciting option. The package typically includes one hog 125 lbs. or less, with additional hogs available for a separate fee. [cite: 11 (from step 2)]
  • Whitetail Deer: While the focus is often on exotics, the ranch also manages native Whitetail Deer populations.

Hunting Package Structure and Pricing

The ranch utilizes a tiered pricing system that separates the ranch access fee from the animal harvest fee. This structure gives hunters flexibility in choosing their experience.

The Ranch Fee Access:

For those not purchasing an all-inclusive package, the standard Ranch Fee Access covers the basics of the hunting trip. As of the latest information, this non-package pricing is set at $400 per person for a 3-day, 2-night stay. This fee typically includes lodging and access to the 1200-acre property and its amenities, but not the animal itself. [cite: 5 (from step 2)]

All-Inclusive Packages:

The ranches' comprehensive packages are designed for a full experience. For example, a 3-day hunting package might include four animals: one Ram, one Red Deer, one Axis Deer, and a fourth animal. These packages often bundle the ranch fee, lodging, meals, and guide services, providing a transparent cost for the trophy hunt. [cite: 10 (from step 1)]

Beyond the Hunt: The Pavilion as a Premier Northeast Texas Event Venue

The most distinctive feature of the Elkmeadow Game Ranch is its successful integration of a high-end event space, the Pavilion, into its operation. This dual identity sets it apart from many other Texas hunting ranches.

The Evolution into an Event Destination

The Elkins family recognized that the hunting season was seasonal, leaving their beautiful facility underutilized for a significant portion of the year. To address this, they enlarged and enclosed the Pavilion, transforming it into a versatile space capable of hosting large gatherings. This strategic move allowed them to tap into the lucrative market for rustic, outdoor Texas weddings and corporate retreats. [cite: 8 (from step 2)]

A True Texas-Style Setting for Weddings

The 1200-acre property provides a picturesque backdrop that appeals to couples seeking a natural, rustic, and secluded wedding experience. The features that make it ideal for hunting—the rolling hills, the dense woods, and the four lakes—also create a stunning environment for ceremonies and receptions.

The Pavilion is equipped to handle all aspects of a major event, from the ceremony to the reception. The venue offers a "true Texas style" experience, providing an escape from the city and a unique setting for guests. The ability to host a wedding reception at a working game ranch is a key selling point, offering a memorable and unconventional experience. [cite: 4, 6 (from step 2)]

Event Venue Features and Capabilities:

  • Rustic Charm: The enclosed Pavilion offers a blend of rustic aesthetics and modern comfort.
  • Versatility: Suitable for weddings, corporate entertaining, business associate events, and family reunions.
  • Scenic Backdrop: Access to the 1200 acres of countryside, including lake views for photography.
  • All-Inclusive Resources: The ranch provides the necessary resources to manage large-scale events, minimizing the need for outside vendors for essential services.

Topical Authority: Elkmeadow in the Context of Texas Game Ranches

Elkmeadow Game Ranch operates within the massive and competitive ecosystem of Texas exotic game hunting. Texas is the epicenter of high-fence hunting in North America, hosting more exotic species than any other state. This context is crucial to understanding Elkmeadow's market position.

The High-Fence Hunting Model

The "high-fence" model, while sometimes controversial among purists, is the standard for most exotic and trophy whitetail operations in Texas. It allows ranches like Elkmeadow to manage herd genetics, ensure the health of their animals (such as the Axis Deer and Red Stag), and provide a guaranteed opportunity for a trophy. The controlled environment allows for a higher-quality experience for the hunter, with less time spent searching and more time focusing on the shot.

Other Key Entities in the Texas Exotic Hunting Market

The presence of Elkmeadow in Northeast Texas contributes to the region's reputation as a hunting destination, competing with other major players across the state. LSI keywords and related entities in this space include:
  • Blackbuck Antelope: Another common exotic trophy. [cite: 18 (from step 2)]
  • Fallow Deer: Highly prized for their palmated antlers. [cite: 18 (from step 2)]
  • Red Stag: The largest of the deer family often hunted in Texas. [cite: 18 (from step 2)]
  • Trophy Whitetail: The native counterpart to the exotics, often managed under MLD permits (Managed Lands Deer Permit). [cite: 19 (from step 2)]
  • Greystone Castle: A major competitor known for luxury exotic hunts. [cite: 12 (from step 2)]
  • OX Ranch: Known for a wide variety of free-ranging exotics and unique experiences (like tanks). [cite: 10 (from step 2)]
  • Lazy K Ranch: Famous for its luxury lodging and world-class amenities in the high-fence sector. [cite: 9 (from step 2)]
By offering a diverse range of hunts—from the affordable hog hunt to the premium Red Deer trophy—alongside a highly functional event venue, Elkmeadow Game Ranch & Pavilion has successfully created a sustainable, year-round business model that appeals to both the dedicated hunter and the event planner. The Elkins’ ability to pivot and diversify their offerings ensures the ranch’s continued relevance and success in the competitive Texas ranch market.
5 Shocking Facts About Elkmeadow Game Ranch & Pavilion: Trophy Hunts, Texas Weddings, and the Elkins' Empire
elk meadow game ranch
elk meadow game ranch

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