Moody Foundation to Gift its interest in 54,000-Acre Silver Lake Ranch to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department

One of the largest private land gifts in Texas history would create a new state park for future generations

AUSTIN, Texas — The Moody Foundation today announced its plans to gift its ownership interest—direct and indirect interests totaling 87.5% —in the approximately 54,000-acre Silver Lake Ranch to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD) for the benefit of the public. This major land donation, located in Kinney and Edwards Counties about 125 miles west of San Antonio, paves the way for what could become one of Texas’ largest state parks and a landmark addition to the state’s public lands.

While the proposed transfer is not finalized and remains conditioned on and subject to standard due diligence, including without limitation, final survey and title work, as well as negotiation of mutually agreeable documentation between the Moody Foundation and the TPWD, the parties are hopeful that the transaction can be completed in the coming months. The remaining minority portion of the property is owned by a non-Moody entity.

Silver Lake Ranch features a spring-fed lake, river access, steep canyons, and rolling Hill Country terrain teeming with rare wildlife. The property offers opportunities for camping, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, paddling, and wildlife watching—and has long been recognized for its ecological and scenic significance.

“Silver Lake Ranch has been a special place for generations of our family, and we’re proud to see it become a public space where Texans can connect with nature and help preserve our state’s remarkable landscapes,” said Ross R. Moody, Trustee of the Moody Foundation. “Partnering with Texas Parks and Wildlife to conserve Silver Lake Ranch ensures that this land will endure—protected, appreciated, and enjoyed by generations of Texans to come.”

The gift further underscores the Moody Foundation’s long-standing commitment to conservation and community enrichment.

If approved by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission and the proposed transaction is completed, Silver Lake Ranch will join other newly established or expanded parks added to the Texas State Parks system in the last year, including Bear Creek State Park, Post Oak Ridge State Park, and additional land surrounding Enchanted Rock State Natural Area