OVER 100 YEARS OF PRUDE DUDES

The historic Prude Ranch, located just a few miles north of the Texas mountain town of Fort Davis, has been an important component of Davis Mountains ranching for over one hundred years. Beginning with the arrival of “Grandmother Prude” to Fort Davis and her marriage to Andrew G. Prude in 1896, the Prude Ranch has continued to operate under six generations of Prudes. Although the operation began as a working cattle ranch it soon evolved into a guest ranch as well. Third generation John Robert Prude, son of John G. “Big Spurs” Prude, and his wife Betty expanded the operation, establishing the first Prude Ranch Summer Camp for Boys and Girls in 1951. John Robert served as head counselor and Betty as camp administrator and chief cook. The Summer Camp continues to be one of the most popular opportunities for west Texas enthusiasts today.

The Prude Ranch also hosts a number of events throughout the year including the Davis Mountains Fitness and Training Camp, a week of biking, running, and swimming designed for both serious athletes and weekend warriors. The Annual Texas Star Party takes place each May takes advantage of nearby McDonald Observatory, attracted hundreds of astronomy enthusiasts to the Prude Ranch. Another Prude-hosted favorite of Texas athletes is the Cyclefest Tour and Hill Climb and Hammerfest Race, a combination of mountain cycling and fast-paced racing over the course of three days in September. The Prude Ranch also accommodates guests who simply come for the clean mountain air. A dining room, lodge, cabins, bunkhouse, rec room, gym, swimming pool, and RV spaces are among the facilities available to Prude Ranch guests.