Rock Lake Ranch was once a thriving cattle ranch cherished by the Geffert family, who have proudly maintained it for several generations. As sixth-generation Texans, they hold deep appreciation for their ancestors and the history of their home state. This stunning property, named after Rock Lake Creek, was historically a camping site for Native Americans drawn to the spring-fed creek that flows through the striking sandstone cliffs.

The Geffert family’s roots in this area trace back to the mid-1850s when their great-grandparents settled in the Piedmont region. By the 1920s, their grandparents, Annie Lee and Johnny Churchwell, were managing a self-sufficient farmhouse on the inherited land.

Among the property’s notable features is the Old Gibbons Creek bridge— a steel-truss bridge built in the early 20th century. Locally known as the “Shanghai Bridge,” it was originally located a few miles away and had been abandoned since the 1980s. After its relocation and reconstruction in 2009, it now serves as a picturesque entrance to the Waterfront Pavilion and other outdoor areas at Rock Lake Ranch. Remnants of the original farmhouse, including the well house and cistern, can still be found on the property.

For several years, this part of the ranch operated as a wedding venue before it was listed for sale in 2017. New owners quickly recognized the property’s unique charm and felt a strong calling to become its caretakers. In January 2025, a new chapter began for Rock Lake Ranch as it evolved into Rock Lake Retreats and Events.

Plans are underway to enhance the property by adding more lodging, meeting, and dining spaces to accommodate individuals and groups seeking intimate corporate, family, or personal retreats. With its rich family heritage and breathtaking natural beauty, Rock Lake Retreats & Events is the perfect backdrop for honoring ancient traditions and forging new ones.