This vacation home places you next to Frio River and within 2 miles (3 km) of Bushong Mountain Park. The vacation home includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a balcony.
Lost Maples State Natural Area - 25 min drive - 22.8 miles
Concan Golf Course and Country Club - 31 min drive - 21.0 miles
Frio Bat Cave - 37 min drive - 28.5 miles
Restaurants
Stripes Convenience Store / SUBWAY - 5 min drive
Bent Rim Grill - 5 min drive
Mill Creek Cafe - 4 min drive
Cup Of Joy - 4 min drive
Mama Chole's Mexican - 4 min drive
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD!
CHECK OUT OUR LOW OFF-SEASON RATES! The most peaceful views can be found at Howdy's!
***WE NOW HAVE WIFI***
***COME ENJOY OUR NEW UPDATES! We've been busy in January of 2024, replacing the original floors in the Main House as well as updating with new furniture. December of 2025- we now have 4 queen beds on the property in addition to keeping our 2 sets of bunks. A new walking path between the houses was put in as well.***
Howdy's on the Frio is a charming property located in Leakey, TX, RIGHT ON THE FRIO RIVER! Howdy's provides a beautiful, entertaining, and relaxing vacation spot for your family and friends. Howdy's sits on just under 2 acres of land and boasts breathtaking views of the river from its 400 sq. ft. deck. As you enter the river from Howdy's, you can enjoy a deep swimming hole that never goes dry, small rapids for the adventurous, and shallow water for the little ones- not to mention no across the river neighbors! Don't want to get wet? Then enjoy sitting on the large covered deck where you can watch your friends and family enjoy the river, while taking in the fantastic unspoiled views of the surrounding hills and Texas Hill Country sunsets. Once the sun goes down, light a fire in the fire-pit and roast marshmallows under the bright stars or play a game of dominoes out on the deck, all set to the sounds of the Frio.
Howdy's sleeps up to 12 people and consists of the main house (2 bedrooms/1 bath) and the guest house (1 large room/1 bath), which is just 10 yards from the main house. The main house bathroom has just been remodeled in 2021 and new kitchen counter tops and sink in 2022! The main house has steps with railings and a relaxation landing heading down to the river. With the river and huge outdoor entertaining space within your fingertips, you may never find yourself inside. The children are sure to love the swing set and the see-saw on property. But if you do find yourself inside, you will love the Texas-made-comfortable and cozy feel of the house and guest house. In charge of the evening's meal? Then you won't miss out on any conversation while cooking in our open, fully-stocked, kitchen. The view of the Texas hills through our beautiful new double French doors will make cooking seem like anything but a chore. Need to holler at your kids to come eat? Do so from the grill area overlooking the river. At the end of the day, bask in the warmth of the wood-burning fire place while reconnecting with family and friends within the spacious, high-ceiling living space. Open the many windows at night to enjoy the cool fresh air and sounds of the river running below.
Since the river is in your backyard, you may never need to leave the property. But the surrounding area has much to offer as well. Howdy's is only a mile to the main street of Leakey, TX and a few miles north of Garner State Park. The Three Sisters Drive is also only minutes away, with Lost Maples State Natural Area only 25 miles down the road.
There are year-round activities in the Frio Canyon area ranging from tubing/kayaking the Frio in the summer, enjoying the fall foliage in autumn, hiking/hunting in the winter, and viewing wildflowers in the spring. The bird and deer watching are fabulous year round. World Class Golf is available at Concan Country Club. Don't forget the outdoor summer time concerts at House Pasture Cattle Company and of course the dances at Garner! Made in Texas!
A vacation at Howdy's on the Frio is the perfect getaway for everyone!
One note: All beds have quilts/comforters and pillows. Guests provide their own sheets, pillowcases and towels.
Call Diane to learn more about Howdy's on the Frio. Please be sure to contact us if you'd like to stay for less than 3 nights during the summer season. Anytime there are less than three nights between other bookings, we are happy to make those nights available.
Come make memories at Howdy's on the banks of the river!
Also visit our property, Four Frio Sisters, #321679 in Leakey, TX. Instagram: @howdysonthefrio Facebook: Howdy’s on the Frio
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 2 bathrooms, and a balcony, and there's space to spread out with 3 bedrooms. Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a fireplace, a coffee maker, and a dining table.
No carbon monoxide detector or gas appliances (host has indicated there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
Garden
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 25
Check-out
Check-out before 11:00 AM
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Rules
No smoking on the property
Guest must provide own linens and towels. If evidence of sleeping on mattress pads, loss of security deposit possible.
Pets
This property doesn't allow pets
Children and extra beds
Children allowed: ages 0-17
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 25
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.
Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:
There are no elevators.
Property is also known as
River IS Your Backyard! Leakey
River IS Your Backyard! Private vacation home
River IS Your Backyard! Private vacation home Leakey
Frequently asked questions
What can I see within easy reach of this vacation home?
This vacation home is located in Leakey, just steps from Frio River. Bushong Mountain Park is also within a driving distance of 1.8 mi.
Is there parking available at RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD!?
No, this vacation home doesn't offer parking.
Is this vacation home adjacent to a casino?
No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.
Will I find an indoor pool at this vacation home?
No, there is no indoor pool at this vacation home.
What amenities will couples enjoy at RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD!?
Amenities that appeal to couples at this riverfront vacation home include a fireplace, a smart TV, and a kitchen.
Are there hot tubs at RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD!?
No, there isn't a spa tub at this vacation home.
Does this vacation home include breakfast service?
No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.
Will this vacation home allow pets to stay for free?
No, pets aren't allowed at this vacation home.
Are there connecting rooms at RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD!?
No, this vacation home doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.
Are there rooms with balconies at RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD!?
Yes, every house at RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD! comes with a balcony and some offer mountain views.
RIVER IS YOUR BACKYARD! Reviews
Reviews
9.6
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 152 out of 182 reviews
10 - Excellent
152
Rating 8 - Good. 24 out of 182 reviews
8 - Good
24
Rating 6 - Okay. 4 out of 182 reviews
6 - Okay
4
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 182 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 182 reviews
2 - Terrible
2
9.0/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Debra D., Huntsville
May 26, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
Group of 5 adults and 3 grand kids ages 16-10. Property as described conveniently located to Frio River and downtown Leaky. Nice area on river bank to sit and watch kids swing on rope out into a deeper section. Our grand kids enjoyed this tremendously! Access to a private dumpster was nice as we brought several ice chests filled with home made meals and disposable serving ware to save both time and expense. Outside fire pit was a great evening wind down. We brought cut fire wood but plenty was available.
Debra D.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2026
10/10 Excellent
Misty B.
May 4, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
We absolutely love this house…perfect location and the river frontage is so good!!
Misty B.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
10/10 Excellent
Glenn G.
Apr 27, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
Exactly as described and Leslie Ann was a pleasure to work with! Property is quiet with beautiful views, deep water hole at the ladder to the river and small shallow rapids you can see and hear! Grill is charcoal and good size and kitchen is well stocked with utensils. Town is roughly 2 miles away and easy to get to. We had a wonderful time and will definitely go back when the opportunity arises!
Glenn G.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
10/10 Excellent
Blake E.
Apr 7, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
Blake E.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
10/10 Excellent
Andrew H.
Mar 22, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
The house was clean and in good order. The houses are more like cabins in nature versus what one would find in connection with a weekend VRBO. The kitchen was equipped. There is no washer or dryer on property. The bedrooms were clean and spacious in both houses. The fire pit, children’s play equipment and grill area were a great bonus. River entry is good for younger families or those who have no difficulty with three levels of steps. The host’s instructions were clear and concise. The house is tucked away in a quiet neighborhood with easy access to Garner State Park and Lost Maples State Park. The stars at night were beautiful. The mornings were crisp, cool, and the river so very clear. We enjoyed our stay!
Andrew H.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
10/10 Excellent
Amber G.
Feb 25, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
Loved it! Thank you
Amber G.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
8/10 Good
Neeraj K.
Nov 29, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
We had a pleasant stay overall—the place was good, and the location was great. We especially enjoyed the fireplace and the barbecue setup, and the view from the patio was wonderful.However, we did run into a few issues that affected the experience. Some basic amenities were missing: only one extra toilet paper roll and one extra kitchen towel roll were provided. The microwave’s switch wasn’t working, so we had to find a different outlet that works. The breaker for the main bathroom lights kept tripping, and there was no handwash, body wash, or shampoo available. Even if these weren’t deal breakers, we were still disappointed to some extent because these essentials are generally expected in a VRBO stay. Also, make sure to read the fine print before booking as we are required to bring our own linens, pillow cases and towels. This definitely is an added hassle.Overall, we enjoyed our time and appreciate the hospitality, but addressing these items would make future stays much smoother and more comfortable.
Neeraj K.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
6/10 Okay
Aviel C.
Sep 26, 2025
No central a/c, living room and restroom get very warm, pet hair on the furniture, spider and sugar ants through the house, bed covers were dirty and stove top did not work properly. Overall the house could use some TLC, livable but certainly not comfortable
Aviel C.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Sheryl M.
Jul 24, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
This location is absolutely fantastic. Direct access to the Frio river for swimming, fishing or just enjoying the beautiful view. We were a family group of all ages, and everyone had a wonderful time. Easy communication with the owner for questions. Highly recommend.
Sheryl M.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Jennifer S.
Jul 13, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
We had the best time at Howdys! Everything was great! We highly recommend.
Jennifer S.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
6/10 Okay
Jose P., laredo, usa
Jul 3, 2025
3 Day Frio River Break at Leakey Tx
First the Good: The main home and guest house were spacious and baths were clean and in good working order; there was lots of parking; we loved the outdoor patios and seating areas. The river was quite low, but the property did have access to lots of cool river dipping areas.The Bad: property policy is to bring your own towels and bed linen, but upon placing our linen we found that the bed comforters and/or the mattress covers were filled with numerous large dust particles/dirt, we had to dust them off outside as there was no laundry facilities in the home. We found we needed more privacy as there are homes to the left and right of the property and curtains/blinds were lacking in some of the rooms. Cooking breakfast was a challenge as the electric stove had only 1 working burner; we later found that heating element(s) were not properly installed.The road into the property was is a bit rough and we found the walking paths a bit treacherous as they are in need of new gravel. All in all, we had a blast; we made the best of the bad and enjoyed our stay. Thanks!
Jose P.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Reyna S.
Jun 9, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Reyna S.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Derek M.
Jun 8, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Derek M.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
8/10 Good
Denise M.
May 20, 2025
Denise M.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
8/10 Good
Kevin E.
May 3, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Kevin E.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Kristina U.
Apr 22, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing
Smooth check in process and wonderful views.
Kristina U.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
Lilliana I.
Dec 11, 2024
Disliked: Cleanliness
Thanksgiving by the lake
I don't like saying bad things but the place was not clean. I had to move the couch to sweep up the food, plates, and bugs. I had to also sweep around the windows lots of bugs. The mattress cover on the pull out bed was full of hair and crumbs. I brought my sheets as stated but the previous people must have not done so. Other than that everything else was fine. The kitchen was fully stocked. Plenty of sleeping space. View was magnificent. The BBQ pit came in handy and the fire pit. Everyone really enjoyed the house. Hopefully the next family that stays has a better experience than we did.
Lilliana I.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
8/10 Good
Kathleen H., Victoria, TX
Nov 18, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Great River Location
Nice place on the river, property was as depicted on VRBO
Kathleen H.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
Michele L.
Oct 22, 2024
Love it
We loved the porch and the view.
the river
Michele L.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
Su Chan B., Daejeon, Korea
Aug 10, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Su Chan B.
Stayed 9 nights in Apr 2024
10/10 Excellent
Al W.
Aug 2, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Three generation retreat
We get together each year as grandparents, children and spouses and grandchildren. This is an awesome property. It was exactly as advertised. The host Diane is a good communicator....great on the details without over communicating. In short. We had a BLAST. This property was special given the drought and low water conditions overall. The portion of the river here was great. The pools were deep and enjoyable. Some of the neighboring properties were dealing with only rocks while we had plenty of refreshing water.
We could not have asked for more.
Al W.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Juan V.
Jul 29, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Family Vacation
Great place for quiet family time.
Juan V.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Laura Mae and Blake C.
Jun 30, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Girls weekend
Perfect girls getaway
Laura Mae and Blake C.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Alan J.
May 31, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Great start to our summer
Our friends and family had a wonderful time here! Diane and daughter went above and beyond to accommodate us. We look forward to our next visit. Thank you!
Alan J.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
Jamie A.
May 6, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect getaway
Played Cornhole games in the yard. Had a campfire at night. BBQ,'d during the day. Fished and floated just below the house. The water was cold but was easy to get the body used to. Caught a few fish a piece between 7 of us. Enjoyed the main house with drinks and board games. It was truly our perfect getaway. The weather was humid a couple of days but not too hot at all. The cabins were nice and fully stocked with all you need to cook and eat meals. The rooms were also clean and beds were comfortable enough Howdy's is very close to town. The river was just right for all activities. We REALLLLLY enjoyed our stay and plan too go back again this year.