Rancho Buenas Noches--Heaven on the Brazos River, just 90 minutes from Dallas

Spend a weekend or more on a cliff high above the Brazos River in the North Texas Hill Country of Palo Pinto County. A stone stairway cuts through giant boulders down to the river and several fishing spots, plus kayak and canoe launch points. Enjoy a large barbecue grill (charcoal) and views of the sunset and river from a covered pavilion. There is a heated pool (heated March to October) and hot tub that overlooks the river, amongst ancient live oaks and a regulation horseshoe pit. For the adventurous, there's also a primitive cabin (no power, no plumbing). Just 90 minutes from North Dallas and less than an hour to Fort Worth, yet you will feel you are a thousand miles away. Welcome to the Brazos de Dios.

Inside, (if you ever come in from the views) you will find one full-size, one queen and four bunk beds, plus a sleeper sofa (sleeps one, maybe two little ones) in the family room. In the family room, you will find a pool table and fireplace. Ideally, this place is for two couples and kids. Maximum 8. It is not ideal for packing in 8 grown men to save money. Do that and you'll be way more cozy and way less comfy than you may like, plus we're on a septic system that's not made for that. . Just sayin'.

Full disclosure: cell coverage can be spotty inside the house but outside it's fine. I do not provide Wi-Fi. Wireless hotspots are recommended for internet access and generally work quite well.