As winter departs and the sun lingers longer in the sky, families across Texas are increasingly drawn outdoors. Many parents are already seeking out activities and events the whole family can enjoy while the kids are on summer break. Fortunately, at Wildcat Ranch, a new master-planned community just outside Dallas, families don’t need to venture far to enjoy a summer filled with excitement. Situated on more than 900 acres of land, these new homes feature large backyards in a rural setting that serve as a canvas for creating countless memories. From the smell of summer cookouts to refreshing water cool-offs, here are some tips to create an exciting summer that’s as big and bold as the Lone Star State itself.

1. Unleash Your Competitive Side

Some of families’ favorite backyard summer activities are games that allow everyone to unleash their competitive side. Cornhole is a classic game where teams try to toss the beanbag close to the hole for one point or into the hole for three points. The first team to reach 21 points wins. Another favored outdoor game that’s grown in popularity is Spikeball. This volleyball-like game gives team three hits to return the yellow ball back to the “net,” a small trampoline set up in the middle. The rally continues until a team can’t return the ball to the net within their three touches. Spikeball tends to get loud and competitive, adding to the excitement. For even more games and ways to stay active, residents of Wildcat Ranch can head to the community’s amenity center. Here, residents can let the little ones create their own adventures at the tot lot or take their four-legged friends to the dog park for a game of fetch or to meet other canine companions.

2. Water Games That Make a Splash

There’s no better way to cool off in the summer than with backyard water games. Start with a classic water balloon fight that’ll let the kids unleash their excitement. Rapid-fill balloons like those from Bunch O Balloons can inflate in less than 60 seconds, ensuring continuous fun. Another refreshing game involves using large car wash sponges soaked in a bucket of water. Family members must toss the sponges to each other without dropping them, guaranteeing a quick cool-down. Wildcat Ranch families can also spend hours splashing around at the community’s swimming pool with lap lanes and dedicated kids’ splash area. Lounge areas ensure ample space to soak up the summer sun, while community-hosted events keep every age entertained.

3. Host a Backyard Barbeque

Summer wouldn’t be complete without firing up the grill for a backyard barbecue. The meat takes center stage, with brisket, ribs, or sausage slowly cooked to tender, juicy perfection. BBQ aficionados swear by marinating meats for 30 minutes up to 12 hours to enhance their texture and flavor. Creamy mac and cheese, tangy coleslaw, and baked beans simmering in savory sauce are always fan-favorite sides. Of course, no meal is complete without friends to share it with. Wildcat Ranch’s on-site elementary school, Noble Reed Elementary, makes connecting with neighbors easier. With most kids living in the same neighborhood, it’s simple to reunite kids from the same class or invite the families who become friends over for a backyard barbecue. Now, all there’s left to do is grab some drinks, set up a well-lit table, and enjoy the night with friends and neighbors.

4. Outdoor Movie Nights

While there’s nothing quite like watching a movie on the big screen, it’s a shame to spend those glorious summer evenings cooped up indoors. Families can enjoy the best of both worlds by turning their backyard into an outdoor cinema under the starlit Texas sky. Building a movie theater is easier than it sounds and can be scaled to fit any budget, from a simple projector and sheet combo to a big-screen TV with surround sound speakers. Use blankets, beanbags, or pillows to create a cozy seating area and don’t forget the snacks. Let kids personalize their popcorn with different seasonings, or stock up on everyone’s favorite candies for a truly memorable movie night.

5. Outdoor Adventures Steps from Your Backyard

For those eager to explore beyond their backyard and into the great outdoors, Wildcat Ranch offers an abundance of options right at residents’ doorsteps. Kids can grab their friends and head to the numerous green spaces for a pick-up game of soccer or frisbee, or baseball fields that are ideal for throwing the ball around. A network of trails weave through the neighborhood, while the public Wildcat Ranch trail provides over 4 miles of pathways just beyond the community. Maintained by Kaufman County Mountain Biking, the two-loop trail meanders alongside the picturesque Buffalo Creek. Visitors can set their own pace, whether they’re seeking a challenging mountain biking workout or a leisurely stroll with friends and family.

A Texas Community with Small-Town Charm and Big-City Access

Located in the heart of Crandall, Texas, residents of Wildcat Ranch enjoy the city’s small-town charm while also taking full advantage of everything Dallas has to offer. This master-planned community’s prime location just 20 minutes from Downtown Dallas offers easy access to major roadways connected to the Dallas Metroplex for employment opportunities, as well as local shopping and dining.

The community’s Model Row is open daily for tours, featuring three award-winning home builders – Beazer Homes, DR Horton Homes, and Lennar Homes – and new models that are coming soon. For more information, feel free to request our brochure and get a firsthand look at how your life would look at Wildcat Ranch. You can also visit us at WildcatRanchTexas.com or contact our office at 972.387.9038.