In 1981, A. A. "Al" Waggener, recently retired from the oil tool rental business, bought the Texas Hill Country property that is now called Waggener Ranch. For about 20 years, he improved the property by having the thick cedar growth cleared, and by introducing herds of exotic animals for the enjoyment of his family and guests. These included axis deer, blackbuck antelope, aoudad sheep and fallow deer. The animals were never hunted; the herds have thrived over the years, and to this day roam freely throughout Waggener Ranch.

As Mr. Waggener's health failed and he was no longer able to travel to his ranch, he and his son decided that it would make a beautiful development for people who wanted to own a bit of the Texas Hill Country, yet be near the amenities of San Antonio. In 2001, Bill Waggener opened the gates of Waggener Ranch, and many families now enjoy ranch living without the work of owning a large ranch. Much more cedar has been cleared over the years, which has opened up spectacular views of the Texas Hill Country.