Texas is a hub for exploration and production companies specializing in oil and gas. The industry comprises independent operators and larger corporations engaged in accessing liquid hydrocarbons from beneath the earth's surface. Companies range from well-established players like XTO Energy to newer entrants like Beacon Offshore Energy. With technological advancements and shifts towards sustainable practices, the industry is evolving. Trends indicate a growing focus on responsible resource management and innovation, crucial for navigating regulatory challenges. Texas maintains a substantial presence in global energy markets, driven by a commitment to efficiency and environmental considerations.

The companies featured in this list vary in size and specialization, with employee counts ranging from fewer than ten to several thousand. They are headquartered in various Texas cities, including Dallas, Houston, and Midland, and were founded between the 1960s to the 2020s. These organizations focus primarily on oil and gas exploration, production, and management, with many expanding their operations internationally. This listing showcases privately held firms alongside corporate giants, reflecting a rich mix of established legacies and fresh perspectives in the industry.

Continue reading to discover the top exploration and production companies in Texas.

Top 23 Exploration And Production Companies in Texas

1. Hunt Oil Company

• Website: huntoil.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Dallas, Texas, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: $1.0B, May 2021
• Founded year: 1934
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: hunt-oil-company

Hunt Oil Company, founded in 1934 and based in Dallas, Texas, is a privately held oil and gas exploration and production firm. With a workforce of approximately 841 employees, the company has built a robust portfolio of operations that spans the globe. Hunt Oil is engaged in the extraction and processing of petroleum resources, actively participating in exploration and production activities across various regions, including the United States, South America, Europe, and the Middle East. The company has drilled wells on every continent except Antarctica, demonstrating its extensive operational reach. Hunt Oil is also involved in liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects, notably as the lead shareholder and operator of the PERU LNG project. This project is significant as it marked the first gas liquefaction plant in South America. Hunt Oil's approach combines traditional exploration techniques with innovative technologies, allowing it to maximize resource recovery while maintaining operational efficiency. The company has a strong commitment to social responsibility and environmental stewardship, further enhancing its reputation in the industry.

2. Hilcorp

• Website: hilcorp.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: hilcorp

Hilcorp Energy Company, based in Houston, Texas, is a private energy firm specializing in oil and natural gas exploration and production. Established in 1989, Hilcorp has grown to become one of the largest privately held independent producers in the United States. The company operates in several states, including Alabama, Alaska, Colorado, Louisiana, New Mexico, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Wyoming. Hilcorp is known for its focus on efficient energy production and its commitment to minimizing environmental impact. The company actively engages in the acquisition and development of legacy oil and gas assets, employing innovative solutions to enhance production and reduce emissions. Hilcorp's operational strategy includes modernizing older fields and optimizing systems to ensure sustainable practices while meeting energy demands. With a workforce of over 3,000 employees, Hilcorp emphasizes a culture of integrity, urgency, and innovation, positioning itself as a significant player in the energy sector.

3. Caelus Energy

• Website: caelusenergy.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Dallas, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 40%, Indonesia 40%, Belgium 21%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: caelus-energy

Caelus Energy LLC is an oil and gas exploration and production company headquartered in Dallas, Texas. Established in 2011, the company is dedicated to the responsible exploration and production of oil and gas resources. Caelus Energy serves various businesses in the energy sector, providing essential resources while emphasizing sustainable practices. The company has made significant strides in its exploration efforts, particularly with large-scale discoveries on the North Slope of Alaska. Under the leadership of founder and CEO Jim Musselman, who has a strong track record of successful development projects across multiple continents, Caelus continues to operate in a competitive landscape, focusing on projects that are still producing. With a workforce that spans the globe, including significant employee distribution in the United States, Indonesia, and Belgium, Caelus Energy is positioned to make an impact in the oil and gas industry.

4. Ecopetrol USA Inc.

• Website: ecopetrol-usa.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: ecopetrol-usa-inc

Ecopetrol USA Inc. is an oil and gas company based in Houston, Texas, established in 2020. As a subsidiary of Ecopetrol S.A., the national oil company of Colombia, it operates primarily in the exploration and production of hydrocarbons within the Permian Basin and the Gulf of Mexico. The company is involved in trading activities, dealing with crude oil, refined products, and natural gas, which supports its operations and enhances its market presence. Ecopetrol USA is structured to provide shared services to its subsidiaries, including Ecopetrol America LLC and Ecopetrol Permian LLC. The company is committed to achieving the corporate goals set forth in the Ecopetrol Business Group's strategic plans for 2030 and 2040, focusing on sustainable growth and operational excellence. With a workforce of around 45 employees, Ecopetrol USA aims to leverage its expertise in unconventional resources and capitalize on opportunities in the North American energy market.

5. HEYCO Energy Group

• Website: heycoenergy.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Dallas, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 65%, Spain 35%
• Founded year: 1969
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: heyco-energy-group

HEYCO Energy Group is a privately owned energy company based in Dallas, Texas, specializing in oil and gas exploration and production. Founded in 1969, the company has built a reputation for providing strategic investment and technical expertise to enhance energy resources. HEYCO operates in the United States and Europe, focusing on unconventional technology and sustainable practices. The company has a significant presence in the energy sector, with non-operated projects in New Mexico, East Texas, Wyoming, and Louisiana. In Europe, HEYCO Energy Iberia manages a natural gas field in Spain's La Rioja region, while its subsidiary, Egdon Resources, is involved in oil and gas exploration and production in the UK. HEYCO's team comprises experienced professionals skilled in geology, geophysics, reservoir engineering, and operations management, which supports its ongoing projects and initiatives. The company is committed to innovative solutions that align with industry standards and environmental considerations.

6. XTO Energy

• Website: xtoenergy.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Midland, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Other 3%
• Latest funding: $41.0B, December 2009
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: xto-energy

XTO Energy Inc. is an energy company based in Midland, Texas, specializing in the production, processing, and transportation of oil and natural gas. Founded in 1986, the company has grown significantly, now employing around 2,300 people. As a subsidiary of ExxonMobil, XTO Energy operates primarily in North America, focusing on unconventional resource development. The company is heavily involved in the exploration and production of oil and gas, particularly in regions like the Permian Basin, Bakken, and Appalachia. XTO Energy holds interests in over 50,000 producing wells and manages more than 9.5 million acres of land, showcasing its extensive operational footprint. The company is also committed to addressing environmental concerns, particularly methane emissions, by leveraging advanced technologies and advocating for sound policies. This focus on sustainability, combined with its operational scale, positions XTO Energy as a notable player in the energy sector.

7. Apex International Energy

• Website: apexintl.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Egypt 78%, United States (USA) 22%
• Latest funding: February 2025
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: apex-international-energy

Apex International Energy is an independent oil and gas exploration and production company based in Houston, Texas, with a strong operational focus in Egypt. Founded in 2016, the company has quickly made its mark in the industry, particularly in the Western Desert region. Apex is engaged in upstream activities, which include oil and gas exploration and hydrocarbon production. The company operates through its joint venture, Farah Petroleum Company, and has made notable progress since commencing production in August 2021 from the Southeast Meleiha concession. As of early 2024, Apex has achieved a daily production rate of approximately 12,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day, with a portfolio that includes 21 fields and 125 active wells. The company is recognized for its rapid production growth and aims to become a top producer in Egypt through strategic acquisitions and development drilling. Apex is also committed to social responsibility, engaging in initiatives that support local communities and healthcare facilities in the areas where it operates.

8. Endeavor Energy Resources, LP

• Website: endeavorenergylp.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Midland, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%
• Latest funding: $26.0B, February 2024
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: endeavor-energy-resources-lp

Endeavor Energy Resources, LP is a privately-held oil and gas company based in Midland, Texas. Established in 1979, the company specializes in hydrocarbon exploration and production, primarily focusing on the Midland Basin. With a significant operational footprint, Endeavor holds approximately 470,000 net acres, including 344,000 net acres in the Core 6 Midland Basin counties. The company has transitioned from traditional vertical drilling to a more sustainable horizontal drilling program, completing over 1,100 gross operated horizontal wells. This shift has allowed Endeavor to produce more than 400,000 gross operated barrels of oil equivalent per day. The company prides itself on its family culture and core values, emphasizing teamwork, discipline, and capital efficiency. Endeavor is also actively involved in community initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to social responsibility alongside its business operations.

9. Cholla Inc.

• Website: chollapetro.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Dallas, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1957
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: cholla-petroleum-inc-

Cholla Inc. is an energy company based in Dallas, Texas, specializing in petroleum exploration and production. Founded in 1957, the company has built a reputation for its commitment to energy abundance through its various divisions. Cholla Petroleum focuses on the exploration, development, and production of oil and gas resources, leveraging over 50 years of operational experience. The company has a history of exploring under-explored basins and applying innovative techniques to enhance production. Cholla Energy aims to innovate energy solutions, particularly in supporting large energy consumers, while Cholla Ventures invests in emerging energy technologies. With a workforce of around 61 employees, Cholla Inc. operates primarily in the United States and emphasizes safety, stewardship, and continuous learning in its operations.

10. Texakoma

• Website: texakoma.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Plano, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Seed, $456,000, September 2014
• Founded year: 1982
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: texakoma

Texakoma, based in Plano, Texas, is an oil and gas exploration and production company that has been active since 1982. The firm specializes in the exploration, operation, and production of oil and gas resources, serving various businesses in the energy sector. With a workforce of approximately 25 employees, Texakoma has built a reputation for its experienced team, which includes veteran engineers and geologists. The company has operated in multiple states, including Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Montana, and Pennsylvania, and has been involved in significant projects, such as coal bed methane production in the San Juan Basin. Texakoma has also been recognized for its production capabilities, ranking among the top oil producers in specific regions, such as Roberts County, Texas. The company continues to explore and develop assets in various basins, including the SCOOP & STACK, Williston, and Anadarko Basins, showcasing its commitment to growth and innovation in the oil and gas industry.

11. Dan A. Hughes Company LP

• Website: dahughes.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Beeville, Texas, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1964
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: dan-a--hughes-company-lp

Dan A. Hughes Company LP, based in Beeville, Texas, is a private petroleum exploration and production firm that has been operational since 1964. The company specializes in discovering and producing hydrocarbons, with a footprint that extends both domestically and internationally. Dan A. Hughes Company is dedicated to providing environmentally responsible energy resources, emphasizing conservation and stewardship of the land. Their operations are characterized by a strong commitment to safety and environmental health, which has earned them a solid reputation in the industry. The company serves a variety of stakeholders, including investors and landowners, by focusing on sustainable practices while navigating the complexities of oil and gas production.

12. Americo Energy Resources

• Website: americoenergy.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: americo-energy-resources

Americo Energy Resources, based in Houston, Texas, is a privately held oil and gas exploration and production company. Founded in 1998, the firm specializes in acquiring, operating, and developing oil and gas properties, primarily in Texas and New Mexico. With a dedicated team of professionals, Americo employs geosciences, engineering, and management skills to enhance production and control costs. The company has successfully increased its net cash flow significantly over the years, reflecting its operational efficiency and growth strategy. Americo's focus on oil production, which constitutes 90% of its output, underscores its commitment to this sector. The company operates several properties, including the North McFaddin and Coleman Ranch units, and has a production capacity of around 1300 barrels of oil equivalent per day. Americo's approach includes revitalizing problem wells and improving non-producing assets, showcasing its active role in the exploration and production industry.

13. Lewis Energy Group

• Website: lewisenergy.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: San Antonio, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 85%, Colombia 14%
• Latest funding: $100.0M, August 2023
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: lewis-energy-group

Lewis Energy Group, founded in 1983 and based in San Antonio, Texas, specializes in natural gas exploration and production. The company operates primarily in South Texas, where it has developed a robust portfolio of assets, including over 2,500 wells. Lewis Energy has been a pioneer in the Eagle Ford gas play and has expanded its operations into Mexico, drilling the first Eagle Ford well there in 2010. The company is committed to responsible energy development, focusing on clean energy resources while providing essential services such as drilling, fracturing, and water management. Their recent funding of $100 million in August 2023 reflects their ongoing growth and investment in the energy sector. Lewis Energy Group emphasizes safety, fiscal responsibility, and environmental stewardship in its operations, aiming to meet the increasing demand for clean energy.

14. Beacon Offshore Energy

• Website: beaconoffshore.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 94%, South Korea 4%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: beaconoffshore

Beacon Offshore Energy is a Houston-based exploration and production company that specializes in acquiring, exploring, and developing upstream oil and gas properties in the deepwater Gulf of Mexico. Established in 2016, the company has quickly grown its portfolio, currently holding interests in 87 deepwater leases that cover nearly 500,000 gross acres. Beacon's team consists of seasoned professionals with an average of over 30 years of operational experience in the Gulf of Mexico. The company is actively involved in several projects, including the Winterfell and Shenandoah developments, which are expected to significantly boost their production capabilities. Beacon Offshore Energy is dedicated to delivering high-margin, low-carbon energy solutions, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and responsible governance in its operations.

15. DG Petro Oil & Gas

• Website: dgpetro.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Allen, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: dgpetro

DG Petro Oil & Gas is an exploration and production company based in Allen, Texas, established in 2015. With a dedicated team of 18 employees, the company specializes in supplying energy resources to businesses within the oil and gas industry. DG Petro aims to ensure reliable access to oil and gas supplies, catering to the operational needs of its clients. The firm operates entirely within the United States, focusing on building strong relationships with its partners to facilitate energy resource management. Despite its relatively small size and recent inception, DG Petro is committed to contributing to the energy sector by providing essential resources to support business operations.

16. Alta Mesa Resources

• Website: altamesa.net
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $120.0M, November 2022
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: alta-mesa-resources

Alta Mesa Resources, Inc. is an independent oil and gas exploration and production company based in Houston, Texas. Founded in 1987, the company specializes in the development and acquisition of unconventional oil and natural gas reserves, particularly in the eastern portion of the Anadarko Basin known as the STACK. This area is recognized for its prolific hydrocarbon system, characterized by high oil and liquids-rich natural gas content. Alta Mesa has established a significant leasehold position in this region, identifying over 1,000 horizontal drilling locations across key formations such as the Osage, Meramec, and Oswego. The company emphasizes operational excellence and disciplined investment strategies, employing advanced engineering and geological techniques to enhance production efficiency. Despite undergoing a Chapter 11 restructuring process in 2019, which aimed to reduce debt and reposition the company for future success, Alta Mesa has continued its operations and secured $120 million in funding in November 2022, reflecting ongoing support from investors and a focus on long-term growth.

17. Dynamic Production, INC.

• Website: dynamicproduction.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Fort Worth, Texas, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1968
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: dynamic-production-inc.

Dynamic Production, INC. is a privately held independent oil and gas company based in Fort Worth, Texas. Founded in 1968, the company focuses on the exploration, production, and development of oil and gas resources, primarily along the Texas Gulf Coast. With a history of participating in over 500 wells, Dynamic has established itself as a significant operator in the region. The company employs advanced 2D and 3D seismic technology alongside traditional geological methods to identify and develop oil and gas projects. Their team consists of experienced professionals who manage a range of operations, including drilling vertical, deviated, and horizontal wells. In addition to exploration and production, Dynamic is involved in oilfield supply, real estate, and mineral processing, catering to various clients in the oil and gas sector. The company is wholly owned by the Harvison family, who have extensive experience in multiple business sectors, further enhancing Dynamic's operational capabilities.

18. Oil Group Investments LLC

• Website: oilgroup.com.br
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 50%, Brazil 50%
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: oil-%26-gas-investments-group-llc

Oil Group Investments LLC is an integrated oil and gas company based in Houston, Texas, with a significant operational footprint in Brazil. Established in 2013, the company specializes in exploration, production, refining, and data acquisition services. With a workforce of approximately 15 employees, Oil Group has developed a balanced portfolio that includes both onshore and offshore assets. The company has made notable strides in the Brazilian market, acquiring multiple exploratory blocks in the Recôncavo and Sergipe-Alagoas basins. Their innovative approach to refining, including the development of modular refineries, reflects a commitment to enhancing operational efficiency. Oil Group's strategic focus on technology and data acquisition further supports their exploration and production initiatives, positioning them for potential growth in the oil and gas sector.

19. XCL Resources I, LLC

• Website: xclresources.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: January 2018
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: xcl-resources

XCL Resources I, LLC is an oil and gas company based in Houston, Texas, with a focus on maximizing the potential of the Uinta Basin. Established in 2018, the company specializes in oil production, employing advanced drilling technologies to enhance efficiency and output. XCL Resources is dedicated to environmental sustainability, implementing practices that reduce emissions and promote responsible waste management. Their operations are centered around the extraction of high-quality crude oil, which is essential for various businesses in the energy sector. The company has secured a consolidated position in the Uinta Basin, covering approximately 45,000 net acres, and is known for its commitment to safety and innovation in the oil and gas industry.

20. BlueCrest Energy Inc.

• Website: bluecrestenergy.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Fort Worth, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $40.0M, February 2014
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: bluecrest-energy-inc-

BlueCrest Energy Inc. is an oil and gas exploration and production company based in Fort Worth, Texas, with a strong focus on developing resources in Alaska. Founded in 2011, the company has concentrated its efforts on the Cosmopolitan Field, which is situated approximately three miles offshore in the Cook Inlet. BlueCrest owns 100% of the Cosmopolitan Unit, recognized as one of the largest undeveloped fields in the region. The company employs advanced drilling technology, including extended-reach drilling, to access oil reserves from an onshore site, effectively reducing the risk of offshore spills. Since beginning production in March 2016, BlueCrest has identified numerous well targets, indicating a robust plan for future expansion. The management team comprises seasoned professionals with a wealth of experience in finding and developing hydrocarbon assets globally, further enhancing the company's operational capabilities.

21. Castex Energy, Inc.

• Website: castexenergy.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: September 2014
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: castex-energy-inc

Castex Energy, Inc. is a Houston-based oil and gas exploration company that specializes in upstream activities, including the acquisition, development, and monetization of oil and gas reserves. Founded in 1987, the company has built a reputation for reliability and expertise, particularly in the Gulf Coast region of the United States. Castex operates with a focus on conventional oil and gas assets, leveraging a proven business model that has resulted in significant asset sales and returns for stakeholders. The company prides itself on its commitment to health, safety, and environmental responsibility, actively engaging in projects that enhance local ecosystems. Additionally, Castex has initiated Castex Carbon Solutions, which aims to capture and store carbon emissions, reflecting a forward-thinking approach to energy production and environmental impact.

22. Grayson Mill Energy

• Website: graysonmillenergy.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: January 2016
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: grayson-mill-energy

Grayson Mill Energy, based in Houston, Texas, is an oil and gas exploration and production company founded in 2016. The firm specializes in acquiring and developing oil and gas properties, primarily in the Bakken and Powder River Basins. Grayson Mill has built a substantial operational footprint, holding over 245,000 net acres and managing approximately 750 operated wells. The company is committed to generating value through disciplined acquisitions and improving cash flow. Grayson Mill's management team consists of experienced professionals dedicated to operational excellence and community engagement. The company has made significant investments in its operations, including the recent acquisition of assets in the Williston Basin, which has bolstered its production capabilities. Grayson Mill Energy is focused on enhancing production efficiency while maintaining a strong commitment to environmental stewardship and community support.

23. Welder Exploration & Production, INC.

• Website: weldergroup.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Antonio, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Indonesia 67%, Malaysia 33%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: welder-exploration-%26-production-inc-

Welder Exploration & Production, INC. is a privately held oil and natural gas exploration and production company based in San Antonio, Texas, with a field office in Beeville. Established in 1998, the company specializes in converting proved or near-proved oil and gas reserves into active production. Their operational focus is on managing extraction processes efficiently and safely, ensuring that environmental considerations are at the forefront of their activities. Welder Exploration emphasizes targeting existing production on legacy leases, which are often less capital-intensive, and pursuing conventional reserves that present lower risk and cost. The company aims to maintain operational efficiencies through geographic concentration, allowing them to lower overall costs while maximizing output. Their approach reflects a commitment to both profitability and sustainability in the oil and gas industry.

Exploration And Production Insights: Key Companies in Texas

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