Among the rugged hills of the Balcones Canyonlands, sits one of Texas’ newest state parks. With scenic views, shady riverbanks, and vivid night skies, this new park offers a variety of outdoor experiences. Once developed, Bear Creek State Park will welcome a new generation to enjoy life outside.

Lay of the Land

Steep canyons and ravines define this part of Edward’s Plateau. At Bear Creek State Park, woodlands, savannas and shrublands are home to many species. The steep slopes create “microclimates” where diverse plants and animals thrive. Migratory songbirds including the endangered golden-cheeked warbler nest in the park’s woodlands. Bobwhite and other grassland birds roam the savannas.

The rivers and creeks of the park create unique ecosystems of their own. Along the banks you'll find many small springs and creeks feeding the Frio River. We hope you’ll visit to learn how natural riverbanks and wetlands protect our groundwater and create habitats.

Home in the Hill Country

This area was also home to generations of Native American communities, and later, pioneers and ranchers. Archeologists have already found traces of Native American history in ancient campsites. Using these clues, we can learn how they cooked food, created tools and raised their families.

The area became home to ranchers in the 1800s. Abraham B. “Abe” Kelly established the first ranch at the junction of Bear and Spring creeks. This community thrived in the early 1900s but declined as the nearby towns of Concan and Uvalde grew.

Today, a new generation will enjoy and protect the natural beauty of this area for future Texans.

Creating a park

Opening a park requires multiple steps. Many factors impact the length of this process, including weather.

Baseline surveys are the first step. These surveys determine sensitive areas as well as areas we can develop. The surveys also identify the scenic and interesting places at the site.

With that information in hand, TPWD creates a Public Use Plan to guide the park’s development. We share that plan with the local community for feedback.

Once we finalize the plan, the design phase begins. Park planners design the look of the buildings, placement of parking, and other park infrastructure.

Finally, construction can begin.

Check back here for updates on the development of this state park.

Centennial Parks

TPWD will speed up the development of parks funded through the Centennial Fund, including this one.

The first public access will be in fall 2026, with public hunts, guided hikes, or special events. Check our events page to plan your first look at this new park!