Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Park Alerts...

Viewing Eclipses at Enchanted Rock

Two eclipses are coming to Texas and the summit of Enchanted Rock will provide exceptional viewing for both.

On Oct. 14, 2023, Texans will experience an annular eclipse. Enchanted Rock is not in the path of totality for this eclipse but will see a 90 percent eclipse.

On April 8, 2024, the park will be in the path of totality for the total eclipse.

Read these FAQs if you are planning to visit Enchanted Rock to view an eclipse.

Reservations

How can I view the eclipse at Enchanted Rock?
Make a reservation for day passes and/or camping! Every vehicle entering the park must have a reservation. We encourage carpooling as parking is limited in the park and not available outside of the park.
Can I camp overnight in the park?
Yes, but reservations are required. A two-night minimum is required for April 7-8. We only offer tent camping; RV and car camping are not allowed. Learn more about our camping amenities.
Note: Camping is permitted at designated sites only.  Camping is not allowed on the summit of Enchanted Rock. No vehicle (parking lot) camping is allowed.
What is the first day to make camping reservations for the eclipses?
October eclipse: Camping reservations are open now.
April eclipse: Camping reservations open Nov. 7, 2023, at 8 a.m. CST. Call the Customer Service Center at (512) 389-8900 to reserve a campsite; reservations will not be available online. Walk-in sites will be not available.
What is the first day to make day pass reservations for the eclipses?
October eclipse: Day pass reservations open Sept. 14 2023, at 8 a.m. CDT. Make reservations online or by calling the Customer Service Center.
April eclipse: Day pass reservations open March 11, 2024, at 8 a.m. CDT. Call the Customer Service Center at (512) 389-8900; reservations will not be available online.
How many reservations can I make?
You can make two separate reservations per account. This can be two separate campsites reservations or two separate day pass reservations. The two separate day pass reservations would be for two vehicles and everyone inside those vehicles.
Note: Selling day passes to other people (scalping) may result in the cancellation of all passes associated with your account without a refund.
Is there a fee to make reservations?
A reservation consists of prepaying your admission or camping fees. Admission to the park is $8 for anyone age 13 and over; children 12 and under are free. The Texas State Park Pass waives day pass fees for everyone in the pass holder’s vehicle.
Will my Annual Park Pass count as a reservation?
Your annual pass waives your admission fees but does not guarantee park entry. You still need to make reservations even though payment is not required.
Can I make a reservation for my school group/Scout troop/other large organization?
We are not allowing large groups and organizations for the April eclipse. We want everyone to have a fair chance of viewing the total eclipse at Enchanted Rock.
Will I be able to leave the park and re-enter with my reservation?
Yes, you may leave at any time. There is no guarantee that you will be able to re-enter in a timely manner, however. It is 17 miles to Fredericksburg and 22 miles to Llano. Roads may be congested. The park’s entrance gate closes nightly at 8 p.m.
I made a reservation, but my plans changed. How do I cancel? Will I get a refund? Can I give my reservation to my friend?
The person who makes the reservation needs to be present when checking in. You may call our Customer Service Center at (512) 389-8900 for options. You can cancel your reservation by calling the CSC or online via your "My Account” page on our reservations website. Review the Texas State Parks refund policy.

Access and parking

I have reservations. How early should I arrive at the park?
We recommend heading to the park earlier than your reservation time to allow for projected traffic congestion. We also recommend fueling up your vehicle before coming to the park in case of traffic delays. To speed up entry, please print your reservation confirmation to present when you arrive.
I reserved a day pass for one vehicle, but now I want to bring two cars with the same number of people. Is this allowed?
No, each vehicle needs its own day pass reservation. We will not have room for additional vehicles once we sell out of day passes. The second car will be turned away.
Can I park my vehicle outside of the Enchanted Rock SNA to view the eclipse?
Enchanted Rock SNA is surrounded by private ranches and there are “No Parking/Tow Away Zone” signs outside of Enchanted Rock along Ranch Road 965. Walk-ins will not be allowed to enter.
Can I get dropped off or ride my bike to Enchanted Rock SNA and walk in to view the eclipse?
Walk-ins are not allowed. Everyone must have a reservation to enter the park.
Are buses or RVs allowed in the park on April 8?
We will have limited space and can only accommodate two buses or large RVs. Only the first two guests to reserve these spaces will be allowed.
I do not have a reservation. Where else can I see the eclipse?
Find information about viewing eclipses at Texas States Parks.
Visit the City of Fredericksburg’s website for other viewing options.

Day of the eclipse

Can I watch the eclipse from the summit of Enchanted Rock?
The Summit Trail will be open for eclipse viewing unless there is rain or severe weather. Keep in mind that it takes 45 minutes on average to reach the summit from the gazebo.
Can I picnic or barbecue?
Yes, picnicking is encouraged in the picnic area. Picnic tables and grills are available on a first-come first-served basis. Consider bringing your own table and chairs. If we are under a burn ban only propane stoves or propane grills will be permitted - no ash-producing fires will be allowed.
Can I buy food?
The park store and our park concessionaire have limited snacks and drinks. We suggest bringing your own snacks and drinks. The closest convenience store is 17 miles away in Fredericksburg.
Will we be able to get solar eclipse glasses in the park?
The park store will sell solar eclipse glasses on a first-come first-served basis.
I have an FFA permit. Can I fly a drone within the park?
Drone usage is not permitted in the park at any time.
Can I bring my dog?
You must keep your pet on a 6-foot or shorter leash, pick up after it, and stay in campgrounds or on the Loop Trail only. Pets are not allowed on any elevated trails, including the Summit Trail. You cannot leave a pet unattended. If you or part of your group want to hike to the summit, someone must stay behind with your pet.
Will there be any educational programs?
Yes, we are planning programs. Check for updates on our events page.