Back to Nature

Explore over 5,000 acres of rugged canyons, scenic plateaus and tranquil creek bottoms at this former ranch northwest of San Antonio. Escape from the bustle of modern life to a more relaxed time and place.

Things to Do

Hill Country State Natural Area offers primitive camping, backpacking, na­ture-watching and multiuse trails for hikers, mountain bikers and horse­back riders. Reserve our lodge for your group.

Help us keep this natural area pristine by following these rules:

• Trails and backcountry camp­sites may be closed to protect sensitive areas or for bad weather; observe closure signs. Call or check our Face­book page or Twitter feed for up­dates before your visit.
• Campfires are allowed only in fire rings. You must bring fire­wood; you may not gather dead wood or cut standing timber here.
• Pets must be on leashes no longer than 6 feet. We strictly enforce this rule.

Fire danger conditions can change rapidly, leading to burn bans with little notice. Check with us before your visit.

We do not have a park store, so bring everything you will need.

Trails

Trails range from easy to challenging, from one-mile strolls to miles-long rambles. Learn more on our Trails Information page.

The easy Heritage Loop takes you past remnants of the for­mer ranch. The West Peak Overlook is a staff favorite, with a steep climb leading to expansive views of the western Hill Country.

Horseback riding

Bring your own horses to explore the natural area (you must present proof of current Coggins). Trail terrain ranges from flat, broad prairies to steep, rocky canyons.

Our day-use equestrian area is next to headquarters, and has a water trough, hitching posts and a flush toilet. You can also stay overnight at an eques­trian campsite. To conserve water, we do not have horse-washing stations.

The equestrian arena is available by reservation only; contact the natural area for information.

Camping

Get back to nature at one of our prim­i­tive walk-in or hike-in campsites. These sites have vault toilets nearby, but no showers. 

The lodge is available for those with and without horses. It has a kitchen and bathroom and sleeps nine. Five stalls, two pens and corrals are nearby.

Horseback riders can reserve an equestrian campsite or the group camp. The group camp comes with a barn and nine stalls. This camp has water and a vault toilet nearby, but no showers.

Guides

Don’t have a horse? New to hiking? Contact one of our guide service providers for hiking or horseback tours of the natural area.

Get involved

We need your help! Contact the natural area to learn more.

Support state parks by donating to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Foundation.

Ranger Programs

We offer a variety of programs. Check the Events page for the schedule, or contact us for special tours and pro­grams for your group.

Kids

Become a Junior Ranger:

• Borrow an Explorer Pack loaded with tools for exploring the natural area.
• Pick up a free Junior Ranger Activity Journal at head­quar­ters. Complete tasks to earn a badge.

Teachers

This is a Texas Aquatic Science Certified Field Site.

Area Attractions

Bandera calls itself the “Cowboy Capital of the World.” You’ll find dude ranches, kayak/tube rentals on the Medina River, rodeos and other special events in nearby Bandera, Medina and Pipe Creek.

Visit the Bandera County Convention and Visitors Bureau website to find out more.