Enchanted Rock State Natural Area - Texas
Enchanted Rock (16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg TX) is a pink granite mountain located in the Llano Uplift approximately 17 miles (27 km) north of Fredericksburg, Texas and 24 miles (39 km) south of Llano, Texas, United States. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area spans the border between Gillespie County and Llano County, south of the Llano River. Enchanted Rock rises approximately 425 feet (130 m) above the surrounding terrain to elevation of 1,825 feet (556 m) above sea level. It is the largest pink granite monadnock in the United States.
maps Texas - Travel Map Official Texas Travel Map. Published by the Texas Department of Transportation.
brochures Enchanted Rock - Map Park Map of Enchanted Rock State Natural Area (SNA) in Texas. Published by Texas Parks & Wildlife.
Enchanted Rock - Trails Trails Map of Enchanted Rock State Natural Area (SNA) in Texas. Published by Texas Parks & Wildlife.
Enchanted Rock - Brochure Interpretive Guide of Enchanted Rock State Natural Area (SNA) in Texas. Published by Texas Parks & Wildlife.
Enchanted Rock - Camping Camping at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area (SNA) in Texas. Published by Texas Parks & Wildlife.
Enchanted Rock - Birds Birds of Enchanted Rock State Natural Area (SNA) in Texas. Published by Texas Parks & Wildlife.
Enchanted Rock SNA
https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/enchanted-rock
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enchanted_Rock
Enchanted Rock (16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg TX) is a pink granite mountain located in the Llano Uplift approximately 17 miles (27 km) north of Fredericksburg, Texas and 24 miles (39 km) south of Llano, Texas, United States. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area spans the border between Gillespie County and Llano County, south of the Llano River. Enchanted Rock rises approximately 425 feet (130 m) above the surrounding terrain to elevation of 1,825 feet (556 m) above sea level. It is the largest pink granite monadnock in the United States.
Enchanted Rock
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dial 9-1-1
State Natural Area
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Loop Trail is approximately 4 miles
Summit Trail climbs 425 feet in 0.6 miles
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T-shirts, caps and one-of-a-kind
gift items are available at the Texas
State Park Store located in our
park headquarters building.
When hiking the trails, take a
quart of water per person and
pack out what you pack in.
Park Boundary
TPWD receives funds from the USFWS. TPWD prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, and gender, pursuant to state and federal law. To request an
accommodation or obtain information in an alternative format, please contact TPWD on a Text Telephone (TDD) at (512) 389-8915 or by Relay Texas at 7-1-1 or (800) 735-2989. If you believe you
have been discriminated against by TPWD, please contact TPWD or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office for Diversity and Workforce Management, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041.
© 2019 TPWD PWD MP P4507-119C (2/19)
Texas State Parks is a division of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
WARNING
Showers
Trail, cave and rock conditions are inherently
hazardous; visitors may encounter slippery
surfaces, steep inclines, vertical drops and
other hazardous conditions.
Compost Toilet
It is unlawful to disfigure, remove, excavate
or destroy any paleontological, prehistoric or
historic site or artifact. Violators may be
punished by a fine or confinement in jail. A
scientific permit is required to gather any
type of fossil, rock, plant or animal.
Primitive Campsites
Group Camping
Interpretive Center
Hiking Trail
Picnic Area
Playground
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Texas State Parks Store
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State Parks Store
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Water Only
Camping Area
Headquarters
Group Picnic Pavilion
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Pets are allowed ONLY within in the green
shaded areas and on green shaded trails,
and must remain on leashes at all times.
PLEASE NOTE
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TexasStateParks.org/App
Restrooms
Park Boundary
Turkey Pass Trail
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Moss Lake
Primitive
Camping Area
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Group Camping Area
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@TPWDparks
LEGEND
Park Boundary
No bikes
permitted
on park
trails.
/enchantedrock
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CHECK OUT time is 2 p.m. or renew permit by 9 a.m. (pending site availability).
Summit trail closed during rain events.
All climbers must sign waiver at Headquarters building.
Public consumption or display of any alcoholic beverage is prohibited.
Park is open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, except during public hunts.
Day use visitors must leave the park by 10 p.m.
A maximum of eight people per tent site with water are allowed; four people
per tent site in primitive area. Please see Fee Schedule.
Excess parking fee is required at campsites with more than two vehicles
(including trailers).
Campsite must be kept clean; all trash must be picked up before you leave.
Trash dumpsters are conveniently located on all camping loops.
Overnight camping is not permitted in any area outside the designated
campgrounds. No vehicle camping; no RV’s, camper trailers or any large
vehicles are permitted to cross the bridge.
Pets must be kept on leash. Please pick up after them.
Valid permit is required on windshield of each vehicle in park.
All vehicles are to remain on pavement.
Numbered sites for overnight camping only. NO PICNICKING.
Gathering of firewood is prohibited.
No fires in primitive area.
Campfires are permitted only in fire rings provided at each water only site.
No ground fires are permitted. Please, use extreme caution with any burning
materials during the high-fire danger summer brings.
PARK RESERVATIONS
TexasStateParks.org ParquesDeTexas.org (512) 389-8900
Scenic View
Dog Station
Pets Allowed
Enchanted Rock State
Natural Area Headquarters
Open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.,
7 days a week. Extended office
hours during high visitation.
16710 Ranch Road 965
Fredericksburg, TX 78624-6554
(830) 685-3636
Proud Sponsor of Texas State Parks
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area Trails Map
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POINTS OF INTEREST
Flag Pole
(GPS coordinates shown in degrees, minutes, seconds)
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1400
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Enchanted Rock
Echo Canyon
Trail
(0.67 mi.)
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1825'
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1600'
1482'
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1400'
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Park
Entrance
SCENIC OVERLOOK
30° 30.303" N 098° 49.963" W
Relax and enjoy a quiet, beautiful Hill Country sunset
and views of the surrounding Texas landscape.
Painted Buntings
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Texas State Parks is a division of the
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
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© 2018 Texas Parks and Wildlife Department PWD MP P4507-119Q (7/18)
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TPWD receives funds from the USFWS. TPWD prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, and gender, pursuant to state and federal law. To request an accommodation or obtain information in an alternative format, please contact TPWD on a Text Telephone (TDD) at (512) 389-8915 or
'
by Relay Texas at 7-1-1 or (800) 735-2989. If you believe you have been discriminated against by TPWD, 5please
contact TPWD or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office for Diversity and Workforce Management, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041.
00
1
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15
to Fredricksburg
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In accordance with Texas State Depository Law, this publication is available at the Texas State Publications Clearinghouse and/or Texas Depository Libraries.
1500'
8
1400'
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140
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1414'
No claims are made to the accuracy of
the data or to the suitability of the data
to a particular use.
ECHO CANYON
30° 30.321" N 098° 49.139" W
Stop in this beautiful area for some shade under the
oaks and a picnic in the boulders.
'
15
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4
0.2
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All trails are multi-use unless
otherwise indicated. Contour
intervals 20 feet. Trail lengths
are in miles. Elevation levels
are in feet. Map compiled by
Texas State Parks staff.
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1500'
0.08
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MOSS LAKE
30° 30.566" N 098° 49.559" W
Enjoy awe-inspiring views of Enchanted Rock and
Little Rock.
1411'
Connecting Trail
(0.16 mi.)
1
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1500'
16
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15
375'
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1700'
PETS ALLOWED IN
CAMPGROUNDS, PICNIC AREAS
AND LOOP TRAIL ONLY
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6
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1700'
3
0.1
Loop
Trail
(4.25 mi.)
BUZZARD‘S ROOST
30° 30.486" N 098°48.520" W
Crossing Sandy Creek from the south, you’ll see
the massive exfoliation sheet on Buzzard's Roost.
14
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1600'
5
Frog Pond
14
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1600
Interpretive
Loop
(0.50 mi.)
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TURKEY PEAK
30°30.180"N 098°48.881" W
Check out the jagged rocks of Turkey Peak!
23
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Frontside
Trail
(0.34 mi.)
400'
16
4
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16
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160
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0'
8
0.3
Little Rock
ENCHANTED ROCK SUMMIT
30° 30.386" N 098° 49.129" W
You'll see 360° views of the park and the Texas Hill
Country from the 1823 ft. summit of Enchanted Rock.
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0.
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16
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Scenic View
Trail
(0.09 mi.)
Turkey Peak
Summit
Trail
(0.67 mi.)
17
09
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8
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3
1383'
965
40
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Group Campsite
1600'
1500'
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8
Interpretive Trail
Connecting
Trail
(0.55 mi.)
'
Scenic Overlook
7
1
0.4
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LITTLE ROCK
30° 29.963" N 098° 49.273" W
Check out the giant boulders and other exfoliation
features of Little Rock.
15
00
'
16
Turkey Pass
Trail
(0.71 mi.)
1800'
Playground
2
00
Compost Toilet
INTERPRETIVE LOOP
30° 29.108" N 098° 49.129" W
This easy 1/2-mile stroll highlights the flora and fauna
at the
7 natural area. Get a brochure at the trailhead to
learn more!
Freshman Mountain
0.1
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6
0.3
Walnut Springs
Primitive
Camping Area
Buzzard’s Roost
Trail
(0.71 mi.)
1
14
Dog Allowed
06
0.
Moss Lake
Primitive Camping
3
0.3
6
Day Use Area
0.16
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W
Parking
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Buzzard’s
Roost
Primitive
Camping
Area
Buzzard's Roost
Moss Lake
Trail
(0.55 mi.)
'
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Showers
7
0.7
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0.12
Restroom
Base
Trail
(0.88 mi.)
15
2
0.2
Headquarters
1500'
Moss Lake
Primitive
Camping Area
0.58
Walnut Springs
Trail
(0.77 mi.)
LEGEND
Group Pavilion
1500'
1463'
16710 Ranch Rd. 965
Fredericksburg, TX 78624
(830) 685-3636
www.texasstateparks.org
1400'
1400'
3,000
4,000 Feet
1 Mile
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
Scenic views, geological
wonders, and stunning
beauty await.
TRAIL
DIST
TIME
DIFFICULTY DESCRIPTION
INTERPRETIVE
LOOP
.5 mi.
45 min.
Easy
This short trail provides an up-close look at many special plants and
animals plants and animals that live near the base of Little Rock.
LOOP
TRAIL
4.49 mi.
2.5 hrs.
ModerateDifficult
Take plenty of water with you on this trek around the perimeter of the
park. The granite pathway pathway takes you to to incredible views of
the natural area.
TURKEY PASS
TRAIL
.71 mi.
45 min.
Moderate
This shortcut gives you great views of Enchanted Rock on one side, with
Turkey Peak and Freshman Mountain on the other.
BASE
TRAIL
.88 mi.
30 min.
Moderate
From the intersection of Turkey Pass Trail or Echo Canyon Trail, take this
trail around the back side of the Rock for a different persp
INTERPRETIVE GUIDE
DO YOUR PART!
A SENSE OF WONDER SURROUNDS
THE PINK GRANITE DOMES OF
ENCHANTED
ROCK
STATE
NATURAL AREA. IF YOU CLIMB TO
THE TOP OF THE ROCK, RISING
425 FEET, YOU’LL BE TREATED TO
A PANORAMIC VIEW OF THE
TEXAS HILL COUNTRY. YET IF
YOU PEER CLOSER, YOU’LL FIND A
LIVING WORLD OF LICHENS,
FAIRY SHRIMP, AND MOSS
BENEATH YOUR FEET. LIKE THE
PEOPLE BEFORE US, YOU TOO
Thousands of people flock to Enchanted Rock each year
for adventure. It takes all of us to care for this place and
we need your help! Do your part by following Leave No
Trace® principles when you visit:
• Hike only on designated trails and bare granite rock.
Stay out of closed areas.
• Pets are permitted only on the Loop Trail and in the
camping and day use picnic areas.
• Keep your park clean by picking up your trash and
recycling when possible.
• Preserve the park for future generations by leaving
plants, animals, artifacts, and fossils where you find
them.
Join the Friends of Enchanted Rock State Natural Area,
a non-profit group that supports the park through donations, service, programs, and park store merchandise.
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
16710 Ranch Rd. 965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
(830) 685-3636 • www.tpwd.texas.gov/enchantedrock/
CAN EXPLORE AND FIND THE
EVER-CHANGING MAGIC HERE.
© 2021 TPWD. PWD BR P4507-0119T (7/21)
TPWD receives funds from the USFWS. TPWD prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, and gender,
pursuant to state and federal law. To request an accommodation or obtain information in an alternative format, please contact TPWD on a Text Telephone
(TTY) at (512) 389-8915 or by Relay Texas at 7-1-1 or (800) 735-2989 or by email at accessibility@tpwd.texas.gov. If you believe you have been discriminated against by TPWD, please contact TPWD, 4200 Smith School Road, Austin, TX 78744, or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office for Diversity and
Workforce Management, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041.
ENCHANTED
ROCK
S TAT E N ATU R A L A REA
E N C H A N T E D
R O C K
S T A T E
N A T U R A L
A R E A
ISLANDS OF LIFE IN A SEA OF ROCK
Weathering and erosion not only change the rock—these forces
also create tiny habitats. Water gathers in shallow craters in
the granite called vernal pools or weathering pits. Even though
they might look like just puddles, these pools are filled with life.
GRANITE DOMES AND LAYERS
At first glance, Enchanted Rock looks solid and durable.
The rock and surrounding domes are made of
Town Mountain granite, a hard, igneous rock.
But forces of change are active here and nothing
is permanent. Weathering and erosion created
the landscape you see today, and it’s still changing!
One billion years ago, this granite was part of a large pool
of magma, or hot liquid rock, perhaps seven miles below
the earth’s surface. It pushed up into the rock above in
some places, then cooled and hardened very slowly, turning
into granite. Over time, the surface rock and soil wore away.
Those pushed-up areas are the domes you see in the park:
Enchanted Rock, Little Rock, Turkey Peak and others.
Enchanted Rock and the other domes are exfoliation
domes. They have layers like an onion. After the rock and
soil on top wear away, the granite expands ever so slightly
because there is less weight bearing down on it. That
expansion causes the dome to split into curved sections.
As the outer layer of rock breaks into smaller pieces and
slides off, the next layer begins to peel away from the
dome. This is a process that continues today.
Each vernal pool begins as a depression in the rock where
water, soil, and other debris collect. This creates a place for
algae spores to germinate. Algae are a food source for microscopic animals called zooplankton. As the seasonal pools dry
out, the algae and zooplankton die or go dormant. This adds
organic matter to the bottom of the pools—making it possible
for larger plants and animals to live there.
You might see
vegetation, like
bluestem grass,
yucca, or even
live oak trees
thriving in
vernal pools.
Some plants,
like rock
quillwort and
granite flatsedge, don’t grow anywhere else in the natural area.
Wildlife rely on the pools, too. Fairy shrimp are tiny freshwater
crustaceans that live in vernal pools. Their eggs can survive hot
summers on the rock surface, even when the water dries up!
On Enchanted Rock and the other domes, you can discover vernal
pools in every part of the life cycle, from shallow depressions to
thriving wetlands to islands of vegetations in a sea of granite. Life
is fragile here—one step into a pool can negatively impact it forever.
WONDERFUL WATER SNAKES
If you like fishing, you have something in common with plain-bellied water snakes. These
non-venomous reptiles like to congregate in and near Sandy Creek. Extra-sharp teeth help
them grasp slippery fish, a main part of their diet. Because plain-bellied water snakes are
dark colored and live near water, many folks confuse them for
0.11
Enchanted Rock
1600'
S tate N at u r a l A r ea
Loop
For more information on
Trail
the Friends Group, visit
www.friendsofenchantedrock.com
(4.25 mi.)
1500'
Interpretive
Trail Guide
A Special Thanks to John Hueckstaedt
15
Interpretive
Loop
(0.50 mi.)
42
.
0
0.21
'
16
0.
Project Sponsors
'
00
15
4
0.2
0.08
00
Sa
n
0.
16
00
'
16
00
0'
140
'
1414'
Whole Earth Provision Co.
www.wholeearthprovision.com
1.0
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
(830) ' 685-3636
00
www.tpwd.texas.gov/enchantedrock
15
© 2015 Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
PWD BR P4507-119R (6/15)
In accordance with Texas State Depository Law, this publication is available at the Texas State
Publications Clearinghouse and/or Texas Depository Libraries.
TPWD receives funds from the USFWS. TPWD prohibits discrimination on the basis of race,
color, religion, national origin, disability, age, and gender, pursuant to state and federal
law. To request an accommodation or obtain information in an alternative format, please
contact TPWD on a Text Telephone (TDD) at (512) 389-8915 or by Relay Texas at 7-1-1 or
(800) 735-2989. If you believe you have been discriminated against by TPWD, please
contact TPWD or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office for Diversity and Workforce
Management, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041.
Welcome to Enchanted Rock’s Interpretive
Trail! This half-mile loop exemplifies the
diversity of the area. As it winds through
grassland and forest and skirts the base of
Little Rock, take note of the variety of hardwood trees and numerous forbs, ferns and
shrubs that have adapted to living at the edge
of the rock. The trail contrasts the richness of
the forest to the stark beauty of the granite and
the ever-changing skies above. And with just a
little imagination, you can experience the echoes
of past humans. What may have attracted
people to this area? What brought you here?
his publication is available at the Texas State Publications Clearinghouse and/or Texas Depository Libraries.
As you enjoy your walk, please follow
these trail guidelines for a safe trip!
Park
• Always carry water and a map.
Entrance
• Stay on the trail to protect yourself
and the resources.
• Keep pets on a leash to keep them
safe and protect wildlife.
• Respect wildlife by keeping a safe
distance from them.
• Leave No Trace. Take only pictures
and leave only footprints.
The Riparian Sponge
Hold On Tight!
Woods and Water
The Big Picture
Many Hill Country streams are ephemeral, or
temporary. Sandy Creek is no different, and even
when it appears dry, this riparian area stores water
underground and sustains a small stream flow.
Many plants like switchgrass, gamagrass, muhly and
buttonbush depend on this stored water to survive.
Lichens and mosses establish footholds in nooks
and crannies that have just enough space for soil
and water to collect in. A variety of lichens that
colonize granite surfaces and mosses covering
many rocks along the trail. Most commonly you
will find the crustose (growing like a crust) lichens
painting the rocks red, neon green, black, and
bright orange.
Many shrubs and larger trees
thrive from water available in the
sandy soil at the base of the rock.
You’ll see cedar elm, Texas buckeye, post oak and live oak in this
shadier area. Look even closer for
the granite mountain wild buckwheat (Eriogonum tenellum), a low
growing light gray bush found
among small granite outcroppings
in spring and summer.
Lonestar Grass
Live Oak Community
Plateau live oak trees (Quercus fusiformis), common
to the Hill Country, can live to be hundreds of years
old. Oak mottes are groupings of small oaks connected
by a single root system. See if you can spot the live
oaks along the trail. Look closer at
the live oak’s branches to
spot small clumps of
ball moss. Ball moss is
an ephiphyte, taking
nothing from the tree
as it gets moisture and
nutrients from the air.
Rock to Soil
Notice the cracks in the rock and the missing
pieces of the granite puzzles. Over millions of years,
weathering has cracked, chipped, and whittled away
at layers of the granite domes in front of you. It
begins with a process called exfoliation, whereby
large pieces of granite separate themselves from the
granite mass, much like an onion skin. The erosion of
granite creates a unique soil environment that allows
flora and fauna to thrive and grow in this otherwise
dry and rocky landscape.
The People
of Enchanted
Rock
Humans have
inhabited Central
Texas and the areas
around Enchanted
Rock for over
12,000 years. Native
Americans as far back
as the Clovis and
more recently the Tonkawa, Apache, and Comanche
relied on the resources available around the sacred
rock. Some plants they found useful were the
persimmon and mesquite. They even used depressions in the granite to grind seeds into flour!
Ferns of Enchanted Rock
Enchanted Rock is home to a surprisingly
large number of fern species. Over 25
different ferns have been recorded here.
One of th
So You Want To Rock Climb or Boulder At E-Rock?
Important notes for climbers from the CTCC
Traditional Area
By its designation as a State Natural Area, the natural character and features of Enchanted Rock are protected for the
enjoyment of all visitors. We’re very fortunate that the granite domes and boulders at Enchanted Rock have enjoyed a long
and ongoing history of traditional-style ascents. The use of pitons is never allowed, and crack climbs are almost exclusively
protected using trad gear. A few climbs involve a mix of pre-placed bolts and trad gear placements (for example Mercy
Street on the News Wall). It is against park rules and regulations to use trees or other plants for protection, anchoring or
rappelling, and any such use is punishable by a fine.
As climbers we have a responsibility to be respectful of our surroundings and of the rights of other park visitors. If you
would like to learn how to trad climb or to place removable (“clean”) anchors, there are several experienced guide services
available for Enchanted Rock, and a list of these is available at www.tpwd.tx.us/state-parks/enchanted-rock. It is advised
that you fully learn and become fluent with these techniques before you attempt climbing in this traditional way.
Fixed Protection
No alteration of any rock feature or bolt is allowed without explicit written approval from TPWD. There are fixed expansion
bolts placed as climbing protection in many areas at Enchanted Rock. Many of these climbs were originally bolted on lead,
from the ground up. For the most part bolted routes should be considered “sporty” rather than “sport” meaning that there
(continued on other side)
(continued from other side)
may be substantial run-outs between anchors, increasing the risk of falls. The park and community want to sustain the
legacy of these climbs and consider them and their story important to the climbing history at Enchanted Rock SNA. Before
you start a climb, please be sure you know what you are getting into and that you are capable of safely leading the route.
In case you may be unsure, many climbs are easily set up for top-roping.
Rope Length
As a traditional area, Enchanted Rock was bolted in the same fashion as many other multi-pitch trad areas. The anchors are
designed for you to treat the climb as a multi-pitch endeavor and either walk off the top or rappel from designated rap
stations. This means for instance that the climbing rope will not reach the ground to enable safely lowering a climber or
rappelling from the anchors of various climbs on the northwest side of the main dome. In fact many rappel stations in that
area require at least a 70 meter rope.
We strongly suggest that you always tie a safety knot near the end of your rope before climbing or rappelling. The next
suggestion is to traverse to the rappel station on the News Wall to descend from all of the back side climbs. This station is
in Beer Can Alley between the climbs Nobody Likes Bryant Gumbel and Late Nite. You will find two large rap bolts at the
break in the boulders. Please do not use this rap station for top-roping or other purposes (except in an emergency), to keep
the bolts available for use in descending.
Bolt Placements and Route Maintenance
Under a long-standing agreement with TPWD, the Central Texas Climbing Committee (CTCC) oversees and maintains all
fixed protection and anchors at Enchanted Rock. If you feel there is a placement that needs attention for any reason,
please advise the park staff and also contact us promptly at centraltexascc@gmail.com. Please do not attempt to perform
any maintenance work on your own, and be aware that any modification of the rock or an existing placement is illegal.
Enchanted Rock SNA Climbing Routes List
This brief list attempts to provide interested individuals with general information on the location and difficulty of a few
representative climbs in various areas within the park. The climbs listed are rated according to the Yosemite Decimal
System, and range from 5.0 to 5.11 with higher ratings indicating increasing difficulty. The short phrases following the rating
indicate the type of climb and the quality of available protection (providing you find it). Most routes car be top-roped if an
upper belay is desired.
Free climbing is permitted in the park; the placement of bolts, pitons or other devices that deface the rock in any manner is
not allowed. CLIMB CLEAN!
EXISTING HARDWARE IS NOT APPROVED OR MAINTAINED BY TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT. THE
DEPARTMENT IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ACCIDENTS AND VISITORS CLIMB AT THEIR OWN RISK.
Climb Name
Becky
Ben's Dilemma
Boston
Cave Crack
Can Opener
Chunky Tuna
Cubes
Dungeon
Easier Than it Looks
Eat
Edge of Night
Fear of Flying
Frog
False Determination
Grand Traverse
Grass Crack
Hangover
In The Beginning There Were Ducks
Innominate
Lichen Delight
Little Feat
Little Friskies
Lunch Rock
Middle Crack
Mirage
Motorboat
Orange Peel
Owl
Raw Meat
Ripple
Runamuck
Sanders Traverse
Smorgasbo
Enchanted Rock
@TPWDparks
TexasStateParks.org/App
LEGEND
Lo
o
To Rock
) only.
@texasparkswildlife
/enchantedrock
p
ail
Tr
Headquarters
State Parks Store
Cr
e
No vehicle camping. Tent camping only.
Showers
Tent Pad Only
Loop
Telescope
Gazebo
Restrooms
ek
Trail
No hammocks in trees.
Hammocks on shade shelters (
#BetterOutside
/texasparksandwildlife
Sa
nd
y
No bikes
permitted
on park
trails.
#TxStateParks
Summit T
rail
State Natural Area — Tent Camping
For emergencies after 5 p.m.,
dial 9-1-1
Tent Pad & Shade Shelter
Interpretive Center
Hiking Trail
Trailhead
Picnic Area
Parking
RR
96
5
Playground
Telescope
N
Lo
Tr
ail
San
dy
Cr
e
op
ek
Bus and
trailer
parking
Enchanted Rock State
Natural Area Headquarters
Texas State Parks Store
RR 965
Park Boundary
TPWD receives funds from the USFWS. TPWD prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, and gender, pursuant to state and federal law. To request an
accommodation or obtain information in an alternative format, please contact TPWD on a Text Telephone (TDD) at (512) 389-8915 or by Relay Texas at 7-1-1 or (800) 735-2989. If you believe you
have been discriminated against by TPWD, please contact TPWD or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office for Diversity and Workforce Management, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041.
© 2019 TPWD PWD MP P4507-119E (1/19)
Texas State Parks is a division of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
T-shirts, caps and one-of-a-kind
gift items are available at the Texas
State Park Store located in our
park headquarters building.
Open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.,
7 days a week. Extended office
hours during high visitation.
16710 Ranch Road 965
Fredericksburg, TX 78624-6554
(830) 685-3636
PARK RESERVATIONS
TexasStateParks.org ParquesDeTexas.org (512) 389-8900
TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE
VERNAL
POOLS
AT
Enchanted Rock
STATE NATURAL AREA
A Threatened Natural Resource
The “islands” of vegetation on the
bare granite summit of Enchanted
Rock are some of the most ecologically
significant and severely threatened
features of this state natural area.
Known as soil islands, weathering
pits, gammas or vernal pools, these
patches of vegetation on bare rock
develop in depressions formed by
weathering over thousands of years.
The depressions shelter an assemblage of
plants and animals uniquely adapted to a
harsh environment. In fact, by studying
weathering pits, ecologists learn: (1) how
plants and animals colonize a newly formed
habitat; (2) how those organisms modify their
environment and help develop soils; and,
(3) how plant and animal community structure
and composition change over time.
At Enchanted Rock you can see the progressive
development from bare rock-bottom pits, to
annual plant establishment, to miniature
prairies with grasses like little bluestem and
even trees like live oak. Vernal pools also
support an interesting species of invertebrate,
the fairy shrimp. These tiny animals survive
total desiccation as fertilized eggs, and hatch
into larvae and grow into adults each time
water collects after sufficient rainfall.
Because of the fragile nature of weathering
pits, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
wants to make sure visitors are aware of their
significance. Too often they are perceived as
nothing more than convenient rest areas or
even “bathrooms” and are subject to trampling,
littering and other forms of waste. PLEASE
REFRAIN FROM ENTERING WEATHERING PITS
UNDER ANY CONDITION. Enjoy and observe
these special features only from their granite
margins – STAY ON THE ROCK. Thank you for
protecting an important part of the Enchanted
Rock experience.
© 2018 TPWD
PWD CD P4507-119P (4/18)
In accordance with Texas State Depository Law, this publication is available at
the Texas State Publications Clearinghouse and/or Texas Depository Libraries.
TPWD receives funds from the USFWS. TPWD prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, and gender, pursuant to state and federal law. To request an accommodation or obtain information
in an alternative format, please contact TPWD on a Text Telephone (TDD) at (512) 389-8915 or by Relay Texas at 7-1-1
or (800) 735-2989. If you believe you have been discriminated against by TPWD, please contact TPWD or the U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service, Office for Diversity and Workforce Management, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041.
TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE
BIRDS
OF
ENCHANTED ROCK
S TAT E N AT U R A L A R E A
A FIELD CHECKLIST
2018
Cover: Illustration of Greater Roadrunner by Rob Fleming.
INTRODUCTION
E
nchanted Rock State Natural Area, in Llano and Gillespie Counties, is one of
the gems of the Texas State Parks system. The park is located in the geological
region known as the Llano Uplift or the Central Mineral Region of the Texas
Hill Country. The area has vast exposures of ancient rock and is one of the most
geologically interesting in Texas.
Biologically, the park is similar to the Edwards Plateau but there are also
affinities with the northern plateau of Mexico and the Trans-Pecos region of Texas.
The oak-hickory woodlands which develop on the soils derived from granite are
distinctly allied with the Cross Timbers and woodlands of eastern Texas. Interestingly, many of the ferns found at Enchanted Rock are distributed across northern
Mexico and Trans-Pecos Texas and are at their extreme eastern limit at Enchanted
Rock. Conspicuous by their absence are Texas Oaks and Ashe Juniper which are
otherwise common on nearby limestone soils.
In general, park habitats are varied and include oak-hickory woodlands and
savannahs, seemingly bare rock surfaces colonized by lichens and mosses, vernal
pools and meadows, and open mesquite-cedar elm woodlands. Along Sandy Creek,
there is a gallery woodland of oak, elm, hickory and white buckeye.
Birdlife in the park is varied and interesting. Resident birds include Northern
Cardinal, Eastern Bluebird, Carolina and Bewick’s Wrens, Canyon Towhee, Goldenfronted and Ladder-backed Woodpeckers, Carolina Chickadee and Black-crested
Titmouse.
In the spring and fall, several species of wood warblers rest and feed in the
gallery woodlands around the day-use area. Rock Wrens can often be seen flitting
about in the rocks near the trail to the summit of Enchanted Rock. On the lower
slope of Enchanted Rock, Black-throated Sparrows may be seen. This grassy are
is also good for wintering sparrows such as Harris’s, Lincoln’s, Vesper, and Whitecrowned. Some resident sparrows which are easily observed are Rufous-crowned
and Field.
In the summer, Bell’s Vireos may be heard singing from the mesquite trees
along the road to the camping area. In spring or fall, a hawk migration seen from
the summit of Enchanted Rock is a thrilling experience. Also noteworthy are the
flight patters of vultures over Buzzard’s Roost. Moss Pond is a good spot to see
migrating and wintering ducks and possibly shorebirds, as well as the resident
Belted Kingfishers.
This checklist is based on the work done by Kay and Ernest Mueller of Kerrville.
This edition has been updated by Sherry Wilson. The organization and nomenclature
of the birds listed here follow the American Ornithological Society Check-list of
1
North American Birds, 7th edition as currently supplemented. Because we will
be updating this checklist as additional observations are made, we solicit your help
and ask that you report new or unusual sightings or observations. Reports may be
sent to the Natural Resources Program, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, 4200
Smith School Road, Austin, Texas 78744 or may be left at the park headquarters
for forwarding.
Please help us protect the natural avian communities in our parks by
refraining from using playback tapes of bird songs. Frequent use of these
tapes disrupts essential territorial behavior and may lead to nest failure.
Thank you for your cooperation.
LEGEND
Seasons
Sp = spring (March – May)
S = summer (June – August)
F = fall (September – November)
W = winter (December – February)
Abundance
A = abundant — should be seen on 75% or more of trips in proper habitat
and season
C = common — should be seen on 50% or more of trips in proper habitat
and season
U = uncommon — should be seen on 25% or more of trips in proper habitat
and season
O = occasional — should be seen on 10% or more of trips in proper habitat
and season
R = rare — not seen annually but expected to occur again
X = accidental — only one or two records in the past ten years
I = irregular — absent some years, but may be numerous in others
* = breeding species — known to breed in park or breeding strongly suspected
2
CHECKLIST
Sp
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
S
F
Black-bellied Whistling-Duck............................... X
Greater White-fronted Goose................................ O O
Gadwall................................................................ C C
American Wigeon................................................. C C
Mallard................................................................ U U
Blue-winged Teal.................................................. C C
Northern Shoveler................................................ U U
Northern Pintail.................................................... U U
Green-winged Teal...........
Enchanted
Rock
STATE NATURAL AREA
H I L L C O U N T RY
Enchanted Rock
STATE NAT URAL A RE A
Breathtaking, intriguing, and beautiful – words alone fail
to provide an adequate description of the massive pink
granite dome and rugged landscape that is Enchanted
Rock. Our Native American ancestors have called this
place home for thousands of years. Today, visitors come
to make the fascinating trek to the rock’s summit, where
they are treated to panoramic views of the Texas Hill
Country. Scenic trails along the rock’s base are especially
pretty in the spring, and high cliffs on the northwest side
of the main dome attract rock climbers.
Camping: Walk-in campsites (no RVs) with water only;
also primitive sites reached by backpacking.
Group Facilities: Group picnic pavilion (capacity 200).
Sponsored Youth Group area.
Picnicking: Picnic sites with tables and grills.
Trails: 8.4 miles of hiking trails.
Rock Climbing: No bolts, pitons or other rock-damaging
equipment allowed. Climbers must register at park
headquarters.
Texas State Parks Store: Unique gifts, books, etc.
to Llano
87
RR 965
Enchanted Rock
State Natural Area
16
290
Johnson
City
Fredericksburg
16
87
281
to Austin
290
Located in Gillespie and Llano counties,
18 miles north of Fredericksburg on
RR 965 or south from Llano on Texas 16
for 14 miles, then west on R.R. 965 for eight miles.
Enchanted Rock SNA
16710 RR 965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624 • (830) 685-3636
www.texasstateparks.org
Rates and reservations: (512) 389-8900. For info only: (800) 792-1112.
Texas State Parks is a division of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
© 2018 TPWD PWD CD P4507-119K (8/18)
In accordance with Texas State Depository Law, this publication is
available at the Texas State Publications Clearinghouse and/or Texas Depository Libraries.
TPWD receives funds from the USFWS. TPWD prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, and gender, pursuant to state and federal law. To request an accommodation or obtain information
in an alternative format, please contact TPWD on a Text Telephone (TDD) at (512) 389-8915 or by Relay Texas at 7-1-1
or (800) 735-2989. If you believe you have been discriminated against by TPWD, please contact TPWD or the U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service, Office for Diversity and Workforce Management, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041.
-Official-
FA C I L I T I E S
MAPS
Get the Mobile App:
ACTIVITIES
texasstateparks.org/app
2022 Toyota Tundra
Official Vehicle of
the Texas Parks &
Wildlife Foundation
Introducing a truck that needs no introduction. The new
Tundra was born from a legacy of invincibility. And designed
to take on everything the great state of Texas has to offer.
toyota.com/Tundra
Built Here Lives Here: Assembled in
Texas with U.S. and globally sourced parts.
Contents
4
6
8
10
Activities and Programs
Parks Near You
Places to Stay
Recreational
Vehicles
12 Tips for Time
in Nature
Eisenhower
14 Visitor Fees
and Passes
Directory
18 Big Bend Country
Fort Davis
28 Gulf Coast
34 Hill Country
48 Panhandle Plains
56 Pineywoods
64 Prairies and Lakes
80 South Texas Plains
86 Facilities and Activities
TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT
Carter P. Smith Executive Director
Rodney Franklin State Parks Director
Mischelle Diaz Communications Director
TPW COMMISSION
Arch “Beaver” Aplin, III, Chairman
Lake Jackson
Dick Scott, Vice-Chairman Wimberley
James E. Abell Kilgore
Oliver J. Bell Cleveland
Paul L. Foster El Paso
Anna B. Galo Laredo
Jeffery D. Hildebrand Houston
Robert L. “Bobby” Patton, Jr. Fort Worth
Travis B. “Blake” Rowling Dallas
T. Dan Friedkin, Chairman-Emeritus Houston
Lee Marshall Bass, Chairman-Emeritus Fort Worth
Index
44 State Parks Map
Special thanks to Toyota and advertisers, whose
generous support made this guide possible.
Texas State Parks is a division of the Texas Parks
and Wildlife Department.
Cover photo: Tyler State Park, Chase Fountain
Texas State Parks Official Guide, Eighteenth Edition © TPWD PWD BK P4000-000A (3/22)
TPWD receives funds from the USFWS. TPWD prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, and gender, pursuant to state and federal law. To request an accommodation or obtain information in an alternative format, please contact TPWD on a Text Telephone
(TTY) at (512) 389-8915 or by Relay Texas at 7-1-1 or (800) 735-2989 or by email at accessibility@tpwd.texas.gov. If you believe you have been discriminated against by TPWD, please contact TPWD, 4200 Smith School Road, Austin, TX 78744, or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office for Diversity and
Workforce Management, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041.
In accordance with Texas State Depository Law, this publication is available at the Texas State Publications Clearinghouse and/or Texas
Depository Libraries.
WELCOME
from Rodney Franklin, State Parks Director
It’s an exciting time in Texas State Parks. The challenges
of the last few years have led many people to explore
the outdoors in new and adventurous ways. Many Texans
discovered their state parks for the first time, while longtime users have discovered new parks to visit. The variety
of Texas’ lands is unmatched; from the mountains of west
Texas to the gulf shores, the Texas State Park system
celebrates and preserves the natural and cultural treasures that make Texas such a
special place. You might say that the 630,000-plus acres that make up the state park
system is nearly as diverse as the people of Texas.
Since 1923 our mission has been to help connect our visitors with the outdoors. Every
day we look for new and better ways to live that mission and make sure state parks
are welcoming to every Texan, regardless of their background or experience with
being outside. I hope you’ll visit soon and often, while
bringing your friends and family along. I’m glad you’re
here and we’re looking forward to celebrating the 100year anniversary of state parks with you very soon.
What’s new in state parks?
>> New facilities to welcome visitors at Ray Roberts Lake – Johnson Branch,
Franklin Mountains, and Galveston Island State Parks
>> R
epairs completed at Stephen F. Austin’s group facilities, McKinney Falls’ visitor
center, Goose Island’s fishing pier and bayfront campsites and Lake Livingston’s
fishing pier and marina
>> Improvements and major repairs are planned
for Tyler, South Llano River, Cedar Hill and several
other state parks
>> B
almorhea State Park reopened their
pool and day use area following repair and
reconstruction. Over 600 acres of land was also
added to the park.
>> Construction has begun at Palo Pinto
Mountains State Park.
texasstateparks.org/whatsnew
ACTIVITIES & PROGRAMS
What is there to do
in state parks?
Enjoy a family picnic, tour a hallowed historic site or choose
from some of these visitor favorites:
Bike
Pedal across parks at
any speed, in any style,
with any group. Choose
the routes, surfaces and
distances that fit your
comfort zone.
Walk
Start with a shorter loop,
tackle tougher terrain or join
a guided tour.
Fish
Fish without a license in as
many as 70 state parks.
Many offer tackle loaner
programs and special learnto-fish events.
Boat or Paddle
Rent canoes and kayaks,
explore a Texas Paddling
Trail or launch a boat.
View Wildlife
Discover the birds, mammals
and p
Guía de
Parques
INSTALACIONES
Descarga la
Aplicacíon Móvil
MAPAS
ACTIVIDADES
texasstateparks.org/app
¡Los niños
entran gratis!
La entrada es gratis para los niños de
12 años y menores.
Encuentra un parque:
parquesdetexas.org
Contenido
Estero Llano Grande SP
2 Actividades y Programas
4 Parques Cercanos
6 Lugares para Quedarse
8 Tarifas y Pases
9 Directorio
10 Mapa de Parques
18 Instalaciones y Actividades
BIENVENIDO
Rodney Franklin, Director de Parques
Texas tiene algunas de las tierras públicas más diversas del país, con una
gran riqueza natural y cultural. La vida silvestre está por todas partes,
los paisajes florecen con belleza, y la historia es abundante. Sus parques
estatales son parte del legado que nos enorgullece. La gente de Texas ayuda a asegurar ese
legado para las generaciones futuras al visitar y ser voluntarios. ¡Gracias!
Estos más de 630,000 acres exhiben algunos de los grandes tesoros del estado. Los parques
nos ayudan a crear recuerdos con la familia y a encontrar consuelo en la naturaleza. Los
parques fortalecen las economías locales y unen a las comunidades. Sobre todo, los parques
nos permiten pasar tiempo al aire libre para recargar energías, estar saludables y relajarnos a
nuestra manera.
Les invito a disfrutar de sus parques estatales,
explorando lo mejor de Texas con amigos y familia. Los
parques están aquí para todos. Nos pertenecen a todos.
¡Visítelos, diviértase y ayude a protegerlos para siempre!
Foto de portada: Estero Llano State Park, Chase Fountain
© 2021 TPWD PWD BK P4000-000A (5/21)
TPWD recibe fondos del Servicio de Pesca y Vida Silvestre de EE.UU. (USFWS
por sus siglas en ingles). TPWD prohíbe la discriminación por raza, color, religión,
nacionalidad de origen, discapacidad, edad y género, conforme la ley estatal y
federal. Para solicitar un acomodo especial u obtener información en un formato
alternativo, por favor contacte a TPWD en un Teléfono de Texto (TTY) al (512) 3898915 ó por medio de “Relay Texas” al 7-1-1 ó (800) 735-2989 ó por email a accessibility@tpwd.texas.gov. Si usted cree que TPWD ha discriminado en su contra, favor
de comunicarse con TPWD, 4200 Smith School Road, Austin, TX 78744, o con el
Servicio de Pesca y Vida Silvestre de EE.UU., Office for Diversity and Workforce
Management, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041.
De acuerdo con la Ley de Depósito del Estado de Texas, esta publicación está disponible en el centro de Distribución de Publicaciones del Estado de Texas y/o las
Bibliotecas de Depósito de Texas.
ACTIVIDADES Y PROGRAMAS
¿Qué puedo hacer en
los parques estatales?
¡Disfruta de un día de campo, visita un sitio histórico
o elige entre muchas otras opciones!
Bicicletas
Pedalea a lo largo de los
parques a cualquier velocidad,
en cualquier estilo, con cualquier grupo. Elige las rutas, el
tipo de terreno y las distancias que cumplan con tu zona
de confort.
Caminatas
Empieza con un circuito más
corto, avanza a terrenos más
difíciles o únete a una caminata guiada.
Pescar
Puedes pescar sin licencia en
tantos como 70 parques estatales. Muchos parques ofrecen
equipo para pescar a manera
de préstamo y eventos especiales para aprender a pescar.
Barcos
Renta canoas y kayacs y
explora uno de los senderos
acuáticos en Texas.
Nadar
Animales Silvestres
Acampar
Descubre aves, mamíferos y
plantas que tienen su hogar en
Texas. Muchos parques tienen
señalamientos y listados que
te ayudan a aprender más.
Encuentra un lugar que cumpla
con lo que quieres. Prueba
nuevas recetas, comparte historias favoritas y disfruta de
las estrellas.
2
Más información y reservaciones: parquesdetexas.org
Escape del calor en arroyos,
ríos, lagos, manantiales, piletas
y playas del mar.
Tu seguridad en el agua
es muy importante. Lleva
el chaleco salvavidas.
Aprende a nadar. Guarda
a los niños.
(512) 389-8900
¡Pregunta en tu parque cuáles
están disponibles!
Los niños
de 12 años
y menores
entran
GRATIS
Cielos Estrellados
Escapa de las luces de la ciudad y goza de
maravillosas vistas del cielo que no encontrarás
en ninguna otra parte. Ven a una fiesta de
estrellas o toma una excursión de constelaciones auto-guiada.
Familias en la Naturaleza
Elige un taller o diseña tu propia aventura. ¡Monta
una tienda de campaña, cocina al exterior, prende
una fogata y juega al exterior! Nosotros te
Toma una publicación gratuita de actividades o
pregunta por los paquetes gratuitos con los parques proporcionamos todo el equipo. No es necesario
tener experiencia.
participantes. Usa los binoculares, lupas, libros de
bosquejos y libros de guías para explorar el parque.
Mochilas para Exploradores
Soldados Búfalo de Texas
Descubre la historia con cuentos, vestuarios y
herramientas. Sigue la pista de un animal, pesca con
caña, cocina sobre una fogata, visita los fuertes y más.
Adéntrate en las historias de vida de aquellos que
sirvieron valientemente en los primeros regimientos
Áfrico-Americanos de las Fuerzas Armadas.
!
Seguridad en el Parque
Ten cuidado con el agua
Pre