Bring Plenty Of Water
Water is a must when you are hiking anywhere in Texas even if it does not feel hot, you will still likely be sweating. Grab a reusable water bottle to ensure you have water for your entire adventure.
When packing water, do not forget to bring enough water for your dogs! If you are hiking with your dog in Texas, you must always remember that they will need water as well.
Camping In Garner State Park
Camping is a widely popular thing to do in Garner State Park, there are 6 different camping areas! There are full hookup sites for your RV, campsites with electricity and campsites with water for pitching a tent. Some of the camping spots have waterfront views of the Frio River. Prices range from $15 – $35 nightly and bookings open up 5 months in advance.
How To Get Tolost Maples State Natural Area
If you are coming to Lost Maples State Natural Area from San Antonio, you will have at least two choices. You can take US 90 West to Sabinal, Texas. Then, turn right on RM187 and drive until you reach the park in about 37 miles. You can also take Interstate 10 West to Exit 556A. Follow Texas 16 N to Medina. Then, turn left on Ranch Road 337 to reach Vanderpool, where you will turn right on RM 187 to reach the park.
If you are coming to the park from Austin, take Interstate 35 South to Exit 172 at Universal City, Texas. Take the Texas 1604 loop and exit on TX 16 North. Drive to Medina, where you will take a left on Ranch Road 337 to reach Vanderpool. You will need to turn right on RM 187 to enter the park.
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State Natural Area Vs State Park
Why is Lost Maples a State Natural Area rather than a State Park?
Though the park is commonly referred to as Lost Maples State Park among Texans, its Natural Area status means that the focus of the protected area is to maintain the natural state of the area, rather than develop park facilities.
While hikers will find the functions near identicaland we use the terms State Natural Area and State Park somewhat simultaneously in this blog postthey are technically distinct .
South Llano River Campground Tx
South Llano River is a campground that lies withing South Llano State Park, a wonderful place for motorhome camping trips, as well as all kinds of recreational activities on the land and in the water. Located on the western edge of Texas Hill Country, the area is abundant with wildlife and features a lush pecan grove river bottom and rocky upland backcountry. The main attraction is the unique South Llano River, which, according to historical records, has never run dry.
The campsites at South Llano River State Park provide various options for different types of camping preferences. Around 58 sites include 30 amp electric and water hookups, plus a picnic table and nearby restrooms with hot showers. There are also
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Luxury Cabin Rentals Near Lost Maples Natural Area
Located just two hours northwest of the city of San Antonio, Texas, Lost Maples State Park is known for its autumn color, but is spectacular all year round. Here you can see abundant wildflowers, rugged canyon walls and the picturesque Sabinal River. At Lost Maples you can hike, take a photo shoot, go fishing, look for birds and other wildlife. You can even go camping and stargazing. Lost Maples protects a special stand of Uvalde big tooth maples. Many people come here to see colorful leaves on these and other trees in autumn. The spectacle varies according to weather conditions. There are more than 10 miles of trails, including a loop that takes you along a 2,200-foot clifftop. The best way to experience what Lost Maples offers is going camping. Lost Maples State Park cabins are ideal for a family getaway. These Lost Maples camping cabin rentals are fully-equipped to make your stay unforgettable. Take a look at these cabin rentals near Lost Maples Natural Area and book yours here at Glamping Hub!
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Sip Some Wine At Lost Maples Winery
Lost Maples Winery is located just down the street from the state park and has the most beautiful setting. You can participate in a tasting to truly experience everything they have to offer or grab a glass to enjoy.
Throughout the year, you can also stop in for the Farmers Market that they hold throughout the year. Pack a picnic and sit back and enjoy your dinner among the vineyard.
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Top Of The Hill Rv Resort Tx
When youre planning a vacation with a campervan rental in Kendall County, TX, you will need a place to make your temporary home. Consider camping at Top of the Hill RV Resort in Boerne. The resort offers a swimming pool, a fitness room, a clubhouse, a banquet hall, a community fire ring, and a fully stocked general store.
The campsites at Top of the Hill RV Resort feature full hookups with 20/30/50-amp service. Premium sites are available. Resort amenities include restrooms and showers, laundry facilities, and WiFi at some sites. The resort is family-friendly and pet-friendly.
Guadalupe River State Park
This river is so awesome that we had to talk about it again. If you have swimmers in your family, this state park will satisfy their little swimmer hearts. Theres lots of hiking as well, 13 miles to be exact. You can hike trails, bike, and horseback ride on the trails.
Also, if youre interested in the geography, theres even Honey Creek State Natural Area, which has guided tours every other Saturday. However, if youre busy on a Saturday, head over to the campground any other day. Youll have a great time exploring a gorgeous area close by to San Antonio.
Like I said, camping near San Antonio is a thing. It is very diverse depending on how far you want to drive or which area you pick to camp no excuses not to go camping now. If you want swimming, dinosaur tracks, geocaching, butterfly viewing, and boating, these campsites have them all.
Even if you have a picky family to please or, in my case, a not camping fan husband, one of these campgrounds is bound to get the interest of any family member. Try it out
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Lost Maples State Natural Area: Pristine Hill Country
Check out our cabins HERE!
Straddling the Bandera and Real County line in the Hill Country is the Lost Maples State Natural Area. For five decades, Lost Maples has defined the very best of the natural wonder the region has to offer. Backroads Reservations is proud to offer this overview of Lost Maples to all potential visitors to the Hill Country. The allure of this natural space makes Lost Maples Texas Hill Country’s most popular relaxation spot!
Anthropological and historical records show that the Lost Maples area had been inhabited by humans since prehistoric times. Luckily, however, throughout its history, the human habitation that took place had been low-impactthat is to say, no irreversible harm was done to the land, wildlife, or plant life indigenous to what we now know as the Texas Hill Country. Small Spanish colonies, Native American settlements, and ranching were prominent in the area during its more modern history , leaving it more or less untouched and in its natural state.
With all that said, Lost Maples is a hot spot for nature lovers from all over the country. Careful steps are taken in the area’s maintenance, so it looks almost exactly the way it did when man first stepped foot onto its land. Bring your binoculars you’ll be able to spot several species of birds and other wildlife that call the area home, not to mention its diverse display of beautiful plant life.
Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park Campground Tx
In the heart of the Texas Hill Country, the Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park Campground is a convenient RV camping site close to San Antonio, which are only two hours’ drive away. Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park campsites offer full hookups with 50/30 amp service, access to restrooms, and cable TV and wireless internet connections. Choose a site at the Pecan Orchard if you want to stay in a shadier spot with some privacy, or in the Upper Loop if you want a more open RV space. Picnic tables and barbecue pits are available to Fredericksburg campers at one of several pavilions that can be reserved for large gatherings.
With several on-site amenities and opportunities for outdoor
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Outside Lost Maples State Natural Area
Nearby Bandera is known as the Cowboy Capital of the World, and you can find many fun activities related to the western way of life to participate in. Vanderpool is a sleepy farming community surrounded by numerous scenic drives that have been rated as some of the best in the state. Utopia and other communities are also nearby and welcome you to come to visit them.
Enjoy A Crackling Campfire
Lost Maples State Park is smaller than most and allows you to enjoy your campsite with plenty of room. One way to enjoy your campsite and soak in the crisp and cool nighttime air is with a warm campfire.
Gather your family and friends and enjoy some smores around the campfire while you make memories that will last a lifetime. Remember that you must bring in firewood yourself or buy it from the visitor center you cannot collect firewood from the woods surrounding you.
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Quail Springs Rv Park Tx
When you’re considering a campervan rental in Uvalde County, youll need a place to make your temporary home. Quail Springs RV Park may be an excellent choice. This is an adult-only park. The park is grassy and wooded. There is a recreation hall with coffee, games, a kitchen, and planned activities.
The campsites at Quail Springs RV Park offer full hookups and connections for cable TV. Service is 30 or 50 amp. Camping at Quail Springs also includes access to restrooms and showers, laundry facilities, and WiFi. The park is pet-friendly.
As The Saying Goes What Goes Up
Youll need to hike back down eventually, so be prepared for that. The counter-clockwise way that we went makes the going down part a little less strenuous, so thank me later.
At the end of the descent, youre greeted by a lovely walk through the trees and eventually youll come to a swimmin hole with another restroom, and places to sit by the water.
The hike was almost six miles, and the hardest part was definitely the climb up, but there are plenty of places to rest along the trail and take in some views.
The remaining points of interest are both springs that are located on the far western part of the park, and unfortunately not where we explored.
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Parkview Riverside Rv Park Tx
If you’re looking for sights of unspoiled nature, cultural and historical attractions, and fun recreational activities, then dive into the magic of Concan’s Parkview Riverside RV Park. The RV park is close to beautiful, breathtaking natural attractions that are equally gorgeous during the quiet, golden days of fall and hot, sunny summer days.
Parkview Riverside RV Park has full hookup sites with 20/30/50 amp electrical service. The campground offers cable TV, picnic tables, and fire rings, plus sunny or shaded campsites, an air-conditioned bathhouse, and short and long-term storage. Wi-Fi is also available. You can bring pets as long as they are leashed and well-behaved, and the RV park has a clubhouse where you can play games or read a
Government Canyon State Natural Area
Dinosaurs. Thats all you need to know. Pack up your kids and go. Seriously. Your kids will love you and stop fighting with you about reading during the rest of the summer. What more could you want?
This campsite provides a hiking trail that passes by dinosaur footprints. Apparently, they are the only dinosaur tracks in Bexar County and could be from 110 million years ago. Seeing these will definitely strike up the conversation with your kids.
The campground also offers fun for the kids at the playscape and lots more trails for hiking and biking, depending on what activity your family likes the best.
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Top Camping Spots In And Near Lost Maples State Natural Area
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Vanderpool, Texas
4.0 2.5 mi / 849 ft gainStart at the day use overflow parking lot, there is a picnic area and a paved road will lead you to the trailhead for the East and West Trail Loops. Continue along, following the signs to the West Trail Loop. You’ll come across little river crossings, but much of the trail is rocky with a nice g…
- 4.0 7 mi / 849 ft gainThe Lost Maples West Trail Loop is a 7 mile loop hike that loops around the west portion of Lost Maples State Park. This trail is mostly shaded and offers gorgeous views and scenic overlooks. There are areas for swimming, if desired. Please be advised that there are steep areas and challenging in…
- 5.0 11.3 mi / 1 ft gainThe Lost Maples East and West Canyon trail is an 11.30 mile out-and-back hike located in Lost Maples State Park, right outside of Vanderpool, Texas. The trail provides scenic overlooks, beautiful maple trees, and an abundance of nature. The trail, along with the park, is most known for its beauti…
- 5.0 4.4 mi / 561 ft gainLost Maples State Natural Area is the go to place if you want to escape to New England-like Fall scenery in Texas, which is hard to believe for some. Tucked away deep in Hill Country near Vanderpool, TX, Lost Maples has a unique supply of Maple trees thanks to the deepness of the canyons found in…
Frio Riverbend Cabins And Rv Park Tx
The Frio Riverbend Cabins and RV Park offers a fantastic overnight destination. Located in the southwestern part of the Hill Country in Concan, TX, this campground offers a wonderful home base set right on the crystal clear Frio River and in the rugged green countryside. Open year-round, this is a great family-friendly spot for folks planning to book an RV in Uvalde County and camp with the whole clan. Pets are welcome here too , so dont forget to bring Fido along on your motorhome camping trip.
Tent camping is currently not available here, but this is a scenic, comfortable, and convenient place to go camping with an RV overnight. The campground features around 40 spaces, including gravel
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Lost Maples State Natural Area Overview:
Lost Maples State Park is a quiet and isolated small 2174 acre park located on the Sabinal River and is known for it’s strands of bigtooth maple trees. The park has steep, rugged limestone canyons, springs, plateau grasslands, wooded slopes, and clear streams. The Park has an isolated stand of uncommon Uvalde Bigtooth Maple and when the seasons change, the foliage is unbelievable with a dazzling show of fall colors – the best time of the year is generally the last two weeks of October through the first two weeks of November. The scenery is beautiful but the park gets very busy and parking is limited to 250 cars. Try to visit during the weekday when it is not so busy.
Lost Maples State Park is also home to a number of rare birds like the Green Kingfisher, the endangered Black-capped vireo, and the Golden-cheeked warbler. You’ll also likely to spot a variety of wild animals including gray fox, white-tailed deer, armadillo, raccoon, bobcat, javelina, and rock squirrel.
Cost Of Visiting Lost Maples Natural Area
If you plan to travel to multiple state parks, then the annual Texas State Park Pass is the best option. If you have a larger family or visit parks often, the pass will pay for itself in no time.
If you are simply coming in from out of town and want to explore for the weekend, a day pass for an adult is 6 dollars, and kids 12 and under are free.
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Johnson Creek Rv Resort Park Tx
An hour’s drive outside of El Paso.
Experience the majestic rolling hills of Texas and soak up the sun on 50 acres of lush land when you camp at Johnson Creek RV Resort and Park. This peaceful campground is dotted with pecan trees and grassland, with wide-open fields and meadows that guests can enjoy.
Johnson Creek RV campsites have full hookups, and tent camping is an option here, too. Ingram campers can take advantage of the RV park’s
Finally Made It Out To Lost Maples State Park For The Amazing Fall Colors
And maybe you caught on that this write-up is being posted 6 months late woof. We got caught up in the holiday season and never got around to the blog. But better late than never!
Lost Maples State Park is maybe one of the hardest Texas State Parks to book because of the short timeframe you can catch the maple trees changing colors. Reservations open 5 months in advance, so wed recommend setting a calendar alert to make sure you get a spot! But of course, the park is beautiful year round if youre open to going outside of the fall.
There are over 10 miles of hiking trails at Lost Maples State Park ranging from .5 – 3.5 miles round trip. And unlike a lot of Texas parks, you can actually get some elevation change!
Before heading into the park, we stopped by Lost Maples Winery in Vanderpool, because wine not. We were there in November 2020, so there was plenty of outdoor seating with social distancing in mind, and you can even walk down the hill to sit closer to the river. FYI this is about the last area you will have any cell coverage. There is no reception inside of the park. If you need service/wifi/ or snacks, the general store outside the park is also great.
We were joined by our lovely friends, Matt & Jenny for the weekend. There is a burn ban in place, so unfortunately no ground fires, but we stayed plenty warm with wine, chili, and hiking!
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