Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Open — Open year-round. Day use requires timed entry passes from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., September through May. Camping reservations available online up to 5 months in advance. Park gates open 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Prescribed burns may occur October through March.

About

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area protects one of the most iconic geological features in Texas: a massive pink granite dome that has drawn people for thousands of years. Rising 1,825 feet above sea level, the dome is the centerpiece of nearly 11 miles of hiking trails ranging from the popular Summit Trail to more remote backcountry routes. The campground system accommodates tent campers with 35 walk-in campsites located 25 to 100 yards from parking areas, equipped with water access, picnic tables, fire rings, and nearby restrooms with showers. For a more primitive experience, 20 hike-in backcountry sites at Moss Lake and Walnut Springs require a 1 to 3 mile hike over rugged terrain. A group camping area at Buzzards Roost serves organized parties. The park also offers technical rock climbing opportunities, and climbers must check in at headquarters for route maps and regulations. As a certified International Dark Sky Park, Enchanted Rock provides exceptional stargazing conditions. The natural area is located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, 17 miles north of Fredericksburg on Ranch Road 965. The park requires advance reservations for day use during peak times between 6:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. from September through May. All visitors must be off trails by 30 minutes after sunset, except the Loop Trail which remains open until 10 p.m. for campers.

Directions

From Austin: Take Highway 290 West to Fredericksburg. Turn right on Milam Street (Ranch Road 965). Travel 17 miles north to Enchanted Rock. From San Antonio: Take Highway 281 North to Johnson City. Turn west on Highway 290.

Nearby Campgrounds