Hill Country State Natural Area

About

Hill Country State Natural Area preserves over 5,300 acres of classic Texas Hill Country terrain in Bandera County, featuring rocky limestone hills, spring-fed creeks, and oak-juniper woodlands. The park offers primitive camping exclusively, making it ideal for those seeking a more rustic outdoor experience. Walk-in campsites are located along scenic creek corridors at West Verde Creek, Comanche Bluff, and Chaquita Falls, each requiring only a short walk from parking areas. Backcountry camping options include hike-in sites at Butterfly Springs (2.87-mile hike), Hermit's Shack, and Wilderness areas that operate on a first-come, first-served basis. The park is popular with equestrians, offering the Chapas Camp group area with a large barn, horse stalls, electric hookups, and water troughs. Over 40 miles of multiuse trails traverse the property for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The park frequently reaches capacity on weekends and holidays, so advance reservations for walk-in sites are highly recommended. Firewood must be brought in as gathering is prohibited, and trails may close after precipitation. This is a carry-in, carry-out facility with no camp store, so visitors should arrive fully prepared.

Directions

Located at 10600 Bandera Creek Road, Bandera, TX 78003, northwest of San Antonio. GPS coordinates: 29.628034, -99.181086.