Hill Country State Natural Area

State: Texas

Address 1: 10600 Bandera Creek Rd Bandera TX 78003

City: Bandera

Zip: 78003

Phone: 830-796-4413

Open all Year: Yes

Number of Sites: 12

Camp URL: http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/hill_country/

Full Hook: Yes

About: Be sure to bring drinking water; Potable water is not available; All water must be treated.

Recreational activity centers around 40 miles of designated, multi-use trails. The park offers a backcountry setting for activities such as primitive camping, backpacking, mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, equestrian camping, flora and fauna observation, and limited swimming and fishing (3 designated swimming areas are on West Verde Creek. Moderate fishing opportunities for catfish, perch, and large-mouth bass. Tours: Various adjacent ranches offer horse rentals, tours, and other accommodations through the Natural Area.

The Hill Country State Natural Area is a scenic mosaic of rocky hills, flowing springs, oak groves, grasslands, and canyons. The terrain ranges from flat, broad creek bottoms to steep, rocky canyons up to 2000 feet in elevation. The West Verde Creek has several spring-fed streams, and tanks in the park provide several swimming holes with limited fishing for catfish, perch, and large-mouth bass. Spring water is available for horses, but people should bring their own drinking water.

Large numbers of birds live in the park. Deer, armadillos, raccoons, ringtail cats, rabbits and rodents as well as various reptiles can also be viewed. In addition, several different plant communities reside in the park.