33 Best Stops Between Johnson City and San Antonio
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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedApr 10, 2023
How long is the drive from Johnson City to San Antonio?
The direct drive from Johnson City to San Antonio is 720 mi (1,158 km), and should have a drive time of 9 hrs 46 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Johnson City to San Antonio, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Fredericksburg, El Paso, and Las Cruces, as well as top places to visit like Cascade Caverns and Grape Creek Vineyards, or the ever-popular SeaWorld San Antonio.
The top cities between Johnson City and San Antonio are Fredericksburg, El Paso, and Las Cruces. Fredericksburg is the most popular city on the route. It's less than an hour from Johnson City and 9 hours from San Antonio.
Fredericksburg, located in central Texas, is renowned for its wineries and rich German heritage. The Pioneer Museum showcases settlers' homesteads and artifacts, while the nearby Marktplatz features a replica of a 19th-century German church. The National Museum of the Pacific War offers extensive WWII exhibits. Additionally, visitors can enjoy live music at The Rockbox Theater, housed in a refurbished furniture warehouse.
Most popular city on this route
0 minutes off the main route, 6% of way to San Antonio
El Paso, a vibrant city in Texas, is known for its rich cultural heritage and lively atmosphere. With a population of over 678,000 people, it stands as one of the most populous cities in the United States. The city boasts a diverse range of attractions, including charming bars where locals gather to enjoy pool tables and classic barstools.
33% as popular as Fredericksburg
1 minute off the main route, 73% of way to San Antonio
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Situated on the outskirts of the Chihuahuan Desert, Las Cruces is a city in New Mexico that boasts several attractions for visitors. The interactive New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum showcases livestock and gardens, while Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park offers trails and birdlife along the Rio Grande. The Museum of Nature and Science features hands-on displays and desert animals, while the Railroad Museum explores local railway history with model trains.
21% as popular as Fredericksburg
4 minutes off the main route, 80% of way to San Antonio
Best stops along Johnson City to San Antonio drive
The top stops along the way from Johnson City to San Antonio (with short detours) are SeaWorld San Antonio, White Sands National Park, and National Museum of the Pacific War. Other popular stops include Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, University of Texas McDonald Observatory, and Scenic Drive Park East Rest Stop.
SeaWorld San Antonio is a theme park that is home to marine life from all over the world. Visitors can get up close and personal with dolphins, penguins, and polar bears among other animals in exhibits that range from aquariums to thrill rides. There is also a water park and kid-friendly attractions like Shamu shows.
Great park on the west side of San Antonio. It's a bit oddly hidden behind a bunch of neighborhoods / a school / people's homes. The park is beautifuly maintained and the staff are beyond friendly and all seem willing to help with anything you need or ask about. I mainly came for the roller coasters but I found myself stopping and reading signs and checking out a few animal exhibits as they looked really neat. Definitely worth your time if You're in the San Antonio area.
Matt Karls — Google review
Had a very fun time. A lot of things to do. It was made even better by the friendliness of the staff! They were super nice and very friendly. It was pretty clean. The wait was a bit long but definitely worth it. A ton of rides as well as other things. They do have a program for active military service members to get in for free with their family which was very nice of them to do!
Jas Sheets — Google review
Unfortunately, Sea World has gone downhill a lot. You are greeted with $37 GENERAL parking when you first arrive. It isn’t included in your $80-$90 ticket per adult price. Security doesn’t check anyone’s bags and the metal detectors go off but they tell you to keep going anyway. Then, you are welcomed with $8.50 bottles of water in the middle of a Texas summer. You aren’t allowed to bring in any food or drink. I waited with my kid for a water slide ride for 2 hours and as soon as we got to the gate, they said they were closing down the ride. Everything from stuffed animals, to water, to nasty food is so skyrocketed in price that they’ve hit outer space. No aquariums at all. A small penguin and puffin exhibit. The roller coasters all had 1+ hour waits at all times of the day. They overcrowd the Lazy River and the Wave Pool so they can get as much money as possible for the day. Way too many people at one single attraction. I was excited to go, but won’t be back.
Derek Nicdao — Google review
We had such an amazing time!!! Beautiful animal exhibits, fun rides, clean bathrooms, and friendly staff. Each animal experience was beautifully built with plenty of space for the animals! I'm definitely coming back very soon!!! Even though it was 100° almost all day, we had an amazing experience! Make sure to take advantage of the free ice water throughout the day! It really helps with the intense heat!
Zoe Marlborough — Google review
Absolutely amazing experience down at SeaWorld for the Halloween season! Totally worth getting the VIP experience so you can get into ALL the haunted houses! And it comes with a cool glass, dinner, & 4 drinks (alcohol included)
Martha Constant — Google review
Gotta love SeaWorld and their amazing animals!
Where else can you get up close and personal with so many beautiful sea creatures?!!!
The trainers are so knowledgeable and genuinely encourage young and old to care for these creatures and their environment!
Such a fun, engaging, and exciting place to go!!!
Love all the beautiful lights at Christmas time too!!!
Definitely a family favorite!!!
Rhonda Chambers — Google review
Beautiful park loved seeing the animals and all the fun Christmas shows! Wait times for the rides are quite long during the day recommend getting the fast pass but the lines do die out the last hours of the park closing! So many cute photo spots with lots of lights to see!
D3M1 — Google review
Beluga interaction experience was amazing. Got to the park before it opened and got taken to the changing area. Once behind the stadium with the whales we got on a ledge about waist deep. Water was chilly but the wetsuit made it comfortable. We got individual time with the whale even though we were in a group of ten. It was totally worth the money.
vanessa sadd — Google review
The five stars go to the shows: the sea lions and the orcas were amazing. The park overall is definitely worth visiting, more than once too. The only suggestion to the future visitors is that the quick pass for the rides is a must, otherwise you will spend hours waiting in line.
Michael Pavlov — Google review
We had an excellent time here with our family and friends. We recommend getting there as early as possible. The park opens for 10am and we were able to stop get the up close parking. The park is spread out and the rides are great. Definitely get a fast pass so you don't have to wait on line, it's totally worth it. Also, get your drinks that can be refilled for free all day. It's the only way to survive the heat, that and the amazing Chill Out Bar!
Emily Henderson — Google review
Had an amazing time with the family. I definitely recommended if your looking to have a great time. The different slides are so much fun. Overall, it was a great experience they do have many places to eat and drink and small store to visit and shop.
OLLAM STUDIO — Google review
Enjoyed this place a lot with my family. Not only are the animals beautiful and exciting to watch but they seem to be well kept after. Big fish fan here, just loved seeing their reef and the beautiful eels they have on display. Make sure to come to the shows early and get a front row seat on those really hot days. You won't leave there without a gallon or two of water on you. Rides are great fun and during our trip, lines were short. I recommend a weekday visit.
El Chimbo — Google review
Highly recommend visiting for Halloween. We have family here from out of town so we went on a Friday morning when they opened at 10:30 and stayed until about 6 PM. Full, fun day with so much to see and do. Limited waits for the rides and all kinds of Halloween themed decor, music, food and drink offerings. I bet it's even better after dark. We had a blast.
Brandi Ra Civico — Google review
In general we had a great time, the most I liked was that it was not very crowded and we were able to enjoy the rides without having to wait so long in line. Something that I didn't like was, and I find it very abusive on Sea World's part, that on everything you buy in the park they are adding 5% and on the receipt it says: “5% surcharge covers increased operating costs” as if they charged cheaply. for the things sold in the park. Very abusive on Sea World's part.
Pedro Carreras — Google review
Honestly love coming here more for the aquarium and wildlife than the rides, but they certainly don’t hurt and are really fun to go on. Definitely recommend getting the annual pass if you live nearby, worth it just to go and walk around on a weekday when the hours are more flexible. My only issue with the park is the one dolphin who purposely splashes you, so now I have beef with this several hundred pound animal that is a lot smarter than he leads on. Be sure to keep your eye out on the troublemaker, he’s got a mean side eye and a little attitude.
David Borris — Google review
Great park! 10 times better than Sea World Orlando. Rides were fun, fast, and short line when I went. It's located on top of a hill so you get nice view, long walks from ride to ride, and plenty of shades. Love that they have plenty of seats for you to sit and wait, or just enjoy the view.
Family enjoyed it a lot.
Will J. — Google review
Parking was packed but enough for everyone. We walk through the gate without any problems showing our tickets from the phone. We had the all day meal plan which is a must if you’re planning to spend the full day there you will recover the $30 in your first meal. All the rides were really good some of them were just a five minute wait which is awesome even though the park was full. The park is small enough that you can walk from one end to another in a couple minutes but make sure to bring comfortable sneakers and sunscreen. Lockers are available throughout the whole park and you can rent them per hour or a full day pass. It’s Sea world so come mentally prepared to get soaked in some of the attractions. If you stay long enough you will be able to watch a night show and if you’re lucky some fireworks too. Overall the park is great however there are a few areas of opportunity on the logistics with the waiting lines on some of the attractions. We will definitely be back at some point hopefully when they finish the construction with potential new rides.
Alan Marrero — Google review
Enjoyed it even though it was 100+. There’s a lot of shade, plenty of water activities, and attractions inside to cool off. We were able to see most of the shows and get on several rides. We also showed up pretty early. Glad we did as it got crowded as the day went on. Good experience overall.
Sabrina K — Google review
We have been to SeaWorld multiple times over the years. Each time has been a great experience. The park has been well maintained and has many entertainment options. Our visits have been during spring break and summers. The heat can be rough in those months, but there is plenty of shade/cooling options. Lines for rides aren't usually to bad, but shows can fill up quickly during peak times. The shows are well done and always fun. Food/Drink options are typical amusement park variety. Plenty of shopping options as well. Parking is best if you get to the park easy in the morning, but there is plenty if arriving later in the day.
Drew Slate — Google review
First time, and we had a great day! We got to the park around 11 a.m., and there was plenty of parking. The park felt nearly empty and no wait for the entry, and first couple of rides! All the staff were super friendly and helpful. The shows were great and heed the signs that say splash zone! We thought we would be safe at the orca stadium because we were up pretty high and got soaked! Just a couple of things to note is that we love the stingrays but they were nowhere to be found! And the food is outrageously expensive! They also have no lids or straws if you don't have a park cup, so we probably should have just bought one to use for the year. We left early, so we missed a lot of the Halloween activities, but we all still had a great time! We bought annual passes, so we will definitely be back.
Tamara — Google review
We had a blast for my daughter's birthday. We started with the penguin interaction which it was 50% off for black Friday and we also did the animal ambassador interaction and to top it off we stayed for the beautifully decorated Christmas lights. My one complaint is about the rides...the rides we fun but the problem is that they won't let you store any personal bags or water bottles in the bins before getting on the rides and they only tell you about this after you waited for a long time on line..what's the point of having the bins in the plataform if you can't use it? Six flags let's store your belongings! But other than that, it was fun!
Jose Colman — Google review
The Christmas show and lights are magically fantastic. The music is incredibly spectacular; gets me to the groove. Fun place to be to enjoy the beautiful and entertaining sights. Everything is fun and awesome. Definitely a brilliant place for friends and family. 👍🌟😁😊💕
Valerie Tello — Google review
Fantastic for kids and families! Great shows. I recommend the annual passes. VIP parking is excellent for avoiding long walks but also when you carry strollers. Great job putting roof VIP parking. It is a plus for summer! Christmas was top notch, we came almost every weekend!
CG C — Google review
It is actually a very beautiful park to visit. The kids love it. I personally don't like it. Just preference. The animals are amazing. But every thing is way over prized to a ripped off level, which is expected at any theme park. But is is getting ridiculous. The Aquatica park is actually very cool for the kids. Plan to spend the whole day. And plan to bring swim wear to jackets & umbrellas as the weather can turn any time during the day.
Duy Le Legends - WFG — Google review
Great Family Day out at Seaworld. The park was hosting a cheer and dance competition so it was busy but not to where we couldn't enjoy ourselves too. We had an awesome time and definitely recommend stopping by if you're looking to meet your inner child for a bit.
Tres Libras Travel LLC — Google review
An Aquatic Adventure Awaits! Dive into a world of wonder where marine life comes to life before your eyes. From thrilling rides to captivating animal encounters, every moment at SeaWorld is filled with excitement and discovery. Whether you're watching majestic orcas leap through the air or getting up close with playful dolphins, the memories made here will last a lifetime. A must-visit destination for families and animal lovers alike!"
Gauri Rawat — Google review
We went for the Great North American Eclipse. Although the cloud coverage prevented us from viewing the eclipse during totality we made the best of it. I had not been to SeaWorld since 2016. Most of the entertainment value was gone and everything was centered on education. SeaWorld has added more rides to compensate.
Ronnie Bruce — Google review
Wow. What a fun day at Sea World. We went during Christmas in the Park and were very impressed by the lighting as well as the Christmas programs. Sea world did a great job. The animal talks were very informative and the animal shows showcased each animal’s natural abilities in the wild. The All Day Dine is the way to go as you can eat every 90 minutes. When ordering online it is best to order everything together as they have a pretty heft service fee each time. Will definitely return again soon.
Brian Nacy — Google review
Although i had always been against going, I’m glad we made the trip. It was an incredible experience, to be able to see such majestic mammals and learn so much. Bathrooms were clean, staff were so helpful and friendly. We went on a special event (Eclipse) and were able to skip the large crowds and lines, got on every ride!
Marylin — Google review
Visited SeaWorld San Antonio on a Sunday, expecting an amazing experience. Disappointed to find out they closed at 4 pm, despite Google indicating 8 pm. Arrived at 3:30 pm. It'd be helpful if they update their closing times. On the bright side, they have a huge parking area.
Maleen Karunathilaka — Google review
What can I say? This place brought laughter, great food, wholesome entertainment and great experiences to my family! It's so much to do that an entire day isn't enough time to cover the entire ground! We are making plans for a third visit. We didn't get to explore ALL the food that's avaliable. Hey, make sure you go VIP, it's worth every penny!!
Cascade Caverns is a 70-ft. high cave on 104 acres with tent camping, trails and wildlife. It is a private nature preserve with an interesting tour guide who was the owner of the cave. Kids enjoyed it because they got to see a few salamanders and one bat. The tickets were pricier than expected but it is worth the visit overall.
It is awesome place, The cave is so amazing, u can see bats and salamanders inside, clean water and many different rock formations. Flors are wet but it is to be expected in a cave, and you need to be careful. Our guide was very nice and informative, she told us many stories about the cave and it's history. Good prices and military discounts. We had a great time exploring the cave and I definitely recommend the visit. There is a souvenir store on the grounds and the RV park.
Kaja SWIEB — Google review
It was an interesting tour of this privately owned natural cave. Our tour guide was the owner so we got to ask a few extra questions. Kids enjoyed it a lot as they got to see a few salamanders and one bat. The tickets were a bit pricier than expected but it is worth the visit overall.
Emrah Aktepe — Google review
Our tour guide "stingray" was amazing, and one of the best cave tours I've been on, would highly recommend this tour, very educational, and visually stunning. Would not recommend for handicapped, there are a lot of stairs and it gets slippery as this is an active wet cave, lots of climbing down and up, you will get "cave kisses" i.e. dripped on quite a bit as well. Tour takes about an hour or more.
Joe Prica — Google review
Such a fun experience and the tour was outstanding! Pocket was our guide and she was so much fun. We enjoyed the rock splitting and the great time watching people slucing for geodes and special rocks. We enjoyed splitting a geode for our collection. The young man that assisted us in the geode splitting was fun and we had fun doing this fun thing while there. I cannot remember his name but he knows what to look for in the best find on this task! Thanks to their attention to our wants and desires was well above average!
TxTiger68
Tony “TxTiger68” King — Google review
This was my first time to these caverns, and it was so enjoyable! The tour guides were friendly and knowledgeable. We bought some rocks from "Stingray" in the gift shop, and had a great time listening to Alex throughout our tour. We'll be back and we'll bring some friends next time!
Brittany Sanders — Google review
We stayed at the RV Park associated with the caverns. Since it's a natural preserve the sites are not mowed as closely as in most parks but we enjoyed the natural setting with plenty of oak shade trees. The hiking trails are fun and easy. The caverns are beautiful and worth taking the guided tour loaded with interesting facts.
Gary S — Google review
I hope everyone gets “Stingray” as their tour guide! He made it easy to remember cool facts about the cave and knew exactly where to find unique formations and critters. Definitely a once in a lifetime amazing experience! I highly recommend for families (with kids too!). We brought our 6 and 3 year old girls and it was amazing to hear their oohs and ahhs as we explored the cave.
There is camping on site and additional tours in the summer. We plan on coming back soon!
Lexie Griffiths — Google review
Did the flashlight tour on October 14, 2023 with my husband and our 2 kids. We throughoutly enjoyed the tour with our guide Sweet Tea! We enjoyedher quirkiness attitude, explaining the cave's history, thinking and maintaining our safety, and making the tour an adventure! Thank you! It's definitely a spot to see!!
Dee May — Google review
Sweet Tea was a funny & wonderful guide. Went with my parents (70+) and my 8 yr old. We all were able to enjoy it and had a blast! Definitely recommend and intrigued by their other deeper cave tour in the future!!
Kaylin Cowan — Google review
This was a smaller cave but so natural. It's one of the most natural caves I've ever visited. Will be back for the wild cave tour in the summer. Dillon and linray were the best tour guides. Very knowledgeable and humorous! Thanks for a great tour!
Samantha Lopez — Google review
I thoroughly enjoy caves no matter where they are or how big or how small. But Cascade caverns doesn't have a problem with their personnel. Doesn't have a problem with their cavern but they have a problem with their business philosophy. I went down with 23 other people with one tour guide who by the way was excellent but the passageways were narrow and slippery and almost half of the guests were kids under the age of 10. You couldn't hear what the tour guide was saying about formations or any technical information. I was extremely disappointed. I would have paid twice the fee to get in if there was only four people in my group. I have never been in a cave with a tour group of more than 12-13 people. Max. It's an absolutely beautiful cave, but there was so much talking between the kids and the adults. Let their kids continue talking. I was just disappointed. I'm a grandfather. I know how kids and grandkids can be. It would have been better off to have broken this into a much smaller group. I know it's spring break and I know that they have a lot of people coming through, but the experience was lost in the noise. Also, I think issuing a flashlight to every guest on the tour. Detracts from the experience. For example, I was there with a black light. I had a broad beam black light and a pencil thin black light and I was trying to determine what would glow . So when people saw me pointing my black light in a fixture they would all turn their flashlights and point it right at the object. I was trying to illuminate and have and glow. Well that didn't happen. I'm sorry if I sound better but it could have been so much better with just a little bit more effort. The staff were amazing. I got there 5 minutes before the tour started and they were able to check me in and walk me to the group. Already heading down to the cave. Which I was not expecting and I told them that I would wait because I was not in a rush. But little did I know.....
Chris Muncy — Google review
This cave was a great experience. It isn't the biggest cave I've visited, but there is plenty of things and history to learn about. Stingray was an amazing guide, he was funny and taught us many things about the cave (although he is a patriots fan).
Kats4308 — Google review
Cascade Caverns is insanely beautiful and it is so cool that a Patrick Swayze movie was shot in the cave! My hubby and I watched Father Hood when we got home!
Trinity aka SWEET TEA was so much fun! And we basically had a private tour on Friday afternoon and you get your own flashlight.
They have so much water! Their formation growth rate is an inch every 20 years, whereas at my workplace, Inner Space it's an inch every 100 years.
We were so excited to see the salamanders and the I'm DYING to see what lies below on their summer only Wild Caving tour! The grounds itself is just gorgeous.
Katherine Harper — Google review
Well worth the price of admission. And "Pocket" our tour guide, was great. We were the last tour of the day and I overheard her say goodnight to the cave. That is someone who loves the natural beauty of the caves and it was obvious by the way she showed us around.
Garfield Fisher — Google review
My wife and I visited the caverns just a few days ago. It was a rainy Sunday. We were the only ones on the tour and was great for us because we got an amazing private tour by “Pocket”. I wish we had come years ago. It is beautiful. The bats and salamanders add to the tour.
Steve Davis — Google review
What a hidden gem!! Probably my favorite cave tour ever. Stingray was the most patient, fun guide. He definitely made the experience even more amazing. Highly recommend! You don't want to miss this one!
Grape Creek Vineyards is a winery that specializes in French and Italian varietals. It offers tours and has Tuscan-inspired tasting rooms. The vineyard is located on the hill country, and it has a good collection of authentic wines. The staff are accommodating and knowledgeable, with Greg serving as an excellent guide during tours. Wine tasting costs $30 per person, but the experience is worth it.
I love it here! It’s absolutely stunning and you feel as if you’re in Tuscany, Italy from the moment you come on site. You drive through picturesque vines on your way up to this gorgeous Tuscan villa. My boyfriend and I have been multiple times as it is our favorite and this time we had the pleasure of having Samantha Stiewig as our Tasting Ambassador. She was a hoot! So much fun, hilarious, and just super knowledgeable of each wine we tasted. She is fabulous and we look forward to having her again on our next visit. We are going to be sure to request her!
We had also never eaten on the Member Patio before and this time got to enjoy a wonderful lunch. The food was super delicious and the service was great. We cannot wait to come back soon!
Alexis Crowley — Google review
I did a wine tasting with my family and it was amazing. Eve was our guide and she did such a wonderful job with the tour! We joined the membership and will definitely be coming back!!
Nissi Eneyo — Google review
We are never disappointed at Grape Creek. We get lucky enough to get Josh as our wine steward most of the time. He's fantastic. Always has great recommendations, he is on point with his descriptions of the wines and he has great cat stories!!!!
Kelly Brown — Google review
To start, all the staff was super nice & accommodating. Greg was a great guide durning our tour! He was very knowledgeable, accommodating & sweet. The wine was also really really good. We also had lunch after. We had such a good time. Def will be back
Emily Suero — Google review
Visited Grape Creek for tasting, wine tour and lunch. End of harvest time. Tour included barrel tasting comparing three different oak barrels, tour of cruising pad and tasting room. Lunch on patio - booked day before. Pizza and salad all very fresh. Tasting ambassador Kalene L. was so knowledgeable and helpful through the tasting process! Definitely the highlight of the tour. Highly recommended if visiting this area (way better than Signor)
Amanda Evans — Google review
I had an amazing time at grape creek. Denise made it specifically memorable. She was so kind and charismatic and most importantly very knowledgeable about wine. My friend and I definitely enjoyed my experience and Denise was a big part of that. Thanks grape creek!
Isabella Ascanio — Google review
Awesome experience as always. Sat on the patio sand enjoyed some great wine and the cheese n meat plate from the small bites menu. Joshua Stafford did an excellent job in making us feel welcomed and even helped us in expanding our membership to the Owners Club.
christopher Ryan — Google review
Lovely place to learn a bit about wine making while sipping wine from different type of oak barrels. The staffs are nice and knowledgeable. Tastings are fun with a good variety of selections offered. Vineyard itself is beautifully arranged and fun to walk around. Perfect day trip destination from Austin!
Jingqi Yang — Google review
Kalene, our tasting ambassador was so helpful and fantastic. We all really enjoyed Becky’s informative tour. Just an excellent experience with some great wine!
Tracy Lowe — Google review
My first wine tasting ever since turning 21!! Laurie was such a sweet lady who helped me find the exact palette that I loved. I left with 3 bottles that I absolutely LOVE!!! 10/10 recommend and ask for Laurie!!!!! She def made the experience worth it
Alexis Rodriguez — Google review
I took my husband to this vineyard on his birthday to experience wine tasting and he absolutely loved it. It was a nice vineyard located on the hill country. Wine collections were so good and authentic. Our host treated us well and it was a fun experience.
If you want their wine to be delivered home on a regular basis, they do have membership plans.
PS - Wine tasting experience cost is $30 per person.
Srividhya Venkatramani — Google review
We have been members here for almost a year. We decided to join because of the exceptional wines, the amazing food (Stouts Restaurant), and the scenery. I highly recommend taking the wine tour. It's fun and educational.
The only criticism I have is the process of picking up wine, sitting and enjoying wine, eating, and/ or doing tastings is very inconvenient.
Even with an appointment, the greeters are not very welcoming. They don't even bother to greet you. They are, in my opinion, and the opinion of guest who have accompanied us, are quite rude.
I wish they were more welcoming, especially seeing that we travel a long way to come here. If it wasn't for the great wine, we would probably not be members because of the way we are greeted every time we visit.
Other than that, this is a beautiful vineyard with amazing wines!
Marlena Scipio — Google review
Great experience ! Eve was superb and very knowledgeable with all the history and making of each wine! All wines were very rich and delicious, if you happen to come here ask for Eve to help you out and trust me you will not be disappointed. Grape Creek for the win! 🏆
ommar morales — Google review
Laurie Mayfield gave us the best experience for the wine tour ever! My best friend was visiting from out of state and she made us feel like we were right at home! Great wine, great stories, great memories. Thanks Laurie Mayfield! Would recommend to anyone I know!
Michael Colavito — Google review
I visited Grape Creek Vineyards this past weekend with my Mom, grandma and Aunt for my birthday had had an amazing experience. The wine tour and wine tasting was very educational and Samantha was extremely knowledgeable and made a great impression on us. Thank you to the entire Grape Creek team for a memorable day.
Joyce Mahabier — Google review
What a great experience! My husband and I did the taste and tour this weekend. It was educational, fun, and delicious! Shoutouts to our driver, Cam, our winery guide, Monica, and Laurie our wine server at the end of the t&t! We did become members and visited the patio for our free glass today and had a delicious artichoke dip and hummus plate. Josh on the patio was a great wine steward too!
Audrey Osburn — Google review
The guy at our front entrance gave us a warm greeting! He helped me pick out wine and shared a little tip on how to store it: the cork needs to stay wet to prevent the wine from oxidizing, so keep your wine tilted. The inside of the building was very clean and classy, reminding me of a fine dining restaurant. The customer service was excellent; they retrieved the wine quickly, and I was able to get in and out in under 10 minutes. Despite not drinking myself, I bought the wine as gifts, and I'm sure my friends will love it! Additionally, both the restrooms and the outdoor walking area were nice and clean. I highly recommend visiting here!
Krystal Turner — Google review
We loved taking the tour of Grape Creek Vineyard. Laurie, our tour guide was amazing. She was knowledgeable about how the wine is made, answered All of our questions, and was fun. We were the last tour of the day and Laurie was at the top of her game, sharing information, talking personally with each couple, etc. It was a great experience. The rest of the staff in the main building were also courteous and helpful. The grounds are beautiful. We were so impressed that we joined the wine club. Will definitely be coming back often.
Jocelyn Johnson — Google review
We did the wine tour and tasting and had such a great time! There are so many wineries to visit in the Fredericksburg area but this one is highly rated for good reason. They grow most of their grapes on the grounds and you can’t find their wine in stores. You can definitely taste the difference in the tastings. Definitely recommend if you are in the area. Do keep in mind that they are super strict about time. We called ahead to let them know we would be 5 to 10 mins late and they had to shift us to a later tour.
C Matthews — Google review
This was our very first vineyard and wine tasting experience and Laurie was so knowledgeable and helpful in selecting our tastings. We elected to join the Members Club and had a lovely afternoon enjoying our wine selection and small bites. Looking forward to coming back!
Jennifer McIntosh — Google review
What a beautiful Vinyard! We took the wine tour and had such an incredible time! Cam and Steve were so informative and kind. It was my first wine Vinyard tour and the bar is set high!
Kalene was our wine tasting expert and not only was she so sweet, she suggested such wonderful wines by asking the perfect questions to hone in on one's she new I would like! Her energy was very welcoming and lively!
Gina Rosesong — Google review
For my 1st wine tasting experience, I had a wonderful time. Laurie made the experience so much better as she was highly knowledgeable about the variety of wines offered. She made the experience pleasant with her southern charm and sweet charisma. Thanks Laurie for making us feel at home.🍷🍾
Michelle Cuevas — Google review
Eve Christiansen was the best Tasting Ambassodor. She was so knowledgeable in helping us pick our wines according to our preferences and palate and had such a great rapport with us that we became members. Visit and ask for Eve if you go over to Grape Creek Vineyards. We were so pleased we went back the next day for lunch and more wine.
Willow City Loop is a picturesque route that winds through the countryside and is perfect for scenic drives and cycling. This road is particularly popular during springtime due to the abundance of wildflowers that can be seen along the way. The region's natural beauty is truly awe-inspiring, making it an ideal spot for those who enjoy spending time in nature. With its meandering path and vibrant flora, Willow City Loop offers visitors a unique and memorable experience every time they traverse its charming terrain.
For those who love flowers, this is great place to stop when visiting Fredericksburg for a day trip in the Hill Country. Their walking trails and gardens are open to the public, and admission is free, but do not be surprised if you end up buying lots of their beautiful flowers and garden decorations for your own garden as we did. Even though Google states the place closes at 5pm weekdays, we were delighted in knowing the place closes at 6pm starting in Spring.
Steve Fung — Google review
Simply a magical place. Do yourself a favor, and go in late September, to early October when the Monarch butterflies flock to their gardens. Its a breathtaking spectacle to behold. Lots to do there, great place for a family day. Food is a bit lackluster and pricey, but a nice option. Wine bar is a lot of fun, and the grounds are wonderful.
MikePipeNBarrel — Google review
This was such a great place to visit. So many cool things to buy and so many seeds to try and grow yourself. We loved that we could walk to the butterfly section and enjoy the butterfly, flowers, bees, and the humming birds. We also did the sweet wine test which cost 15 for 4 tastings. The place was very nice and the lady serving us really gave us a good amount of info about she was serving us. This is a great place to take the kids and let them get a little tired running around. Will definitely be coming back.
Hector Jasso — Google review
4/5/2024
This is my kind of place. They had a lot of nice things to look at. It was a beautiful day to walk around the farm. There were a lot of people here and the staff was friendly. I didn't buy anything though because the prices were more than I wanted to pay.
Four stars 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
Ray Wollberg — Google review
Went right in the middle of prime wildflower season and there were no flowers of note on the walking path. An adjacent field was filled with bluebonnets but you had to drive there and park on the side of the road. Then try to take photos through a barbed wire fence. Huge, cute gift shop with wildflower seeds was the best part.
Amanda R — Google review
We had the BEST time here today! Our wine tasting host was awesome and it’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been!!! 10/10! Wine and atmosphere was incredible. (Also the ice-cream was to die for!) I wish I could come back here everyday! (That being said I live out of state and would love to be able to keep up with this place... I was trying to find an Instagram and could not... that would be so cool!)
Courtney M — Google review
A wonderful place to visit, they have live music and the ambiance is really good.
Do try the wine tasting there, and meet Marla, who's the attendee she will help you with various information as well regarding various types of wines. She is a really sweetheart 💕 10 on 10 to her.
Its vintage style and decor are with the help of a barrel.
The farm has a huge range of wild flowers and various types of butterflies 🦋 and planting decor and equipment.
Even try peach ice cream 🍦 it's delicious 😋
Anagha Rane — Google review
This place is truly enchanting. I highly recommend visiting this place with lot of butterflies and it's an awe-inspiring sight. There are plenty of activities to engage in, making it an ideal destination for a memorable family day.
Additionally, I must mention the delightful cone ice cream they offer, specifically the vanilla and peach flavors. It is a scrumptious combination that will surely satisfy your sweet tooth. Furthermore, their vegetable salad is perfect—fresh, crisp, and bursting with flavors. It's a refreshing option that complements the ice cream beautifully.
Likhith Kumar Reddy Suram — Google review
It was a little small but super cute! The walking paths are all gravel so be careful. It had some cute photo opportunities. The shops are full of interesting stuff and the people were nice. The plant shop was my favorite! It's a great place to grab some family photos for free.
Kate “Arya” Night — Google review
I love how there’s just a little bit of everything here! It’s so peaceful walking through the flower garden and the shops had so much to look at. They have an outdoor garden for those wanting a plant to take home, as well as seeds with a detailed description of how to plant to keep them alive. We also did wine tasting, and their wine is a little on the dry side, but delicious! Their sangria is amazing and I loved the sampling of their wines. A great place for families or for a girl’s trip.
Lisa Klassen — Google review
Wildseed Farms offers a little of everything. Their most famous part is their wonderful gardens. In spring you'll find literal fields of blue bonnets and red poppy. The herbs and flowers for sale are full and lovely. There is a restaurant and wine bar insides, as well as a gift shop. This is really a venue that the entire family can enjoy.
Michael Barton — Google review
Absolutely amazing place! It has a very unique charm about it, the staff are very friendly and knowledgeable. The scenery is unbeatable. Stunning. This was our first experience at a winery and it was perfect. Will definitely come back again.
Holly King — Google review
We have been visiting Wildseed Farm for at least the past 5 years now. It never disappoints. Our granddaughter loves the 🦋 garden and all the yard art and spinners. Their snacks and sandwiches are delicious and the variety at the gift shop is awesome. I always find something unique. They have added a wine tasting room but we have not had the opportunity to attend those events. The staff are always very friendly and attentive and the grounds are clean and neat. Lots of parking. Oh yeah, you can purchase plants for your 🏡 garden.
Margie Darr — Google review
Stopped in for wine tasting at wild seed farms and it far exceeded any expectations. Wild Seed Farms went beyond the perfect wine tasting setting which is very intimate, formal wine room. See the picture below with a great list of wines for tasting. You also have the experience of walking the farms and seeing all of the wonderful flowers, butterfly fields and just beautiful scenery set here at this very quaint, but sophisticated establishment. This is a must stop for anyone touring the fredericksburg area looking for a great wine tasting experience with so much more. They have a large in store retail center selling everything from yard art, seeds, flowers, plants and artwork. And on just a closing note thier wine was pretty good too. 5 stars and a round of applause 👏 🙌.
Texas Catfish — Google review
Always a wonderful place to visit in the Spring! My family and I have been going here since they opened in 1997 and it never disappoints. Beautiful flowers, gardens, gifts, and now a winery! It's the perfect day trip to escape the crowds in Austin and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Julie Copenhaver — Google review
Absolutely amazing! It is so beautiful here, the beauty takes your breath away! Fields of wildflowers, poppys, bluebonnets, wild verbenia, so many wonderful plants to see and buy. Tons of seeds ready to be planted, jarred asparagus, jams, pickles, you make it the make it and have it. You must go and see this amazing place. Thank you Wild Seed Farms❤️
Pam Marshall — Google review
Love this place!! Me and a group of friends came here for a bachelorette party and had such a wonderful time. There’s so much to do here, I feel like there’s something for everyone.
We did a guided sweet wine tasting and all the pours were so good, highly recommend the sangrias. The pretzels and charcuterie board were yummy and paired perfectly. Sean was our waiter and was so attentive and accommodating when we wanted to take home some bottles after we walked the trail. The wine tasting room is gorgeous, very inviting and the live music was such a vibe too.
The wildflower trail is lovely! We came in late March and the blooms were stunning. Great for pictures and to just take in the nature.
Thank you Wildseed Farms for making our visit so memorable!
P.S. Co-signing the other reviews saying to get the peach ice cream 😋
Arianne M — Google review
I came for seeds and ended up wine tasting!!! Needless to say I killed two birds with one stone. Beautiful plants and very tasty wine. Hated the live music. Please consider finding someone else that was a mood killer. Every thing else was great!
M Shannon — Google review
Did a wine tasting. Service was (5 star) wonderful!!! However, the majority of wines were not to our favorites (why rated it a 4 star). The sangrias were good (both white and red)!!! We purchased the red to take home. 😀🍷
The flowers were pretty.
E Main St, also known as Fredericksburg Main Street, serves as the bustling main artery of the city. Divided into two distinct parts - The Magic Mile central shopping district and the historic West Main Street - it offers a diverse range of experiences. The Marktplatz, located between these sections, is a vibrant hub featuring pavilions, green spaces, a charming waterwheel, and the iconic Maibaum (maypole).
The National Museum of the Pacific War in Fredericksburg, TX is home to copious precious war artifacts, warplanes, submarines, and authentic bomb casings from WWII. The museum also features feature video presentations that tug on your heartstrings.
We've visited the museum multiple times over the past 20 years, since it was just the Admiral Nimitz Museum and we've always enjoyed our time at the museums.
The seemingly new area (we haven't been to the museum in about 5 years) detailing the life of Admiral Nimitz is fantastic and has a great mix of information graphics, multimedia, artifacts, and interactive activities.
The park where they have the PT Boat, map, reenactment amphitheater, etc. was really lovely and it's a short walk from the main museum.
Jennifer Cunningham — Google review
The museum is a great experience for the entire family. To fully enjoy the entire museum, I would recommend blocking 3-5 hours of your time. The museum does a great job of walking viewers through the entire Pacific War. You'll walk away with a great understanding of all the events. Currently, they limit the number of visitors. I would recommend getting there early or buying tickets in advance.
MR Hernandez-Parish — Google review
This is really quite a treasure, especially to be located in a sleepy (relatively speaking) setting like downtown Fredericksburg. A World War II buff could easily spend a whole day or more exploring all the nooks and crannies, but for the more casual tourist I'd suggest allowing 3-4 hours at least. The main building is where you buy your tickets, and has the primary exhibit space that takes you thru the war, with a particular focus on the Pacific theater as one would expect. It's an easy 10 or so minute walk from there down to the "battle zone" exhibits, or you could drive as there seems to be ample (and free by the way) parking in both locations. For us it was a nice walk on a beautiful spring morning, and the payoff was two-fold: one exhibit that included an actual plane from the era and focused on aerial combat; and another that had an actual PT boat from the era and focused on the action at sea. There was also a giant thought-provoking world map on the pavement outside the two indoor exhibits that might help one put into perspective the scale of the conflict and how different nations and areas were impacted. On the walk back to the main building we went thru the Japanese Peace Garden, which is not only lovely but I think meaninful for those who might be in a contemplative mood. There are other memorials on the grounds as well as we worked our way to the side door of the main building. Back inside, all I can say is, there is a lot! And again, the particular focus is the Pacific theater, with motivations of various countries and factions examined in terms of why the war happened and how it unfolded, and as you'd expect quite a number of exhibits on tactics and strategies employed on all sides. I'll leave it at that, and summarize by saying this is an excellent museum that lives up to its title, and if all that holds any appeal whatsoever for you, then I highly recommend it.
Mike Johnson — Google review
This is an incredible museum. This was my second time at the museum. I had visited before but did not get to see the entire museum. This is a well thought out museum with memorabilia displays along with videos and plenty of placards displaying information. Highly recommend for individuals who want to know more about the events leading up to our involvement in this was.
Donna Theimer — Google review
Had a great experience here. The information was imersive with lights and sounds to help better explain conditions and the moment. I highly recommend it for anyone wanting to learn more about the war in the pacific. Great for kids and elderly many places to sit and multiple restaurants.
James Schultz — Google review
In a word, amazing. If you are wanting a quality museum experience, this is the place to visit. I've always said the soldiers on the European front were heroes, but the soldiers who fought in the Pacific theater were super heroes. This museum does a great service in telling the stories of those who fought and died in those forsaken islands in the middle of nowhere. I would put this museum on the same level as The Smithsonian. The displays are well thought out and contain copious amounts of information. Plan to spend at least 4 hours at the minimum, as there is a vast amount of content to work your way through.
Doug's Bass Place — Google review
You can't miss this place. They parked a submarine in front.
Make sure you give yourself enough time to visit this first-class war museum. There is so much history, so many personal stories, and artifacts that it's best to take your time.
It's heart-wrenching and patriotic. There's so much to absorb. It's fascinating. Please go.
Gayle Hausmann — Google review
The museum is well worth the visit. It’s well designed and easy to get around. They have wheelchairs available for you to use and that’s greatly appreciated. We saved because my kids are students so don’t forget those school ID’s. The only bad news is that the section where the bomb is in display was closed for renovation. Great museum to visit..!
seth valdez — Google review
Outstanding presentation. Not enough words. Top notch. Plan on a few hours. Could actually spend a whole day or more for sure. The whole Nimitz story so very interesting. The free live shows really ads to the experience.
Chris F — Google review
I've been here so many times I can't count them. From early childhood (back then known as the Nimitz Museum) right up until post covid. Gets better every time. Super clean. Super great staff. Super displays. Most recently, came here with a group of managers from my work as part of leadership enrichment.
Tyler — Google review
We planned to spend a couple hours here, but the displays are so detailed and there are so many "rooms" to see, we spent the whole day (10 AM to 5 PM). The Japanese Peace Garden is beautiful and thousands of plaques mounted in the stone walls outside are most impressive,
Note: Due to water damage from a leaking roof, only half the museum was open, and the entrance fee was reduced. Had the whole museum been available to us, we could not have seen it all in one day.
Fred Clause — Google review
A walk through history!
We parked at the visitors center and walked. Traffic was minimum crossing at the intersection.
First, the people who attend this museum are really friendly and personable! Second there's a list of discounts available from Veteran(✅) to senior, to student, AND small children are free!
The exhibits are really beautifully designed and presented. We loved taking a peak back in time to when the world was in a dire state. Our whole crew really enjoyed how interactive the whole place was. Lots of visual and audio interaction. The artillery pieces, jeep, tanks and aircraft were great photo ops. Also there's a giant replica of an atomic bomb. Everyone was shocked and wow'd there. Really enjoyable experience. Don't forget to walk down the street to the battlefield and PT boat/aircraft exhibits.
Although there was not a re-enactment we still enjoyed getting to see the empty battlefield.
I highly recommend anyone with an interest in history or military history attend. Veterans will enjoy.
Danielle Ray — Google review
There's no war museum dedicated to the Pacific theater in the United States better than this. Everything is here, from real WWII jeeps, planes, artillery guns, bombs, submarines, and PT boats to fascinating short documentary films explaining the politics, the major battles, and personalities who dominated the headlines. War history buffs could spend days here and not get bored. But, if that's not you, even a quick 2 hour walk through the meandering galleries, inside and outside, is time well spent. It's amazingly comprehensive and a well planned exhibit.
Ari Eliefja — Google review
Emotional - great clear information. Sets the scene historically from 1800s and takes you through Nimitz and WW2 in an understandable way. We spent about hour and a half and would happily have stayed longer if we'd had time. Paid entry so check current prices. You walk through information boards, can push buttons for extra information and words from those involved, lots of exhibits of vehicles, uniforms and so on, including a submarine. Great restroom facilities, directions are marked if you need to rest or visit restroom during the tour. Fascinating and distressing... as is war.
Teejay Adams — Google review
A wonderful tribute to the men and women who served in the Pacific theater of the war. Very easy to get to, parking was free and nearby, and there are some great shops along the main stretch in Fredericksburg to visit once you’re done at the museum. The memory garden with photos and bricks engraved with the names of loved ones was especially moving. It will have been my grandfather’s 100th birthday in a couple of years and I plan on purchasing a brick here to commemorate his service during the war.
John Reid — Google review
We took our sons. My youngest (7) loves anything military. He was very interested in the movies and the military vehicles and aircrafts that were on display. We will definitely come back!
Jean Thomas — Google review
If you have any interest in history, this is an All-Day visit! And a lot of walking!
Everything is wheel chair accessible (yay) and most exhibit areas have occasional benches. (I think I sat on every one!)
There are many elements to the Museum.
-Nimitz's family hotel with a gallery personal to Nimitz in the hotel building.
-Geo HW Bush Gallery -- don't let the name mislead you, this is the Main exhibit about the various battles in the Pacific arena during WWII. (Youcan spend a couple of days just reading and watching everything in here!)
-Outside -- including the Presidents' Plaza, memorials to pretty much everyone who died in the Pacific war (we didn't see much of this so that's an impression), AND a Japanese Peace Garden (which Most regretfully, we did not see).
-The Pacific Combat Zone -- is AMAZING; Is 1.5 BLOCKS AWAY.
Negatives
- no shuttle between combat zone and hotel/bush complex.
-bathrooms few and far between
-VERY STEEP hill next to hotel
-sooo big
Positives
-SOO BIG!
-Excellent displays
-really cool actual PT Boat
- Teachers, Military get an extra $2 off!
-worth the entry fee
Leslie Fisher — Google review
Great museum. I would suggest leaving your entire day open when visiting this museum. Lots of wonderful history, many interactive exhibits, and lots of reading too. If you love history, especially WWII, this is a true gem. Children will enjoy many of the exhibits but will honestly probably become restless before you finish your tour.
Edward Shea — Google review
Very unexpected. Very good. They have really spent time and energy to make this an excellent exhibit. Well worth an afternoon of your time if you're in the area.
Ryley Thompson — Google review
If you are given the chance to go here, take it. This museum is incredible. I left with such a humble heart. The whole experience was very moving and at times surreal. The amount of artifacts they have and the knowledge that was shared was beyond anything I ever expected. We were in here for hours and could have easily spent the day here reading all the stories. It is an inside and outside museum with many things to see. Take it all in.
kat — Google review
Something that we heard before, but i did not see the visual impacts. It educates us that today's peace cost is so high, we all should protect what we have gained.
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is a stunning wilderness area in central Texas, featuring a dramatic 425-ft. pink granite monolith that offers opportunities for hiking and climbing. The park is well-maintained and clean, making it an enjoyable destination for visitors. However, those wanting to hike the summit should plan ahead by reserving online as availability can be limited during peak times such as spring break. It's important to bring water and a jacket for wind at the summit.
What a spectacular place to visit. This is a great place to visit with the entire family. You can take in the loop, which is 3+ mile hike. The loop's trail is fairly easy. Or, if you want something more challenging, you can hike up the Rock. To drive in the park, you must make reservations; otherwise, you risk not being allowed to park or camp. Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, especially on those warm days.
MR Hernandez-Parish — Google review
We had a one of a kind experience in the Enchanted Rock park.
The park offers a variety of hiking trails in varying degrees of difficulty. You can choose between an easy loop trail around the huge rocks, two trails which require some moderate climbing every once in a while, that will take you between the rocks, and of course the trail to the top of the Enchanted Rock.
The climb up was surprisingly not that difficult. There are plenty of beautiful spots to stop on the way up. Take your time to admire the changing views from different heights, as well as the surprisingly rich vegetation that still flourishes within the cracks and shallow holes in the rock. There is still a lot of running water from all over the rock.
Due to the hot temperatures, it's best to arrive early and climb up first thing when the weather is still pleasant. Take a long walk around the top of the rock and explore the whole summit.
Don't forget to take plenty of water, sun screen and insect repellent.
G BN — Google review
Visited 4/29/23, a Saturday. BUY DAY PASS/MAKE RESERVATION IN ADVANCE! This is a popular place and you don’t want to miss it. Park attendants were friendly and helpful. Parking near summit trail filled up fast. Recommend summit trail, Turkey pass and Echo canyon trails. We visited on a breezy day….At the top of Enchanted Rock the wind about knocked us over. If it’s going to be a hot day hike the summit trail early and take plenty of water. Recommend bringing a cooler/basket of food for a picnic. No restaurants/fast food nearby. There was a shaved ice truck near the entrance to summit trail and a snack stand that was closed when we were there. Lots of picnic places available and there was a playground down a ways from the summit trail entrance for children. Such a beautiful area. Wildflowers were still abundant when we visited. Views are spectacular. Well worth the time and effort to go see!!
Tracy Torbett — Google review
I wanted to take a moment to share with you my recent hiking experience at Enchanted Rock. I can honestly say that it was nothing short of spectacular.
The moment I laid eyes on Enchanted Rock, I was immediately captivated by its beauty. The majestic rock formation rising from the Texas Hill Country landscape was truly a sight to behold. The scenic views that awaited me were like eye candy at every turn.
As I began my hike, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder. The rugged terrain and diverse flora and fauna added to the allure of the place. The trail was well-marked and easily navigable, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the experience.
The ascent to the summit was challenging but incredibly rewarding. The panoramic views from the top were simply breathtaking. Being able to see the vast expanse of the surrounding countryside was an unforgettable experience. It was as if I had entered a different world, far removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
I spent hours exploring the various trails and rock formations in the area. Each step offered a new discovery and a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty of Enchanted Rock. From the unique geological features to the serene sounds of nature, every moment was cherished.
Beyond the hiking itself, the park provided excellent amenities for visitors. There were clean restrooms, picnic areas, and well-maintained facilities. The park staff was friendly and helpful, ensuring a pleasant experience for all.
I would highly recommend a visit to Enchanted Rock to anyone seeking a remarkable outdoor adventure. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or just starting out, this place offers something for everyone. The combination of breathtaking scenery and challenging trails creates an experience that will leave you in awe.
In conclusion, my hiking experience at Enchanted Rock surpassed all expectations. The sheer beauty and tranquility of the area left an indelible mark on me. I am grateful for the opportunity to have explored this natural wonder and highly encourage others to do the same.
Thank you for taking the time to read about my incredible adventure. Should you have any further questions or require additional information, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Jerry Martinez — Google review
Very unique experience. We had a great time. The hike up the summit is pretty steep. Make sure to wear good shoes and bring plenty of water. There are no guard rails or safety measures in place so you hike at your own risk. Beautiful views from the top.
Meagan Bourgeois — Google review
Enchanted Rock is a beautiful place to visit. Make sure to make your reservations in advance in order to get in. Hiking the summit trail is short but steep. The views are stunning from the top. There are multiple trails to hike around it as well. A couple of primitive campgrounds too. You can settle down among tons of people and still find solice amongst the rocks.
Jenn Kummer — Google review
Plenty to see and do here on multiple hiking trails. The Summit Trail to the top is a leg-burner at times but well worth the half-mile effort. Take your time to enjoy the views and the rock formation itself and you'll be able to make it.
We also did the Loop Trail, which is about 4.6 miles around the outside of the Granite Dome and it offers various views of the dome from different angles, which was neat to see.
Several other trails offer different experiences, too, but we'll have to check those out another day. This is a park we'll go back to. Note that you need reservations for timed entry and weekends are way busier than weekdays.
Also, there is rustic camping available both near the parking lot and off of the hiking trails.
Bring plenty of water because there is little shade anywhere. There are vault toilets along the Loop Trail. Also, watch for snakes, we had a rattler on the Loop Trail when we went.
Plenty of parking but RVs would have a tough time maneuvering to anything but the half-dozen spots in the RV lot.
Also note the closest gas is about 18 miles away in Fredericksburg, and there is little to no cell service in much of the park (for Verizon and T-Mobile).
Ari Adler — Google review
So, I did this today and boy, was it fun! I also enjoyed the short drive from Austin to Enchanted Rock. Tons of great places to stop and take pics of. I would highly recommend if you just want to get away for the day. I didn’t purchase a pass online which I know you can. The cost was $8 just for myself. The lady that took my credit card was really helpful in making sure that I was prepared and she even stated that I will need more than one water for the hike. Well, I blew her off because I know everything. Wrong! I def needed another bottle of water because it’s def a nice hike. I was able to stretch my one bottle of water out but I thought I was going to die. I admit it. She said that at least one person a day doesn’t heed their advice and they end up having to rescue. Thankfully, that person was not me today. I even went back and told her she was right and I should have listened. So, my point is PLEASE TAKE AMPLE AMOIBT OF WATER AND NOT JUST ONE BOTTLE! The trails are marked and well kept. They will give you a map at the beginning and it is very well laid out. It took me a while to get to the top because I stopped along the way and snapped some photos and took in the scenery. Def zero shade so take your time if it’s 100 like today. One couple got engaged and I took their pic so congrats to them! I also thought that I was going to be able to walk straight up and the. back down the other side of the rock however, that is not the case that I could tell. There is a steep drop so that’s def not a good idea. Pretty pictures, no crowds, very serene on the way up and at the top. Highly recommend!
Christopher Lund — Google review
Great park, fun geology considering central Texas. The summit trail is short and quick, with steeper elevation change in the first half than second. Trail markings are great and reflective for night hikes, but are only halfway up the rock, so be sure to note the direction of your car park so you can find the trail at night. Apart from the summit trail, there are several other intersecting trails. We will be back in the cooler months to explore the 4mile loop trail which is pet friendly. Excellent dark sky for stargazing and milky way chasing.
Malavika Kale — Google review
Enchanted Rock is the name of this State Park. It really is an Enchanted and unique place to explore. The main attraction is the largest of the granite rocks rising up from the ground called...Enchanted Rock. Multiple legends abound about this place. You can hike to the top and look for yourself. The hike seems daunting, but if you take your time and rest and catch your breath, it is doable. Once you crest the curve of the rock, going up, it levels off at the top and you have a magnificent, unobstructed view. We went in the evening time when the sun was going down and it was beautiful. Walk slowly coming down. It looks really steep on the descent, but if you use a serpentine approach to walking down, it is much better. Although the summit trail, is the most popular, there are other trails to explore as well. The Loop trail is the only trail open after dark and just till 10 pm. We walked along this for a short time. It was overcast, so we really couldn't see any stars out. There is also camping available here. We love it each time we come here and usually can't wait to come back and explore more.
D.M. Corbett — Google review
Absolutely beautiful hike on an overcast day that threatened rain at a few points. On the **fantastic** park ranger's suggestion, I first did the Summit Hike to get ahead of any rain and do the hardest elevation on fresh legs, then completed the Loop trail afterwards. There are bathrooms along the back stretch in case you're worried about the length and you get to see quartz deposits, close ups of other formations, more look out points, and beautiful flowers this time of year. Highly recommend it, of course with sunscreen, water, and maybe a snack! No cell service for a bit of it, fyi.
Erin Tilley — Google review
This was my fourth time to Enchanted Rock, first time bringing our kids. We felt they were finally old enough, 7 and 10. We saw several families with littles, and I just wouldn’t recommend it if you want to hike the summit. This however is such a beautiful park, wonderfully kept, clean, I love it! I will say though, plan ahead, go online and reserve. We went the week of spring break and we reserved the 30 days ahead (they won’t let you reserve more than 30 days ahead), but there were people getting turned away who were trying to walk in. Plan ahead. Bring water. It’s windy at the summit, so bring a jacket. Other than that, enjoy one of the most incredible natural features of central Texas!
Nicholas Linzenmeyer — Google review
One of the best state park experiences I have had! The terrain was beautiful with a lot if amazing rock formations. There is a variety of plants and wildlife, including foxes and cactus. Amazing place to explore. Summit Trail was my favorite trail, containing some of the best formations and views, both towards and at the peak. Prepare to bring hiking shoes however, as the terrain can get very steep and dangerous for those that are unprepared. Try to come on a non-cloudy night, as stars looked beautiful!
The campsite was relatively spacious, equipped with hooks to hang trash bags, trees, fire pit, and clean tables/benches. The tables were shaded with a canopy. There was good distance between campsites with minimal litter. There was not much noise from other campsites and rangers were not over-bearing. Only issues were that the faucets were close to the parking lots which was a bit of a walk from the site. Not too bad, but without proper lighting, it was a bit inconvenient.
Overall great experience and would be worth to come again!
Krishna Paul — Google review
Excellent park to visit and let the kids run around on the massive granite. Hike up to Summit was relatively easy and fresh because after the initial trail, there was a good bit of freedom to roam anywhere all over the huge uplifted granite (aka the Llano Uplift) and the surface was easy to walk on. The geology insight is very impressive. The view at the top was spectacular and would be awesome at sunrise or sunset. Good birding at the picnic areas.
George Loker — Google review
This was an experience! Let me start off with the positives once you make it to the top it’s worth it, totally - just stunning. The restrooms are clean and their was plenty of parking. What I was not prepared for was the physical challenge, the hike is advertised as moderately challenging and it was Very challenging, I am an active person and the continual incline was something my legs and mind were not prepared for. I wanted to warn anyone, please be safe and try to prep your body beforehand : proper conditioning, hydration, nourishment and please bring plenty of water. There is zero shade all the way up and down, proper shoes are a must as well for safety.
Sandy Rodriguez — Google review
I’m here from NC, and while visiting family, my brother brought me to this amazing park so I could get in some trail running. We paid $8 each for a Day Pass, which I thought was reasonable. While my brother climbed the Summit, I ran the big Loop trail around the park’s circumference. It’s about 4.6 miles long. It’s well marked and the sandy type path was easy to run on. The views are amazing and I stopped several times to take photos and video because it was so breathtaking! There’s plenty of restrooms along the trail as well. It was super cold today (11°) so I didn’t bring along water. I would recommend it if you run this place or hike it in the hotter summer months. They also have camping sites and rock climbing available here.
Dana Steele — Google review
While visiting Austin Texas, I searched for challenging areas to hike and to witness a beautiful sunset. Enchanted Rock was one of the top three places so I scheduled a day to go that was clear and dry. About an hour and a half away from Austin is Enchanted Rock. The drive was pretty easy and made it there well before sunset. I arrived, pulled over next to the ranger station and paid for my reserved spot. It's always good to reserve a spot here when going to the park. It was January when I visited so it wasn't bad at all. Summer could be a different story. Keep in mind to bring water no matter what time of year you come. Summer obviously bring more. I read reviews that it was a challenging climb. There are some areas where it is a high Rocky step but the remainder of the climb is easier. Overall this reasonably fit 52 year old made it up to the top in about 25 minutes stopping to take a couple pictures along the way. If I would have known that going in I probably would have taken some of the lower trails at the base of the rock before trekking upwards towards the top. Once you are at the top, the vastness of this Park is nothing less than astonishing. I truly appreciated the view and nearby 18ft boulders that I've been standing for probably millions of years. Unfortunately there was very little cloud covers to the sunset wasn't as dramatic as I would have hoped but it was beautiful nonetheless. The ranger said to make your way down no later than 6:15. Once the sunset there is complete darkness so going down is a bit tricky but if you bring a flashlight you will be okay. There were actually people coming up as I was going down at 6:00. Unless you are camping overnight you need to leave the park at 8:00. I would have stayed longer for the stargazing but it was pretty windy that night. Enchanted Rock Park is also classified as a dark sky area so stargazing is breathtaking. You can actually see the Milky way! Would definitely return if I'm ever in TX again
72ocutter — Google review
More beautiful than you can imagine!!! Fun for all ages! Bring a hat or head covering as it's very windy at the top. Don't skip the hike around Enchanted Rock! It's a beautiful meandering hike with flowers, butterflies, and birds.
Janet Evans — Google review
Enchanted Rock was a great hiking experience for our family today! The big climb up the rock was challenging but easily worth it. We had amazing sightseeing from the top in every direction. After our trip to the top, we hiked around several of the loop trails visiting lakes, streams, and other gorgeous viewpoints. You MUST buy a state park reservation to get in, it easy, just plan ahead. Parking and bathrooms were great, the park ranger who greeted us was friendly and helpful.
Luke Thompson — Google review
This is a very steep climb! So make sure you are prepared to take it slow if need be. I would recommend bringing a lot of water to stay hydrated, some shoes with good tread, a hat and sun glasses, and sunblock!
Lauren Milam — Google review
Enchanted Rock State Park provided an unforgettable family hiking experience! The friendly and helpful park staff made the start smooth and enjoyable. The hike encompassed various terrains - from walking alongside a river to navigating brush and steeper sections. Even with those challenges, it was manageable for our kids. The trail offered scenic views, especially passing by large boulders that were perfect for memorable photos. Reaching the summit was rewarding. Encountering kids exploring cave systems added an extra layer of excitement. A place full of adventure and exploration, offering an abundance of opportunities to discover!
Joe Taveras — Google review
Great endurance hike up the big rock. Didn’t get to any of the back side trails but we roamed around the rocks and trails on it. Be careful how you climb down if going down the sides as it can be steep in places. The ranger in the office was informative and really helpful in buying some items from the shop.
Amy — Google review
Enchanted Rock is the largest pink granite monadnock in the United States, standing at 425 feet tall. It offers a short, yet enjoyable and challenging hike, with the summit trail being moderately difficult. However, once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with an amazing view of the surrounding area. It's important to bring plenty of water bottles and a towel, as there are no restrooms or water sources available on the trail. Please exercise caution while climbing the rock.
Farhin Momtaj — Google review
this was my first state park visit ever and i loved it top to bottom! easy to locate, park, shop etc.
the hike itself is so beautiful. not difficult but kinda vertigo-y since there’s no tree cover to stop you from seeing drops 😅 i was truly enchanted!
Bebe — Google review
Monday, March 11, 2024 my wife and I went to climb the Enchanted Rock. For us it was a challenge but it was worth it. The view at the top is amazing, you look around it's like watching a Western movie. It's great for families and friends. I recommend it.
Great place ! It's very calming and relaxing. Definitely coming back. I recommend coming early with your favorite coffee or favorite fruit drink and sit on a bench thats near a shady tree. Just enjoy nature, the view and the peacefulness.
Franny — Google review
What an amazing undertaking! Not only beautiful and awe inspiring but deeply prayerful, respectful of the faith and very moving. While the monumental cross is incredible, the prayer rocks moved me most. The thousands of prayers left here speak of the true faith of so many visitors!!! It makes my heart glad that not only are there Scriptures that line the entire walk in both directions in different languages (English is always one) but that inside the cross is a sinners prayer and the entire garden has prayer cards for intentions of the faithful. Bring a sharpie marker to write on the rocks that are provided and leave your prayer before God there too! It’s the real deal and truly an awesome site to see!!!
Lori DeVoe — Google review
Spent a few hours visiting this wonderful park, praying with a 20 year marine vet in the prayer area. My daughter has never visited so wanted to take her on a family day to Kerrville. The Holy spirit was everywhere!
Reading all the prayer requests just filled out hearts.
Please if in Kerrville visit the Hallow Cross.
Met a group from SALT...wonderful people from San Antonio TX
Cheryl Anna — Google review
Beautiful place! Went on Easter Sunday. It was the perfect day to visit. We took our fur baby and he also enjoyed the smooth trail back and forth. The sculptures are magnificent and unforgettable. My favorite was the Cross, read the prayers and felt at peace. Couldn't leave without leaving our prayer rocks through the path. Thank you Kerrville, TX for the great experience! We hope to visit soon and plan to get a memoriam plaque for my mother in law.
Violeta Cruz — Google review
This has been and still remains one of my favorites places to visit. The sense of peace and connection to God is so strong. The prayer request rocks that people leave and the memorial messages they make are beautiful, the lady out and fantastic sculptures there are just breath-taking. If you haven't already been here, you need to make plans to attend asap, it is well worth the trip.
Darling Romo-Lopez — Google review
This place was beautiful! A must see in kerrville. You can drive to the top. They have parking and an area for handicap parking too. They also do have 2 free wheelchairs to borrow if need. I thought that was really awesome for them to provide. They have white rocks they call Prayer rocks. You write your Prayer and place it with the others. Sign said they have markers to use but because of Covid they no longer have that. So bring your own or the gift shop as soon as you drive in has permanent markers for sale for $2 each. Great place to sit, Pray, think.
Krystal Merlo — Google review
Amazing hidden gem in Kerrville Texas. The place is super clean and sits on a high hilltop overlooking the city. You may walk through the prayer gardens and pray over the stones that other have written their prayer request on. The sculptures are world class. If fact the depiction of the second coming of Christ may be the best I have ever seen. This is a must stop for people of all religions and faith but especially Christian. Don't forget to stop in the shop down the hill for souvenirs and great merchandise. The park is free for all.
Texas Catfish — Google review
This was our third visit to the Open Cross, and the prayer garden. This is an awesome location in Kerrville Texas, that is open to the public, at no charge. Every time we have come they have made changes, additions, and improvements. Great place to look at the artwork, and reflect on it, and it’s meanings. Great place for prayer. The prayer garden itself and the statues, our great form of worship, and testimony to the community. A lot of thought prayer and work went into this display. I highly recommend a visit, and spend some time here.
Robert Sanders — Google review
This is a free prayer sculpture garden in Kerrville TX. There is regular parking and handicapped parking as well. The garden is accessible to anyone in a wheelchair or using a walker or crutches. This place is so peaceful and overlooks the city. There is scripture every few steps and beautiful depictions of Jesus! Highly recommend!
Leigh Aten — Google review
I went here on the 22nd of April. It was absolutely beautiful. Perfect weather for the perfect garden. If I had had a chance, I would have spent all day there.
It does not cost anything. They have porta potties and a gift shop.
Ona Gonyon — Google review
What a divine visit! You definitely feel there’s something very special about this place! I was able to reflect and talk to God with a different kind of peace. I encourage you to visit at least once!
Elias B. Olivo — Google review
It was amazing, very spiritual and informative. The sculptures were inspiring and created with such care. I felt the holy spirit there. The rock prayer garden touched my soul and gave me hope. The sculpture of nails pierced my heart with gratitude for our lord and savior Jesus Christ. The enormous cross reminded me of my redemption and the enormous amount of love our father God has for esch of us. Will return asap
Chris Beebe — Google review
We visited the prayer garden twice during our Kerrville trip with Campers for Christ. People from all over have visited and there are thousands of rocks with prayers and I felt the weight of many of them. The peace and love of Jesus Christ is there. Each bronze statue is gorgeous and inspiring. It was an amazing experience. We will be back.
Debbie Schwanbeck — Google review
A great place to visit for your own spiritual journey or to take the family. It is accessible for the handicap , wide sidewalks, but very hilly. It may be difficult for older folks to walk up the hill without help. Great exercise for the rest of us.
Sculptures are beautiful and lots of bible verses.
We were only there for about an hour and enjoyed it very much.
Janet DeFiori — Google review
Beautiful place. I recommend to bring your own shapies to write or color on any blank white rock or bring your own rock.
regia tx — Google review
Very beautiful prayer area and staff to keep the garden clean, safe and a special place to meet with God.
Marissa Fleenor — Google review
Great great place. Been here twice looking forward to going back again.
Brandon Holtzapple — Google review
This is a very touching tribute to Our Lord and Saviour. Walking thru the entire location brings joy and sadness in seeing the ultimate sacrifice Jesus gave to us.🙏
The walkways are lined with inspirational quotes, passages and verses from the bible. There is an area full of "prayer stones" which anyone can pick up and write a prayer to leave for others to see. The Cross itself is very inspiring with verses and quotes written on it.😇
The entrance is free and there is plenty of well lit parking as well as a small gift shop at the bottom of the hill. There are clean restrooms available at the top and bottom of the monument area. The views of Kerrville from the top of the hill are amazing.💓
This stop is a must for anyone who loves and would like to see and feel a little closer to Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. I highly recommend it. It's quite emotional.
Birds & wildlife, plus limestone canyons, plateaus & fall foliage along a river valley.
WOW!! This place is stunning. We only saw a tiny piece of it. We took the Lost Maples Trail. It was so beautiful. It also has a few little places where you can veer off to get a closer look at the Sabinal River. We all thoroughly enjoyed our hike on this trail. We had an 8 year old with us and he did fine. Seeing all of the trees and mammoth boulders was fun. We will be back again during the fall when we have longer to stay. Do not miss this place.
jana hughey — Google review
Spectacular views, well marked trails and nice primitive camping areas. The trees were just starting to show some deep red colors (11/8/22). The rivers are easy to cross and the steep terrain is very steep but it doesn't last long in any part. It is very rocky so take your time and I recommend hiking poles or hiking stick. Bring any water filter to fill up along the rivers, springs and ponds. The east-west trail in my opinion is the best and most picturesque area of the park regarding the maples. I recommend this park to anyone!
Garrett Gardiner — Google review
Well we went to this beautiful natural place all the way from Houston, the four and half hour drive was fun, musical and satisfying!
Lost Maples State Natural Area, beautiful place for hiking, picnic and camping as well. As we were hiking, I enjoyed the swishing sound of maple tree leaves, the monkey rock and the grotto. And on the other side we went to the ponds!
The interesting thing of that hike was I saw a walnut tree, collected some walnut fallen off the tree and had some!! Will definitely come back for hike to the top and fall colors next year!!
Bishwa, The world! — Google review
A must see park for anyone that enjoys hiking and enjoying the beauty of nature. Make it a backpacking trip and choose one of the primitive campsites near the top and you won't be disappointed! Plenty of areas to stop and enjoy. The older kids loved exploring, especially Monkey Rock. Warning the steep areas also have a lot of loose rocks so good shoes and hiking poles are suggested.
Amy Losh — Google review
Maybe I’ll update this once I am able to visit in the autumn, but for how much this state park was hyped up to me, I wasn’t impressed. I prefer Garner and Hill Country! Back story, I’ve been trying to visit this park for SO LONG. During the height of the pandemic, this park was almost impossible to visit. I once drove all the way out here just to be told that I booked the day passes incorrectly and wasn’t able to stay. When I finally was able to enter a couple weeks ago, I was underwhelmed. The trails were quite crowded, but they were easy to follow and challenging at parts, so it felt like real deal hiking. There wasn’t as much to the park as I originally thought, but I still enjoyed myself. I’m told to return in autumn to see the leaves change, and then I’ll understand the greatness of this park
Morghan Townsend — Google review
What a beautiful place... but before going into that you have to know what you are getting into.
Trails are long and have elevation gains that happen quickly.
There are some strenuous spots.
Bring water, bring snacks.
That said... I camped at the Primitive Area B and it was beautiful. From car to camp was 1.52 miles and the views along the way were nice. You can stop and Day Use Area C and enjoy the river and bluff. Once you move on from there it's .55 miles up and to the sites, which are first come first serve.
Amazing views up top and it's mostly flat which is a nice break after the climb.
About 6 or 7 great trails to explore... so I'll be back!
eddie gramma — Google review
Well managed, easy to follow trails. Be warned there are several trails that are medium difficulty (at the very least). The views were amazing but the hike to the top and back down was torturous, especially in the heat. That particular trail wouldn't be good for children or people with health issues. However there are several trails that are super easy for all. There's a little natural pool swimming area but there are non venomous snakes that share the swimming hole. I was told the snakes keep their distance from swimmers but I didn't care- I don't do snakes.
There are several primitive camping spaces along the trails but you gotta hike in and out with all your camping equipment and accessories- no vehicle accessibly.
The staff was super friendly. Upon checking in, the conversation focused on safety, asked if I had plenty of water, informed me of a refilling station and warned me of the high temperatures (but it's Texas and that's what we do).
All the scenery was beyond beautiful!!
Dusty M. Coleman — Google review
I always love hiking here. ❤️ We stopped in the ranger station before our Tuesday morning hike. Bought a few stuffed animals for my God kids. The trails were fairly deserted (Tuesday morning & it was misting), which was awesome. The mist made the climb up the east trail "special," but we made it! Fyi, that beast is steep & long. I've hiked this with all ages & abilities. You can do it, you just may have to take lots of breaks. My friend hadn't been here in a long time, so it was almost a new hike for her. The grotto is always cool & she hadn't seen monkey rock before. It's important that you walk to the front of it to get the full effect. She didn't at first, but when she did, she was surprised by how much it actually looks like a monkey. We found a small waterfall that I'd never seen/heard before, so that was fun. If the water is low, be careful crossing the rivers using the rocks, some aren't stable. If the water is high, you're probably getting wet. Just take off your shoes & dry off on the other side. 😁
Missy Fraser — Google review
I came here a day after the area had been receiving a lot of run. I wanted to hike to Monkey Rock and the grotto. It was no problem. The place drains well. I hiked to the grotto and then came back to parking. It was about 4 miles I think. You can ride a bike to the monkey rock and then hike to the grotto to save time but then you may not see a porcupine sunbathing in a tree.
Josef Junefield — Google review
Lost Maples has lots of beautiful trails to be explored. Some that are easy and some that are long. Make sure to get a map at the visitor center. It also has a great picnic area to enjoy lunch with lots of room for kids. Lots of birds and butterflies to see.
Geoff Gilman — Google review
One of my favorite parks in Texas to visit. My kiddo and I camped and hiked here. She kept up with me for over 5 miles of hiking. The trick, lots of breaks. Campgrounds were so nice with your very own picnic table. The restrooms were very clean, the nicest I've seen out of the parks I've been too. The showers were amazing as well. Definitely recommend this park for anyone looking for a place to camp and hike.
Tino Escareno — Google review
I love coming here at least once a year to go for a hike. It’s an incredibly peaceful park to go to, and it’s beautifully taken care of. I had a blast finally getting to see the leaves change color after all this time. Even though it started raining while I was there, I have to say, it made the experience that much more special. I was able to meditate and relax out there before I had to go back to work. I absolutely recommend visiting this park if you’re in the are. You won’t regret it!
Doumas — Google review
Great hike. We did the East trail and saw monkey rock and the grotto. We decided to go to the scenic overlook and turn around and come back down. It was steep and rough going. The overlook wasn’t breathtaking but was pretty. This is marked a challenging trail and it was definitely that. We saw people doing it in regular tennis shoes but I would highly recommend water resistant hiking shoes/boots. We love ours and pack them on every trip. There is gravel and you will slip. We were there when there hadn’t been a lot of rain and even then we had to walk through water.
Crystal Herzog — Google review
Beautiful Texas State Park with great hiking trails and river pools for swimming/wading. Two long hiking trails here (East and West), that have strenuous inclines and steep grades but can be finished in about 3 hours-even for sure-footed amateurs. Only downsides were that the trails' signage and shower facilities could use upgrades. Only 30 campsites, so facilities aren't too crowded. Great place to see the stars!
Becky McKee — Google review
Having lived in TX for almost 6 years I had never experienced falls colors as beautiful as this in any other part of the country. This was a last minute visit but it ended up being the best part of our trip. Make sure to have maps on you or download offline maps because we had zero service here.
We were driving back to Dallas so the ranger helped us download maps on their computer. They have a dedicated website to track the progress of the colors of the trees and you can plan your visit accordingly. I’d suggest to book your tickets in advance. You can drive around in the park. We only had a few hours so we did the most famous trail and were so happy that we did fit it in our tight schedule.
Saurabh Vinchu — Google review
I really enjoyed hiking here in this area. I hiked the East loop and all the overlooks on that side. It was pretty amazing. The park does have a day use area and some hike in campsites but little else beyond the trails. The main trail loops are fairly long moderate hikes there’s a steep part where you hike up to the top of the hills and then it flattens out at the top. I hope to come back and hike the west side eventually, was a spectacular hike on the east side would recommend.
charles compton — Google review
Wonderful park!
The rainy weather didn't dampen the mood!
Be sure to make a reservation! We did it in 1 day in the morning.
Beautiful nature. Red-yellow leaves. We followed the Maples trail and reached Monkey rock.
The journey back there took about 2 hours at a leisurely pace. I highly recommend visiting the park!
Olga Gretskaya — Google review
My favorite State Park so far! It's a stunning place, especially in the fall. I went at sunrise and the evaporating water looked like a river of spirits, couldn't quite capture the feeling with my phone camera.
The panoramic view requires a brief, steep hike, but you can visit the fun landmarks on the east loop (the cove and monkey rock) without any elevation gain if you start from the east side.
If you are an experienced hiker I would budget at least 4h-5h to do both the East and the West Loop and take plenty of pictures.
I unfortunately did not have time to do the west loop so I'll be back for that.
Luis Sosa — Google review
I hiked Lost Maples for the first time back in the spring and put it on my must-do list for the fall, hoping to experience the legendary colors of the foliage. Despite the severe drought dampening the colors a bit, my hike in mid-November did not disappoint. This is a beautiful park any time of year, and the colors just amplify that. Trails are well-maintained and marked, although a few have fairly significantly steep grades and loose, rocky footing, so be prepared and allow plenty of time. The park offers tent and rv camping in the main areas near the entrance and several great primitive areas accessible only on foot. Plan ahead if you wish to see the fall colors. Reservations can be made a month in advance, and you won’t get in without a reservation most days October through November.
Randy Rodgers — Google review
Beautiful spot in the Hill Country! We camped here and it was so peaceful! THE STARS!!! They were gorgeous (totally worth staying up to see). Also all the camping sites are hike in so make sure you are prepped for that. I would love to come back here one day and watch a meteor shower.
Sammie robinson — Google review
Spent the day at Lost Maples State park. My wife and I and my daughter plus 4 dogs all hiked the East trail. The trail is 4.6 miles. The entrance fee is $6 per person which is very reasonable. They have a day use area with picnic tables. There is also a camp ground. 2 primitive campgrounds. Fishing pond. So much to see and do. So on the way home the fur babies got a treat to DQ. I’m sure I heard them all humming DQ that’s what I like about Texas. Beautiful place.
Swimming & floating on the Frio River, plus hiking, & nightly dancing in summertime.
This place is beautiful. It’s very busy so make your reservations in advance. It’s also pretty remote so if you forget anything you might have to drive pretty far. There is a store at the park but a case of water is $8 (keep that in mind!). Gas station down the road, but they don’t have much there. We hiked the crystal cave trail, which was challenging but worth it.
Britney — Google review
One of the clearest kid friendly (wading) rivers in America that doesn’t require hiking,repelling or 4x4 to access. although it’s spring fed, if the temp is above 100 for awhile, the water will be comfortable but won’t cool
you off.
Please respect this volatile ecosystem and pickup all your trash and wear eco friendly sunscreen (it’s like $1 more).
Q Mac — Google review
First camping trip two years ago in my new camper van was to Garner State Park. It did not disappoint! It was oh so beautiful and peaceful.
The park is massive so it was nice having my bike to ride around and explore the campgrounds. Also rode it on the trails … some smooth dirt paths and some pretty rocky ones that …..let’s say challenged me. 😂 I couldn’t pass up doing a little floating in the Frio which winds through the 1,774 acres of scenic Hill Country Park. It was a wonderful adventure.
Gimme Adventures — Google review
One of my favorite Texas state parks. I have been visiting here since I was a kid. The place has amazing natural beauty throughout the park. Great place to enjoy nature, relax, swim, hike, and camp. Everything is very well maintained and the staff are always helpful and friendly. Place can fill up during holidays so plan and reserve in advance. Wildlife can be found throughout the park, I spotted, deer, turkeys, rabbits, and at night coyotes can be heard howling in the distance. Over the many visits here this place has become a place of wonderful memories and this current trip did not disappoint. Highly recommended for sure.
Reuben Reyes — Google review
Beautiful state park. Very challenging trails at Crystal Cave and Old Baldy — but totally worth it with the chilly Frio waiting for you after! Remember to respect the wildlife; we saw a good noodle (snake) swimming by in the river. We minded our own business (playing mermaids in the water) and it minded its business (swimming down the way). And, leave no trace! Keep our parks beautiful.
Courtney Snyder — Google review
Garner Park's fall foliage is absolutely stunning. The ancient bald cypress trees along the waterway create a pristine environment. Words can't describe the beauty of this place. Let the pictures do the talking.
Best to buy tickets in advance as it gets crowded even on weekdays.
Arnav Baruah — Google review
You can definitely see why its one of the top rated parks in the state! Such a phenomenal park with oh so much to do! During our recent visit this past weekend the foliage was gorgeous! I even said it was something out of a movie or painting! Quite pretty this time of year! Definitely bring ways to stay warm if you do make it out this time of year! We loved how few people there were throughout the park and were able to enjoy quite a bit of alone time almost everywhere we hiked. Mount Baldy and Crystal Caves are definitely musts if you go!
zach burke — Google review
Beautiful park! The hills surrounding the area were a gorgeous backdrop. The river was low but deep enough to swim by the dam. Tons of campsites with flush toilets and showers with hot water. We stayed in Persimmon hill camp area and there were plenty of trees in the sites. The trails are great, some elevation gains and challenging areas. The hike up Baldy for the view is absolutely worth it! The caves were cool too just not my thing. We saw deer, lizards and tons of bunnies. The park has a crazy amount of amenities, mini golf, several gift shops, a camp store that sells literally everything you could need. You can show up without food,water, shelter, clothing and buy it all at the camp store. Store is open till 10pm. They even have an ice cream parlor and a food truck. Great place to bring the family with a lot of things to do!
Z B — Google review
This place is a must visit here in Texas. The water is usual very cool. But today the Texas sun made very nice. The cypress trees are majestic and offer plenty of shade. Get here early and get a table with a BBQ pit and make something quick.
We've been coming here over 40 years and always have a great time.
Tony Alvarez — Google review
The most beautiful state park I have come across in the state of TX so far. We went to see fall colors and were surprised by the vivid colors of the trees here. We did a hike here and enjoyed the view. It wasn’t crowded at all. You can check the color of the trees before you visit on their website.
There are lakes here that you can kayak in and a lot of hikes around. There are so many places here for taking pictures. Enjoy the fall colors in TX.
Saurabh Vinchu — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous in the fall! Went to see the colors of the season and was not disappointed. The river is beautiful. The grounds are well kept and the park staff is super friendly. Did the Crystal Cave and Bridges hike. Physically challenging but stunning scenery. Well worth the drive.
Jeremiah McCurdy — Google review
Challenging trails were awesome! Lacked true Primitive Campsites which was a bummer. Off-season probably better if you're looking for peace a quiet as it's a huge park with a lot of recreational activities if you want to keep the kiddos occupied. Gorgeous overlooks from high vantage points if you're able to climb!
Scott Staley — Google review
I camped here during a cold spell, but had a great time hiking and learning about the park. Educational signs are posted in both English and Spanish. Challenging hiking trails, some were too difficult for my little dog, but beautiful. Facilities clean, campsites level, welcome center and shops seemed to have reduced winter hours, but were open.
Jennifer Baldy — Google review
The amenities at this park are excellent! There is a store that has everything you may have forgotten. They also have a gift shop, candy store, and mini golf. Lots to do here as well from hiking to swimming to star gazing to bird watching. It is absolutely beautiful! Lots of parking. The bathrooms had soap! Definitely a favorite of ours!!
Esther Miller — Google review
We really enjoyed going to this park. It was very busy so go early. The morning passes had already sold out. We enjoyed taking some of the trails while we were there. We hiked to Crystal Cave. We also hiked along the river line. It was so pretty. The kids waded in the water. We all really enjoyed ourselves. It is a very beautiful place to see the river and enjoy a day with nature. I highly suggest bringing the kids, bathing suits, and water shoes. They will LOVE it.
jana hughey — Google review
Best park ever! We rented paddle boats for $15 an hour, it was amazing. Everyone was super family friendly.
There's a cute candy shop, gift shop and clean bathrooms near by
I loved that this park didn't allow alcohol because the vibe was good and felt safe with my 3 young children.
There's quite a few rope swings the kids loved playing on!
We can't wait to go back!
Sarah Garcia — Google review
Gorgeous state park, views are beautiful and the little shopping areas are a great way to tourist shop. I was disappointed in how some of the areas there were trash. Some need to be considerate and should pick up after themselves. Trails are beautiful and make sure to bring plenty of water.
Cilia Flores — Google review
Garner is a place we frequent OFTEN. The various swimming holes on the Frio River are more than enough to keep us coming back. But playgrounds, we'll kept bathrooms and showers, public facilities and camp store are all fantastically convenient. Not to mention the hiking trails are fun and challenging. All in all a great weekend trip from Houston. Also a fantastic half way point to stay on the way to Big Bend if you don't want to make the whole drive in a day.
Sean Marshall — Google review
Loved shelter #38 on the edge of the Frio with a path on the hillside leading to it. Despite it being so cold,it was lovely to hear the water and in the morning rise to walk along it; we saw an elk doing its walk as well. The gift shops and employees are friendly,and the park is maintained nicely...thankful. *Any trash at night be sure to bring your own trash bags,the raccoons will definitely find what you leave out..as I heard at 3am the rattling of our cans hanging in a bag off our chairs around the fire.
Price Family — Google review
Great park for trail walking and climbing. Different natural environments can be seen in different trails. Some are wet land trails, some are more desert trails, and some are more rocky mountain trails. The must go trail that I recommend is the crystal cave trail. The view is just stunning when you take photos from inside out of the cave.
David Chang — Google review
Excellent day excursion from San Antonio. The car ride is under two hours. Once there, we hiked for approximately 3 hours and ended the day with a picnic. Hiking was not strenuous. Pretty much any person in reasonable shape can do it. The beginning part of it is a bit more uphill, but doable.
Andrew Andrea Visconti — Google review
Here in February so the park is very quiet with only a few visitors. Most of the amenities are closed due to the season but that's okay with me. Hikes are generally short but some can be steep and Rocky (don't hike in flip flops!) Frio river was pretty and clear
Mr E Mann — Google review
The park was fun and very active. Beautiful views and lots of places to picnic and hang out. I did not get to spend a lot of time here but the lake looked like a lot of fun. The gift shop was nice and the staff were kind.
Geoff Gilman — Google review
If you don't know then you don't know! This place has been awesome for a long time. The park is great but I would rather stay elsewhere as the camping spots are very close and it's not a camping per say experience so as long as you know that going in you are good. The hiking and water is amazing and the nightly dances are what make this an awesome place!
Ryan Nance — Google review
This was a great state park, was pretty slow mid week in the winter. Some great trails to hike here like Mt Baldy and Crystal cave, mostly dog friendly as well. You can explore a lot of the park in just one day, a lot of the trails are on the shorter side and the day use area is beautiful would like to swim there when it’s warmer. There were a lot of options for camping in the park as well.
charles compton — Google review
Came here to camp with the family. We checked in with no problem. The campsites are well maintained. We stayed at the live oak site. They have electricity and water hook ups. You can drink the water but it tastes nasty so consider bringing a filter of you don't bring water. The campsite also had a picnic table and grill/firepit combo. The hikes nearby are short and the paths are well maintained and well marked. The swimming was great and was the highlight for my family. There is a small play ground there also. The store on site has a lot of things in case you forgot anything. We will be back for sure, we enjoyed our time.
Cameron R — Google review
Our annual camping trip this year was during Spring Break last week. It was great fun for the whole family. Nice campsites and friendly staff. Lot’s of hiking, climbing, biking, swimming and wildlife viewing. Met some new friends. The weather was great. No bugs yet either 👍.
Taylor Petty — Google review
Beautiful park with lots of convenient amenities like the store, gift shop and rentals. Tons to do between hiking trails and the river. Wonderful staff. Would highly recommend.
Emily Nguyen — Google review
Garner state park is beautiful,the FRIO RIVER,an the hiking was gorgeous..lots to do ..came for the eclipse ..the park is pet friendly..on the weekend the pavilion has dancing ,a ice cream store ,mini golf..it is now one of my favorite camp spots..yes I would recommend if your in that part of TEXAS😃😃😃😃
Shirley McEntyre — Google review
Gardner State Park is a nature lover’s paradise. The cave exploration is an exciting highlight, complemented by the stunningly clear blue water that beckons for a refreshing dip. Diverse hiking trails cater to various skill levels, offering picturesque views throughout. The park’s accommodation options are impressive, from camper sites with electricity hook-ups to cabins equipped with AC, and general tent-friendly parking with accessible electricity. Clean and well-maintained restrooms make the camping experience even more enjoyable. Gardner State Park truly feels like a piece of heaven on earth – a must-visit destination, highly recommended for nature enthusiasts and camping aficionados alike.
WealthLux International Realty — Google review
I camped in a tent and had electricity and water at the site. Very clean park. I highly recommend it! This was a very pretty place and had extremely clear water. I will say the frio river is a bit chilly, but in the Texas heat during the summer, you don't mind it!
We both swam in the deeper parts of the river and then floated in a rented inner tube.
Katie Pennartz — Google review
It's a great place for family. A ton of activities you can enjoy with your kids or alone yourself. Pet friendly (plus more 5*).
There is a mountain & a river, it's like an "all you can eat" restaurant. Hiking, fishing, camping, kayaking, swinging, floating, throwing stick for your dog, and they will swimming for bringing it back, etc..
Or you can just put your chair in the water and read your books with your beverages, under the sun...
I love this place.
Wooded park along the South Llano River for hiking, birdwatching, swimming, fishing, camping & more.
This is a really nice small state park with nice hiking trails and access points to the clear waters of the South Llano River. Lots of wildlife and a great place for dogs to explore with their humans. The bathrooms are well kept and sites are clean with good amounts of space between your neighbors. AT&T service is good, but Verizon does not work here.
The Coyles — Google review
Went to South Llano River SP on a recommendation from a friend. Couldn't find a lot of information prior to the trip on hiking with the big focus of the park on the river. Hiked the back country trails and was pleasantly surprised to find challenging trails and great views with hardly anyone else out there. The trails are wide, well defined, and clear of debris. Could hike or bike most of them. Would definitely recommend for the river, trails, or birding.
Isaiah Gerald — Google review
Beautiful scenery and trails. Trails are clearly marked and range from easy to difficult. The park was quiet, and the wildlife was abundant. Can't wait to go back in spring and see all the beautiful blooms and colorful creatures.
They do offer showers and restrooms at the camping area.
Sara Kirkpatrick — Google review
Really nice little state park. We camped here in early January. Arrived after the office closed, but the camp host had a list of available spaces and recommended based on our desire to be near the bath house but as private and quiet as possible. Good bike/hike paths. Sites each had a covered picnic area so even in rain (or a different season in strong sun) you are able to eat outside.
Barbara McElroy — Google review
This is probably one of my top favorite state parks so far. It’s not crowded & it’s a dark sky park so you can see stars everywhere. We also enjoyed floating the river. The camper parking had plenty of shade & a nice covered picnic table. There were fun trails to hike. The kids were never bored.
Ryan Connel — Google review
We only had one night here on New Year Eve. It was a last minute stop to break up a long drive home. The park was packed. We were in campsite 43 which is accessible. There is a trail 2 campsites over that we wanted to take but it closes around 2 each day due to turkey roosting so we could not. These sites are pretty close together and there is no privacy. The picnic table is covered. There was an armadillo that wandered from site to site looking for his own dinner while everyone else was cooking and eating their own dinner. Everyone just watched him as he paid no attention to any of us. My husband did ride some of the trails on his bike and loved it. He wants to come back and spend some more time. We didn't spend Amy time around the river this trip as it was so short.
Michelle — Google review
Very impressed with this park. While didn’t explore the extensive trail network due to the heat we did take advantage of the spring fed Llano river. From just lounging in the river to floating it twice we loved it. The history behind the park is also quite intriguing. We’ll be back.
Barry & Kelli Jo Gurley — Google review
Absolutely Amazing park! We came here last weekend and had to come back and enjoy all the hiking there is to around. The sounds of nature are so great to be able to actually enjoy vs city noises. Highly recommend this park for Camping, Swimming, Hiking alike!
Patience “Pate” Woolwine — Google review
This is a beautiful campground with lots of hiking trails and d bird blinds. If you love nature, this is your place. There is no tv reception s d cell coverage is spotty.
Bonnie Northrup — Google review
Our first ever camping experience in a state park.
The camp site we booked was a electric hookup type and the facilities are nothing short of world class.
The park is very well maintained and the staff was very friendly and accommodating.
In terms of connectivity, the park is just 10 mins drive off the town.
Apparently this place is a bird lovers paradise and we didn't know that until we were here .
Spotted a lot of birds in the park and learnt about a new hobby.
Jayadheer Taduvai — Google review
Good sized camp sites that can fit larger tents. Long rv parking. Bathrooms are in good shape and have hot and cold water. Dark camping so you can better enjoy the stars. New reamer station being built currently. Historic ranger station is quaint. Rangers offered for our scout troop to raise the flags in the morning but the weather had other plans which was ok. River was nice for fishing but not the best for swimming at its level. As with every state park you have to be aware of the wildlife. There was a snake in the water when we went but we were exiting the water while it was approaching. Several birds blinds and so many birds. Had some armadillo friends come by at night. Fun site and no complaints.
Jessica Baker — Google review
My family loves this little park! It's a beautiful dark sky park, perfect for star gazing! The South Llano River is springfed and practically drought proof! It's a blast to kayak from up river to the park and from the state park down to city park! The hiking trails are fun to explore and we really enjoyed hiking during the annular solar eclipse. The only thing that would make it 5 stars is for a bathroom update! The bathroom in the camping area is pretty gross, but it's also really old. Currently you can rent tubes, but no kayaks. Donate to the park to help them with their goal of purchasing kayaks for people to rent! They will be in the path of totality for April, so head out to check it out!
Colleen Graves — Google review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
South Llano River State Park is a solar eclipse enthusiast's dream. I recently witnessed an annual solar eclipse here, and it was truly unforgettable. The park rangers were incredibly helpful in answering all my eclipse-related questions.
Please note the $5 entry fee, which is a small price for enjoy the park. Just a short quarter-mile drive to the right after entering the park, and you can quickly obtain a permit.
During my visit, I was pleasantly surprised to find volunteers with telescopes for public viewing. However, spots are limited, so booking in advance is a wise choice. Besides the eclipse, I had the chance to see local wildlife, including deer and bison, which added to the park's appeal.
South Llano River State Park is a must-visit for celestial events and Texas' natural beauty. 🌟🌒🌌
praveenpno — Google review
If you're looking for a stunningly beautiful hideaway in the Texas Hill Country, you will find it at South Llano River State Park. I am on a mission to visit all Texas State Parks, but I have a feeling that I will revisit this one many times. A quick check of the camping areas convinced me to plan a camping trip here. It's only a short 10-minute drive from Junction City, Texas, making it a perfect destination for small-town exploration.
Cricket Walker — Google review
Such a lovely State Park! We stayed here for a few days with our camper on a family trip through the Hill County. Just a few minutes away from Junction, this smaller State Park was so fun to explore!. The sites are well maintained and have nice covered shelters over the picnic tables. Most of the sites are nestled in shady trees. They are building a new park headquarters, which will be super nice once it is finished. This is a dark sky park and the stars were bright and super enjoyable! We brought along our telescope and did a little star gazing. There is a great clearing for this right down the path from the campsite. Bring your bikes! This park is definitely set up for some mountain biking. Plus my kids loved making the campground loop, the steep hills make it so worth it just to zoom around down. Also, if you are into bird watching, the park has done a great job setting up blinds and beautiful bird sanctuaries. My kiddos loved this. Buck Lake is just down a path from the campground (we biked, but the walk isn't far). You can go fishing there. Nice maintained picnic area there and a floating pier. The restroom and shower facilities were well kept and clean and properly working. My only complaint is there only two shower stalls for each the men and women, so pick your shower times wisely or you will be waiting. The overlook trail was great to hit in the early morning hours before the heat kicks in. It was a fairly easy to moderate short trail, that my kiddos really enjoyed. The river is really lovely, only problem the access isn't very good. We like to go and sit down by the river all day, much like you do on the Frio and Guadalupe Rivers. This one is a super trek hauling all you stuff down the river trail (Thank goodness for bikes and coolers with wheels). The other main river access in the park doesn't really have much shore/bank space. Maybe great to just put in for tubing and kayaking which lots of people were doing. We did enjoy the river it once we got down there and all set up. The water is beautiful and cool and not very crowded, which is a something we loved! Definitely a good weekend stay to enjoy nature and beautiful scenery in the Hill Country! The park staff/rangers were all nice and super helpful. Note if you are wanting a party and loudness, this is not the park for you. Because it is a Dark Sky park, they will aske you to turn down your lights and fires. We loved it because it was super family friendly and quiet. All of our camping neighbors were great!
Manda B — Google review
I had an incredible time staying at the park, and enjoying some camping with the family. The campgrounds themselves were amazing with lots of space between campsites to enjoy some activities during the day. There were so many beautiful birds to check out, which I really enjoyed. Then, the river was of course absolutely beautiful. 10/10
Marc Andrew — Google review
Serene park in South Texas and they hold monthly Star gazing parties. Prior reservation is required to visit the park and is free with Texas Park Pass.
Good for day picnic or family outing. Nearest town is Junction/Kerville for dine-in.HappyVisiting
Network of underground caves accessible by guided tours, plus a ranch-style campground.
An amazing experience! Well worth the drive. From the phone call the day before to the end of the tour the people were the friendliest people around. Everyone had a smile on their face. I would highly recommend this place to anyone passing through and need a rest or like us a place for a day trip. We will be back!
Amy Grant — Google review
Our family have been to a lot of cavern tours since our boys have been big enough. This cavern is probably my favorite so far! It's a little humid but the formations are significantly better than all the rest. We have been to wet caverns and dry caverns but this one was a great mix of both. The hike was fairly easy and our guide was knowledgeable. I would definitely add this to the bucket list of caverns to visit.
Christopher Guilford — Google review
Absolutely stunning place. I was so lucky to have a super small group of two others, me and our charming tour guide, Z. He was able to let us take our time admiring this natural wonder and shared stories of other tours and really awesome facts about the cave.
I was excited to find out about the camp ground and SUPER excited to learn about the discovery tour. 100% planning on coming back to do that and hopefully Z will be my guide again.
Thank you!!
Felt totally safe as a solo female traveler.
Amberlin Rogue — Google review
I've always wanted to see a cavern. The Sonora Caverns did not disappoint. There were 6 in our group everyone loved it. The path was easy enough to manage. Even our 4 year old did well. Our guide Mike was great. Highly recommend if you're driving through the area.
Tonya Luder — Google review
Took the long tour in a small group and thoroughly enjoyed it. Our guide was knowledge and personable which helped make the tour experience a good one. Tours usually happen within 30 minutes of purchase. The caverns are beautiful and totally worth the time and money.
Stayed a couple of nights in the RV park, which was quiet even though there were other rigs close by. Sites are basic... electric and water only, plus there's a tent camping area as well. Restrooms and showers were clean and neat. The price for the site was very reasonable for a private campground ($25 a night). Recommend walking into the RV park area once you're assigned a site... it's a short walk and will help with your actual parking as the site numbers are on the far side of the hookup posts and the sites are fairly close together with little room to navigate around to re-vector to your site if you overshoot when driving in; especially if other rigs are already parked up.
Gift shop has some interesting stuff: lots of rocks, jewelry, bags, blankets, and fleece sweaters, plus a few snacks for sale including fudge at the counter and ice cream in single serve portions.
Sue Kidd — Google review
WOW! Absolutely beautiful! A hidden gem m. I did the crystal palace tour that takes close to 2 hours. Well worth it!! I have toured other caverns in Texas and this exceeded them all in its beauty. The cavern features surround you. You have to be careful not to touch the features. Photos don’t capture the beauty that is this cavern.
Merideth Oliver — Google review
I stayed at the RV park. I have a 40 foot Class A and had no problem getting in and out. The parking is wonderful and so is the price, I think it was $25 a night. The sites have water and electric.
The caverns are unbelievable!!!!! I am so glad I went! We were all treated so well. Very well run and the folks there are really helpful and friendly. Just a super special place full of birds, flowers and awesome store and surprise! Miles of huge caverns under the ground!
Jody Johnson — Google review
If in the area it’s a must see. Worth the $20. Ethan our tour guide had only worked there 2 weeks and you’d thought he’d been there 20 years. Ethan was very informative. Totally different than most cave tours are. The path is narrow at points and everything is no touch even though it’s inches from you. There is up and down stairs and warm air. When they say wear a t-shirt….. believe them. 85% humidity and 80 degrees. You have to keep up or you ruin it for everybody. There’s tours behind you. Don’t take a child that can’t follow direction. There are 10 in a group and it’s just right. Follow the rules like our group did and it’s a great tour.
Rob Honegger — Google review
Truth be told, this was an unplanned stop on our way THRU Texas. We saw signs and veered off the main road to check it out. Why not? It was close to closing time! Turned out to be one of the most surreal and magical experiences of my life. What a gem (pun intended).
I had no idea, little/no expectations. The entire thing was a sequence of mind-blowing surprises, awe inspiring, breathtakingly beautiful, unexpectedly humbling.
OUR experience started with a small bit of frustration: we got there after the last tour of the day had already started so we were not able to go into the cave. Bummer.
But the genuinely friendly attendant told us about the camp ground and the early morning tours; that the best thing to do would be to spend the night (a mere $15 for the tent space with electricity and water available at every site). We did. We rested well, peacefully. We enjoyed the GREAT hot shower in their REALLY clean bathrooms. We caught the first tour of the next day, registering as soon as the doors opened (8am).
And OH BOY, so very glad we took her advice!!! Rejuvenated from road-tripping, we were able to truly enjoy the “hike” underground. The tour was wonder-full. The guide was amazingly insightful, educational and entertaining.
The cave itself, an alien terrain with a HUGE variety of spaces, textures, colors… wow. The path thru the cave SO tastefully created and well maintained. The tour had a great pace and catered well to a variety of tastes and levels of interest and enthusiasm… a little something for everyone.
Adding to the spectacular experience, we even got to enjoy the peacocks roaming the grounds around the gift shop. Never saw a white peacock before. Go figure.
All in all, two HUGE thumbs up for the whole thing. Make it a destination. Or stumble upon it. Either way you GOTTA see it for yourself.
I, for one, am looking forward to visiting it again someday. Next time, on purpose. ;)
Fabricio Breeze Olsson — Google review
Interesting cave. Does not have a large number of big rooms, but the tour does not disappoint. Plenty of passageways. Optional longer tour that is quite kinetic. I recommend.
Cindy Dire (Cindy) — Google review
Words nor pictures can describe the beauty of this cavern. You have to see it for yourself.
My husband and I have visited all of the Texas caves, and we recommend seeing this one if it’s the only one you ever get to see. However, if you plan to see all of them, see this one last because none will compare to its beauty. It’s called a show cave for a reason.
Michele — Google review
Visited Sunday 8-6-23 and took the 12:30PM tour. Cost for 2 adults (purchased online ahead of time with $3 added fee) was $59. We had a small group of only 3 plus the guide so what usually takes 2 hours was only 90 minutes for us but we did not feel rushed and thoroughly enjoyed the tour. I had not been since 2008 and it was as lovely as I remembered. “Z” was our tour guide in training and he did a great job. Parking is ample, restrooms were very clean, and the gift shop had so much to look at and buy. There are several stairs to climb to do the tour, so that is something to consider before visiting. We did the Crystal Palace tour and highly recommend it. The caverns are stunning and well worth seeing!
Tracy Torbett — Google review
Worth checking out! Tours are 1.5 hours, goes through some awesome sections. There's an option for a longer tour where you do a bit of actual caving. Gift shop has lots of not insanely expensive stuff, it's great. Lots of picnic areas, tons of parking.
Connor N Beatty — Google review
Great stop. Neat history and amazing caves. The formations are surreal. You can actually tell where the water levels changed millions of years ago. Many different types of formations. The guide pointed out several neat looking features. You do go down to approximately 150 feet. Walking is involved. Easy tour.
tina G — Google review
AMAZING!!! It is unreal inside the caverns. The rocks look so perfect, that they look almost fake! Gorgeous formations and like nothing I've ever seen before. This place should be on everyone's travel list!
Me and my husband took the self tour and it was right at a 3 mile walk! It is very cool inside the cave, so definitely bring a jacket.
Big Ann — Google review
Enjoyed our tour immensely! Our tour guide Bill was a wee bit tired but understandable. He answered all our questions and provided the background history of the caves. Had a wonderful time!
Cheri Moody — Google review
Absolutely beautiful caves one of the most renown in the world. Staff was super friendly and knowledgeable. Be prepared to walk up and down plenty of stairs.
chris — Google review
At first on our tour I wasn't impressed. But all of a sudden, 15 minutes or so in it was beautiful. It's a warm cave with high humidity. We stayed 2 nights in the rv campground with water and electric.
James Guse — Google review
Small cave but worth the visit. It is very hot - so hot and humid my glasses fogged up. They also have a very small RV grounds power & water. 7 people in our group. Little over an hour round trip. Fun guide is very knowledgeable and takes his time.
Doug olmstead — Google review
Caverns of Sonora is another amazing place place that allows camping on site. I stayed in my tent for two nights and absolutely enjoyed it. Missy and Colton, both were phenomenal to work with. Missy was the tour guide and Colton is the best gemstone seller in the world. He took me for over $250 of gems which are absolutely gorgeous.
Chris Muncy — Google review
This was a great overnight stop on my way to Big Bend. Beautiful and unusual cavern. Eli is an excellent guide. Camping was close quarters but full hookup pull through spaces. Beautiful landscape and wildlife.
Rebecca Cooke — Google review
This was one of the most unique places we've ever been. The staff was all wonderful to interact with, Joshua was the best tour guide, and the story of this place will leave you in awe, just as the wonders of the cave below. For more details of our amazing adventure, check out our Travel Blog post below. We'll. definitely be back!
https://fromaustin.blog/2024/03/02/sonora-tx-beautiful-inside-and-out/
Brad Martin — Google review
Great little place to visit. We were passing through and stumbled across it. Tour guide was on point. We'll worth the cost of admission. Awesome gift shop and great prices. I found something for everyone in the family.
Fort Concho Historic Site is a significant military museum that showcases exhibits and restored barracks. The establishment was once a pioneer defense post and served as the former home to the renowned Buffalo Soldiers. Visitors should not miss the chance to see the adorable mules at the barns located at the back of Fort Concho. Despite unseasonably cold weather, visitors can witness exceptional restoration efforts and care towards maintaining this historic site.
The museum is well maintained with interesting exhibits. Definitely worth a tour if you want to learn more history of Texas.
Simon X — Google review
Very interesting experience. These folks have taken care in many details to provide an authentic experience of what life in this 19th century Fort could have been like. The grounds are original and in fantastic condition. The buildings have been meticulously restored to an amazing condition. Excellent work and effort on restoration of Army equipment including cannon and livery. There is a fantastic restoration of an Infirmary and Officer's quarters. There is an interesting exhibition of antique telephone, and telegraph with some very fine antique phones on display. The entrance fee was 3$ and well worth the time to visit. Super impressed by the efforts involved here.
Herbert Hutchinson — Google review
Learn about the history of Fort Concho. Some buildings are under renovation and no guided tours offered at this time.
Parking is across the street.
Tibor Tamas — Google review
My main complaint was the lodging needed a better cleaning. Linens were clean but all surfaces including the kitchen were dusty. Coffee pots both were not cleaned from last guests. Coffee grounds in the filters were molding. Nasty. Bathrooms were clean. They need to dust off that beautiful antique furniture. We did enjoy our stay. Friendly staff at visitors center
Marsha Landers — Google review
It wasn't as exciting as the hype tried to make it out to be, but that being said it is well taken care of, well laid out and tons of old building to see. We also went to their Christmas at Fort Concho and got to see Santa Clause and Nativities put on by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It was nice to see that fort Concho remembered to put Christ in Christmas.
Nikol Richards — Google review
We had a knight fighting show this past memorial weekend and it was fun. I've been here before eat help with a weeding and the buildings are gorgeous.
Michelle Farrias — Google review
It's being renovated so not everything was open. I enjoyed the Buffalo Soldier exhibit and the hospital the most. Would love to visit again. I plan on going to their Halloween activities in October.
andreia medlin — Google review
Such a cool place to visit! So much history in this place, they have original canyons, well preserved and the officers quarters are so cool too!
Dayana Benítez Ramos (Dayana Benítez Ramos) — Google review
Worth a visit. Impressive reconstruction. Not all buildings are open, but there's plenty to see. Price is really really low.
Michael Miller — Google review
I always appreciate an opportunity to learn a little history. I did the self tour. Some of the buildings are currently closed. It's not the most engaging museum I've seen, but it is still nice that it has been preserved.
Kaitlin B — Google review
Don’t miss visiting the mules!! Absolutely amazing. Fort Concho is a historical treasure in the heart of San Angelo. Totally worth a visit. The staff is so knowledgeable and friendly. Be sure and visit the mule barns. Yep actual mules… They are adorable. It’s at the very back of the fort- and worth the walk! It was unseasonably cold and windy when we were there. Brrrr! And out there there’s nothing to stop the wind. It’s interesting to have visited so many other frontier forts… They all have a lot in common. The restoration and care at Fort Concho is remarkable.
Michael Ramsey — Google review
Fort Concho was home to The Buffalo Soldiers, all Black Army regiments who fought valiantly to expand the American West and for The Promise of opportunity, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for ALL.
They earned their names from the Native communities they fought against who grew to respect them for their strength and bravery in battle. The Natives said these men reminded them of their cherished buffalo because of the similar matted texture of the soldiers' human hair to that of the buffalo's whooly coat.
Units of all four Buffalo Soldier regiments served at Fort Concho from 1869-1885. The most famous was the famed 10th Cavalry, who had its headquarters at the fort from 1875-1882. Over Fort Concho’s twenty-two years of operation, the Buffalo Soldiers comprised more than HALF of the post’s total enlisted population.
Sadly, this is still a history that is unknown by the average Texan -- or American for that matter -- but is lauded with great pride in the African American community and beyond. Buffalo Soldiers, we salute you and thank you for your unheralded service and contribution to this great nation!
The Museum of the Big Bend, located on North Harrison Street in Alpine, offers a deep dive into the rich history of the Big Bend Region. The museum showcases the human history of the area, from Native American inhabitants to Spanish missionaries, Mexican influences, and American pioneers during westward expansion. Visitors can explore well-curated displays, artifacts, and vintage items that vividly depict the city's history.
Great clean museum with lots of Big Bend history as far back as prehistoric times. It's like stepping into a timeline. Lots of beautiful artwork too. A must see in Alpine Texas.
jason's_tx_adventures — Google review
The place had neat little exhibits, it was a cool little run through of the history of the big benfld area. It was rather small though. The two extra exhibits were okay.
Tookerys — Google review
Came to visit the area in a February and wound up spending some time in this museum. Enjoyed the free visit. Not a huge place, but definitely full of information and insights of the college and surrounding area. The full life-sized flying dinosaur (sorry, can't spell it!) was very impressive as was the fossilized bones of just ONE enormous wing. The usual cowboy, frontier, and old-time exhibits were also around to be enjoyed and to learn. Definitely a fun & interesting place to spend the time and if I had young kids it would be a MUST see spot.
Grouse K9 — Google review
It’s really small but good to learn about Big Bend history. We spend hardly one hour. Staff was really friendly.
Rashmi Kheni — Google review
Highly recommend to stop by if you happen to be in Alpine. Museum has a lot of unique pieces and cool scenes. What is also really nice is that they have interactive stands with short videos, that provide information about the exhibition.
Anastaisha T — Google review
What an amazing experience! I had no idea that Hoss Cartwrite graduated from Sul Ross University. Everything in the museum (from the paintings to the exhibits and maps) tells a gorgeous and impressive story of the Big Bend region. It's a must visit location!
Amanda Barney — Google review
Great little museum on the Sul Ross campus. Very friendly staff and great gift store. The museum gives a nice history of the Big Bend area from the dinosaurs to now. Beautiful art and map rooms as well. Well worth the stop!
John Harris — Google review
Very informative. Great information regarding the life and times of the Big Bend area. Wonderful displays.
T. Valdes — Google review
This is a great little museum located on the campus of Sul Ross State University in Alpine, Texas. It tells the story of the Big Bend region and those who first came here from Europe. There are some great prehistoric artifacts and beautiful artwork from local region artists. The maps, located in the basement employee area, though few in number, were also very interesting. Enjoy the photos.
Howard Kagan — Google review
Great small town feel museum. Learned a good deal more about the area and Texas. I especially enjoyed the art exhibits.
Michele S. — Google review
We were at the museum for over 3 hours. It’s an amazing place to visit in Alpine. Information on Big Bend region of Texas, historic maps of Texas, gift shop, all on the campus of Sul Ross.
Linda Largent — Google review
This is a wonderful small museum that will give you an overview of the Big Bend area's cultural and natural history. They had a recent expansion to accommodate more art exhbits, and we had the pleasure to view a retrospective of Graciela Inturbide's stunning photographs.
Krin Van Tatenhove — Google review
This place was small, but packed with information. It’s expanding on march as well. The best part was the nice front desk lady. If you’re looking for a nice history lesson, this is a good spot.
Justin Rytych — Google review
Nice, small museum. The new addition is art work but still very nice.
My grandchildren enjoy going there also.
Always a great place to stop and stretch your legs. I have been here 4x. I have seen the light 3 out of 4 times. Tonight, bright white, shifting blue and some tinted reds bobbing near the horizon, rising and the "dancing" in small circles till they fade out and move.
There are clean restrooms, no electricity, and a fair about of visitors. Many will overnight in the parking lot as they travel east or west. I've slept here twice. The highway noise can be annoying, but it's free parking and the night skies are amazing!! Tonight there a nice breeze and I can see lightening on the horizon up near Fort Stockton.
David de Lajunta — Google review
Nice viewing area for the Marfa Lights. Found myself with cool weather, pizza, and Red Bull while waiting for the sunset. Good and interesting crowd at night when I was there. We were all doubting and wondering if we saw something but it was good fun overall.
Restroom facility too.
Manuel Bautista — Google review
Unfortunately the lights weren’t active during my visit in Marfa, nonetheless this spot was quite breathtaking and the visitor center building was very cool
Ian Davis — Google review
Sharing details for the future/first time travellers.
This place is located on Marfa-Alpine highway (US 90)
Detailed signs are kept on either sides before a mile and you can spot the same even during midnight.
Based on research n experience, good time to visit is 10.30pm -1.30am, we stayed from 12.15am -1am and saw the mysterious lights multiple times but was difficult to capture in camera.
(There were telescopes but was hard to focus at night).
Lights appeared in once in 5-10mins intervals and multiple lights emerged in a time merging into one and disappearing as mentioned. This place is in middle of nowhere and was hard to understand the phenomenon.
Limited parking space with details of the Marfa lights is located at entrance wheelchair accessible parking.
Group of 20people consisting of 2families were also there on a Saturday night so didnt feel any safety concern.
Have a good stay and visit.
Wish you good experience to see the Marfa mysterious lights. #HappyVisiting
Deepak — Google review
I didn't see the real lights this time, but I did back in 2005. We did see car traffic south of marfa casting some explainable dancing lights.
David Rickerson — Google review
While we didn't see the marfa lights, we loved coming to the viewing station at sunset and staying to star watch.
Just a lovely place.
Katherine Smith — Google review
Very exciting for first time visit. Weather was a bit drizzly so didn’t make for a long stay. Didn’t see anything crazy, but we’re a few lights. Taillights? Oil rigs? Seems like no one will ever know.
ROY TREVINO — Google review
Great stop and definitely worth the visit. Arrived at 10:30 and the lights were giving up a show. Didn’t think it was happening at first since the lights were white. But then I realized, how did they move across the sky. Then they multiplied. It was really cool.
My visit got sidetracked when a guide started talking about complete non sense. Was frustrating to hear this loud annoying voice… But, others attending were chill and I loved the conversation hypothetical confessions. “What do you think they are?” “What do you think happens if you get closer?”
Grant Daniels — Google review
It was a good place to watch the sunset; being rather cloudy. But, I think it was just a normal evening. However, there are several interesting plaques to read so you can walk and stretch your legs. Gonna spend the night and then mosey down the highway tomorrow to Big Bend.
Debbie Drives and Travels — Google review
We didn’t see any lights but that’s ok. We had a great time viewing the awesome sunset and star gazing. We went twice while we were in the area. The restrooms were clean. Viewing platform was nice.
Monica Williams — Google review
Cool little place to stop and walk around after driving a long ways. Neat little piece of history as well. We stopped during daylight hours, even though we were unable to view the lights as they are best seen at night I really enjoyed taking the time to get out and read the little monuments. It has a couple of picnic tables if you’re in need of a place to eat bite or rest your legs. Has several restroom stalls for both men and women with vault toilets, all had plenty of toilet paper and hand sanitizer dispensers. Looks like it is well maintained. Parking lot has plenty of room to park your motor home or travel trailer. If you’re ever in the area and drive by you definitely need to stop and at least read a little about the history in the area!
Brandi Oldaker — Google review
An unusually charming subject of Texas lore - Oh sure this state is known for its tall tales about Jackalopes and lassoing twisters but magical / mystical lights possibly from space aliens seems a bit of a stretch. It doesn’t matter because unlike a Jackalope - you can actually find the Marfa Lights of Texas, and the kind people of Texas have even set up a Viewing Area for you - free of cost. Just off the roadway you’ll have a chance to pull over and investigate this local phenomenon for yourself. You decide. Are the lights merely a reflection of motor vehicle headlights? Well no so fast ‘cause these lights were first reported in the 1880’s not the 1980’s so it can’t be a motor car. Could the lights be swamp gas, maybe but there’s no swamp out there. St. Elmo’s Fire? Possibly but local Apache’s claim it’s no saint but rather a long dead Apache Chief searching for lost tribesmen. Come on out and have a look see! Be advised you’ll be in company of some opinionated and passionate people. My son and I were standing near the binoculars mounted to the viewing area and a group told us we shouldn’t be standing there because we blocked their view. Now we were standing where the architects wanted us to stand - but go figure. My biggest complaint is that the Marfa Lights Viewing Area is much too close to the main road. Motorists pass by slowly and create both sound and light corruption of the area. I also think that the viewing area platform might benefit from a second elevated floor. Come on out, you decide.
Sinjin — Google review
It's an interesting area, lots of history, a nice structure with bathrooms and binoculars to help you hone in on the lights. I was there during the day and didn't see any lights. Maybe on another trip I will be here at night... i appreciate they have built a nice monument to the phenomenon.
Trypp Adams — Google review
Went here back in January 2023 with family to view the Marfa Lights while we were visiting the McDonald Observatory for a star party. It was an awesome experience, but a very cold night!! We saw the lights from the binoculars they have at the place and it was spooky on how the lights were moving in different directions and getting dimmer and brighter in unpredictable patterns, who knows what could be causing these lights and how they do those things, could it be UFOs, ghost lights, atmospheric causes, cars passing by the highway, or something else?!! The Marfa Lights are a great stop that you must definitely do if you pass by the area either by going to Big Bend National Park or visiting the McDonald Observatory like we did or even stop by here if your going on a road trip somewhere else!! It’s worth it!!!
Former frontier military post (1854–1891) with a visitor center & 4 miles of hiking trails.
Really cool place although it was actually about 95F when I went. There is a museum, park gift shop, film, nice rangers, and a lot of walking paths. The infirmary is currently being restored and the porch looks fabulous on it so far. I tried to go hiking, but the heat was too much for me.
Henry Marks — Google review
This place is so awesome with plenty of furnishings from back when the fort was actually inhabited by soldiers in the late 1860s with plenty of information about what life was like in those times from rationing food to medical treatment. It looks like they're actively trying to restore many of the buildings while still retaining their original weathering in some parts to show the state that the buildings were in prior to restoration. Beautiful little piece of history to enjoy.
Randy Estrada — Google review
Nice visitors center/history museum exhibit. Many buildings at this National Historic site that dates back to 1854-1891 have been refurbished. Nice walking, self-guided tour. Close to City of Fort Davis, Texas and McDonald Observatory.
Stephen Bales — Google review
Beautiful park! Well preserved ruins and rebuilt buildings with genuine artifacts. Nice little museum with hands on exhibits and things for kids to do. Good movie. Clean bathrooms. Knowledgeable people at Visitor Center. We took a great walk around the grounds, almost 2 miles.
Kathy Sutherland — Google review
Visited December 30, 2021
An interesting look into the old West. What impressed me most was the size of the fort and the lack of a barricade wall. Most of the buildings onsite are in disrepair. However there are a few buildings which can be toured. There is small museum in the enlisted barracks. And another enlisted barracks gives insight into the conditions in which they lived. The hospital is another area which provides insight into the past. There are the remains of buildings as well.
My wife and I spent a couple of hours on the grounds and enjoyed it.
ssmith5359 — Google review
So great if you like history!! We spent 3 hours here but could have spent more. Our boys completed the thorough Jr ranger badge booklet. Visitor's center is very informative. There's a lot of walking and reading that covered a large piece of land. We have a pass so it was free for our family to get in, but otherwise there is a cost.
Kelly Gee — Google review
This place is definitely a must see if you are in the area. The grounds and buildings have been extremely well preserved. There are several buildings you can walk through that have been kept well maintained and with their period and original furnishings. The hospital is definitely not to be missed. It's the big building in the back. At first I thought it wasn't part of the park/open, but it is and probably one of the most well kept buildings. It was a bit eerie though and I did get chills walking through it. I would plan a couple hours for this visit altogether.
Lisa Wiggin — Google review
Objectively, the park is clean and provides information on American History that I personally was unaware of.
Subjectively, I did find it hard to sit through the video as it seemed to glorify the attack on Native Americans that occurred during that time.
The trip to Fort Davis was worth the time I spent but not my favorite National Park.
Mike H — Google review
Excellent history museum and fort. The fort buildings are being renovated with several furnished. History of the soldiers lives and military activities are well told. There is a 20 minute video giving a great historical background of the fort. Many original cannons and guns on display. Really enjoyed the military hospital and stories on actual people’s treatments. We were there about 2 1/2 hours. Beautiful scenic location by Davis mountains.
Dennis Pohle — Google review
Fort Davis is one our most favorite places to go to. I go almost every time I am in the area. From hiking to roaming around the Fort. I am looking forward the reactions that are starting back up. Have loved them in the past. We even hiked from Davis Mountain State Park to the Fort this past weekend with a 2.5 and 4 yo.
shereen bickham — Google review
I love historical sites and I’ve been to a decent amount of them, this one is one of the few that’s better than most of them. It was interesting to walk around the fort. There’s lots of restored buildings that make you feel like you’re in 1800s. There’s a lot of love put into this place. Very cool.
Uilicix — Google review
Neat place! Highly recommend going in the visitor center & checking out the museum. They also have a 15 minute video that explains the history. It is a big area to walk, which can get HOT because there is little shade, so planning the time to go is wise. They have one golf cart for use if available to those who need it. There is also a trail you can check out, but we didn't go, because silly me wore flip flops. I didn't realize they had trails here too.
Angela Chaney REALTOR® - (936)443-4077 — Google review
Outstanding place! I was planning to stop by for an hour and ended up spending 4hrs! One of the greatest short somewhat intense hikes I had (around 2 miles). Astounding views from the trail, I highly recommend going on it! The fort is nicely reconnected (partially-work on progress), they even have loud speakers playing military drill sounds periodically! It makes you feel very emerged!
If you are in the area it's a must to stop by!
Chris X — Google review
Amazing piece of the history of the American West. Helpful staff, exhibits, lots of outdoor walking under a towering mountain, hiking trail, picnic area. Actual restored buildings.
Reasonable entrance fee. RV parking, dogs allowed on leash, bathrooms, water available. If you go in summer, go very early. Recommended.
Dee Dee — Google review
Great park. Well preserved and laid out. Nice junior ranger program for my toddler and he loved getting his first badge. Dog friendly which is great and RV parking available. Rangers were super friendly and helpful
Kango Anywhere — Google review
A great job of re-creating what the fort was like . We easily spent a couple of hours reading and looking at everything. Plus a lovely walk to a lookout up above.
Definitely worth stopping in
Matthew Oldham — Google review
One of the stops on our road trip list. Nicely maintained and insteresting sites. Learnt some history and life at the fort. I never though life at a fort can be so luxurious for the officer's family.
老Laoxi — Google review
History abounds at this beautiful old fort . Someone has done an exceptional job in restoration efforts. Work yet to be done. Can hardly wait . Second visit and still bowled over by it . If you love Western history , this should be on your bucket list !
Gayle Darling — Google review
Wonderfully preserved history of the old West. Nice knowledgeable staff, beautiful stain scenery and well restored buildings.
RONALD PROTHRO — Google review
So much history and beauty at this location. We ventured from Marfa, Texas to visit and were really blown away at the experience. I highly suggest going into the visitor center and watching the film. It was a suprise to see none other than Kareem Abdul-Jabbar narrating the entire history of Fort Davis in a cowboy hat 😂 it was very interesting hearing him talk about the history. Then go wonder a bit and then sit down and stop for a minute… just look around at the buildings still standing and overall land… no doubt this will lead you to imagine what it was like back then. Next, take a hike to the top of the ridge or back toward the dried up meandering river in the left side of the property and enjoy your day👍🏻
1.75-acre spring-fed swimming pool is the star of this 45-acre desert park that also offers lodging.
Beautiful natural bottom pool. Snorkeling was amazing! Diving boards, plenty of picnic tables. Cleanest restrooms! Outside area for pets, for they are not allowed in swimming area. So bring plenty of water for pets. The park gets super hot! It is West Texas! Camping is closed, but there are accommodations in the town of Balmorhea. Very nice Park Rangers pleased to answer questions. Fort Davis State park is close by as well. A must visit if you make it to Balmorhea State Park! Also a great day spot for Big Bend travelers!
deborah hernandez — Google review
I almost don't want to say what an absolutely cool place this is. Very nice bath houses for changing and toilet needs. The pool is one of the best I've been in as natural artesian spring fed man made pool by civilian conservation corpse. Pool is constant 74 degrees. It seemed warmer than that to me. The water in absolutely beautiful gin clear. Bring goggles and see fish turtles and minnows. One half of the deep end is chest deep on me 6'2", then drops to 35'. There's a shallow wing for the kids and there's a deep wing for diving. If they are not allowing camping due to remodeling there is plenty of camping 2 miles away at Lake Balmorhea. If you traveling stop by swim and cool off for an hour or two. Don't look get in it's fabulous. This us all a lie don't go here i want this Texas pearl to be unknown.
Henry Christy — Google review
Honestly amazing. The water is perfect and clear. Highly recommend bring goggles and lunch. The diving boards are a thrill. The tall one is intimidating but totally worth it. Hard to dive once you up there lmao.
The cabins and camping have been closed for ~5 years but you can camp nearby at Balmorhea lake! The town is awesome. 10/10 would recommend and can not wait until the camping and cabins are open!
James Mcardle — Google review
This is one of the coolest places I've ever been to. The whole thing is just neat. It's extremely cold so it is refreshing in the West Texas heat. If you like swimming, this is the place to go.
Please note that they required advanced reservations, so make sure you do that well before you travel.
Patrick Fraser — Google review
Nice facilities and looks like a really nice place, especially for those who live in the area. The spring (pool) was smaller than expected and there really isn't anything beyond that. They were in middle of construction for a camping area and they also have a nice wildlife viewing station for the extremely out of place wetlands that the spring creates in the middle of the desert landscape.
Isaiah Gerald — Google review
A national treasure deep in the heart of Texas.
Refreshing on a hot day.
Cold natural spring/lake water.
Practice your high dive before you arrive.
No lifeguards on duty.
Bring your own refreshments. Bring your own snorkeling/floating water gear to see lots of fish and turtle in the water.
Also bring your own, chairs, blankets, etc.
No glass, no alcohol.
Make reservations well in advance - morning and afternoon slots available.
This is a family environment and not your own personal time to blare your own type of music. Everyone is very respectful of each other.
Auda Gee — Google review
This park is heaven on earth. It is so calm, beautiful and natural. I saw a tortoise, fish and a few birds. One can spend hours here. Will come back for sure. There are many benches to sit and relax if you can't swim
swaroop krothapalli — Google review
Beautiful Desert Oasis! This is a spring fed pool and is 75 degrees year round The water is crystal clear! There are small fish and turtles you can observe and diving boards to enjoy, bring goggles or snuba gear. The kids loved it so much their first visit that we stopped back on our way home from our trip to Big Bend. Definitely worth the stop!
Amy Slater — Google review
Has a natural spring swimming pool. Has a beautiful view of the mountains. Had a really good time swimming and just hanging out. The pool goes from 3’ to 25’ , has multiple diving boards. The facility is clean, have nice restrooms and changing area. Most definitely will be back. Follow me for more reviews!!!!!!
JR Fry — Google review
We came to this park for my birthday weekend trip. Great experience swimming at a spring fed pool, also considered one of the largest pools in the world.
Only issue is that they don't let pets inside the gate. We traveled with a 4 month old puppy, miniature poodle size who is not going to harm anyone. We have actually traveled with our dog to other Texas State Parks with no issues. The dog wasn't going to get into the water, she was going to stay leashed to a picnic table.
Luckily, a park ranger gave us the number of his dog groomer friend, who lives in a nearby RV park. This lady was able to pet sit the dog while we were swimming at the pool.
Katherine Mc — Google review
It's beautiful!!!!! I'm so glad I was able to experience ethic place. The water is blue, clear, and very refreshing! Make sure you are well prepared and bring everything you need because there is pretty much nothing in the near area, no corner stores or dollar stores. There are restrooms, and changing areas, as well as showers. There's plenty of space for everyone, but you may not always get a picnic table. Some people bring their own camping chairs, tents and tables.
Marlene Lopez — Google review
I loved it. It comes from an underground springs. The depth goes from 3 feet to 5 feet and then drops to 20 feet. The water is clear & there are fish in the water. I saw 2 catfish in the deeper ends. No grills are allowed in the pool area, but there are grills outside the pool area.
Andrew Leyva — Google review
What a well-rounded swimming hole. The information provided about how it came to be and how the water flows through is a lot of fun and educational. My kids had no problem swimming around with vest and without after they got comfortable. The crystal clear water is magnificent of a site highly recommend using goggles but a snorkel would do best.
Machi Rodriguez — Google review
It was a fun unique place to go water clean and full of fish and natural spring water? We saw a few turtles and ducks too. Clean place to change and plenty of quiet spots to chill and float on Friday afternoon.
Alison Helms — Google review
Beautiful unique park in west Texas. The natural spring swimming pool is so fun! My kiddos had a blast swimming with fishes. Lol. They have a shallow end (3 ft, I believe) that's perfect for younger kids. And the deepest part is 25 feet. The water is super cold when you first get in. I think it's around 72-75 degrees Fahrenheit year round. Picnic tables are right next to the pool so you can enjoy a picnic lunch without having to leave the pool area.
With the Davis Mountains as a backdrop what could be a more wonderful place to be.
Clean restrooms/changing rooms are very close by. If you have a State Park pass it's free to get in, if not then it's $7 for anyone over 13. Overnight camping is closed for renovations. If you are visiting during the summer or weekends, id recommend buying a day pass in advance cause they reach capacity pretty quickly.
Sum Mos — Google review
Very nice spring in the middle of nowhere. We spent the day here swimming and relaxing. It was a little chilly but very worth it. If you’re in the area I highly recommend.
Ricardo Olivo — Google review
This is one of the coolest state parks I've seen. A large spring fed swimming pool with 3ft, 5ft, 20ft, and 25ft swimming areas. Two diving boards. Swim with the minnows, catfish, and the turtles. Water stays around 75 degrees all year round. We went on a cold day and still managed to jump in and enjoy ourselves. It was cold and we didn't stay long, but totally worth the stop.
Tim Anderson — Google review
We had an AMAZING time. The water was perfect, and my children really enjoyed their first snorkeling experience. We will definitely be back!
Irene Gonzales — Google review
An oasis in the desert. This was so fun to stop on our journey across Texas. Big clean bathrooms with changing places and showers. Lots of trees for shade and tables, but get one early because they do fill up.
There are fish and turtles. Would be great for divers. We didn't see any that day, but we took masks and snorkels. Also, take tubes or lifejackets to float around because the center section is deep.
Observatory at UT Austin with an exhibit gallery, theater for solar viewings & tours of telescopes.
We did the self guided daytime tour. We would have loved to get tickets for a star gazing party but they were fully booked. It was worth going just for the views from the top of Mt Locke.
Jimmyp — Google review
Absolutely breathtaking experience! Everybody is really friendly and willing to discuss the observatory with you. All of the visitors exhibits are cool and help explain the substance and purpose behind these massive telescopes. I definitely recommend making the drive out to the middle of nowhere to visit this place. There is honestly a little more to it than I imagined. Just one note, they do not take American Express.
Chase Miller — Google review
Not a lot there for visitors unless you pay for extras--solar viewing presentation, guided tour, star gazing. But it's not expensive to do so and it's very interesting and educational. Plus there are some great views of the surrounding area since it's located on 2 mountains.
Don Davidson — Google review
Enjoyed our July 25th star gazing party. We were hoping to see more of the Milky Way but the moon was out. However, we were able to see the moon up close, really close! Thanks to the staff for their amazing knowledge.
Allen McQuhae — Google review
I went here with family to attend a Star Party and it was so magical! Our star guide was very knowledgeable and I learned so much about constellations that night. This observatory is located in one of the darkest skies in the US, so it is definitely worth the drive to see all those stars! It truly is incredible what is right above our heads every night that we are unable to see due to light pollution. They also have a cool souvenir shop that I got a very comfortable sweatshirt from. Also, we got to look through 5 different telescopes at different astronomical features, like a new star forming! We had all ages of people here and we all had a great time. One thing I will say is that after the Star Party’s over, it is REALLY dark and you have to drive down winding mountain roads. So maybe bring someone along who’s comfortable with driving that. Still, 10/10 experience, highly recommend visiting here!
Teresa Coleman — Google review
We had a really fun experience at the McDonald's Observatory. The woman who was presiding over the stargazing party was great! She was funny and insightful. My favorite parts of the visit was her pointing out constellations and stars with a laser pointer while sharing interesting stories that have been passed down from generations. Priceless. It does get a lot colder up here at night, so bring an extra jacket ir blanket if you're going in cooler weather. The gift shop is pretty cool and has lots of interesting books, shirts and more. It's pretty far away from everything, so if you're planning to go for a night stargazing, a suggestion is to stay overnight somewhere close. Another suggestion for the staff is to dim down some of the red lights as they can be a little bright. Overall I highly recommend seeing the dark skies from this remote place in West Texas! #darkskies
Timothy Williams — Google review
I love astronomy and everything about space. This place was jaw dropping. We went on the self guided tour. I loved every minute I was up on those summits. I don’t want to say to much about the experience because you need to see it yourself if you go. It does require you to drive up to the summits. I don’t know what it’s like on the guided tour. An amazing place for someone who likes astronomy and space stuff.
Uilicix — Google review
I recently had the pleasure of visiting the McDonald's Observatory with my family on June 30th, 2023, and it was an experience that left us in awe. With our two energetic 8-year-old twin boys and our curious 3-year-old daughter, we were eager to embark on a night filled with stargazing and telescope exploration. I must say, McDonald's Observatory exceeded our expectations and provided us with an enchanting adventure.
Upon arriving at the observatory, we were greeted by a friendly and knowledgeable staff who made us feel welcome and excited about the upcoming activities. The facility itself was well-maintained and showcased a perfect blend of scientific wonder and natural beauty. We could tell that great care had been taken to create an inviting atmosphere for visitors of all ages.
The highlight of our visit was, of course, the opportunity to peer through the observatory's impressive telescopes. The view of the night sky was absolutely breathtaking, and our children's faces lit up with wonder as they gazed at distant galaxies and sparkling constellations. The staff members were patient and informative, offering explanations and answering our questions with enthusiasm. It was a joy to witness our kids' curiosity being nurtured and their love for science and astronomy being ignited.
In addition to the telescopes, McDonald's Observatory offered various educational exhibits and presentations that catered to different age groups. Our 8-year-old boys were especially thrilled to participate in the interactive displays and hands-on activities. The observatory's commitment to providing an educational experience while keeping it engaging and accessible for young children was truly commendable.
The overall organization of the event was well-executed, and we didn't encounter any significant delays or issues. We appreciated the attention to detail in terms of safety measures, ensuring that everyone could enjoy the evening without any concerns. The staff's professionalism and passion for astronomy were evident throughout our visit, making it even more memorable.
While we thoroughly enjoyed our time at McDonald's Observatory, there are a couple of minor areas where improvements could be made. Firstly, it would be helpful to have more seating options available for families with younger children during the presentations. Secondly, although the staff was knowledgeable and friendly, it would have been beneficial to have more interactive discussions or Q&A sessions to further engage visitors and encourage deeper learning.
Overall, our visit to McDonald's Observatory was an unforgettable experience for our entire family. The enchanting night sky, the informative exhibits, and the welcoming staff all contributed to a memorable evening that sparked a newfound love for astronomy in our children. We highly recommend McDonald's Observatory as a must-visit destination for families seeking an awe-inspiring and educational adventure under the stars.
Kyle Dwyer — Google review
Went to the star party with the family and really enjoyed ourselves. The host was very informative and all the staff were happy to answer any questions anybody had. We got to see some amazing stellar bodies and gained a greater appreciation for the universe we live in. I highly recommend going here and the drive out there was simply amazing.
Dave — Google review
I have been through the observatory before, so I know it's interesting... But that was 20 years ago. It's really changed. I did not think there was an entry fee. But that did not matter because they are not open Sundays or Mondays. On our way to El Paso, we swung by on a Sunday. There was no one around and everything was closed. We drove up, walked around the observatories and enjoyed the views. Maybe next time we will go to a star party.
NewOrleans Food Lover — Google review
As you might have seen in my other reviews, I am a bit of a science nut so this review is biased. Very nice visitor center with public outreach exhibits. They also have daytime tours and a solar talk. If you have a RV you'll need to sign up for a tour -- RVs are allowed on the road up to the observatories. The tours sell out well in advance so you have been forewarned!
Also check out the evening star parties if you have time.
Bill Clugston — Google review
I attended the star party where they point out constellations and talk everything stars. They let you look through the telescopes which makes it extra cool. You do have to wait in lines but it goes by pretty quick. We got to go twice in the 2 hour period of the program. It seems like a good activity for people of all ages. A great way to spend an evening! They have a cool gift shop with packaged snacks and drinks. Restrooms are clean and they have a water bottle refill spout at the water fountain. You can tell everyone really cares about the program and are super informative. Worth going!
Adriana Audrey — Google review
The Star party was so much fun!! Amazing information! We got to see Saturn, mars, and Jupiter which was my favorite part! I would recommend this to everyone of all ages. We got lucky with the moon not being out which made the stars shine brighter.
The staff was amazing and very friendly. The host was funny and kept everyone engaged.
Make sure you dress warm and bring blankets!
Can't wait to do this again!!!!
David Botros — Google review
The star party was a memorable experience on a balmy night with clear skies. Truly amazing views through the telescopes at the Visitor's Center. Informative exhibits inside. Welcoming, helpful staff.
Carol Teitelman — Google review
Had a wonderful time! Did the sun viewing program and self guided tour, learned a lot. The presenter was very fun and funny, also knowledgeable, informative and shared lots of fascinating details. Great interactive displays in the visitor's center.
Allison Schwarz — Google review
We attended a Star Party.
Buy tickets in advance as they sell out.
Indoor exhibit was nice.
Great facilities.
Go all the way to the top if you can for a self-guided tour.
Very educational.
Can see wildlife, too - javelina and deer.
Auda Gee — Google review
I did not do enough pre study for the visit. We were only able to see the outside of the building besides the visitor center. They offer different tours, make sure you get one you are really interested in.
老Laoxi — Google review
I attended a star party and enjoyed the heck out of myself. Mind the javelinas...they're cute but they don't think you are.
The person who led the star party was so knowledgeable, kind to the kiddos asking questions, and made the evening one to remember.
Being able to try out the different telescopes was so neat. I saw Saturn and Jupiter for the first time with my own eyes - core memory for sure!
I want to go back for a solar viewing, but I'm also a physics student so I want to go back for lots of reasons. ;)
Tiffiny Costello — Google review
The Sky is the Limit here!! I had this observatory on my Bucket List for decades. Every time I drove through the Van Horn area, I knew the McDonald Observatory was close by. I finally made made it here. I was amazed at the technology that has been invested by UT Austin. I knew the McDonald Observatory was famous for its MONSTER TELESCOPES, but I didn't know the history behind this science tech center. It is has some of the most advanced telescopes in the WORLD. The Frank N. Bush Visitors Center is really great. It has great information on the Celestial Skies and the historical development of the McDonald Observatory. If you are a scientifically curious person, this place is a must. I attended the STAR PARTY presentation at 7 pm. It was pretty good. While it appeared the cloudy skies was to ruin my evening visit, the skies cleared up by 8 pm and participants were able to see Jupiter, Saturn, and a two-star constellation first hand! I will say that they need to improve on their day tour. I wish they provided a little more access to the inner workings of the magnificent telescopes. Hope you make the visit yourself! :-)
Manuel “Manny” — Google review
Highly recommend: they have presentations three times per week with tours and night time star watching. Visitors Center with plenty of information, educational, perspective, and bathrooms. Live viewing of the sun. You can visit the two sites of the telescopes both within two miles on tops of two different mountains
Jim Ross — Google review
We took the day tour of the 2 larger telescopes today and the tour was phenomenal! Shannon did an amazing job of explaining everything and answering questions. He is very knowledgeable of it all and it was a true learning experience.
Frankie Hinds — Google review
The night sky presentation at The McDonald observatory is remarkable and well worth the price of admission. The Frank Bash visitors center is remarkable too. We went on a tour of the Observatory on Saturday afternoon and were wowed by the amount of information that we learned, listened too and saw. This is a tour that everyone should make the commitment to go too. It may be a long drive but it is well worth it!
Ann Boehm — Google review
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McDonald Observatory, 3640 Dark Sky Dr, Fort Davis, TX 79734, USA
Prada Marfa is an art installation situated in Valentine, resembling a high-end Prada store with seasonal fashion displays behind glass windows. The exhibit was created by Elmgreen and Dragset in 2005 and has become a popular tourist destination despite its remote location in the desert. Visitors should exercise caution while taking photos or crossing the road as traffic can be fast-moving. A lock may be placed on the fence for added security.
A cool little experience that is worth the drive to the literal middle of nowhere. While there is not much to do other than take photographs of this at installation, it is a unique area to explore and be able to say you have been there.
Chase Miller — Google review
Cute place to stop in the middle of nowhere. It's about 30 minutes out from Marfa (not in the direction of Big Bend either). Not really sure it's worth a visit out here. The sole purpose is honestly to take pictures in front of the installation while also waiting for a line of people to finish taking theirs as well.
Tracy Sung — Google review
It's just awesome seeing an art monument in the middle of the desert. I also loved the surrounding fence with all the locks, I placed one for my son, who I lost last year. Marcos Bailon is here in spirit. RIP my love. Forever 33.
Yvonne Bailon — Google review
Great stop in the middle of nowhere. So many people stopping to take pictures. If you come at sunset, the view is really spectacular.
E MyYTChannel — Google review
I never knew this was here until I ran across this in Pinterest.
This was a must for me to visit with my hubby.
We stopped on the way to Marfa and it was so beautiful we also ended up putting out lock too.
This is something you should really do.
I highly recommend to anyone.
Gladys Morales (Mrs. Morales Corner) — Google review
Iconic place during Marfa - Van Horn hwy. And it should be one of the best for a road side attraction’s lover. This is a must stop on a West Texas road trip. Don't forget to bring your own lock to add into the fencing around the shop. Nicest photo should be around sunset time.
Woody Pipatchaisiri — Google review
This is Prada showroom which appeared out of nowhere while we were driving pass Valentine on highway 90 (north bound). It was early morning and one of us just saw a Prada Marfa showroom next to the highway. We decided to take a U-turn to just confirm that he was not daydreaming 😂. Indeed we found this one story single room showroom with glass windows and with lady purses and sandals on display. The fencing around this property has hundreds of love-locks and other random items (which is apparently been put by visitors) locked to the wire fence. I believed this place does not sell any item but has been built strategically for the publicity of the brand. Definitely a cool place to stop by and take pictures if you are travelling by this highway.
Govind Sah — Google review
Neat and very popular stop in the middle of the desert. Bring a lock and put it on the fence. Be sure to watch for traffic as they don't slow down much and this is on the side the road. I saw people not paying attention to the fact they were in the road either taking pictures or just crossing the street. You can see down the road forever, just look.
Michelle — Google review
This is my second time coming to this sweet tiny spot. I wanted to bring my daughter and our new son in law to see this tiny treasure in the desert. There are so many more locks on the fence around the Prada building compared to last year. I enjoyed it just as much. Did the typical “Beyoncé” jump in front of the building. Enjoy!
Deeliteful dee — Google review
I’ve seen it on social media for years, and was super happy that it’s just as cool in person. I’d recommend going early in the morning so the shadows won’t be in front of the building. And bring a lock for the fence! Such a cute idea.
Jamie B — Google review
Finally, I was able to visit this landmark, and it was cool to see. I'm just sad that the window was broken and covered with plywood. Hopefully, the window gets fixed soon. It was also pretty cool to watch my nephew, who owns his own gallery in Austin, paint this Landmark.
Beth Robinson — Google review
Well, if you are not in a rush.....then stop. It is more a modern art out on the side of the road. Different so culturally deserving a stop. You cannot enter the building. It is purely a visual look with possible pictures in the front entrance area. So if you stop get your "VOGUE" on!!!🙂🙃
Richard Moses — Google review
UNUSUAL SITE!! If you blink or are focused 100% on the road, you'll probably miss this little gem! My son had told me about this unique display of fashion. Women who love fashion will definitely want to see this place! It is filled with high-fashion women's shoes and purses! The only reason I saw this place was the people that had stopped to see it. After initially passing his place, I made a U-TURN to come back! :-)
Manuel “Manny” — Google review
The installation is interesting because it is in such a remote and desert area. We made a detour for our driving trip just to see it. There are tons a love locks on the fence.
老Laoxi — Google review
This place was in list from very very long time after watching a vlog of a couple. This place is very beautiful how thought came for Prada no idea but truly beautiful. This is in between Guadalupe Mountains National Park and Big bend National park. If you are making this trip add this place to your list it’s beautiful. Must stop by place for picture.
Vijay devara — Google review
What a wild experience this was! I had no idea of the existence of Prada Marfa. Driving down 90 in the darkness of a dust storm I found myself staring at the brightest white lights. I would have never expected to see this in the middle of the desert. I went back the following day to grab some daylight photos.
If you're in the area I would highly recommend stopping to explore this brilliant art instilation.
Make sure to bring a lock of your own for the fence and grab a few photos!
Mike H — Google review
Great land art display in the middle of no where. Lovely fence around it to place a lock on too! A quick must stop place!
Dr. Crown — Google review
Cute little place to stop and rest! I wouldn't exactly make a special trip just to come here, but if you're traveling through, then take a few minutes to stop by and appreciate this little art installment. You'll see some Prada products from the 2005 collection in the middle of nowhere! What's more interesting to me is that people have made this a place to put love locks.
Iconic peak in a national park known for hiking trails, backpacking & a fossil reef.
The Guadalupe peak trail is definitely VERY strenuous. The summit is beautiful and rewarding! Make sure and pack a light jacket in the cooler months because it’s on the edge of uncomfortably cold without one at the top. The trip up is straight cardio and easy-ish on the body BUT be prepared for the trip down because it is tough on you. We used hiking poles almost the entire time and I KT taped my knees to make sure they were supported. About .7 miles from the bottom there is a sign that indicates “no stock beyond this point” and if you take a left at that sign, you can take the mule trail which is less steep/less step-downs but you’ll add a mile to your hike. 2 liters of water was just under enough for me (we hiked in late April) and I would highly recommend packing a well rounded meal to stop and eat at the summit or somewhere a little further down and warmer. I’m not an extremely experienced hiker and we did it in a bit over 7 hours. Giving 5 stars because it’s a beautiful trail with lots of foliage and selenite to look at but I won’t be doing this one again probably 😅
Taylor Doyle — Google review
Much easier hike than expected. Get there before 7am unless you want to walk a few miles along a busy 75mph highway to the trailhead. Insanely beautiful.
Will Wagner — Google review
Visited April, 2021. Rugged hike just over 4 miles to summit. Great views from the top. Stayed overnight at campground about a mile below summit. Highly recommend. Drop your heavy pack at camp on the way up and only take a day pack to summit.
Your looking at a tough 9 mile out and back to do it in one day. Being lots of water, gallon+. None on trail.
Amazing views and star gazing from camp. I had the whole site to myself the night I was there.
Brendan Brown — Google review
It was fulfilled hike completed in 7 hours, don't forget to bring enough water (1 gallon) and quick snacks with you. For most bring warm cloths as up peak you will definitely feel chil. Also hiking boots with toe protection is strongly recommended due to trail filled with pointed stones.
Rakesh Jain — Google review
Gota love this trail for some of the best views in Texas. This is a very difficult trail for a number of reasons, the wind, the dry hot/cold air and of corse the 3000 ft gain. If ur a big boy like me, it ain’t gana be easy. Took me about 4.5 hours to summit the top, just over 2 hours down. I’m a bit out of shape so this was really hard for me would only recommend this trail to capable hikers, if ur a more elite hiker this is a great trail too, it will test you at a good pace. Recommend starting this hike pretty early in the day, it’s long n gets dark early. I went in late January, and it was cold n windy, the whole area is known for high winds btw the camp park all of it, but it increases with elevation. Bring some food n lots of water the environment is dry n it will dry you out. I drank like 3 bottles of water in the dead of winter, prob need 2-3X that in summer. Shade is limited on the trail. Plan accordingly and you will be rewarded with stunning views from the top. Great sights along the way too several changes in scenery.
charles compton — Google review
My road trip through New Mexico included the Carlsbad Cavern NP but the 4x4 trails and hiking trails were closed so I had some extra time. I decided to visit the Guadalupe National Park. Best. Idea. Ever. The area is gorgeous. Hiking up took an hour and fifty minutes (4.25 miles) and about an hour and a half to come back down. I reached the summit slightly after sunset on Dec 2nd, 2022. I definitely recommend this hike (there are others) if you're in the area. It's the top of Texas!
David Fernandes — Google review
If you're in decent shape this will be a challenging hike. If you're out of shape it will be brutal. Up. Up. And up. Beautiful hike but beware of the wind. I made it over half way and had to turn back due gusts which had to be in excess of 50-60mph. Will give it another go sometime when there's hopefully less wind. Still a great hike regardless.
Mark Cline — Google review
In my opinion the first and last mile were the hardest parts to complete. I work outside and am used to the weather. I took 6 bottles of water, and had some of one left when I got back. I also do a lot of hiking in mountainous terrain for work. This hike seemed pretty challenging to me. I'm not sure if it's because I wasn't at work, and was just having leisure time or what. None the less I would highly recommend good hiking footwear. The terrain is rugged. Lots of little pointy rocks along with larger rocks that require high steps. I took several breaks on the way up, like 15+. The trip down I made in one go. The scenery was magnificent. I've traveled the country, and haven't seen to many other sights that compare. It was an amazing goal to accomplish, but I think it might be a once in a lifetime hike for me. Unless some family or friends want to go, or I get to go for work.
claytonNOIN — Google review
It was 5.5 hours hike for me including about a dozen short breath catchers and about 15 min at the top.
The view from the top is superb, especially the El Capitan side.
A wind jacket is an absolute must here if the wind is any cold at the trailhead. If you don't take it, the wind here will teach you a hard lesson.
The whole trail is loose rocks so sturdy shoes are recommended. Water and sunscreen too.
esseGesse Et — Google review
Very challenging hike! However, a coworker and I hiked it up and down in under four hours to the dismay of our knees. Afterwards, we agreed the pain and fatigue were worth the views and experience.
My personal notes:
-parking cost money (15 or 20 USD)
-use sunscreen
-pack a light jacket or windbreaker (it gets cold up there)
-have a trail map (phone, GPS, or physical)
-pack snacks/food/drinks (including as much water as you feel comfortable carrying)
-use some sort of knee/joint support (braces, hiking poles, etc.)
-Start your ascent no later than 5ish hours before sunset or else you'll descend in the dark (dangerous with this hike imo)
W Davis — Google review
One of the more difficult hikes I've completed due to rising 3021 feet from the trailhead in just 4.2 miles. Took me 9 hours round trip(5.5 hours up, 3.5 hours back down), but I'm 54 years old. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and light jacket. Hiked this March 27th and it was in the 40s with 30mph winds at the top.
Kevin Vinson — Google review
Hiked this with my wife Aug 6th, 2023. We have 103 years between the two of us 54m / 49f. Neither of us work outside, exercise regularly, go to the gym or hike regularly. I won't lie... it was strenuos - but we made it! We started up at 6:15am just before sunrise, took 6 bottles of fluid each (16-20 ounces) and used it all. We averaged 54 minutes a mile first 3 miles. Last 1.4 miles was the hardest. First mile is hard but last 350 feet of elevation was brutal. It was 76 degrees when we left the trailhead - 80-ish on mountain top. We got up in 4:40 hours total. Going down at midday in full sun the temps soared and by the time we got back to trailhead (taking several breaks) 3 hours later it was 103 degrees.
Some suggestions if you are not "in shape" and decide to make the climb: Hydrate a few days before you go. Take more water than you think you'll need - we took 6 gatorades and 6 water and could have used 8 each. We used tennis shoes but hiking boots would have been better (we're amateurs). You'll get some shade on the way up if you're early but practically none at mid-day going down. Cell service is spotty but we did have moderately good signal on the peak (Verizon). Take frequent breaks - don't "attack" the climb the first mile or you'll wear yourself out - save some energy for the last mile. The view from the top is phenomenal. We hiked Flattop Mountain in Rocky Mountain National Park (highest marked trail - 12,324 feet) last year, exactly a year ago - our anniversary :) with a 2,850 elevation gain and 8.9 mile round trip. This hike was definitely harder at 3,000 feet elevation gain and 8.8 mile round trip, and I think the view was better here at Guadalupe Peak. One final note, if you use a smartwatch to track your progress don't be disappointed if when you get to 4.4 miles you're not there yet - I believe taking smaller steps than you normally would throws off the distance tracking so our watches said the trip was 5.11 miles instead of 4.4 miles.
Randy Smith — Google review
A fun hike. More long than difficult. There's a campground partway up but I don't know why you'd want to overnight here. There are some cool views, and the little alien pyramid up top is kinda funny. Glad we did this hike, but honestly it's not something I'd do for fun again. There's not much to make it worth it besides touching the highest point in Texas.
Rylan Andersson — Google review
First 1.5 miles are the hardest, then the trail gets a little easier. Takes some time- seemed like it would never end, but it was fun the whole time! Great views.
Steve-o Bandito — Google review
I've done many hikes and this is definitely one of the top 10. It's 8.4 miles round trip. Took me 2 hours and 30 minutes to go up at a fast pace walk with limited stopping to take beautiful pictures. I took a 10 pound backpack full of snacks and 3 bottles of water which was plenty for me. the average person should take more water though. I rested one hour, ate and took in the views. Also half way up it got 20 degrees cooler and very windy. It was 70 at the bottom and the top was 50 degrees. Keep a jacket in your backpack. Walked and Jogged Guadalupe back down which took me 1 hour and a half. Keep in mind I'm athletic and it was somewhat challenging. What gets you is the distance, not how steep it is. I passed so many people that were gassed and regretting the hike that were not even half way. Rest plenty, stay hydrated, and go at your own pace. That's the key to making it up easily. Difficulty level would be 6 out of 10 mostly because you think it's never going to end. Loved it! Highly recommend. If you're out of shape I don't recommend it. They also have other easier traits in this park so don't be discouraged if you're not up for this one. I can imagine It could be up to 4 hours plus just to go up. Highest peak in Texas. EVERYTHING IS BIGGER IN TEXAS!
luis torres — Google review
It’s a semi-challenging hike. About an 8.5 mile round trip from the parking lot. I went in January and it was a bit cold and very windy at the peak. So make sure to bring a jacket, gloves and a hat. The views at the peak and along the way were spectacular. I highly recommend this hike.
Christopher Chamberland — Google review
Excellent hike. A little over 9 mi from the visitor center. We were in a bit of a hurry, so we did it in about 3 hours. But that includes quite a bit of trail jogging.
Views were great. The trail is a bit rough in several areas, but clearly marked. Highly recommend this hike if you're in the area.
Jonny Fisher — Google review
Strenuous hike with amazing views. There are so many lovely people on the way up and on the way down. The park rangers are always watching the parking lot so don’t try to sneak around or stay the night. We got parked at 6am and the rangers were checking tags. Very beautiful trip and great people. There is also a little camping spot about halfway up that would be incredible to see the stars. Definitely would recommend hiking up here with a buddy. Unbelievable experience
Katelyn Meredith — Google review
A great hike! The trail is well maintained without being too hand holdy. Great views all day!
Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site is a destination that offers both guided and self-led tours of ancient rock imagery, as well as picnic areas and campsites. The park boasts the best rock climbing opportunities in Texas, with numerous classic boulder routes ranging from v0 to v14+. The boulders themselves have high-quality rock with excellent movement and landings, making them ideal for climbers of all skill levels.
Easily the best rock climbing area in all of Texas. High concentration of very classic boulder routes, a couple sport routes, and sparse trad routes. The boulders have high quality rock with great movement, as well as usually good landings and lots of beta (online videos). Classics range from v0 all the way up to v14+, so anyone can have a blast climbing with friends. Camping is also recommended, and the people are always friendly.
Jacob Dong — Google review
Drive was about 45 minutes from downtown El Paso to the ranger station. Beautiful drive about 15 minutes before entering the actual park. If you enjoy looking at rocks/boulders, this is the place to go. Everywhere you look, there's amazing views. If this is your first time, you'll need to watch a video about the history and preservation, this is valid for one year. It is 7$ per person. Rangers are all very friendly and knowledgeable. Went in the early morning, make sure to pack water, hikes are short, but there is not much shade. A great place to learn and explore, a section is only available for self guided tours, there are guided tours available that let you explore more of the park. Definitely recommend going to this hidden gem. Encountered a few folks that were bouldering. A very family friendly place. Really appreciate all the that has been done to make sure this area is preserved and well maintained for many, many more generations to enjoy. There were lots and lots of wildflowers throughout the trails. Also, beware of the rattle snakes, saw two in the early morning, be alert, give them their space.
Patricia Flores — Google review
Probably one of the best hikes I’ve been on. We did the self guided trail. I enjoyed the caves and how nice and cool it was when we were able to get in the shade. This hole is great for beginners. We did the chain trail which was challenging but not too crazy. The trail we did does not allow dogs; I believe the flatter trails allow dogs. This was a great family experience . I though it was cool that I saw some rock climbers; there are plenty of spots to do that! The man who walked us through the map was amazing! He gave us a very informative (but not overly informative) lecture which we were able to retain. The only reason I rated it a four star is because the female at the front desk wasn’t as friendly and was obviously easily annoyed by people which is funny being that she is the first person of contact for all hikers/campers.
Nic Rivers — Google review
My family really enjoys every time we have the opportunity to actually get on to the park. I'll start with the not so positives. As other reviewers have mentioned, if you don't get there early enough, more often than not, you will need to wait. Unfortunately, there is no way to check space availability. It's hit or miss with the staff. We have visited multiple times, and on more than one occasion, the ranger in charge of the check-in process tends to be in a not so happy mood. If you dont let that very short encounter ruin your visit, here are the positives! This park is so beautiful. The self guided area is perfect for beginner hickers. This park holds so much history. You might encounter some wildlife. Between the cave paintings and caves, this is a great fun experience! One thing I can say with certainty is that the views are beautiful! You will enjoy yourself!
Alexander Rojas — Google review
The Wild West is a place of many great secrets! My husband and I enjoy every turn and every surprise we find waiting. It is always a great day when you see and learn something new about our great country! Hueco Tanks has a nice cave within a close walk with decades of pictographs. They ensure you get the full experience and history lesson of course, totally worth seeing!
Dawn Erb — Google review
Great short hikes and lots of wildlife. Great birding spot and very beautiful rock formations.
Staff was very helpful —-only hope that as others continue to enjoy this place it can stay preserved as much as possible. Really disturbing to see how much graffiti is on some of the rocks.
Wesley Bubb — Google review
This is an incredible park, as well as a breathtaking campground. Most of the spots back up to the mts.and have a view of the valley in the distance. Check in was easy. Anyone who wishes to hike in the park hast to take a 30 minute class. Phil explain to us how to stay on trails and to protect the pictographs that are throughout the park. nice bathhouse helpful staff. Can’t wait to return.
Sandra Ellis — Google review
Amazing hikes with guided tours for the southern mountains. The north mountain can be explored with just an orientation video. Come explore this sacred site that has been preserved for future generations. Be nice, pack it in, pack it out.
Kevin Tomanka — Google review
Hueco Tanks is an amazing stop, but it's important that you understand its history and why it's so protected. If your not there early, you will probally wait in line outside the park gates. I talked to one guy that was in line starting at 10:30 am and was let in about 4:20 pm. The park closes at 6.pm sharp. Don't be that guy the ranger has to hunt down in the park after hours, because they will. There are limited slots available for daily use. I've been 3x and waited in line all three times.
Get there early, respect the land, enjoy this amazing park.
David de Lajunta — Google review
I had the pleasure of discovering this beautiful gem through a local Facebook hiking group. After seeing the many beautiful pictures, I decided to take my family there for a day trip. What an amazing experience! I will definitely go back and I recommend anyone to go there, even if you have young children. Compliments to those involved in maintaining this State Park clean and safe.
Marta Petsch — Google review
Excellent park. If you want to learn more about the history of the area and the ancient people take an interpretive tour. It’s five dollars a person and they limit the groups to 10 people. Book early as park sells out of rv spaces.
HAVIS Adventures — Google review
Although I have only visited the North Mountain, there is plenty to see. Don't take the word "plenty" lightly. My first visit was well over 20 years ago, so I didn't remember much. Since June of '23 I have been to the park 3 times, exploring a bit further each time, and finally reaching some amazing spots. If you want to get to the peak of the North Mountain, be prepared for a bit of technical bouldering, as there are lots and lots of crevices, hand/foot holds, and smooth rock.
Andrew Sanchez — Google review
Hueco Tanks State Park was on of the most intriguing experiences I’ve had. This powerful energetic land speaks to you as you free-range boulder and hike through staggering formations and geological structures. With 1000’s of years of history, the park is riddled with 100’s and 100’s of ancient pictographs. Once you get a knack for where they typically are, certain over-hangs and crawl spaces, you begin to figure out where to look for them. As I spotted likely areas I would crawl, scoot, slide on back and belly to get through spaces in search and half the time I’d find some. Simply amazing. One of my new top favorite parks in the world.
Adam Brower — Google review
Very unique state park that has a past like no other with petroglyphs from indigenous tribes mixed with those from early settlers. Be prepared to follow the rules of the park to preserve it's history. Also be prepared for Boulder Climbing visitors, and one very grumpy older male staff member who will not enhance your visit. Thankfully he is outnumbered by a lot of great female staffers especially the park superintendent.
Dwayne Hauck — Google review
I’ve been multiple times over the years and it’s always a place worth coming back to each time. Great hiking, and climbing. A giant natural playground for people of all ages and fitness to bounce around from rock to rock. For popular holidays/weekends be sure to reserve passes for north mountain months in advanced as the limited 70 passes per day can be claimed quickly.
Matt Garza — Google review
Went on a guided tour and did the orientation (not required for the tour, 11 minute video) in case we wanted to explore afterwards.
Got rained on, but was otherwise a great tour. It took about 3 hours and we walked about 3 miles (not strenuous, lots of stops). Also got to see some wildlife!
They take really good care of this park and I always enjoy visiting.
Vanessa — Google review
We almost skipped this state Park because it is out of the way. Totally worth the detour. Actually want to go back and take a tour. Also one of three top places for bouldering in the US.
D McNally — Google review
Great place to visit right outside of El Paso, it has easy to moderate trails up the rocks or on the desert ground. On our last trip we even came across a family of wild goats 🐐.
Chuy Gonzalez — Google review
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6900 Hueco Tanks Road No. 1, El Paso, TX 79938, USA
This vast park in the mountains offers campsites, hiking trails, an old ranch house & natural pools.
One of my wife’s favorites in all America. Spots were a bit snug for our Grand Design 5ver but we fit at an angle. That angle paid off for the incredible sunset views. Bathrooms were clean and well kept Parks hosts were very friendly and lent us sleds and wax to visit White Sands.
White Sands was less than 30 minutes away and worth staying here to visit the National Park. Have a fire, relax with an adult beverage, and be amazed at one of the prettiest sunsets you’ll ever enjoy.
Will stay again
Rich Morrow — Google review
We were RV camping at Oliver Lee for two nights while visiting White Sands NP. We only had reservation for one night and the second we scored due to a cancellation. We really liked the setting of the campground - great views and sunset, amazing canyons on the backdrop. Lots of gorgeous vegetation and birds. Visitor center is fun! The volunteers are really friendly and informative. Campground keeper was friendly too. Campground has different types of sites scattered around: with and without shed, with or without hook ups. Dump station had limited working hours. Hot showers were great! We hiked to the springs (although almost dried out) and enjoyed our morning hike.longer canyon hike available. Plus an overflow for 5$ a night! For us, East coasters, this place was magical! Thank you to the friendly staff and beautiful nature!
Yekaterina Goryacheva — Google review
Incredible. I only made it about a half a mile up the trail and then back down in three hours. Very steep climb, lots of reasons to stop and look at the view.
Shout out to Stan who clearly loves his job and this canyon! Very informative and you can tell he delights in talking to the guests! I'm going to plan on coming back in the spring, making sure I have campground reservations, and make a full day/night of the hike. I wanna get all the way through!
A T — Google review
We had trouble getting a first come first serve site and had to stay in the overflow area the first night but then were able to get a no-services site for the next 2 nights. They really should change their booking system and charge much higher cancellation fees for people that reserve and don't show up because all 3 nights there were empty sites that overflow people could have used.
However once you're in the park is very nice. We did the Lawson Spring Trail, the nature trail by the visitor centre (scramble on the rocks past the picnic table to see really interesting spring pools and fern walls), and we did the tour of the Oliver Lee ranch. The last time we were here we did the very difficult hike all the way up Dog Canyon and across the Eyebrow which was a little scary but worth the views.
Joel Smith — Google review
Beautiful campground with a small shelter around cement tables, showers, hiking trails, close enough to town and white sands for convenience but far enough away to see a sky full of stars and enjoy peace and quiet. The camp hosts were kind, respectful, and I felt very safe. Highly recommend staying here.
Rachel Senick — Google review
We stayed at Oliver Lee for 4 nights on a beautiful site (#14) without amenities. Water was available close to our site so it was easy to get when needed. There are 18 sites with water and electricity but were all reserved at the time of our stay.
We are self-contained, but we did see the bathrooms, and they appeared nice and clean.
The camp host were helpful and did a nice job updating reserved sites and offering their help if needed.
We were able to visit White Sands National Park easily from here. Alamogordo is just a few miles away and had everything you might need as far as supplies.
We hiked the Dog Canyon trail for a couple of miles and were treated to dome lovely views.
This place is a gem in the muddle of the desert, and we would definitely stay again.
Julie Childs — Google review
We stayed two nights in site 24. It was large enough for our trailer and large pickup and was almost level, as you can see from the photos. Great views in every direction. It's an easy drive into Alamogordo and then west to White Sands National Park, which was cool. It was rainy, so we didn't get a chance to hike into the canyon, but that is on our list for next time.
Jeff Haessler — Google review
This was a great spot to spend the night while visiting White Sands NP! We did have some trouble at the campground with someone stealing our reserved campsite and the camp host was not helpful with this situation. Other than that, I would definitely stay here again. The campsites were easy to access and spread out far enough with lots of desert vegetation between them. The showers were a nice bonus for staying here.
Rachael Meadows — Google review
Stunning canton camping. Great views looking west with fabulous sunsets. Clean restroom with hot showers. Great camp host. Hiking up the canyon in the evening was great. Good proximity to White Sands, national Park, and Cloudcroft, New Mexico. Some sites are equipped with water and electric plus a bonus shelter.
Sandra Ellis — Google review
I camped here one night after visiting White sands National Park.
The place is clean, quiet and easy to find. It's about 20 minutes away from White sands.
The campsites are pretty large and have hookups for RVs. Water and electricity. You can tent camp here as well.
They have latrine style toilets and showers on site. They're located centrally in the middle of the loop.
There are park hosts here year round. I'm met one as soon as I was pulling in and she was very helpful. They have a dog "#1... It looks super nice and I wanted to pet it, but I resisted the temptation to ask 😆
Dietrich — Google review
Dog canyon trail was 5+ miles and I will definitely be going back with a walking stick and booties for my dog!! Really great views. Would recommend coming with a partner and to keep in mind the trail is very rocky
Dionesia King — Google review
Great place to spend a few days. Located close to the Benson Ridge, on Sacramento Mountain foothills, so therefore on a slope.
Stayed at site 23 with water and electricity but no sewer. Site was fairly big. We had some challenges to get at level on our site but that was minor. Other sites looked very leveled.
There is a dump site (opened between 8am and 4pm).
For 18$/night, this is an amazing deal with beautiful landscape (night sky quite nice).
But I heard that NM will raise the camping fees to align on other state parks next year.
Camping hosts were friendly and helpful.
Washrooms and showers were very clean.
Located closed to White Sands National Park (30 min drive) and to the Space Museum (30 mins).
Overall, it was super quiet, a bit windy but we enjoyed our stay.
Patrick Tanguy — Google review
What a great desert campground! Sites were nicely spaced gravel with backdrop of desert mountains. Restroom facilities and showers were very clean. Camp host came by for friendly greeting. Dump station on way out was well equipped. Had an RV site with electric and water.
David Nelson — Google review
Passing through and decided to stay here instead of dispersed camping at Dog Canyon just below. They were full but they have overflow sites available (6 sites in close proximity to each other) for $8, no electric or tent pads. Perfect for car camping for the night, plus you can use the bathroom and shower facilities. Our timid, little dog actually explored the area a little. All in all, a pleasant overnight. Amazing night sky, sunset and sunrise.
Notes: best to have exact change, ranger doesn't carry cash.
If car or van camping, check your grade when parking. Sites are relatively level but your feet can end up slightly higher than your head.
The "comfort station" is closed between 9pm-6:45am.
Isabelle Murphy — Google review
Camped here for three nights. My first site was in the lower section and was fairly level. The second site was up on the slope and leveling was a challenge. Clean restrooms and showers. Very quiet at night.
Carl Carlson — Google review
I'm shocked that I somehow did not rate this place already! This was one of the biggest surprises on the trip that I took in May 2023 visiting several national parks. I stayed here because it is super close to White Sands National Park. The camping are is small, and the trails are mainly very short, however the Dog Canyon trail is a great, and tough trail, with plenty of grand views of the area. I was running low on time and was unable to complete the final mile, because I was running out of daylight, but from what I have heard, the final mile does not offer much in the way of views... I do not know this for myself though. The hosts were very pleasant, and I had a fantastic time here.
James Robbins — Google review
Loved this state park! We camped here in a 42 foot toy hauler. The camp host was amazing and the views were incredible!!
The El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a 35-acre park that houses over 220 species of African, American, and Asian animals in natural habitats. The playground with slides was particularly popular among children. However, some animals were not visible due to the cold weather. The train ride was enjoyable but expensive for the limited sightseeing it offered. Unfortunately, there are no paper maps available at present, so visitors need a digital one instead. Some exhibits were closed or empty during the visit.
Had a great time saw some big animals which was nice. Some exhibits were closed or didn't have anything which was sad, but overall it was fun. Granddaughters first visit to the zoo.
Diana Frieda — Google review
Carousel is very fun. Got to see cute cats when we went. Nice little park for kids, and ropes coarse as well. Overall, 10/10
Took lots of pictures. Met an adorable kitten in the cat adoption center, who slept on my lap. Amazing.
basscat — Google review
They have frequent "enrichment" shows to highlight the different animals.
There is also a wonderful cat interaction house and adoption service on site.
It being so hot probably had something to do with it but most of the animals looked sad.
There were several exhibits under construction and a lot of the exhibits only had one animal.
Shawn B — Google review
Went early midday on a Saturday. We had to get in line to buy tickets but it took 3 minutes to go in. The prices are not bad at all. I was expecting it to be little more expensive.
Although, it was somewhat packed, it was comfortable to walk around and take pictures. To walk the whole zoo took us about 2 hours. A considerable amount of exhibits were not active/animals not in. However, we enjoyed our afternoon.
When finalizing around 3 PM, the zoo was very crowded and hard to walk by.
Yazmin Gomez — Google review
My family and I hadn’t been to the zoo in a while. We had membership, but there’s been some changes involving the city’s support so those are on hold for now. Only daily tickets are available for purchase at the gate and nowhere else. Most of the animals were out today but many were not. It would be nice to have an update on which animals will be unavailable on their website to give people the heads up.
On a positive note, we finally got to see the new penguin exhibit and the new rhinoceros!!! Seeing both at our zoo was awesome!!! My family enjoyed our time at the zoo, but unfortunately, they were closing earlier than I’m used to (3pm). I wasn’t aware of the hours before since I was a member and went whenever I could. They’re closed Mondays and Tuesdays. If you plan on going, please take note the times of operation and that tickets must be purchased at the entrance.
Also, until the negotiations are done with, if you do go, please save your ticket to put towards your membership purchase later one. (It was posted online).
Destiny T — Google review
Kids liked it, especially the playground with the slides. Many of the animals were not out for viewing as it was kinda cold. Would be better in warmer weather.
The train was a little overpriced for how little you can see from it, but it was fun anyway. There are no paper maps any longer so you need a digital one.
Pat Smith — Google review
Such a great zoo! Visiting from Tampa, FL and had to stop in with my son. It was great to see so many animals that we don't get to see at our zoo back home.
It was a really hot day so I think some of the animals were kept inside and I wish some of the others would have had something to cool them down because the heat seemed to be affecting some of them as well.
Loved their cat adoption facility and though this was a great idea that many other zoos should do as well!
Julie Lechner — Google review
This zoo has many animals to see. From zebras to birds and many more. This zoo is big, you can send here easily from 1-3 hours depending the activities you choose. They also have a train that can take you throughout the zoo to see the animals. There is a gift shop available to buy things and souvenirs for yourself as a memory. This is a great place for any age and any person who wants to see animals.
Kevin Fajardo — Google review
We've always love the zoo! There are so many new things for kids of all ages! For a smaller city zoo, the attention to detail and the engagement activities for visitors is really incredible. Plus, the zoo is part of a conservation program that helps endangered species! And if you buy an annual membership, it's even better because you can bring a friend with every visit! So it's a win win!
Vanessa Voce Strackbein — Google review
Our visit started off nice but because of the attitude of the staff our visit was no fun. They have really let the place go. We have visited many time over the past 10 years and it was always nice even when we went and there wasn’t as many animals we didn’t mind because everyone was friendly but this is no longer the case. There was a employee she was tall, thin black hair with a bob. She had the worst attitude. She yelled at guests. She ruined a video a young couple was trying to make of there daughter because she ran in font of them to yell at someone else. I heard another employee yelling from across the park at another kid. Im not being dramatic either this employee was extremely angry and yelling. The employees need to understand that they will be dealing with a lot of kids and if they don’t have the proper training then maybe this is not the job for them. Having a stranger yell at a little kid is quite terrifying. Especially when they go there to have fun. I understand that kids cannot be climbing and jumping around on certain things but there’s a way to tell them without yelling at them. If anyone had done that to my kids I would’ve definitely had a problem.
Natasha Kling — Google review
Nice size zoo. It’s a little hot in June (what else is new…) but there is plenty of shade. We saw quite a few animals including the Red River Hog which was new to us. Make time for the special activities (including the giraffe feeding which is only $3)
Great place to spend a couple of hours.
Mark Smith — Google review
Great zoo, awesome park inside and splash pad. Was a bit disappointed at price and how many sections had no animals. But otherwise enjoyed the rest and kids had a great time, also note hours are shorter on some days. Was kinda lame to get kicked out, but the weekend is probably a better time to go if you want to stay longer.
Daniel Hildebrandt — Google review
This was our second trip to the zoo since moving here. First time was a let down because there was trash in most of the exhibits and over half did not have animals. This time we went for the Bug Extravaganza. That part was cool, but there were even less animals in the exhibits and still trash in many of the exhibits. Sea lions glass were still filthy and hard to see through.
Sarah Coey — Google review
We came to visit our family and decided to try the zoo, since there’s not very many things to do here in El paso with little kids, we thought it was going to be great and memorable for the kids. Before coming saw very many good reviews, but once we got there to our surprise the place was very run down, dirty, some exhibits were empty , you could tell the animals were very neglected, the windows were dirty and some of them foggy you couldn’t see the exhibits, the water in the sea lions’ tank was a nasty green color you could barely see the poor animal there swimming in nasty green water. The very few stations with hand sanitizer were empty, everything costs money, there’s very few concessions places so you might get hungry during the trip, be prepared and better pack your own snacks!
The only good thing is that there’s lots of shade and the playground area is very fun for little kids. They need to do something, this place has lots of potential, they just have neglected it so much!
Karen Priego Bennion — Google review
I always hear people complain about how the exhibits are closed. Fortunately, that was not the case for my family and I. We arrived upon opening, and all the animals were out. We enjoyed the new exhibits of the rhino and the penguins. We got to enjoy the baby giraffe and orangutan. We also got to see the new Kamodo Dragon. Although some exhibits were closed, I can see the zoo improving and working hard to entertain the public. Kudos to El Paso Zoo. 👏
Roxxy Rox — Google review
I spent over 2 hours here. There was lots of animals, beautiful plants, lots of signage to read. It was a great environment, and lots to see and do. Prices were not bad either. Would definitely go again. I liked the different continent zones and themes going too.
Tyler — Google review
My wife and I had a great time. We have a members pass which allows us to go anytime. Each time we walk around and enjoy looking at all the animals. We can’t wait for the penguins that should be arriving Dec 2023. Highly recommend for all ages.
Derya Cakmar — Google review
Nice overall zoo. Small but enjoyed was was available. Was disappointed alot of the areas closed off but remolding will most likely bring great additions.
Cafe food was terrible.
Jay Smith — Google review
We moved to El Paso three years ago and we became members of the zoo immediately. It's very well maintained and so much fun to go. It's really hot in the summer, so springtime and fall are the best times to visit. The place is bigger than it looks too. Highly recommend.👍👍
Skip Gilbert — Google review
We had so much fun! We got to visit all our favorite animals. But the best part was seeing the penguins. I hope they bring more new animals in the near future.
Beautiful views. You can see Mexico on the other side. Its was something new for us we were excited. We did need to go all the way to the top. It was cold and windy. If you look at the pictures where you see the X in red. Thats a placita in Mexico.
Wendy BoriDomi — Google review
Excellent views of El Paso and across the border to Juárez
Carlos Mateo — Google review
There are about 3 rest stops on that scenic drive .
Jessy Vargas — Google review
Excellent views but the police academy above was shooting the entire time so don't come here for peace and quiet
Chris Sosa — Google review
Great place and view of El Paso, Texas and sister city Ciudad Juarez, Mexico
Jonathan Maltos — Google review
Best view of El Paso, TX and Juarez, Mexico.
Pancham Patel — Google review
Love this place beautiful scene we have in El Paso, Tx
Goodmorning Happy Labor Day 🌞🇨🇱🇺🇸
Thelma Solis — Google review
No parking during the weekends. El Paso City leaders can do better since they up on our taxes. What a shame this is a city staple for tourist to see our picturesque mountains.
Zue Rubi — Google review
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2449 Scenic Dr, El Paso, TX 79930, USA
I'll never travel to San Antonio without this trip planner again
Gondolas traveling to and from Ranger Peak plus a gift shop, restrooms & viewing platforms.
First time doing anything aerial and my husband and I loved it. The park rangers were very informative and knowledge. Great view of the mountain ranges and cities. On the website it suggested that you call before arriving due to weather conditions, please call ahead. A must do if you're in the area.
Kimberley Moreno — Google review
Great place in El Paso Texas... You will love this experience! Once you are taken up the mountain, you have the option of staying and doing some sightseeing...or if you are up to it!... an awesome hike! They have access to a trail way above the desert sky... It's beautiful up here. We went early since it takes about 10-15 mins to load everyone in and take them up in groups of 6-8 depending. You could have a small picnic since the wind up there does not really allow for a full picnic. The trip up is pretty awesome! My daughter was a little scared but once we got up there, she absolutely loved it! Oh and take some money, they have a gift shop at the top. I can't believe that I grew up in El Paso and I never visited this park before. Parking is free but limited. Restrooms are clean. You do have the option to just hike for the day and I believe that it's free. You can see all of El Paso, parts of New Mexico and Juarez!
iveeg s — Google review
This is such a fun activity for a weekend adventure. I've been on it twice and both times I was just as impressed with the mechanics of the tramway and enthralled with the views at the top. The ascent is around 900ft with the gondola moving at a speed of, I believe, 9mph so it's nothing extreme. This is definitely a must if you have visitors from out of town. Just, overall, a lot of fun.
Diego Hernandez — Google review
The line can be a little but it's worth the wait. Smooth ride on the tram. Beautiful mountain scenery. Very nice view of El Paso, Ciudad Juarez (Mexico), and New Mexico. Will visit again next time I'm in El Paso.
LP Ant — Google review
Great and cheap way to get to see all of El Paso and beyond. 360° view at the top with maps that point out all the different landmarks. We went on a Saturday evening and no one was there, but we were told it does get insanely crowded when deployments are about to head out from Fort Bliss and families are visiting.
Dan Pruitt — Google review
Hands down an El Paso must. Very special views from this place. It's only open on weekends and I recommend sunrise or sunset to beat the crowds. It's much colder at the top so bring a jacket!
Alejandro Espinoza — Google review
Beautiful! I live in KC and every time I go to El Paso, this place was always closed! It was either due to rain or snow. However, this was a wonderful experience going up the mountain on the tram. The Park Ranger was very informative and made it a pleasant ride. We went on a sunny winter day and it was way colder up on the mountain. There’s hiking trails, awesome scenic views overlooking all of El Paso and Juarez, Mx. Must see if you’re in El Paso!
Liz — Google review
A must for native El Pasoans or those new to the area. Gives great views of nearly the entire city, Mexico, and New Mexico without the need for hiking (unless you want to). There's plenty of space on the viewing platform; I never had to fight for viewing space. Unfortunately, the gondolas lack any kind of air conditioning, so expect the four-minute ride to be stuffy. There's no running water at the top either (but there is a bathroom) so bring plenty of bottled water unless you want to purchase some at the gift shop.
Brilliant museum covering the history of the US missile programs as well as the history of this region of the country. Any military enthusiasts will really enjoy this experience. Kids also enjoy looking at the missiles but they might not enjoy the indoor museum as much
Rudy Weber — Google review
Here at WSMR for work so I stopped in to walk around. Museum and V2 exhibit are closed but the missiles, rockets, planes and launchers are cool to see.
Rich Basher — Google review
This post relates to the security rather than the museum ( I have been there before and it is great). To get to the museum, you must go through the Security Centre, which had a 25 minute line up; Although the museum stated it was open (through a text conversation minutes earlier, and I also asked a family that was leaving the site) the security office refused us entry due to the museum “being closed”: Conflicting information between the two. The security office had one person that was helpful and apologetic for the conflicting information, while the other was just plain rude. If you have time to deal with such issues, I would recommend, but be prepared to be turned away, seemingly at the whim of the security office. I would like to reiterate that the museum itself is worth the visit and this regards the security aspect only.
Roch Guertin — Google review
Enjoyed seeing all the outside missiles, there was a lot of history to see. The inside museum was closed today at 2, would have enjoyed seeing that. Had a great visit.
Debbie Adams — Google review
Excellent displays in a confusing arrangement. Good historical information a bit on natives and old wars, a lot on nuclear weapons.
On arrival we were informed we couldn't drive up, so no vehicle info needed!
Don't believe Google directing you to a southern gate. Use only the LA Cruces gate off hwy 70!
The museum door said closed but several folks were going in and out.
All very disorganized!
Luminous Views — Google review
If you are not military assigned to base or civilian working on base, you will only get to see the museum and the mountains. You will also have to go through a background check to get a pass to do that. You must have a TSA valid ID. If you have wants and warrants out for your arrest, I wouldn't take the chance. They are serious about security. The museum is awesome. They have all kinds of rockets and rocket launchers. Fun history trip.
Janis RB — Google review
Very expansive indoor museum as well as a paved outdoor museum with information at each stop. Must register at the gate, but it is open to the public.
Jana West — Google review
Park just before the gate and present your driver’s license, social security number along with a picture to get approval to go to the missile park. It is located to the left which you must access by a walkway. The museum is closed, but an array of missiles are located just behind. A note of caution: Photos can only be taken at the park and under no circumstances can you take pics of the staffers.
David Hesterly — Google review
Very interesting stop. You must check in with the office, show your drivers license and have a photo taken. Then you are permitted to walk through the gates following the sidewalk to the museum which is indoors. There is also a viewing area outside with all sorts of missiles and planes to look at. The reason for 4 stars is ALL of the bathrooms were out of order!
Autumn Ray (Wake-Up) — Google review
Very interesting Museum. Lots of historical information. Enjoyed the displays!
Jackie Frosch — Google review
Great free museum! The missile park outside was epic and informative. The museum has lots of information and a good variety of displays. Not much hands on for kids, but our six year old was still engaged the entire time we were here. You have to stop and get a quick background check, so bring IDs for all adults.
Chris Bloomfield — Google review
What a wonderful place to watch for everyone
I strongly recommend all science students must watch this
For US CITIZENS need your id and SSN
If you need to drive up to the museum take your vehicle registration and insurance with you
For NON CITIZENS take your valid passport and visa the process will take around 10 minutes
In both cases they will print your admission ticket including your photo on it
Non citizens needs to walk up to the museum less than five minutes
Take water with you
One thing I noticed was lack of parking 🅿️ space
But this is a must watch place
It’s free of cost
Sree Pillai — Google review
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White Sands Missile Range, Wsmr P Rt 1, White Sands Missile Range, NM 88002, USA
White Sands National Park is a vast area of 145,344 acres that showcases an extraordinary landscape dominated by rare gypsum sand dunes. These stunning and undulating dunes spread throughout the Tularosa Basin which gives them a dreamlike appearance. A visit to this park is essential for photographers interested in landscapes because its beauty is unmatched. The best time to witness the dazzling white sands is during sunrise or sunset as it enhances their magical quality.
Loved this experience!!! We got there way too late in the day, should have been there early! Busiest and smallest NP I’ve been to, but well worth it. The dunes are unlike anything I’ve experienced and so much better than pictures can describe. Easy to get lost, so be careful! Take lots of water and definitely sun screen and hats.
MiKayla Thomas — Google review
I've driven past White Sands National Park multiple times on road trips from Arizona to Texas but I had never stopped in before. Boy was I missing out! This is one of the most beautiful natural places I've ever visited! I went in the evening around 7 pm and stayed until closing at 9 pm. The sunset, clouds in the sky and white dunes that stretched on for miles was absolutely stunning. I drove back into the park approximately 6 miles as the ranger recommended that it was the best area for sand dune sledding. My kids had so much fun! There is plenty of parking, shaded picnic areas, and restrooms. If you have an America the Beautiful pass you can get into the park for free. The visitor center has gifts, snacks, restrooms and a museum. On certain evenings there are free tours of the lake, sunset strolls and full moon activities. Check the website for hours because they do vary by season and whether or not it's a full moon. The sand does not stick everywhere on your body like beach sand, it's very dry, soft, and clean. Enjoy!
Jessica James — Google review
You will love exploring the dunes. Although you might consider it small for a national park, its uniqueness lies in its natural beauty. On the day we visited, it was fairly cloudy, but the scene was still breathtaking, with a dramatic landscape and exceptionally beautiful clouds. Walking through the dunes was a fun experience, although you may end up with a lot of sand in your shoes. However, you will certainly enjoy it because the sand is incredibly soft and smooth. It's definitely worth dedicating half a day to this adventure!
Yohi Sivakumaran — Google review
Definitely a must see. Came late evening and stayed for the sunset. The area is so peaceful and beautiful. Great place to unwind, relax, and enjoy a small piece of creation. We came with a fairly large group. Some relaxed in the sand, others played football, and yet others hiked around. Come an see for yourself... you'll be glad you did.
Keith Carey — Google review
White Sands National Park was amazing! You can go sledding down the dunes, there's a gift shop, public restrooms, and again if you are traveling to several National parks or monuments, save some money and purchase the America the beautiful park pass online prior to going. (Purchase a few weeks ahead of time to allow time for pass to arrive) this park was a little out of the way for us, but I am so glad we did it, it was amazing to see and feel this sand. There are picnic tables you can eat at, but you'll have to bring in your own food and drink. Definitely worth visiting if you're in New Mexico.
The Fab Forty — Google review
White Sands National Park is a must-visit, but it’s important to note some key details before you go. First and foremost, there’s a $25 entrance fee for each vehicle entering the park. However, this pass can be used for up to 7 days, which makes it a reasonable deal.
As you venture further into the park, the landscape becomes increasingly surreal, with vast expanses of brilliant white sand dunes stretching out before you. Don’t let the initial, more barren sections of the park discourage you; the real beauty lies deeper within.
Be sure to pack sunscreen because you’ll certainly get a sun tan here. Additionally, bring your own water as there are no water stations to refill along the way.
There’s a small gift shop at the park’s entrance where you can buy sleds to enjoy sand dune sledding, a popular activity here. However, I’d recommend bringing your own if you can, as things in these kinds of shops can sometimes be a bit overpriced.
White Sands National Park is a fantastic place to take stunning photos and witness the unique beauty of New Mexico. The park offers several restroom facilities throughout, and you’ll find plenty of parking available in different sections of the park. It’s definitely a remarkable and photogenic destination worth visiting.
Vanessa Benavides — Google review
Beautiful national park. The sand stays cool and there are so many places to go sledding. Go in the morning if you can, once it gets towards the afternoons, the roads past the boardwalk get very muddy and hard to drive through.
Bring a sled and wax if you can, otherwise it is $25 for the sled (you get $5 back in store credit if you return it), and the wax is about $3.
The giftshop is very reasonably priced.
Vanessa — Google review
Loved it, returned to visit with family after 20 plus years. Many great improvements. Well maintained restroom facilities and shaded picnic tables. Better trails, asphalted entryway. Visitors Center very informative. Purchased Access Pass at Dunes Gate, great deal for the price. Plus Access to other locations included.
Overall had a great time. Beautiful sunset over the distant mountains.
Was planning to camp out but sites are currently unavailable due to upgrades. Would definitely recommend to all.
Damian Romero — Google review
This should be a must see for everyone! It is like no other thing no matter how many deserts or sand dunes you see nothing is quite like White sands as it is granite and not sand it's cold to the touch and it doesn't stick to you in the same way that sand does such a unique and incredible experience. I also recommend going when there are tours available and if you're going when there's not a lot of tours you should still definitely go on the sunset stroll it's very informational and interesting I haven't been to White sands in about 10 years and it was such a nice refresher so glad I went the first time and now and I hope to go back in the future!!
Jack Cairborne — Google review
Such a beautiful day to spend at the park. Very little traffic, and once you go deeper down the drive just beautiful white dunes as far as you can see. Many spots to pull off, picnic tables for you to be able to enjoy lunch or snack. Spots for trailers or campers. At the beginning their is a nice informational spot talking about the wildlife there as well. Overall very cool spot to check out!
Maria Foster — Google review
This park is a MUST! It is such a unique and gorgeous place. Definitely take a sled (not the saucer type, it didn’t seem to work as well). You don’t need shoes because the sand is cool. The sunsets are beautiful! There are plenty of places to park your car inside the park so keep driving and you can avoid a lot of people and have your own private dune!
Tara Housh — Google review
What a beautiful place to check out the sand is amazing!! My feet were not hot touching that sand. It’s not that long of a walk and it’s a beautiful scenic drive highly highly recommend everyone seeing it and then check out the gift shop because they’ve got some excellent choices for memories or knickknacks, or take them gifts .
Summer V — Google review
I love this national park and visited multiple times. It’s such a great place to slide down the sand dunes and visit with the family! They also provide free tours in the evening to explain how the sand dunes were created and the wildlife.
Sarah — Google review
This was one of our stops on our road trip out west. We visited both Carlsbad NP and White Sands in the same day. Best viewed in the late afternoon- it was honestly the most incredible sunset I’ve ever seen.
MaryClare Labbe — Google review
An excellent place to spend an afternoon, absolutely otherworldly. Would recommend bringing a sled, worth it to spend an afternoon surfing the sand dunes. Evening around sunset or morning for sunrise makes for the best pictures and temperatures to enjoy. Can't miss while in Alamogordo!!
Alyssa Brown — Google review
One of the coolest national parks I’ve been to. Crazy to see the endless sand dunes and just hearing about the history of the area. We did the longest hike here which is the Alkali Flat Trail which is a little under 5 miles round trip. Overall nice, there is signage but sometimes gets knocked down by the wind. Also there is zero shade so just be aware! Nice hike tho, just be prepared.
Josh Baltazar — Google review
Ranger in the visitor center is very helpful, describe so much about park. We walk few trails. Evening took the sunset ranger guide tour, which is very informative. Sledge on sand is fun part on this park. Visitor center gift shop carry Sledge, which cost: new $25, used $23.
Pritha Biswas — Google review
This was such an incredible experience. I had no idea how much of a special place this was going to be! I would definitely recommend watching the sunset here if you have the time. We got to the park about 5:30p and sunset started a little after 7:30p. I will for sure come back here.
Cooper Deupree — Google review
1st, I highly recommend you to get a national Park pass.
It's a great place no matter what's your interest.
Join the evening sunset walk tour, it helps you understand the white sand better.
Watch the 15 minutes' documentary at the museum theater is also helpful to get the sense.
It's dog friendly, I wish I brought mind there.
They also have camping sites.
Phoebe Wei — Google review
Outstanding time!! Bring a large cooler with a picnic and lots of extra ice and water-- the kids will love it. It's hot but a lot of fun. There are picnic areas that have built in shade. Our kids ran from that to the sand hills to the AC in the car. Bring your own sleds as you pay 25$ each and it's the only option for miles around although I think some lodging provides free rentals...
Jenny Infosino — Google review
As a wheelchair user myself I’m impressed with the spectacular view of the White Sands desert landscape. Since I didn’t plan on spending longer time at the park, I didn’t do the sledding activities. I did not go up onto the sand dunes, just driven through the scenic route. Plus, I don’t think I can fight the heat for more than 5 minutes(haha). It was really hot and dry. Even though, I really enjoyed the view of blue sky with different shapes of clouds and the bright white sand dunes that stretched across the horizon covered with those unique desert plants. Absolutely stunning! I wish all of my handicapped friends from Thailand could come and see this amazing piece of artworks from Mother Nature with their own eyes. I mean seeing picture is nice, but experiencing it with our own eyes is another level. The visitor center’s facilities are handicapped accessible. It has a small gift shop and museum but overall it serves the purpose of providing the information needed. The rangers are very friendly and helpful. I recommend the White Sands National Park. Absolutely worth spending your day here.
nutty nathnaryn — Google review
White Sands National Park is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable experience. The park is truly one of a kind.
highly recommend visiting White Sands National Park during the cooler months, such as spring or fall. The weather is much more pleasant during these times of year, and you won't have to worry about the sand being too hot. Be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sunglasses, and wear comfortable shoes.
Srinivas Prabhu — Google review
I have visited White Sands National Park a few times over the years. My most recent visit was February of last year and it had snowed which made for a unique visit. The snow was beautiful along the sand dunes. This is a very enjoyable park to explore and relax.
Carina Jahn — Google review
This is so different than any of the national parks I have visited till now. Seems like a different world. We went here for both sunrise and sunset and it was spectacular for both times! I personally loved it during sunrise…. The white gypsum was shining as the rays were reflecting from the crystals. They have an entry station from where you can buy the pass / show your annual pass. Walk into the white dunes to get a better view.
Farzana Rahman — Google review
So beautiful! We had a fantastic time traipsing around the dunes. Bring a lot of water - even though we went in the winter and it was cool/chilly, we got very thirsty quickly. I recommend doing the trails closer to the visitor center - you learn a lot about the plants and wildlife. The playa trail was our favorite. If you’re not flying like we were, I would bring your own sled - they sell them (no rentals) and even the used ones are a little pricey. Sledding was very fun though, I highly recommend. We stayed for the sunset, which was really worth it. The gift shop has a great selection of postcards and sells stamps as well.
Jamie Smith — Google review
What a unique place! No beach, just white sand for MILES. Definitely go and spend as long as you'd like. The further back into the park you go, the bigger the dunes. You can go sledding, or hike on them. The sand is blinding white, so be sure to bring sunglasses. It is also recommended that you bring sunscreen and water. While there are restrooms throughout the park, there are no water fountains past the entrance. So, be sure to bring a bottle with you. In the summer, I can see how it would be an absolute MUST to have water with you. It's $25.00 per private car, and $20.00 for a sled (optional). A small price to pay for such a great visit. Happy Traveling!
Kay Williams — Google review
I loved this national park. We did the sunset tour and the ranger was friendly and informative. The views are breathtaking, especially during sunset. They restrooms all over the loop and you could also have a picnic while at the park. The trails are well marked and lovely. The boys had a blast sledding. You can buy used sleds for $20 from the gift shop. New ones are about $25, if you return it at the end of the day you get a $5 store credit.
Maggie Ruiz — Google review
Such a beautiful place to visit. We did sledding in the morning (like 9am) and weather was perfect for end of March. We also returned for the sunset. We didn't do the ranger talk but came about 30m before sunset and walked around. It was incredible.
Miel Rim — Google review
A very cool place to bring the kids and have lots of fun. I enjoyed the beauty of nature in a very white sandy environment.
If you dare, the sand is also great for boogie board surfing. You can bring your own board or rent one at the park.
Kevin C — Google review
Absolutely beautiful. Photos don't do this place justice. We went two days and had a great time playing in the sand and walking on top of the dunes along the Alkali Trail. Be sure to bring lots of water sunscreen and sunglasses. It can get quite bright with the sun reflecting off the sand.
Justin B — Google review
A mesmerizing landscape of gleaming white gypsum dunes stretching endlessly. Explore the surreal beauty, sled down the slopes, and marvel at unique flora and fauna. An adventure-filled sanctuary offering tranquility and wonder, inviting all to experience nature's masterpiece in the heart of the desert.
Gauri Rawat — Google review
Arrived before noon. Not too busy when we got there. A great experience for all ages.
Brought our 5 dogs and they had a fun time!
Definitely get there early or later in the day. Would love to go back for sunset.
David Constanzo — Google review
It is a very beautiful place to visit! Around the time that I went about 3 PM it was very fresh and towards 5PM it was much colder. Around 50° the sand felt very cool and it was such a beautiful sight to see. It was indeed a new experience ! They also have these plastic disks you can purchase to slide down steep dunes.
The Dripping Springs Natural Area offers well-maintained hiking trails that wind through striking rock formations and scrubland, leading past historic 1800s resort buildings and a spring enclosed by granite walls. This family-friendly destination features numerous benches along the route for rest breaks under shady trees. The informative visitor center is staffed by thorough rangers and clean facilities are available. While there is a $5 parking fee, visitors can expect a crowded scene on weekends.
Great family friendly hike. Trails are well maintained, there are multiple spots along the way to take a rest on a bench under a tree. Or group had ages 3-40 and they all enjoyed the hike. Visitor center was informative, rangers were very thorough with their information, and the restrooms were clean. There is a 5 parking fee and it can get busy in a weekend.
We just went to dripping springs, next time we’ll do the path to the sanatorium.
H. FergMT — Google review
An amazing state park in which people of any age can have the pleasure of exploring. I recommend hiring a local guide so that it is possible to learn about that area and understand the story behind it. Definitely a must see!
Marta Petsch — Google review
This place is so beautiful! Park rangers were very friendly and helpful. Wildlife is abundant in the mornings. If you're into birdwatching, this is a perfect area. Dripping springs trail is a little difficult especially if you're out of shape like me, but, the views make it worth it.
Nicole Marin — Google review
Beautiful hike with great views, and interesting destinations. The first part of the hike is pretty easy gravel road with a sturdy incline, no shade. Once you get to the end there is plenty of shade and picnic tables, and plenty to explore. Big parking lot, visitor center with maps and very nice ranger ( know the condition on the hike and status of the spring), bathroom and water. Fee is 5 $ or if you have National Park pass free.
Kaja SWIEB — Google review
Nice drive from El paso. Great for a quick hike too. Beautiful and not too crowded (although I went on a weekday) parking is $5. Visitors center was open and the volunteers were extremely friendly and knowledgeable on other areas to visit *note first 5 pics are from Sept 2021 - last 2 are from Feb 2022*
Tanya Covington — Google review
still a great place to take a hike or run as a trail. The road is gravel and has a light to moderate incline, hiking shoes or tennis shoes with small grips on bottom are good. The trail is about 1 1/2 to 2 miles to the spring. There was a small amount of water coming out as there has not been a lot of rain or snow on the mountain. But some of the most beautiful scenery and relaxing area to go to. There are also small benches along the way to stop and rest. Great history stories along the way as well, they also have a great map that you place a pin into in order to show where you are from. Definitely a place to visit.
Dianne Torrez — Google review
Nice hike for a half day trip. The paths are easy to follow and wide. The old buildings are very neat! There are bathrooms off the trail. We got to see a bunch of deer.
Karrie Krell — Google review
Perfect hike for family of four! We drove up from Ft Bliss and took our 2.5 year old and 12 month old. There is an incline on the way up to Dripping Springs but you’re on a gravel trail the entire time until right at the spring/mountain camp area. My husband pushed our double jogging stroller all the way up. Gotta be ready for a workout if you bring the stroller and definitely need’s to be a jogging stroller with the bike wheels. It’s doable but pack would be much easier (assuming your kids like packs…mine don’t so stroller is emotionally easier on me 🤣). Beautiful views and not very busy. No waterfall this time but was told it’s due to a severe drought. Still so worth it.
Jessica Doyle — Google review
Park fee is $5 per vehicle but free for Military Gold Star Members. Staff is friendly and welcoming.
There is no parking fee if you will not utilize the trail. Just let the staff at visitor center know.
Restrooms are very clean and available near the visitor center.
Dripping Springs is 1.5 miles uphill. The Cave is 0.9 miles one-way - Easy trail. The cave is nothing special but I would definitely recommend you to explore the other trails.
The trails are steep so be careful coming back down. Please bring winter coat or hoodie because the weather can get pretty chilled very soon in later part of the day.
You will definitely have good time.
Vijay Thakkar — Google review
Beautiful area with visitors' center. RV parking for the center. Be aware there is a $5 fee for driving up to that area and stopping (or use your annual pass). Cueva picnic area. This is a great place for photos, especially in rain and snow! Great in sunshine, too. Closed at sunset. I have seen the gate closed on some holidays as well but I don't know the actual policy about closures.
H R — Google review
Easy hike, beautiful landscape. Golden grasses with tall looming mountains as the back drop. The dripping springs are just that, if you are expecting a waterfall you will be disappointed. The place where the water drips is still quite nice quiet, secluded and giving a break from the wind. The rest of the experience is truly beautiful. Be sure to check out the cave near the picnic area.
Sam Beasley — Google review
I really love and enjoyed the beauty of nature wen we came in this area. So amazing ,beautiful views of nature. You can do you’re trail in La Cueva for 1 and half miles back &port. Overlooking area you can see the down side of Las Cruces. Do next time we will come again bcoz were running out of time.. i will do another trail again in the side of the mountain. I saw a mule deer near wen we are living the La Cueva. I saw a beautiful barrel cactus with a flowers in both different colors. I saw many birds too…The humming birds is really cute❤️💕🥰
marecil gonzales — Google review
Dripping Springs is a great place for a walk. The trails are wide and the gravel is smooth on the first part of the Cueva Mine Trail and would be good for those who need easier terrain. The visitors center is lovely and there are hummingbird feeders outside where you can sit and watch nature do its thing. The volunteers are friendly and knowledgeable.
Note: if you’re disabled you can get the National Parks All Access Pass at this location.
Michelle Call — Google review
Great and beautiful hike..Actually many hikes but Dripping Springs is a nice 3 mile round trip hike. Beautiful area with dispersed camping all around. Tried to spot an Oryx..no luck.
laurie leonardo — Google review
The forest service people working went above and beyond to explain the trails that were dog friendly. Huge ups for being able to get me out there hiking! Make sure to bring cash. No cards accepted. Even saw about 4 javelina. They weren't shy.
Danny Smith — Google review
This was a very fun and scenic trail : ) We saw some gorgeous deer walking parallel to us near the top, and the historic buildings were so cool to look at! There are benches throughout that allow you to slow down and take in the sights and the path itself isn't that hard to walk. It was a very great experience and I'd love to go again someday.
Isabella Caine — Google review
Very interesting. Stop by and support them. There's a lot to learn there. Not to mention a view to gaze upon and enjoy. If hiking, please be prepared and be aware of your surroundings. Snakes and other animals that live out there don't want to be disturbed. Be careful obey all warning ⚠️ signs.
Sylvia Sainz — Google review
Wow! This place did not disappoint! And only for $5/ vehicle. Staff is friendly.
Use the restroom near the visitors' center before because they only have an outhouse farther in the park. The hand dryer was freezing cold, but at least they have soap and running water.
Dripping Springs is the most popular trail. The trail to the springs is about 1.5 miles going uphill. There is an outhouse restroom once you get there. When you get to the Boyd Sanatoriom, you can climb keep climbing up to a cliff then you can go even farther past the pool then climb up big boulders and keep climbing til you get up another cliff. That's as far as you can safely go. Be careful coming back down. It can get slippery because of the steepness. We spent about 3 hours exploring. We have children 7 and 10. They were wiped and hungry afterward. Bring snacks and plenty of water. Oh yeah, and bring some coats because it may get hot going up to the springs, but once you climb higher, it gets cold and 7 because you are in the shade.
IRAM — Google review
This is a National Monument. I did not know! Therefore, a visitor center, super helpful volunteers, big parking lot, clean bathroom. Cave trail was super cool. We were there end of! He day, lovely. Do not leave after sunset!! They will Ticket you!! The other trail up into the hills was super cool. Easy gravel path. We saw an oryx, very cool big animal! This trail was perfect weather in December, but I can imagine summer is awful...
Alice Feeney — Google review
Beautiful place, clean, and easy to do. So many beautiful areas to see. The spring is really small and man made.
deborah castaneda — Google review
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15000 Dripping Springs Rd, Las Cruces, NM 88011, USA
The New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum showcases the agricultural history of the state through interactive exhibits that offer an immersive experience. Livestock enclosures on the working farm present a variety of cattle breeds, horses, donkeys, sheep and goats adding to the charm of this museum. The cowboys looking after them may not share much information but make for an interesting addition.
Great as always- Celebrated a "museum birthday" this past wknd...👍👍👍🥳🎂🎂🎉
Steve Gee — Google review
Super cute little farm to visit to see the animals and experience the history! Reasonably priced as well for the entry! I went for the gem show they had and it was a lot of fun!
Sara Antowan — Google review
Totally awesome! Before you can walk in the door there's two beautiful horned owls in the rafters and then it just gets better after that. It far exceeded my expectations. Totally recommend a place to go to.
Donna Fenner — Google review
Beautiful campus and museum. The facility was clean and quiet—no wait time at all. They offer discounted entry for Active Military. Exhibits are interactive and offer descriptions and timelines. There’s an activity corner for kids, includes books and a small but fun play structure…my boys loved driving the tractor and handling the chicken eggs! The animals were not visibly out and about during our visit, but it was hot outside. Instead we watched the blacksmith show how to make an iron hook, and he let my middle son keep the hook as a souvenir for being very vocal during his presentation. Blacksmith was very friendly and informative during the presentation, we highly recommend giving him ten minutes of your time.
Sydney Schenk — Google review
Lovely (free w/ admission) open air tour on a comfortable 8 passenger electric cart. Bob is SO knowledgeable and was full of anecdotes and jokes.
Exhibits change all the time and once back inside, we strolled through the "Ranches to Rockets" exhibit which was in it's last week. And then admired the display of hummingbird photography in the hall near the meeting rooms.
Great gift shop, welcoming staff!
CCRBRTS — Google review
Wonderful place. Lots to learn and see. Great for kids!
Meghan Downes — Google review
Took the kids and grandma. Everyone had such a great time. The staff is super attentive. What a great place. Can’t believe after living in LC three decades, it was my first visit. Highly recommend!
Joe Cantu — Google review
Very impressive musuem with lots to see and do. For only 7 dollars i felt like they could charge more for the experiences and sights you get to see. Friendly staff and super clean facilities inside and outside. Loved it here and you wont be disapointed if you come .
Leon Buff — Google review
It was a quaint museum. There was no one there. I’d expected to see something interesting for kids, but the whole place was devoid of people and workers. There were no hands on exhibits except for checkers and the farm equipment was mostly a parking lot. The indoor play area was interesting.
I expected a lot more about how life was lived on a ranch, but it was more about biographies and items recent enough to be seen outside a museum if you have family which are country. What you see in the photos is really all there is to see.
D Cue — Google review
Amazing museum …. Dan provided a great tour of the property … immaculately designed, set up and cared for space … very interesting animals, history and look into NM ranch life. Highly recommend Thanks!
Christy Geiger — Google review
We loved it! So affordable and such a darling place! We loved seeing all the animals, walking around the museum areas, the dairy area, shopping at the mercantile and playing on the kids areas. Really family friendly here and we would come back. We spent 5 hours and my kids could have stayed longer but we stayed till closing time 🤣. We would recommend! My twins are 4 years old for reference.
Hang With The Bangs — Google review
Impeccable exhibitions. Family friendly. Very affordable. Recommended!
Sandra — Google review
Stopped by the museum on a road trip with the family and we absolutely loved it. It’s very well curated and you get way more than what you pay for. I recommend going early to see everything this museum has to offer.
Joel Baez — Google review
My husband and I go every chance we can just to walk the grounds and see the new events and things at the museum. Great place to take the family. Haven't met a person we didn't like yet! Most times we don't have to pay to walk around and look at things. We visit the farm animals, look at the antique farm equipment and pay a visit to the blacksmith. Other times we pay $5 to enter a special event. Not bad at all! The last event we attended there was $5 a carload. It was the 2018 Home Grown a New Mexico Food Show & Gift Market. LOVED it!
Gloria Leslie — Google review
An interesting place to visit. It seems to concentrate mostly on the immediate areas farm and ranch land history. I was surprised and intrigued to see a lot of information regarding the white sands missile range and it’s influence on the local area. There were also displays showing early Native American farming and building practices. Apparently there are a lot of outside displays also, but we felt the middle of the day was not a good time to explore those.
It was sometimes a little difficult to find information regarding some of the displays, so if you’re interested, keep looking, information is there, just not always right by the display.
Gerry Davison — Google review
Simply amazing a must see needs more marketing
BUT
The staff was less than friendly. The two people behind the counter to pay in the lobby seemed to ignore as both delt with someone together while others waited without acknowledgement.
The lady in the gift section was on the phone with clearly a friend talking about recent event and never spoke.
Lisa Andrews — Google review
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4100 Dripping Springs Rd, Las Cruces, NM 88011, USA