Hill Country State Natural Area
00 review10600 BANDERA CREEK ROAD, BANDERA, Texas, 78003, United States
Hill Country State Natural Area
$6.00 - $6.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Day use fee is $6 per day, per person aged 13 and older. Excess vehicle fees may apply for units exceeding the campsite limit.
About this campground
Escape into 5,400 acres of pristine Texas wilderness at Hill Country State Natural Area, where untamed landscapes beckon adventurers seeking authentic outdoor experiences. This vast expanse of undeveloped terrain invites you to explore on horseback along winding trails, challenge yourself with backcountry hiking through rugged hills, or pedal through diverse ecosystems on all-terrain bicycle routes. With three dedicated backpacking areas tucked into the wilderness and a specialized equestrian camping area, this natural sanctuary offers the perfect basecamp for those ready to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature's raw beauty.
The campground caters to a variety of camping experiences, including primitive camping, equestrian-specific areas, and lodging such as cabins and motels. It is particularly noted for its suitability for equestrian activities, with several areas designated for horse trailers and facilities.
Historical SignificanceWhile the ancient stories of this land remain untold in official records, every limestone outcrop and weathered trail speaks to centuries of natural and human history waiting to be discovered by curious visitors.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the Hill Country's delightful climate throughout the year, where each season paints the landscape in different hues. Winter brings crisp, refreshing days under brilliant blue skies—perfect for long hikes without the summer crowds. As spring unfolds, moderate temperatures create ideal conditions for all outdoor activities. Summer transforms the area into a sun-drenched adventure playground, where occasional afternoon showers provide welcome relief and fill the air with the earthy scent of rain on limestone. The weather's year-round appeal means there's never a bad time to explore these wild spaces.
ElevationThe rolling topography creates a natural playground of peaks and valleys, where each climb rewards adventurers with new vistas and each descent leads to hidden hollows worth exploring.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the iconic Texas Hill Country landscape, where ancient limestone cliffs rise from valleys dotted with majestic oak groves. This rugged terrain showcases nature's artistry through weathered rock formations, secret springs, and meadows that burst with native wildflowers in season. Wildlife thrives in this protected habitat—watch for white-tailed deer grazing at dawn, armadillos rustling through underbrush, and hawks circling overhead. The diverse ecosystem supports everything from delicate butterflies dancing among wildflowers to resilient cacti clinging to rocky outcrops, creating an ever-changing tapestry of life.
Geological RegionSet within the legendary Texas Hill Country, this natural area showcases the region's signature landscape of ancient limestone formations sculpted by millions of years of geological forces. The rolling hills and rugged terrain tell the story of prehistoric seas and tectonic shifts, creating a dramatic backdrop where exposed bedrock, hidden caves, and spring-fed creeks reveal the Earth's dynamic history at every turn.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo information is provided about accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeSpecific site sizes are not detailed.
Sites PrivacyThe privacy level of individual sites is not mentioned in the available data.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo recommendations provided.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsites mentioned.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Park opens at 8:00 AM.
Check-out
Park closes at 10:00 PM.
Stay Limit
- No specific stay limit mentioned
- must stay on trails as per park regulations.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each campsite allows up to two motorized vehicles or trailers with sleeping quarters. Horse trailers are excluded from this limit.
Groups
There is no detailed description of group site capacity.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes backpacking areas and an equestrian area.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, seven days a week, from 8am to 10pm.
Reservation PlatformsReservations for group areas can be made by calling the Customer Service Center at 512-389-8900. Guide services are listed at http://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/hill-country/guide-service/.
Walk-in AvailabilityBackpacking and equestrian sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Call the park for availability.
Cancellation PolicyIf plans change, visitors are advised to modify or cancel their reservation as soon as possible to allow others to use the park.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Lodging and accommodations
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is known for its diverse range of outdoor activities, including hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, bird watching, and photography. The site is particularly suited for equestrian users and nature enthusiasts who enjoy multi-use trails.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available and are part of the multi-use trail system. The details regarding trail length, difficulty, or specific routes are not provided.Biking
Mountain biking is explicitly mentioned as an available activity, with trails designed for use by cyclists.Wildlife viewing
Bird watching is explicitly listed as an available activity, indicating opportunities for wildlife viewing.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No specific fire policies are mentioned.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours are mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsFlooding, overcrowding, and public hunts can cause temporary gate closures.
Active alertsGate closures occur during emergencies like floods, overcrowding, or public hunts.
Weather forecast
90
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 32%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include Bandera County Sheriff's Office (~10 miles), Bandera Medical Clinic (~10 miles).
Good to know
Trash and recyclingThere is no specific information about trash and recycling facilities or their schedules.
Proximity to water featuresNo mention of nearby water bodies.
Common complaintsNo specific complaints noted.
HostNo details about hosts provided.
Campground Map
10600 BANDERA CREEK ROAD, BANDERA, Texas, 78003, United States
Driving directionsFrom San Antonio: Take Hwy 16 North to Bandera. From Bandera turn South on Hwy 173. Go almost 1/2 mile to Ranch Road 1077. Turn right and go 10 miles to the park. From Houston: Take I 10 West to Seguin. Exit on Hwy 46 to New Braunfels. Continue on Hwy 46 through Boerne to Hwy 16. Turn right on Hwy 16 to Bandera. From Bandera turn South on Hwy 173. Go almost 1/2 mile to RR 1077. Turn right and go 10 miles to the park.
Roads to the campground are paved and accessible year-round. However, the park gates may lock during emergencies such as floods, overcrowding, or public hunts.Nearby places
Bandera (~10 miles), San Antonio (~47 miles), Houston (~230 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Bandera (~10 miles away).
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Hill Country State Natural Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
No user reviews were provided in the source materials.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
The campground is noted for its undeveloped, natural setting and its suitability for equestrian use, hiking, and mountain biking. Specific highlights include the extensive trail system and...
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Common Concerns
No user complaints were provided in the source materials.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
No tips or recommendations from users were provided in the source materials.
Seasonal Insights
There are no seasonal reviews provided, but weather data indicates that the spring and fall seasons are likely the most comfortable for camping.
Camper Quotes
No direct quotes from users are available.
Site-Specific Reviews
There are no reviews detailing specific campsites or their attributes.
Accessibility Features
No user reviews or information about accessibility features were provided.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at all sites except inside the group lodge.
Last updated August 10, 2025