Devils River rewards the plan made before the pavement ends

Devils River State Natural Area has two units, Del Norte and Dan A. Hughes, and they are far apart. A reservation is required for either one. The regular visitor gates open Friday through Monday and the area closes Tuesday through Thursday.

Pack as though the park store does not exist, because it does not. TPWD tells visitors to carry food and water, expect limited shade, and pack out every bit of trash. More than 25 miles of trails cross the two units.

A day near the river is not the same as a downriver trip. Paddlers who use park land for a trip beyond the natural-area boundary need a Devils River Access Permit and an approved route. River camps have their own reservations.

The Del Norte Unit is also an International Dark Sky Sanctuary. The dark sky is a fine reward, but it comes after the practical work: the right unit, a reservation, enough water, and a plan for getting home.