Hill Country State Natural Area offers rugged trails and horse camping near Bandera

Hill Country State Natural Area sits about 10 miles southwest of the city of Bandera, off Bandera Creek Road. The park covers more than 5,000 acres of rocky canyons, limestone ridges, springs, and oak grasslands reaching elevations up to about 2,000 feet. It is one of the few Texas state parks that allows visitors to bring their own horses, with corrals, hitching posts, and equestrian campsites.

Trails range from easy one-mile loops to challenging multi-mile routes through rugged terrain. Hikers and mountain bikers share many of the same paths. Camping is primitive — vault toilets but no electric hookups at most sites. A lodge that sleeps nine is available for group reservations. The park recommends reserving in advance, especially on weekends, as it can reach capacity.

An adult day-use entrance fee applies; children under 12 enter free. Check the TPWD website for current fees, reservation availability, and any trail closures. The address is 10600 Bandera Creek Road, Bandera, TX 78003.