Did you know that Lost Maples State Natural Area shelters a rare population of Uvalde bigtooth maple trees that survived from the last Ice Age? This 2,208-acre natural treasure in the Texas Hill Country is one of the few places in the state where you can experience a spectacular New England-style fall foliage display. With vibrant autumn colors, pristine hiking trails, and some of the darkest night skies in Texas, Lost Maples offers visitors a unique escape into nature that feels worlds away from the typical Texas landscape.
The spectacular fall colors of bigtooth maple trees at Lost Maples State Natural Area
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Lost Maples State Natural Area is located approximately 160 km (100 miles) northwest of San Antonio in the heart of Texas Hill Country. The natural area sits about 5 km (3 miles) north of the small town of Vanderpool on Ranch Road 187, straddling Bandera and Real counties.
The scenic drive to Lost Maples through the Texas Hill Country
By Air
The closest major airport is San Antonio International Airport (SAT), about a 2-hour drive from the park. From there, you’ll need to rent a car to reach Lost Maples, as there is no public transportation to the area.
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By Car
From San Antonio: Take Highway 16 North to Bandera, continue to Medina, then take FM 337 to Vanderpool. At Vanderpool, turn right onto Ranch Road 187 and continue about 5 km (3 miles) to the park entrance.
From Austin: Take I-35 South to San Antonio, then follow the directions above. Alternatively, take US 290 West to Johnson City, then US 281 South to Blanco, TX-46 West to Boerne, and Highway 16 Northwest through Bandera to reach Medina.
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Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Peak fall foliage at Lost Maples typically occurs from late October through mid-November
Fall (October-November)
The most popular time to visit Lost Maples is during fall foliage season, typically from late October through mid-November. This is when the bigtooth maple trees display their spectacular colors of red, orange, and gold. Temperatures range from 10-24°C (50-75°F), perfect for hiking.
Pro Tip: Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends during fall color season.
Spring (March-May)
Spring brings wildflower blooms and pleasant temperatures ranging from 15-29°C (60-85°F). The Sabinal River flows more vigorously after winter rains, and wildlife is more active. This is an excellent time for birdwatching, as migratory species pass through.
Pro Tip: April is ideal for spotting the endangered golden-cheeked warbler.
Summer & Winter
Summer (June-September) can be hot with temperatures reaching 32-38°C (90-100°F). Trails offer less shade than you might expect. Winter (December-February) is mild with occasional freezing temperatures at night, ranging from 4-18°C (40-65°F).
Pro Tip: Summer visitors should hike early morning and bring plenty of water.
Fall Foliage Alert!
During peak fall color season (late October to mid-November), the park often reaches capacity by mid-morning on weekends. The parking lot only accommodates 250 vehicles, and once full, the park closes to additional visitors. Check the official Texas Parks & Wildlife fall foliage reports before your visit and arrive early!
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
The East Trail offers some of the most scenic views in the park
Hiking Trails
| Trail Name | Distance | Difficulty | Highlights |
| East Trail Loop | 7.2 km (4.5 miles) | Moderate to Challenging | Scenic overlook at 2,200 ft elevation, Monkey Rock, fall foliage views |
| West Loop Trail | 5.6 km (3.5 miles) | Moderate | Sabinal River, Maple Trail, dense maple groves |
| Maple Trail | 1 km (0.6 miles) | Easy | Highest concentration of maple trees, best for fall colors |
| East-West Trail | 1.6 km (1 mile) | Easy to Moderate | Connects the two main loops, crosses the Sabinal River |
Lost Maples offers exceptional stargazing opportunities with its dark skies
Wildlife Viewing & Birdwatching
Lost Maples is home to diverse wildlife including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and armadillos. Birdwatchers can spot over 200 species, including the endangered golden-cheeked warbler (March-July) and the black-capped vireo. The park’s isolated canyons create a unique habitat that supports rare species not commonly found elsewhere in Texas.
Best spots for wildlife viewing include the bird blind near headquarters and quiet areas along the Sabinal River early morning or evening.
Stargazing
With minimal light pollution (Bortle Scale 3), Lost Maples offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. The park regularly hosts stargazing events, and the high canyon walls create natural viewing areas. The best spots are at the Maple Trail parking lot and the East Trail scenic overlook.
For optimal viewing, visit during a new moon phase and bring a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision.
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Fishing in the clear waters of the Sabinal River
Fishing & Water Activities
The Sabinal River and Can Creek flow through Lost Maples, offering fishing opportunities for bass, catfish, and sunfish. No fishing license is required when fishing from shore within the park boundaries. The water is typically clear and shallow, perfect for wading on hot summer days. Swimming is allowed in designated areas, though the river can be seasonal with lower water levels during dry periods.
Where to Stay
Camping at Lost Maples offers an immersive nature experience
Camping Within the Park
Lost Maples offers 30 campsites with water and electricity hookups, perfect for tents or RVs. Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, and grill. The campground has restrooms with hot showers nearby. For a more rustic experience, 30 primitive campsites are available, accessible via hiking trails and requiring a 1.6-4.8 km (1-3 mile) hike to reach.
Camping Reservation Tips
Campsites can be reserved up to 5 months in advance and fill quickly during peak seasons. A Texas State Parks Pass ($70 annually) waives the daily entrance fees and provides discounts on camping. Make reservations through the Texas State Parks reservation system or by calling (512) 389-8900.
Find the perfect accommodation for your Lost Maples adventure
Nearby Lodging Options
Vanderpool & Utopia
The closest towns to Lost Maples offer charming cabins, B&Bs, and vacation rentals. These small communities are just 5-20 km (3-12 miles) from the park entrance.
Recommendation: Fox Fire Cabins in Vanderpool offers rustic accommodations with modern amenities, located just minutes from the park entrance.
Leakey & Concan
Located 19-36 km (12-22 miles) southwest of Lost Maples, these Frio River towns offer additional lodging options including riverside cabins and larger vacation rentals.
Recommendation: Frio Country Resort in Concan provides family-friendly accommodations with river access.
Bandera
Known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World,” Bandera is about 39 km (24 miles) east of Lost Maples and offers hotels, motels, and dude ranches for a true Texas experience.
Recommendation: Mayan Ranch offers an authentic dude ranch experience with horseback riding and cowboy-style accommodations.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Picnic areas throughout the park offer scenic spots for outdoor meals
There are no restaurants within Lost Maples State Natural Area, but the park features numerous picnic areas with tables, some with grills. The surrounding small towns offer charming dining options featuring Texas Hill Country cuisine.
Vanderpool & Utopia
The Lost Maples Cafe in Utopia (20 km/12 miles south) is a local favorite serving homestyle Texas cooking and their famous pies. The Laurel Tree in Utopia offers farm-to-table dining in a unique setting (open Saturdays only, reservations required).
Leakey & Concan
Bent Rim Grill in Leakey (19 km/12 miles southwest) serves excellent burgers and Texas BBQ. Neal’s Dining Room in Concan offers classic Texas comfort food and is popular with visitors to the Frio River area.
Picnic Tips
The nearest grocery stores are in Leakey and Bandera. Consider packing a cooler with supplies for your visit. The day-use picnic area near park headquarters offers the most amenities, including water fountains and restrooms.
Practical Travel Tips
The visitor center offers valuable information and exhibits about the park’s natural history
Entrance Fees & Hours
- Daily entrance fee: $6 per person (ages 13 and older), free for children 12 and under
- Texas State Parks Pass: $70 annually, covers entrance fees for the passholder and guests in the same vehicle
- Park hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily (extended hours during peak seasons)
- Camping check-in: 2:00 PM, check-out: 12:00 PM
What to Bring
- Plenty of water (at least 2 liters per person for hiking)
- Sturdy hiking shoes with good ankle support
- Layered clothing (temperatures can vary significantly)
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Camera for capturing the scenery
- Insect repellent (especially in warmer months)
Important Safety Information
Cell phone coverage is limited or non-existent within the park. Download maps and information before your visit. Trails can be rocky and challenging in places—proper footwear is essential. During summer, hike early in the day and carry plenty of water to avoid heat-related illness. Be aware of wildlife, including occasional sightings of mountain lions and rattlesnakes.
Conservation & Etiquette
Lost Maples is designated as a State Natural Area rather than a State Park, meaning conservation takes priority over recreation. Visitors are asked to follow Leave No Trace principles: stay on designated trails, pack out all trash, leave natural objects where you find them, and keep noise levels down to preserve the peaceful atmosphere. Collecting plants, rocks, or other natural items is prohibited.
White-tailed deer are commonly spotted throughout the park
Experience the Natural Wonder of Lost Maples
Lost Maples State Natural Area offers a unique glimpse into a Texas landscape unlike any other in the state. From the spectacular fall foliage that draws visitors from across the country to the pristine hiking trails and dark night skies perfect for stargazing, this natural treasure provides countless opportunities to connect with nature in its most unspoiled form.
Whether you’re planning a day trip to witness the autumn colors, a weekend camping adventure, or a longer exploration of the Texas Hill Country, Lost Maples rewards visitors with breathtaking scenery and memorable experiences in every season. Start planning your visit today and discover why this hidden gem has captivated nature lovers for generations.
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