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If you think fall foliage is found only in the north, think again. Lost Maples State Natural Area is home to the state's uncommon and spectacular Uvalde bigtooth maple.
The rugged limestone canyons, springs, plateau grasslands, wooded slopes and clear streams create a rich array of plants and wildlife. Fall visitors should plan ahead and try to visit during less crowded weekdays.
While nature photography is popular, more active pursuits include camping, backpacking, hiking 11 miles of trails, swimming and fishing.
Birdwatchers can spot some rare species, including the green kingfisher, the endangered black-capped vireo and the golden-cheeked warbler.
Wildlife includes the gray fox, white-tailed deer, armadillo, raccoon, bobcat, rock squirrel and javelina. Each January, hunters enjoy a two-week season for white-tail deer, feral hogs, and exotics.
Prehistoric people were attracted to this area, as were Apache, Lipan Apache, Comanche and Spaniards.
The 2,174-acre park straddles Bandera and Real counties, north of Vanderpool on the Sabinal River.
Facilities include restrooms with showers, picnic sites, primitive campsites, a comfort station, campsites with water and electricity, a trailer dump station and a Texas State Park Store.
Restrooms and picnic tables are wheelchair-accessible.
Outdoor Activities |
The Sabinal River flows past brilliant bigtooth maples in autumn.
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