Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Guided tours
Yes
Backcountry camping
Yes
Lodging
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is an enchanting (albeit popular) place. Maintained by Texas State Parks and Wildlife, located about 20 miles from Fredericksburg, Texas, the area protects its namesake: the pink granite Enchanted Rock. Rising over 400 feet from its surroundings, at a total elevation of over 1,800 feet, this granite dome is a monadnock, an isolated rock formation that rises well above its surroundings.

The natural area surrounding the park is great for birdwatching and replete with hundreds of different, unique species of plants. One can easily spot cacti, oak, and grassland flora while standing in the same spot. The park has over 50 campsites (primitive and vehicle), 11 miles of trails to discover, picnic grounds, and designated areas for rock climbing. Pets are allowed in designated areas, and although the roughly 0.7-mile hike to the summit of the rock is strenuous, the park itself is very family friendly.

Note: The park can get very busy and/or close for no reason. To guarantee entrance, make sure you reserve a day pass or show up shortly after the park opens. Texas State Parks uses a reservation system for both day passes and campground reservations, which can be accessed here.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Fall
Summer
Spring
Winter

Congestion

High

Parking Pass

Park entrance fee

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Geologic paradise. Flora and fauna. Camping. Family friendly.

Cons

Can get very busy. Reservations suggested.

Features

Historically significant
Big vistas
Wildlife
Geologically significant
Picnic tables
Potable water
Bird watching
Wildflowers
General store
Vault toilet
ADA accessible
Family friendly
Flushing toilets
Guided tours
Covered picnic areas
Backcountry camping

Location

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