Texas State Natural Areas and Parks near Bandera, Texas

Bandera, Texas stands out as a gateway to outdoor recreation in the Texas Hill Country. The area around Bandera is home to a variety of Texas Hill Country natural areas and parks that provide access to local scenery, wildlife, and recreation. These destinations appeal to anyone interested in hiking, biking, swimming, wildlife watching, or exploring the outdoors.

Bandera City Park is located just outside downtown Bandera along the Medina River. This 77-acre park is open daily from morning to just before sunset and is popular with both locals and visitors. Park facilities include playgrounds, barbecue pits, picnic areas, and pavilions. The river setting makes it a favorite for swimming and fishing. Fees are required on weekends and holidays, while entry is free on weekdays.

Joshua Springs Park and Preserve, about 22 miles from Bandera, sits between Comfort and Boerne. This preserve covers over 365 acres and includes a nine-acre lake, eight miles of trails, and areas for picnicking and bird-watching. Activities at Joshua Springs include hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing. The park is open from dawn until early evening and includes a dog park, restrooms, and a playground.

Hill Country State Natural Area is a large preserve southwest of Bandera, covering more than 5,300 acres. This former ranch features rugged canyons, creeks, and plateaus. Over 40 miles of multi-use trails are available for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Primitive camping and group lodges are available for overnight stays. A daily entrance fee is required, and backcountry camping requires a permit.

Government Canyon State Natural Area is located near San Antonio and is about 26 miles from Bandera. With over 12,000 acres of protected wilderness, this park is known for its more than 40 miles of trails, unique canyons, and ancient dinosaur tracks. Hiking and mountain biking are popular here, and ranger-led tours of the dinosaur tracks are offered. The park is open on select weekends and holidays, with a daily entry fee for adults.

Honey Creek State Natural Area is about 30 miles east of Bandera and sits next to Guadalupe River State Park in Spring Branch. Access is limited to guided tours offered on weekends. These walks introduce visitors to the spring-fed creek, native wildlife, and protected plant species. The area is known for its ecological diversity, and tours depart from Guadalupe River State Park, where regular park fees apply.

A major new addition to Texas State Natural Areas is the Albert & Bessie Kronkosky State Natural Area near Boerne. This 3,800- to 4,000-acre preserve is expected to open in 2026 or 2027 and will offer hiking, backpacking, and limited development to protect the local ecosystem and wildlife. Kronkosky State Natural Area will feature trails and backcountry camping, with an emphasis on preserving its Hill Country habitat.

Together, these parks and preserves near Bandera offer a wide range of activities and highlight the unique landscapes of the Texas Hill Country. Visitors can swim at Bandera City Park, hike or paddle at Joshua Springs Park and Preserve, explore rugged backcountry at Hill Country State Natural Area, search for fossils at Government Canyon, or join an educational tour at Honey Creek State Natural Area. The soon-to-open Kronkosky area will add even more options for those looking for Texas Hill Country things to do.

The Texas Hill Country natural areas and parks in and around Bandera, Texas make it easy to plan a trip that fits any interest in outdoor recreation. Whether it is family outings, wildlife exploration, or backcountry adventure, the natural areas near Bandera deliver an authentic Hill Country experience.