Enchanted Rock State Natural Area: The Complete Guide

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Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Address

16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, USA

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Phone +1 830-685-3636

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There’s something otherworldly about Enchanted Rock—a massive pink granite dome rising 400 feet out of the earth, with panoramic views of the Hill Country as far as the eye can see. This natural area has captivated people’s attention and been the focal point of various legends for thousands of years. More than 400 archeological sites have been found in the park, and 120 of them are designated State Archeological Landmarks.    

Enchanted Rock is easily one of the most popular parks in Texas. Each year, more than 250,000 people come here to experience the magic of this stunning pink batholith for themselves. Park entrance fees are $8 daily for adults, and kids 12 years and under get in free. Reservations are highly recommended for both camping and day use, as the park often reaches capacity (especially on weekends and holidays). To guarantee entrance, you can either reserve passes online or call the park before you visit.    

Things to Do 

Here are the can’t-miss experiences to have when you visit the park:

Hiking

• Interpretative Loop: Get an up-close look at the interesting plants and animals that live near the base of Little Rock on this short half-mile trail.
• Summit Trail: This .8-mile trek to the rock’s summit is the park’s signature hike, and it’s a must-do. Once you reach the top, you could easily spend an hour or more exploring all the mini boulder fields, vernal pools, caves, and open granite face. Pack a picnic and make a day of it. 
• Loop Trail: This 4.6-mile hike takes you around the perimeter of the park and affords stunning views of the natural area. 

Backpacking

For an immersive way to experience Enchanted Rock, take the Loop Trail to one of the park’s two primitive camping areas (Moss Lake and Walnut Springs) and set up camp for the night. From here, you can hike the Echo Canyon Trail to the Summit Trail. The next day, finish out the Loop Trail clockwise.

Rock Climbing

This is one of the most popular activities in the park. Note that if you plan on climbing for the day, you must check-in at headquarters and sign the climbing release waiver first. 

Stargazing

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is a designated International Dark Sky Park (one of only two state parks in Texas with this designation)—enjoy one of the best public places for stargazing in Central Texas here. 

Where to Stay

Enchanted Rock has tent camping only; that means no RV’s, pop-ups, or vehicle camping. There are 35 walk-in campsites with water, available for $18 per night, plus 20 primitive sites available for $14 per night. The primitive sites involve hikes over rugged terrain to get to Moss Lake (eight sites) and Walnut Springs (12 sites). Buzzards Roost is a group campsite with a dedicated 25-space parking area; it’s $100 per night. You can check campsite availability and make reservations online.

Not up for roughing it? There are plenty of nearby hotels to choose from. Trois Estate at Enchanted Rock and Contigo Ranch are located very close to the park (less than a 10-minute drive away), while Tres Lunas Resort is a 45-minute drive from the park. In Fredericksburg, a 25-minute drive away, there are plenty of local hotels and bed & breakfasts to choose from.

Tips for Visiting

• Bring in your own water. There’s currently a critical water shortage at Enchanted Rock. Restrooms may be closed (portable toilets will be made available). Although there’s drinking water available, visitors are still encouraged to bring in their own.
• Reservations for Enchanted Rock State Natural Area are highly recommended for both camping and day use. The (very popular) park often reaches capacity, especially on spring break, holidays, and weekends. Get to the park as early as possible to avoid the crowds.
• If you plan to visit multiple Texas state parks in one year, you may want to consider getting a Texas State Parks Pass, which is good for one year and includes unlimited free entry to 89 state parks for you and your guests.
• Learn about the rules for pets at state parks before your visit. Pets are only allowed in the designated day-use picnic areas, the campgrounds, and the Loop Trail. Pets are not allowed on any other trail to protect the fragile ecosystems here.
• Plan your day around the heat, especially in the summertime. If you're hiking, start as early as possible, find shade to rest in during the afternoon, and carry plenty of water.
• Use wildlife and plant common sense. Stay on trails at all times, never feed the wildlife, and stay out of the vernal pools—these are the pits in the granite that hold water. Over time, these pools develop into microhabitats for a unique group of plants and animals, so it’s important to steer clear.