Lost Maples State Natural Area
37221 FM 187
Vanderpool TX 78885
830/966-3413
History: Lost Maples State Natural Area covers 2174.2 scenic acres in Bandera and Real Counties, north of Vanderpool on the Sabinal River. Acquired by purchase from private owners in 1973 -1974, the site was opened to the public on September 1, 1979. The annual visitation is approximately 200,000 visitors.
Archaeological evidence shows that this area was used by prehistoric peoples at various times. In historic times, which began with Spanish exploration and colonization efforts in the late 17th century, the Apache, Lipan Apache, and Comanche Indians ranged over the land and posed a threat to settlement well into the 19th century.
Activities: Visitors enjoy picnicking, camping, backpacking, sightseeing, hiking, photography, birdwatching, fishing, swimming, and nature study. People should stay on designated trails, because maples have a shallow root system, and soil compaction from walking can damage the trees. Also, many natural hazards exist due to the steep/rugged terrain. Do not hike or climb on rocks or hillsides.
- 2006 Foliage Color Change Report.
- Check the Calendar of Events for this park.
- More Information on outdoor activities from the Experience Texas page.
Area Attractions: Nearby attractions include GarnerState Park, Hill Country State Natural Area, Kerrville-Schreiner Park, Camp Verde, Lake Medina, and the towns of Utopia and Bandera.
Facilities: Facilities provided include restrooms with showers, picnic sites, primitive camping areas, a comfort station, campsites with water and electricity, and a trailer dump station. There is a Texas State Park Store, approximately 1/2-mile of nature trails, and 11 miles of hiking trails. Accessibility for the disabled: restrooms and picnic tables; can drive approximately 1 mile into park to view foliage.
- Facility
and Trail Map
(PDF 86.7 KB) - Fees
Golden- cheeked Warbler
Flora/Fauna: The park is an outstanding example of Edwards Plateau flora and fauna. It is a combinations of steep, rugged limestone canyons, springs, plateau grasslands, wooded slopes, and clear streams. It features a large, isolated stand of uncommon Uvalde Bigtooth Maple, whose fall foliage can be spectacular. Generally, the foliage changes the last two weeks of October through the first two weeks of November. The park is extremely popular during the fall and is often crowded. Parking is limited to 250 cars, so for maximum enjoyment and serenity, we suggest visitors schedule trips during the weekdays, if possible.
Rare species of birds, such as the Green Kingfisher, can be seen year-round. The endangered Black-capped vireo and Golden-cheeked warbler nest and feed in the park in spring and early summer. Wild animals include gray fox, white-tailed deer, armadillo, raccoon, bobcat, rock squirrel, and javelina.
More information on Wildlife mentioned here:
Elevation: Elevation ranges
from 1800 to 2250 feet.
Weather: Average Rainfall 35.1 January average low
is 31 degrees; July average high is 94 degrees.
Schedule: Open: 7 days a week year-round except during public hunts. No gate. Busy Season: October and November and spring, March through May. Check the Calendar for scheduled access restrictions.
Directions: The park is located 5 miles north of Vanderpool on Ranch Road
187. Lost
Maples SNA location map (PDF 63.7 KB)
Current conditions including, fire bans & water levels, can vary from day to day. For more details, contact the park.
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, 4200 Smith School Road, Austin, TX 78744