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Hill Country State Natural Area

Hill Country State Natural Area is the largest state-managed natural area in the Texas Hill Country, spanning over 5,000 acres of rugged limestone hills, spring-fed streams, and grasslands. It is primarily designed for equestrian use, mountain biking, and primitive camping — no developed facilities. This is real backcountry camping in the heart of the Hill Country.

28 campsites|Hill Country|1 hr 45 min from Austin|$6/person entrance fee

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Campsite Types

Primitive Equestrian

$10/night

Equestrian Area Loop · Sites 1-10 · 10 sites

NoneTent OK

Primitive

$8/night

Backcountry Loop · Sites Various · 18 sites

NoneTent OK

Guide to Hill Country State Natural Area

Best Campsites

For Families:Sites near the Chapa Group Area — closest to water and parking
For Privacy:Backcountry primitive sites — total solitude in the hills
For RVs:Not suitable for RVs — primitive access roads only

When to Go

October through April. Summer is brutally hot with limited shade. Spring wildflowers are spectacular.

Tips

  • Pack in everything — no water, no electricity, no trash service
  • Bring at least 1 gallon of water per person per day
  • The mountain biking here is outstanding but challenging
  • Visit Bandera (Cowboy Capital of the World) for supplies and a meal before heading in

Highlights

5,000+ acres of rugged Hill Country terrain40 miles of multi-use trails (equestrian, hiking, biking)Spring-fed streams for swimmingPrimitive backcountry camping experienceExcellent mountain bikingDark sky stargazing

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