Lost Maples State Natural Area

Lost Maples is a time capsule — a remnant population of bigtooth maples left over from the last ice age, growing in a steep limestone canyon along the Sabinal River. In late October and November, these maples light up with fall color that rivals anything in the Ozarks or Appalachians, which is absolutely wild for central Texas. Even outside of fall, this is one of the most beautiful and rugged small parks in the system. The trails climb steep canyon walls with panoramic views, and the camping feels truly remote despite being just over two hours from Austin.

58 campsites|Hill Country|2 hr 15 min from Austin|$6/person entrance fee

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Campsite Types

Water + Electric

$20/night

Maple Loop · Sites 1-19 · 19 sites

Water, 20/30-amp ElectricRV OKTent OK

Water + Electric

$20/night

Can Creek Loop · Sites 20-35 · 16 sites

Water, 20/30-amp ElectricRV OKTent OK

Water Only

$15/night

Sabinal Loop · Sites 36-44 · 9 sites

WaterTent OK

Walk-in Tent

$12/night

Primitive Loop · Sites 45-58 · 14 sites

Water nearbyTent OK

Guide to Lost Maples State Natural Area

Best Campsites

For Families:Sites 20-35 (Can Creek) — water + electric, close to restrooms and the easier trail access

For Privacy:Sites 45-58 (Primitive area) — walk-in tent sites along the creek, real solitude

For RVs:Sites 1-19 (Maple) — water + electric, the only sites that can handle larger rigs, though it's tight

For Couples:Sites 36-44 (Sabinal) — water only, quieter loop, beautiful canyon setting

When to Go

Late October through mid-November for fall color — this is when the park hits capacity and turns people away at the gate. Spring is also beautiful and much less crowded. Summer is hot.

Tips

→During peak fall color (usually late October to mid-November), arrive before 8am on weekends or you may be turned away
→Camping guarantees entry during fall foliage season — book as soon as the 5-month window opens
→The East Trail has the best canyon views but it's steep and strenuous — bring good shoes and water
→The Sabinal River can be dry in late summer — check conditions if swimming is your goal
→TPWD posts a fall foliage report — check it before planning your trip timing
→Cell service is basically nonexistent — plan accordingly

Highlights

Best fall foliage in Texas — bigtooth maples turn brilliant reds, oranges, and yellowsSabinal River canyon — dramatic limestone walls and clear creek swimming10+ miles of challenging hiking trails with canyon rim viewsRare ice-age relict plant communityGolden-cheeked warbler habitat (spring)One of the darkest sky locations in the Hill Country

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