Local’s Guide to Lost Maples State Park
Lost Maples State Park is one of my favorite places to visit in Texas. Hidden away deep in the Hill Country, this state park overs fantastic hiking trails, panoramic views of mountainous landscape and even fall foliage in November. Perfect for camping and reconnecting with nature, plan your trip to visit this beautiful and peaceful part of Texas.
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Where to Find Lost Maples State Park
| Address: 37221 FM 187, Vanderpool, TX 78885 | Phone: (512) 389-8900 |
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| Hours for Day Pass: 8:30 am- 4:30 pm | Click to make reservations |
Lost Maples State Park is located in the small town of Vanderpool, deep in the Hill Country and also near Garner State Park. Formally known as Lost Maples State Natural Area, it’s a 2-hour drive west of San Antonio, Texas. Download a park map to help plan your trip.
Things to do Inside the State Park
When I arrived at Lost Maples State Park for the first time, I was stunned by its surprisingly mountainous landscape. It’s a peaceful escape from the city with its creeks and pond to fish, rocky hiking trails through wooded canyons, and panoramic overlooks. There’s a mix of different outdoor activities to enjoy making your visit a memorable one.
- Hiking– There are over 10 miles of hiking trails throughout the park. View the Detailed Trail Map of Lost Maples State Park. Popular trails with elevation gain include Lost Maples East and West Canyon Trail and East Trail. An easy and short trail with great views is Maple Trail.
Explore more challenging and easy hiking trails throughout the Hill Country.
- Fishing– When you go fishing at any Texas State Park, you will not need a fishing license. While fishing on the Sabinal River and in Can Creek, expect to find catfish, trout and bass.
- Camping– For those who want to enjoy the state park overnight, Lost Maples State Park camping is a must. Campsites with electricity and water are available and ready to host guests with RV’s or tents. There are restrooms with showers nearby. Primitive camping is also available inside the state park. There are 50 sites to choose from and a maximum of 6 people per site.
When the Lost Maples State Park camping sites are full, or if you’re looking for other accommodations, here are more lodging options near the park.
- Bird watching– There are many birds inside Lost Maples State Park to excite any passionate bird watcher, including the golden-cheeked warbler. A bird viewing blind is available near the parking lot at the start of the East Trail. Before heading into the park, take a peek at the lists of birds to look for.
Biggest Reasons to Visit Lost Maples
There are many highlights and point of interest to discover while at Lost Maples State Park. Rock formations, beautiful overlooks and foliage in the fall makes this Texas State Park a true hidden gem.
Fall Foliage
When Fall finally comes to Texas, the state park is one of the prime destinations in the state to see some Fall foliage. Covered in bigtooth maple trees, the park is transformed in mid-November when the leaves change revealing colors of yellow, orange and red.
Visiting in late fall, the Lost Maples State Natural Area photos you’ll get will be magical! There’s hardly another location in Central Texas where you can such a beautiful display of fall foliage. Be sure to make reservations a month or more ahead of time. Early and mid-November shows the best amount of color but check the updated fall foliage report to stay informed.
See Monkey Rock
One of the most unique things to see inside the state park is Monkey Rock. Hikers can easily see an image that resembles the face of a monkey in the limestone that has naturally formed. Monkey Rock is located on the East Trail.
Signs are placed on the trail to alert hikers when to use the side trail to see the rock. This image of my dog with Monkey Rock is one of my favorite Lost Maples State Natural Area photos.
Explore the Grotto
The large grotto is another feature in the state park that is a major point of interest. Hikers will also see the grotto on the East Trail after seeing Monkey Rock. You can view the grotto from the trail, or feel free to climb on top of the limestone for a closer look. After seeing the grotto, the trail becomes steep as you climb up the mountain and gain elevation.
Lost Maples State Park FAQ
When planning your trip to Lost Maples State Park, get prepared and learn more before your visit to the park.
- Cell service in the park is spotty, but you’ll find the best signal at the scenic overlook on East Trail.
- Pets are welcome in the park, but they must remain on a leash at all times.
- Public alcohol consumption is prohibited.
- Campfires are permitted only in the designated fire rings provided, and you cannot collect downed wood for firewood.
- Before geocaching, speak to one of the rangers at Headquarters.
- Hammocks are allowed but there are many rules to follow.
- Quiet areas are between 10pm and 6am. Please be respectful of other campers.
- There is not a designated swimming area inside the state park.
- The fall is the peak time for visitors coming to the state park. Be sure to make reservations for your visit at least a month in advance.
Top Cozy Cabins & More Nearby
When looking for Lost Maples State Park cabins, unfortunately, you won’t find any inside the park. Below are the most adorable and cozy cabins available near the state park.
| Creekside Cabin | Pet friendly | 3 Beds and sleeps 8 | 1 Bathroom Mountain Views | Large Covered Porch |
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| Cabin with River Access and Hot Tub | Pet friendly | 2 Beds and sleeps 10| 3 Bathrooms 5 Minutes from State Park | Private River Access | Hot Tub |
| Farmhouse with Views | Pet friendly | 2 Beds and sleeps 8 | 2 Bathrooms Mountain Views | Large Porch | Volleyball Net |
| Luxurious Stay Perfect for Large Family | 3 Beds and sleeps 12 | 2 1/2 Bathroom Hot Tub | Pool Table | Shuffleboard | Mountain and Vineyard Views |
My Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to connect with nature, see some incredible fall foliage, or just escape into the Texas wilderness, Lost Maples State Park is one of the best places to do it. Consider spending a weekend camping under the stars or get a day pass to explore the scenic trails.
Challenge yourself on one of the steeper hikes that offers rewarding views of the beautiful and untouched Hill Country. Feel free to bring your dog on trails in the state park but leave no trace behind and carry extra water.
Even though the state park gets more crowded during this time, the fall is really a special time to visit. The park has a variety of color as the maple trees turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Plan your trip to this mountainous landscape, with its deep canyons and flowing creeks to reconnect with yourself and nature.
1 Comment
Lodging Near Lost Maples State Park - Where Is Laura Traveling · October 29, 2024 at 5:10 am
[…] Lost Maples State Park is located inside the small town of Vanderpool, a little over 1.5 hours west of San Antonio, Texas. While you’re in the area, be sure to also see and make reservations at the nearby and popular Garner State Park. […]