Area AttractionS
Discover texas hill country
Enter as Strangers – Leave as Friends – Return as Family
CENTRALLY LOCATED FOR EVERYTHING TEXAS HILL COUNTRY HAS TO OFFER
Looking for things to do in Texas Hill Country? Cowboys and Angels is the perfect home base for exploring everything the area has to offer. From scenic drives and state parks to caves, wildlife, and small-town charm, there’s no shortage of attractions nearby. Check out some of our top picks below!
TEXAS WILDLIFE PARK AND EDUCATION CENTER
Texas Wildlife Park and Education Center is a private zoo offering guided, educational tours featuring a variety of animals. Here, you can enjoy one-on-one interactions without the crowds.
Get up close with animals like sloths, spider monkeys, crocodiles, lemurs, tigers, parrots, and more. For an additional fee, you can even feed some of the animals during your visit.
The best part about this place is that it’s right across from our campground, just two miles away. To book your tour or learn more, check them out at
www.texaswildlifepark.com. You won’t be disappointed!
- BANDERA -
The Cowboy Capital of the World
Bandera is a one-of-a-kind destination and definitely worth the drive. Just 50 minutes away, this little town is full of colorful history and western charm. Known as the Cowboy Capital of the World, Bandera has roots dating back to the cattle drives of the 1800s.
Spend the day enjoying BBQ, browsing western boutiques and Indian gift shops, or stopping by the legendary 11th Street Cowboy Bar, where big-name bands often play. You might even spot a horse or two trotting around town. For a bite to eat, we recommend OST (Old Spanish Trail) Restaurant for their incredible pancakes.
If you’re looking for things to do in Texas Hill Country, Bandera is definitely worth adding to your list. For more information, check out Bandera Cowboy Capital.
LOST MAPLES STATE NATURAL AREA
Lost Maples State Natural Area is one of the most beautiful places to explore in Texas Hill Country. With over 2,900 acres of hills, canyons, and scenic views along the Sabinal River, it’s a great spot for hiking, wildlife watching, and spending time outdoors. Just a quick 45-minute drive from Cowboys and Angels Retreat, it’s definitely worth a visit.
If you love nature, you’ll enjoy the wildlife here. Lost Maples is home to axis deer and rare birds like the Golden-cheeked Warbler and Black-capped Vireo. You can also fish in the Sabinal River from the pier or shore without needing a license.
With 11 miles of hiking trails, campsites, and primitive camping spots, this park has just the right amount of development while still keeping its rustic charm. Just a heads-up, cell service can be pretty spotty here.
For more information, check them out online.
THE TWISTED SISTERS
One of the most iconic drives in Texas Hill Country is the Twisted Sisters, also known as the Three Sisters Route. This scenic drive is practically in our backyard and is known for its winding roads, beautiful views, and fun twists and turns.
The route includes three roads totaling over 200 miles, making it a favorite for motorcycle riders, sports car drivers, and anyone who enjoys a scenic Hill Country drive. If you make the trip, be sure to stop by the
Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop in Leakey for burgers, souvenirs, and a fun place to stretch your legs.
OLD TUNNEL STATE PARK
Old Tunnel State Park is home to a fascinating old railroad tunnel that shelters around three million Mexican free-tailed and cave myotis bats.
From May through October, the park opens in the evenings for bat viewing, where you can watch thousands of bats spiral out of the tunnel as they head out to feed. It’s an incredible sight, and you might even spot red-tailed hawks catching them mid-air. The park also offers educational programs about these unique bats.
Old Tunnel also has a short hiking trail (about half a mile), plus plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing and exploring the area’s railroad history. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars.
It’s about a 50-minute drive from Cowboys and Angels and close to
Luckenbach, another fun spot to check out.
FREDERICKSBURG
If you’re looking for a charming getaway, Fredericksburg is a great option just about 40 minutes away. Known for its wineries, distilleries, and strong German heritage, it’s an easy place to spend a full day exploring.
You’ll find plenty to do, from museums and shopping to great restaurants and a growing arts scene. While you’re there, consider visiting Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, where you can hike, explore, and take in some of the best views in the area.
For more ideas and details on what to do in Fredericksburg, check out
Visit Fredericksburg. You won’t be disappointed!
KERRVILLE
Kerrville is the closest town to us, just about a 25-minute drive away. It’s your closest stop for groceries, restaurants, and other necessities.
At Louise Hayes Park, you’ll find access to the Guadalupe River, along with nearby hiking trails, parks, and plenty of restaurants. While you’re in Kerrville, try a mocha latte or cold brew from PAX Coffee and Goods, or grab a cold drink and enjoy live music at Trailhead Beer Garden.
If you love BBQ, give Bill’s BBQ a try. It’s some of the most tender BBQ we’ve ever had.
For a casual cafe with a variety of food, Rio Ranch Cafe is a great option. They serve breakfast all day and have very reasonable prices.
If you’re looking for a bar and restaurant with live country music, check out Howdy’s on the Guadalupe River.
And of course, you can always visit the
Kerrville Visitor’s Bureau for more happenings in the area.
CAVE WITHOUT A NAME
About 45 minutes from Cowboys and Angels, you’ll find Cave Without a Name near Boerne, a small German-influenced town.
The cave features impressive formations like stalactites, stalagmites, and delicate soda straws, and is often considered one of the most beautiful caves in the region.
Guided tours last about an hour and take you through six different rooms, including the “Throne Room,” where small concerts are sometimes held.
Before you leave, you can stop by the gift shop for crystals and other souvenirs.
For more details, check out Cave Without a Name.
Photo credit: Cave Without a Name