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Established Camping

Lost Maples State Natural Area

41 Reviews

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About

Campsites with 30 amp electricity and water hookup: 30 sites, 8 people per site allowed. Includes picnic table with shade shelter, fire ring, back-in RV parking, restrooms with showers nearby.

Primitive Campsites (Hike-in): 50 sites. 6 people per site. Backpacking equipment is required. Fires are prohibited; you can use containerized fuel stoves for cooking. Carry out all trash and dispose of it responsibly. A maximum of six people can camp at each site; each primitive area has numerous sites. Off-trail hiking and rock climbing are not allowed. Pets are allowed on leash; pick up and dispose of pet waste properly. Please practice Leave No Trace principles, as the park has sensitive natural and cultural resources. Area C is closed to camping.

Fee Info

Campsites with Electricity: $20 nightly, $120 Weekly Non-peak. Plus daily entrance fee.
Primitive hike in sites: $10 nightly, plus daily entrance fee.

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Location

Lost Maples State Natural Area is located in Texas

Directions

37221 F.M. 187, Vanderpool, TX 78885

Address

37221 FM 187
Vanderpool, TX 78885

Coordinates

29.80698088 N
99.5706324 W

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Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.
Hike-In
Backcountry sites.

Stay Connected

WiFi
Fair
Verizon
Unknown
AT&T
Unknown
T-Mobile
Unknown

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Group
Tent Cabin
Equestrian

Features

For Campers

Market
ADA Access
Trash
Picnic Table
Firewood Available
Phone Service
Reservable
Showers
Drinking Water
Electric Hookups
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

For Vehicles

Sanitary Dump
Sewer Hookups
Water Hookups

For information regarding reservations, contact this campground directly.

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Contact

General Info

Reservations

Perla P.

Guide

Reviewed Apr. 24, 2023

Amazing park, employees rudely.

PROS. The park is a must during autumn. The leaves change color and great weather. Wonderful hiking trails.

CONS. Park ranger(lady) was very rudely and racist towards us made the trip to be okay. I hope others don’t get the same treatment.

Lastly, I will say it’s a beautiful park go and enjoy.

Month of VisitDecember

(13) View All

valerie

Guide

Reviewed Mar. 14, 2023

Campground is small and spots are close together

The area is in a small valley so the spots are cramped together. The park itself, is beautiful. I was here on a Spring break night, so it was very busy. I’m not sure if I should complain about the following since it’s not the park’s fault. My neighbor kept using my electrical outlets (and water). This wouldn’t be a problem if I didn’t need to use it myself. I tried to ask them, but they didn’t speak English. I know they are not mine, but it’s aggravating. The park host was not answering their door. Then, later, they started their charcoal with diesel fuel which was right next to my truck RV window. This was the charcoal they used for cooking! SMH. There is no cell signal, there is wifi right at the visitor center.

Site7

Month of VisitApril

(4) View All

Patricia S.

Traveler

Reviewed Oct. 12, 2022

Lost Maples SNA

Clean campground and restrooms. Beautiful hikes, some steep and rugged.

Site8

Month of VisitNovember

(7) View All

Laura F.

Ranger

Reviewed Oct. 2, 2022

Small campground with sites that fit only smaller RVs. Amazing hiking.

On the weekend we visited the campground was primarily tent campers mostly because a large scout troop was taking up a good third of the campground. That made it a bit loud and chaotic with children running everywhere, but the campground is quite lovely with shaded picnic tables and smaller sites that only fit small RVs. The park itself has many miles of trails both for people who only want a leisurely hike and those who like strenuous hikes with elevation. There's even a winery down the street a few miles if you want to take a break from camping for a bit. There is no cell service unless you have hiked up to the top of the ridge.

Site25

Month of VisitOctober

(5) View All

Samuel L.

Guide

Reviewed Jun. 3, 2022

Fun little park

On a motorcycle road trip with my dad and we decided to spend a night here. It was a weeknight so there were available sites upon arrival. I’d recommend reserving in advance just in case. The water was a little low when we visited but the park is nice. Was able to catch some fish and swim a little.

Site14

Month of VisitJune

(6) View All

Jeff T.

Ranger

Reviewed Jun. 1, 2022

Beautiful state natural area, great hill country hiking

This is a beautiful park in a great part of the Texas Hill country. Great hiking trails in this park as well.

Site3

Month of VisitMarch

(11) View All

Trenton V.

Guide

Reviewed Nov. 20, 2021

One of my fav primitive camping places

Been here several times over the years and it’s perfect for primitive camping! The staff lets you switch places if you want and are pretty friendly/easygoing. I have camps in the farthest campsite out campsite S, and really enjoyed it, although it is a little bit of a hike. The best spots on the trail is the south west corner kind of and also the north east area. The southwest area is kind of a bald on the top of a mountain. The north east part is where the cliffs faces and ponds are. Along the trail you will also find a few little clear faces here and there and a few kind of nasty springs which are full of dead leaves and even swimming leeches! I have seen snakes, tarantulas, lots of turtles, and some very visible fish along the stream. Overall this is one of the best primitive camping places that you will find in Texas to be honest! Highly recommend.

SiteF

Month of VisitNovember

(6) View All

Austin S.

Traveler

Reviewed Sep. 15, 2021

Best Fall Spot in Texas

The sabinal river casually rolls through the park. No tubing or kayaking, but great way to cool off in the clear waters. Incredible hikes, views, and colors. No cellular or WiFi at all.

Site13

Month of VisitOctober

Priscilla M.

Traveler

Reviewed Aug. 9, 2021

Extra Loop Trail

We were about a week too early to catch the changing leaves, but thoroughly enjoyed our hike. We hiked the outer loop counter clockwise and hit all the points of interest on the very accurate complementary map.

The portions on the map that are marked steep are very accurate. There are loose rocks in the steep areas, so I’d suggest hiking with boots that have good ankle support/protection.

My dog enjoyed the trail and was able to lead the way and find the trail whenever I lost it for a second. There were also plenty of places to stop for fresh cold water for him to drink. The springs looked so clear that they also enticed me.

Month of VisitNovember

(11) View All

Alexandra

Ranger

Reviewed Jul. 14, 2021

Primitive Campsite E

Located near a few other sites and a restroom! A long hike out - start early. Some pretty sights along the way

SitePrimitive Campsite E

Month of VisitMarch

Alexandra

Ranger

Reviewed Jul. 14, 2021

Primitive Campsite H

This is the most remote campsite in the park. A very far hike out but likely the most private site. Not many views once you’re on the loop on the way there, but the terrain is nice and rocky.

SitePrimitive Campsite H

Month of VisitMarch

(5) View All

Alexandra

Ranger

Reviewed Jul. 14, 2021

Primitive Campsite G

One of the furthest out campsites in the park. A great hike on the way there but make sure you start early. Quite a ways away from the restroom.

SitePrimitive Campsite G

Month of VisitMarch

(5) View All

Alexandra

Ranger

Reviewed Jul. 14, 2021

Primitive Campsite B

Amazing campsite, stayed at one of the very private sites. Do not take the word “steep” on the trail maps lightly. It is steep on the way here. The view of the night sky was incredible, and there was a gorgeous scenic overlook nearby. Bathrooms are a ways away... make a pit stop on your way up.

SitePrimitive Campsite B

Month of VisitMarch

(7) View All

Rae F.

Guide

Reviewed Sep. 18, 2020

9/12/20 Camping

We stayed at electric campsite 003, it was great!

drive in/parking spot for 2 large trucks
covered cements tables at each site
all within walking distance to facilities
facilities were cleaned daily, restrooms and showers
park rangers drove through 3/4 times a day
weather at this time is pretty hot, but tolerable in the shade
recent rains made swimming possible, lots of small rivers and places to fish/sight see
campsites are spaced out but there is few trees so no privacy
small campground, probably only 24 or so electric sites available
we use a rooftop tent on our truck but our friends used a ground tent

(10) View All

Chelsea O.

Ranger

Reviewed Sep. 8, 2020

Fall Wonder in the Texas Hill Country

I camped here in early September and while the leaves hadn’t started changing yet the trails were packed with maple trees. It is very easy to see how in just a few months the place will be packed with beautiful colors.

The elective/water camp grounds are very open and pretty close to each other. Not my favorite, but definitely not the worst either. They were lacking the trees and shade that the trails provide. The primitive campgrounds were a good hike to get to, but not anything too strenuous.

The hikes are amazing. A really great climb in elevation for not having mountains. There are tones of creeks that are crossed as well to cool yourself or your pup off in.

(8) View All

Chey V.

Traveler

Reviewed Aug. 16, 2020

Beautiful!!

First time visiting mistakes were definitely made. We planned for camping but didn’t realize just how far a mile and a quarter hike to the campsite felt like. I recommend packing very light if you are camping unless you are a fit highly seasoned hiker/camper. Also, although most of the East Trail is shaded and beautiful, it is still sweltering in 100°+ weather. So may want to reserve this spot for cooler temperatures! Besides the personal bad decisions we made, this was still a breath taking hike and truly enjoyable experience. With Love, Your everyday big girl!

(4) View All

Matt S.

Guide

Reviewed Jul. 24, 2020

Beautiful Park, but complete dead zone for wireless

Spent a couple night here in July. Beautiful park! The river is crystal clear and very inviting on a hot summer day. The Rv spots were well kept, the bathrooms/showers were clean, and the park was pretty quite in the evenings. There are Lots of hiking trails to explore, but they can only be taken on bicycle for 1 mile, per the rules. Overall, its a great park with beautiful scenery. I would love to see the trees turn in the fall.

The only drawback, is that its in a complete deadzone for cellular. I had absolutely zero service on my cellphone, antenna Tv, or wifi/4g. (Altho, thats not always a bad thing)

Be prepared for emergencies if you hike the trails tho.

There is a general store about 4 miles up the road from the park entrance that has free wifi, if you need to download/update offline maps for your gps, and just get some work done before you go back to relax in the park.

Site13

Month of VisitAugust

Gari-Ann L.

Guide

Reviewed Jul. 10, 2020

Small but gorgeous park

By far one of my favorite state parks to date. Haven’t been during the fall, but beautiful any rime of year. The hiking trails here have been some of my favorite. The park is relatively small as far as number of RV sites. It is clean and well maintained. Medina is a 30 minute or so drive if you need to run into town for anything (we had to hit up a hardware store for a quick fix on the camper). The drive to Medina is stunning - I recommend taking that drive whether you need anything from town or not. There’s a fantastic winery just up the street (Lost Maples Winery). Their Pinot noir is fantastic! My only minor complaint was that the park host who was working at the time we were there was militant. Not a deal breaker though. Hope to visit here again this year some time!

(8) View All

Mic R.

Legend

Reviewed Jul. 9, 2020

Great hiking park

This Is a very nice park, little river a lot of hiking trail, some climbing, some flat trail, you are hidden in between mountains, once you hike to the top you will get an AT&T Signal, not a lot of RV sites, small park. June 17 to June 20 2020

(10) View All

Kingrex49 M.

Guide

Reviewed Apr. 23, 2020

Fall Colors

We missed the fall leaves color this past fall but there is always this coming fall. The day we were there it was practically empty as it was freezing but there were several hikers. There was a small RV park but we were staying at Garner that time.

(5) View All

Skip C.

Traveler

Reviewed Apr. 22, 2020

Wonderful fall colors

Lost Maples is a great place to see the colors of Fall.

Troy W.

Legend

Reviewed Apr. 1, 2020

Lost Maples State Natural Area Primitive Campsite H

Lost Maples State Natural Area has some beautiful hiking trails and backpacking areas. If you need basic supplies you may find some at the general store in the small town nearby the park named Vanderpool.

Perhaps the best time of the year to visit is in November when the weather is cool and the fall foliage take place. However, the park is very busy in November, so make a reservation six months in advance. If no campsites are available you may visit for the day and find a private campground nearby to camp.

There are basically two loops- an East Trail and a West Trail and each covers about 4-5 miles. It is completely possible to hike all the trails(about 12 miles) in a single day, but I prefer to hike and appreciate the natural features that can be found throughout the park.

This review is for the Primitive Area H on the West Trail. The campsite is a primitive or dispersed site so there are no amenities. There is no water, no electricity, no restrooms, just natural space. Leave No Trace and Pack In Pack Out principles should be practiced. The camping area is adjacent to the West Trail and close to the West Loop Trail. There is a open field in one area and a tree covered space in another area. So there are options for both tent and hammock backpackers.

This park has a number of peaks, creeks and ponds to view. In Texas State Parks fishing is allowed and no fishing license is required. Whether you're visiting to relax, fish or hike this park is enjoyable for all ages.

SitePrimitive site H

Month of VisitDecember

(13) View All

Troy W.

Legend

Reviewed Apr. 1, 2020

Lost Maples State Natural Area Primitive Campsite A

Lost Maples State Natural Area has some beautiful hiking trails and backpacking areas. If you need supplies you may find some basics at the general store in the small town nearby the park named Vanderpool.

This review is for the Primitive Area A on the West Trail. I'd say that the hike to the campsite and away from the campsite is more scenic than the actual campsite. The campsite is a primitive or dispersed site so there are no amenities. There is no water, no electricity, no restrooms, just natural space. There is a latrine near the campsite. Leave No Trace and Pack In Pack Out principles should be practiced. There are openings amongst the brush for tents or a number of closely spaced trees for hammock backpackers.

Perhaps the best time of the year to visit is in November when the weather is cool and the fall foliage take place. However, the park is very busy in November, so make a reservation at least six months in advance. It is possible to just visit the park to day hike the trails as well, but even then a reservation is advisable.

If no campsites are available you may camp at a nearby private campground and visit for the day.

SiteDispersed

Month of VisitDecember

(10) View All

Troy W.

Legend

Reviewed Dec. 31, 2019

Lost Maples State Natural Area Primitive Area E

Lost Maples State Natural Area has some beautiful hiking trails and backpacking areas.

There are basically two loops - an East Trail and a West Trail and each covers about 4-5 miles. It is completely possible to hike all the trails (about 12 miles) in a single day, but I prefer to hike and appreciate the natural features that can be found throughout the park.

This review is for the Primitive Area E on the West Trail. The campsite is a primitive or dispersed site so there are no amenities. There is no water, no electricity, no restrooms, just natural space. Leave No Trace and Pack In Pack Out principles should be practiced. The camping area is adjacent to the East Trail. There is a open field in one area and a tree covered space in another area. So there are options for both tent and hammock backpackers.

I'd say that the hike to the campsite and away from the campsite is more scenic than the actual campsite. Perhaps the best time of the year to visit is in November when the weather is cool and the fall foliage take place. The park is very busy in November, so make a reservation very early or go when the weather is extremely cold and no one else wants to be outdoors.

If you need supplies you may find some basics at the general store in the small town nearby the park named Vanderpool.

SitePrimitive/Dispersed

Month of VisitDecember

(13) View All

Troy W.

Legend

Reviewed Dec. 11, 2019

Lost Maples + Fall Foliage

Everyone loves Lost Maples State Natural Area, whether you are a RV camper, car camper, backcountry camper or just visiting for the day and day hiking. There's a little something for everyone.

Perhaps the best time of the year to visit Lost Maples is in the Autumn when the fall foliage is occurring - it is often during the first three weeks of November. However, during fall foliage it can be very difficult to reserve a campsite, so I recommend booking a campsite 6 months in advance. Or do what I did and show up on a really cold weekday when no one else is interested in being outside in 25 degree weather and there will be plenty of space to car camp or backcountry camp.

If you camp at the established drive-up campground there are assigned campsites with space for cars, vans and RVs. At each campsite there is a sunshade shelter, picnic table, lantern pole, water, electricity and campfire pit with a grill. There is also a restroom nearby with sinks, toilets, showers and a water fountain. There is even a little free library where you can take a book to read or leave a book to share.

If you camp in the backcountry there are designated and marked zones where you just set up your tent. There are no facilities in the backcountry campsites so leave no trace practices should be applied. Near some of the backcountry campsites there are latrines.

The park has well maintained hiking trails that will lead you by pastures, through forest, alongside creeks and up some hills. It is possible to hike the 8 to 10 miles of trails in one day, but it is more fun to go slow and enjoy the sights. There is an East Trail Loop and a West Trail Loop and some spur trails. Pick up a map at the Ranger Station and enjoy the trails. Some of the trails have steep rock ascents which are indicated on the park map.

If you need supplies there is a small store with basics in the nearby town of Vanderpool.

While you are in the area, you may as well stop by Bandera, Texas known as the cowboy capital of the world. It is a small Texas town and every weekend they celebrate cowboy culture with some performances and events.

Site22

Month of VisitDecember

(16) View All

Dan M.

Guide

Reviewed Aug. 4, 2019

Amazing place

Spent the weekend here with my family. Awesome swimming and hiking adventures. Will definitely be back in the fall for the changing of the leaves

(8) View All

Shirley S.

Traveler

Reviewed Jun. 22, 2019

Love it

Short trip for weekend stay for us. Close to the river. Nice spaces with covered tables and scattered trees. Hiking, pet friendly. Showers were clean and well kept. No sewer hook up but dump station is right off the road. Plenty of open space to see the Texas skies and right there at the Frio River. One of our go to spots.

J E.

Guide

Reviewed Jun. 12, 2019

Nice park with beautiful hiking

Sites a bit close and unshaded, but nice enough.

Month of VisitApril

Megan E.

Ranger

Reviewed Jun. 2, 2019

Beautiful exploring

Campgrounds are clean, beautiful and well-kept. RV and tent campers can use designated gravel sites with covered picnic tables. There are eight separate primitive camping areas ranging from 1-5 miles of hiking into the parks trail system. This is a great location to try out backpacking gear. There are multiple water and creek crossings for fishing and cooling off in the summer.

(9) View All

Mickie B.

Traveler

Reviewed May. 7, 2019

Beautiful fall colors

The sites are a little close-in, but otherwise perfect. There are so few of them (30 total), so book early- in order to get a fall reservation, I booked nearly a year in advance!

The fall colors are beautiful (not like Northeast colors, but very nice for Texas :) ) There are picnic areas and a nice 4 mile loop to take in the tree scenery too.

Sites have covered picnic tables, water spigots, and fire pits.

Month of VisitDecember