Texas just added 1,720 acres of Hill Country beauty to its state parks, featuring rivers, trails, and wildlife habitats for all to explore.
UVALDE COUNTY, Texas — Texans soon will have a new place to explore in the scenic Hill Country with the addition of 1,720-acre Bear Creek State Park, the latest parkland acquisition for the Texas State Parks system. Located less than a mile from the popular Garner State Park, Bear Creek offers fresh access to the Frio River along with trails, creeks, canyons and wildlife habitats waiting to be discovered.
“Texas is home to more than 640,000 acres of state parks and natural areas where families can enjoy the state’s majestic views and outdoor activities,” Gov. Greg Abbott said. “The new Bear Creek State Park will open up even more of these natural Texas treasures, from the Frio River to rolling hills and hiking trails. I urge Texans and visitors alike to come and experience our beautiful parks.”
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department purchased the Bear Creek property for $33.5 million using a one-time state fund. Development will be supported by the Centennial Parks Conservation Fund, a $1 billion endowment created by voters last year to boost funding for park acquisition and improvements.
Paul Foster, chairman of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission, called the purchase “another feather in our cap,” pointing to more than 6,800 acres of new parkland added statewide since January. TPWD Executive Director David Yoskowitz said Bear Creek adds a “picturesque slice” of the Hill Country with its rolling grasslands, unnamed creeks and natural peaks and valleys.
The new park’s location offers access to the Frio River, Spring Creek, and Bear Creek itself, along with scenic ridges and canyons ideal for hiking. Visitors likely will enjoy views of Old Baldy at Garner State Park and shaded areas under large cypress and live oak trees. The remote site also provides opportunities to experience dark night skies for camping.
Bear Creek is also special for its rich wildlife habitat, including endangered golden-cheeked warblers and potentially rare plant species in the ravines. Biologists will work with park staff to complete surveys and guide future management plans and visitor exhibits.
The acquisition builds on other recent park expansions, including Post Oak Ridge State Park near Colorado Bend and a large addition to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, both opening to hunters this fall.
TPWD will seek public input in planning recreation opportunities at Bear Creek. While opening dates aren’t set, future announcements will keep Texans informed as the park takes shape.
For more information on the Centennial Parks Conservation Fund and Texas State Parks, visit TexasStateParks.org.
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