Texas is getting nearly 54,000 new acres of public land in the Hill Country, with camping, trails and recreation planned in future phases.
AUSTIN, Texas — A new Texas state park spanning nearly 54,000 acres is coming to the Hill Country after Texas Parks and Wildlife acquired Silver Lake Ranch, creating what will become the state’s second-largest state park.
The future Silver Lake State Park, located in Edwards and Kinney counties about 150 miles west of San Antonio, will trail only Big Bend Ranch State Park in size, according to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
“The opportunities to explore nature’s wonders are truly bigger in Texas,” Gov. Greg Abbott said in a statement. “With this new land acquisition across the Hill Country, Texans will have access to more than 50,000 acres of unique outdoor activities.”
The acquisition was made possible after the Moody Foundation donated its 87.5% ownership stake in Silver Lake Ranch to Texas Parks and Wildlife. The department purchased the remaining ownership interest for $11.85 million using funds from the Centennial Parks Conservation Fund and the Sporting Goods Sales Tax program.
“This is an exciting addition to our state park system, and we are grateful to our partners at the Moody Foundation for their philanthropy and for bringing this slice of the hill country to the people of Texas,” Texas Parks and Wildlife Executive Director David Yoskowitz said.
The property, previously used for sheep and cattle ranching, includes steep canyons, limestone cliffs, rolling hills and several waterways, including frontage along the West Nueces River. The ranch also features the 30-acre spring-fed Silver Lake, which gave the property its name.
Texas Parks and Wildlife said the land contains a variety of natural and cultural features, including oak motts, caves and pictographs. Wildlife found on the property includes white-tailed deer, turkey, javelina and dove. Portions of the area have also been identified as potential habitat for the endangered golden-cheeked warbler.
“The Moody Foundation is proud to help preserve this remarkable stretch of Texas Hill Country and make it accessible for generations to come,” Ross Moody said.
Texas Parks and Wildlife plans to develop the park in phases. Early access could include guided tours and limited day-use opportunities while planning and infrastructure work continues. Future phases are expected to add trails, visitor facilities, camping and paddling access.
Officials said planning will include public input, and a potential opening date has not yet been announced.