Lost Maples State Natural Area
Vanderpool, TX
A limestone canyon sheltering a relict stand of bigtooth maples that turn red and gold in autumn. Peak color usually falls in late October to mid-November; arrive early on weekends.
This natural area of about 11.8 km² (2,906 acres) in the Texas Hill Country lies some 8 km (5 miles) north of Vanderpool. The state acquired the land in 1973–74, opened it to visitors in 1979, and it was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1980. The bigtooth maples along the Sabinal River are relics of a population that was more widespread in the cooler, wetter climate of the last ice age. Their color is most vivid in a dry fall or after cold nights, and more muted in mild, damp years.
About 18 km (11 miles) of trails cross the area: the short Maple Trail (about 600 m, or 0.4 mile) and the more demanding East and West Trails (about 5 km/3.1 miles and 5.8 km/3.6 miles), with the limestone formation Monkey Rock and a cool grotto. The trails are steep and rocky, so carry plenty of water. Crowds peak during fall color, from late October to early November. There are 30 campsites plus eight primitive camping areas.
- Nearest town
- Vanderpool, TX
- Category
- Nature & parks
- GPS
- 29.8120, -99.5700
- Editor's pick
- ★
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually March–April and October–December. Still fine, with some compromises, in January–February and May. Hot in June–September. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Featured in these trip guides
© Larry D. Moore · CC BY 4.0Down the Guadalupe: maples, cypress and dance halls
© Chris M Morris · CC BY 2.0Spanish missions and the Frio River canyonlands
© Larry D. Moore · CC BY 4.0Maple canyons, rock art and desert mountains – by camper from Austin through the Hill Country to Big Bend
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- Live Oak Camping AreaCampsite18 mi from Lost Maples State Natural AreaTentsCaravans
- Persimmon Hill Camping AreaCampsite18 mi from Lost Maples State Natural AreaTentsCaravans
- Rio Frio Camping AreaCampsite18 mi from Lost Maples State Natural AreaTentsCaravans
- Heart O’ the Hills Summer Camp for GirlsCampsite19 mi from Lost Maples State Natural Area
- Camp WaldemarCampsite20 mi from Lost Maples State Natural Area
- Camp La Junta for BoysCampsite22 mi from Lost Maples State Natural Area
All campsites in Texas · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Lost Maples State Natural Area?
Lost Maples State Natural Area is in Vanderpool, TX, at GPS 29.8120, -99.5700. It is about 13 mi from Leakey.
Can you camp near Lost Maples State Natural Area?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Area A, about 1 mi away; within 25 mi there are 34 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Lost Maples State Natural Area?
Lost Maples State Natural Area is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Down the Guadalupe: maples, cypress and dance halls, Spanish missions and the Frio River canyonlands and Maple canyons, rock art and desert mountains – by camper from Austin through the Hill Country to Big Bend.
What is there to see near Lost Maples State Natural Area?
Places worth a stop nearby: Garner State Park (19 mi), Stonehenge II (27 mi), Luckenbach (55 mi) and LBJ Ranch, Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park (64 mi).
When is the best time to visit Lost Maples State Natural Area?
The most pleasant months are usually March–April and October–December. Still fine, with some compromises, in January–February and May. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)