Famous route

Texas Hill Country Loop

The loop links state parks in the Hill Country west of Austin and northwest of San Antonio. It is not an official byway but a suggestion with Fredericksburg as a base.

State: Texas
Nearest town: Fredericksburg
Suggested time: 2–3 days
Best season: Spring and autumn; summers hot

What should you know before visiting Texas Hill Country Loop?

Tolls and vignettes for a car: about $2 (TX).

Texas Parks and Wildlife recommends reserving both camping and day use, because the parks often reach capacity. Without a reservation, entry may be refused.
Flash flooding is common on the Pedernales River. If the water rises or turns muddy, leave the river area immediately.
Park gates close at night. At Pedernales Falls State Park, campers arriving after 10 p.m. must call before 4:30 p.m. for the gate code.
Trails and backcountry sites can close in wet or poor weather. Check conditions and any fire restrictions with the park before arriving.

The drive

The loop is our own suggestion, not an official route. Three parks make natural stops. Pedernales Falls State Park lies about 30 miles west of Austin, with Johnson City about 10 miles away. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area has a Fredericksburg address. Hill Country State Natural Area is at Bandera, northwest of San Antonio. The sources give no road numbers; plan the route with a current map.

Camping

Pedernales Falls has 69 sites with electricity and water (30 amp) plus primitive hike-in sites; the page names no RV length limits, so clarify when booking. Hill Country State Natural Area offers primitive walk-in or hike-in sites, and RVs are not mentioned on its page. Enchanted Rock asks for a day-use reservation. Booking runs through Texas State Parks.

FAQs

When is the best time to go?

The sources name no best time. Pedernales Falls lists spring, summer and fall as its busy season; freezes are typical from early November to early April, and May, August and September are the wettest months.

Do I have to reserve Enchanted Rock in advance?

Texas Parks and Wildlife advises it: only a pass booked in advance guarantees entry. Check the date on the pass, since wrong dates may not be honored at busy times. The page gives September through May as the busy season.

Are there length limits for motorhomes?

The pages reached name none. Electric sites at Pedernales Falls have water and 30-amp service. Before booking, ask the park or the Texas Parks and Wildlife reservation line about site dimensions.

How much are the tolls on Texas Hill Country Loop?

Tolls and vignettes for a car: about $2 (TX). Estimate with typical rates; motorhomes pay more, and vehicles over 3.5 t often pay by distance.