Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is one of the most unique natural areas in Texas. The huge granite dome that is the "enchanted rock" rises about 425 feet above the surrounding land. Even in the hill country, this monadnock sticks out like a sore thumb. WTF is a monadnock, you ask? It's an isolated rock hill or small mountain that rises abruptly from a gently sloping or virtually level surrounding plain. Don't worry, I had never heard that word either until I visited the park. Enchanted Rock is so unique that it inspires an interest in geology that requires immediate googling.
According to the Park's website, humans have camped in this area for 12,000 years. I'm sure our campsite was reminiscent of the prehistoric campers who came before us. The park offers 35 walk-in campsites, 20 primitive backpacking sites (1-3 miles from parking), and one group primitive site. There are no drive-up sites available so no RV or rooftop tent camping is allowed.
We stayed in a walk-in campsite which was one of the best campsites I've stayed at in a park in Texas. These range in distance from the parking lot, but even the farthest are within 100 yards. The campsites are divided into two portions by the road/parking lot. Campsites 1-21 are in an open area with few trees and little privacy between you and the campsites near you. I recommend staying in campsites 22-44. These sites are nestled right up next to the granite dome and the surrounding trees offer more privacy (although you are still close enough to hear other campers).
Other than camping, hiking and rock climbing are the main activities to enjoy in the park. There are 11 miles of hiking trails, though the short hike up to the top of the dome is the most popular and also the most challenging. We always enjoy scrambling down the East side of the dome after reaching the top. This isn't an official trail but is a fun way to enjoy some more adventurous hiking. The other trails in the park are very easy for anyone in moderate shape.
The park offers many climbing routes which range in difficultly from a 5.0 to 5.11. To learn more about the different routes, click here.
Keep in mind that pets are not allowed in many areas of the park. Dogs are allowed in the picnic areas, the campsites, and the 4.6 mile Loop Trail. All other trails are off limits for pets. Although unfortunate for those of us who like to camp with our doggers, the park implemented this rule to protect the vernal pools which form on the surface of the granite. These pools create their own ecosystems and are home to a tiny crustacean called the fairy shrimp.
Enchanted Rock at a glance:
- 35 walk-in campsites
- 20 primitive backpacking sites + 1 primitive group site for up to 75 people
- Tent camping only; no RVs or rooftop tents allowed
- Pets are allowed in campsites and picnic areas but not in many other areas of the park
- Main activities include camping, hiking, and rock climbing
- 11 miles of hiking trails throughout the park
- Several climbing routes which range in difficulty from 5.0 to 5.11
- The park is very popular and can fill to capacity as early as 10am during busy months. If you're going just for the day be sure to get there early!
