There is now more to love about Enchanted Rock State Natural Area—630-acres more. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department announced the acquisition of 630 acres of land along the south side of the SNA in late 2024. In a move “to protect delicate natural and cultural resources” in the area, the property, formerly known as Comanche Rock Ranch, was secured by TPWD with the help of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation. The addition is currently known as South Erock.
While South Erock is a work in progress, TPWD is offering previews on ranger-led guided tours. The 2-mile off-trail hikes are moderately challenging and open to Enchanted Rock visitors. Hikers will be treated to sights of vernal pools and a rolling oak savannah prairie.
Vernal pools are low spots that collect and hold water for longer periods of time and eventually develop their own micro-habitats. Enchanted Rock’s vernal pools sometimes contain rock quillwort and fairy shrimp. Rock quillwort is endangered and endemic to Central Texas; in fact, much of what exists can only be found in Enchanted Rock SNA. Fairy shrimp are tiny, freshwater shrimp that are an important part of the vernal pool habitat. They eat algae and plankton and are eaten by birds. The pools are ecologically fragile and should not be disturbed.
The oak savannah prairie is an uncommon find today as few original savannahs remain—most fall victim to development. Savannahs are transitional areas with scattered trees between heavily wooded areas and grasslands. This particular area of South Erock, if not for this purchase, would very likely have seen a different fate. According to a TPWD media release, the area “had the potential to hold a subdivision with hundreds of new homes.” The oak savannah prairie of South Erock will provide enjoyment for visitors year-round with its native grasses and wildflowers.
As South Erock is being prepared for its public debut, which has not yet been announced, ranger-led hikes are the only way to sneak a peek of the pristine parkland. Hikes scheduled in February 2025 are Thursdays, Feb. 13 and 27, at 10 a.m. The hikes are free with park admission, but registration is required as space is limited.
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is located at 16710 Ranch Road 965 in Fredericksburg on the Gillespie-Llano county line.