Lost Maples State Natural AreaAbout Lost Maples State Natural Area
Lost Maples State Natural Area is a protected tract of Texas Hill Country canyon and woodland in Uvalde County, noted for its extensive stands of Uvalde bigtooth maple and for seasonal fall color.
The area is best known for its maples that turn vivid orange, red and yellow in autumn, producing concentrated fall foliage displays along the Maple Trail and in canyon areas. Hiking trails of varying length traverse steep limestone canyons, riparian corridors and upland oaks, offering overlooks and river-side sections.
The natural area was set aside to protect its unique maple stands and the associated Hill Country canyon ecosystem; management emphasizes habitat protection and low-impact recreation. Facilities are maintained for day use and limited camping within designated areas.
Lost Maples lies in the Texas Hill Country near the community of Vanderpool in Uvalde County, in southwestern-central Texas.
- Best time to visit: Peak fall color for the Uvalde bigtooth maples usually occurs from mid-October through early November and draws the largest crowds.
- Access and use: The site is a designated Texas State Natural Area with day-use facilities and trailheads near the park entrance by the small community of Vanderpool.
What to See#
- Maple Trail: The Maple Trail is the core loop trail that passes dense stands of Uvalde bigtooth maple and offers the best fall-color viewing in the area.
- East and West Trails: East and West Trails extend through the canyon and hill-country terrain, connecting overlooks and river-side sections popular for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Best Time to Visit Lost Maples State Natural Area
Plan a visit for October-November for the fall foliage; reserve campsites early.
Weather & Climate near Lost Maples State Natural Area
Lost Maples State Natural Area's climate is classified as Humid Subtropical - Humid Subtropical climate with hot summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 1°C to 33°C. Moderate rainfall (716 mm/year).
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | 1° - 15° | 6° | 31 mm | - | - | 3.4 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | 3° - 17° | 10° | 40 mm | - | - | 3.7 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | 7° - 21° | 14° | 36 mm | - | - | 4.2 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 11° - 25° | 18° | 58 mm | - | - | 4.2 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 16° - 28° | 22° | 90 mm | - | - | 4.1 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 19° - 31° | 25° | 77 mm | - | - | 4.0 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 20° - 33° | 27° | 62 mm | - | - | 3.7 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 20° - 33° | 26° | 79 mm | - | - | 3.4 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 18° - 31° | 24° | 81 mm | - | - | 3.2 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 12° - 26° | 19° | 87 mm | - | - | 3.3 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | 7° - 20° | 13° | 44 mm | - | - | 3.4 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | 3° - 16° | 8° | 31 mm | - | - | 3.4 m/s | - | - |
How to Get to Lost Maples State Natural Area
The park is located near Vanderpool in western Uvalde County, about a 1.5-2 hour drive northwest of San Antonio (roughly 90-120 miles depending on route). From U.S. Highway 90, take Farm-to-Market roads toward Vanderpool and follow state park signage. The Texas Parks & Wildlife website includes directions and reservation links for campsites.
Tips for Visiting Lost Maples State Natural Area
- Visit midweek in late October for the fall color without the weekend crowds.
- Reserve campground or backcountry sites well in advance-holiday weekends sell out months ahead.
- Walk the East Trail early to catch the sun on the bigtooth maples; the view from the Old Baldy overlook is often overlooked by day-trippers.
- Carry insect repellent in summer; trails can be buggy after rain.