Vanderpool is on the Sabinal River in the exceptionally scenic Texas Hill Country of western Bandera County.

Largely utilized for sheep, goat and cattle ranching, the Vanderpool area is a favorite of deer hunters during season, and a year-round gateway to the popular Lost Maples State Natural Area.

While the Hill Country is laced with scenic drives, the east-and-west route of F.M. 337 is unquestionably among the most spectacular. Massive wooded steeps enfolding tiny, secluded valleys are beautiful! Remember to take your camera.

F.M. 187 north of Vanderpool climbs to the surface of the Edwards Plateau (2,300 ft.) as it joins Texas 39. Sinkholes, porous basins that feed rainwater into the deep Edwards Aquifer, abundantly dot the Texas Hill Country. A textbook example lies immediately at the west edge of F.M. 187 exactly 8.9 miles north of Lost Maples State Park.

Lost Maples State Natural Area

While they aren’t really “lost,” the bigtooth maples for which the park is named are very selective in their habitat. Widely scattered over several western states and northern Mexico, this maple thrives only in small, protected pockets in mountainous regions where the temperature and humidity are moderated, where moisture is retained, and solar radiation is minimal.

Because of their shallow roots, the trees are susceptible to damage by soil compaction and visitors are cautioned to stay on prescribed paths to ensure continued vigor of the maple stands.

Fall color is usually at its peak in early Nov. (Note: Usually crowded in autumn when fall foliage at peak; it’s recommended to see scenery during weekdays. Reservations needed this time of year for overnight stays. Also, nature sometimes plays tricks and autumn colors don’t always attain usual brilliance. For information call 830/966-3413.) For reservations, call 512/389-8900.

Other vegetation in the scenic Texas Hill Country park includes more than 90 plant families with some 350 species recorded. Bird life is also abundant, including the rare golden-cheeked warbler. Of the many mammal species in the park, native white-tailed deer are most numerous.

Park facilities include campsites with water and electricity, picnic areas, rest rooms, showers, and primitive camp areas reached by almost 11 miles of hiking and backpacking trails.

Three trees are State Champion Big Treesan escarpment chokecherry, a Texas ash, and a Bigtooth maple. The chokecherry and Texas ash have been nominated to the American Forestry Assn. Big Tree program for consideration as national champs. The park is four miles north of Vanderpool on R.M. 187. There is an admission.