Welcome to the Hill Country River Region - 2019

to the Hill Country River Region

Your Guide to

Barksdale, Concan, Camp Wood, Leakey, Rio Frio, Rocksprings, Utopia, Uvalde & Vanderpool

Dining, Shopping, Events, Activities, Lodging | More

Photo courtesy Rio Bella Resort.

LIVE MUSIC on FRIDAY NIGHTS 6~9 pm

JĴòƆƈƧć Ɍ PŘŎƈƂ Ɍ ńƏÜƫƄĥ Ɍ ÷ƄŇ ʕ đĬƄ -ÜīƈƋƲ ʎ PĴŔƎƑƜŵƂƥƞ ʎ h÷Ŕ ­ƑƈƞƧòƋƲ

www.leakeyinn.com

527 S. Hwy 83 Leakey, Texas

830-232-FRIO

TM

.COM A TEXAS STYLE SPRING BREAK

MARCH 13TH-16TH, 2019

directory Hill Country River Region Garven Store Texas Jerky, Supplies & Much More............................................7 Hill Country RV Rental RV Rentals.................................................................7 Map of Hill Country River Region..................................................................6 My Stompin’ Grounds Books by Lora B. Davis Garrison .................................5 River Road Market Fest (Concan) ..................................................................2 Texas Night Sky Festival (Dripping Springs)................................................56 The Oral History of the Sabinal Valley Books by Greg Walton.......................45 Uvalde County Texas/Texas Hill Country River Region................................3 Wimberley Metaphysical & Holistic Fair......................................................56 Women Who Wander Outdoor Retreat March 29-31, 2019.........................24

Rio Frio Bonnie’s Bakery Baked Goods...........................................................................9 Criders Cabins on the Frio................................................................................9 Indian Blanket Ranch Secluded Getaway with Pool.........................................9 Hill Country Nature Center Hill Country Nature Tours...................................7 , PEOP LE GO OD , MU SIC ...

GR EAT ES OF TIM BE ST

*FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED. FESTIVAL CONCERTS SELL-OUT

CONCAN,

TX

to the Hill Country River Region

Published by The Hill Country Sun Celebrating Our 29th Anniversary 1990-2019 9th Edition. Contents copyright ©2019.

Reproduction of any portion of this publication in any form requires written permission of the publisher

Kenzie, Julie & Luke

Julie Spell Harrington Publisher/Advertising 512-484-9716 julie@hillcountrysun.com

Melissa & John

Melissa Maxwell Ball

Editor/Design 512-569-8212 melissa@hillcountrysun.com

www.HillCountrySun.com Cover Reflections on the Frio at Garner State Park. © Richard Mcmillin.

Inset photos LEFT courtesy Rio Bella Resort, CENTER courtesy Sabinal River Lodge and RIGHT by Rachel Kellner.

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Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

Leakey Ash Creek Hideaway 3-Acre Country Home...................................................13 BBG’s Bakery Baked Goods.............................................................................11 Back Porch Lodging, Music, Apparel, Beer & Wine............................................2 Bent Rim Grill Burgers & More.......................................................................17 Buckhorn Bar & Grill Drive-thru Beverage Barn............................................17 Canyon Charm Home Decor, Apparel, Accessories, Antiques..........................15 Catahoula Woodworks Gifts & Home Decor, Custom Woodwork....................15 Chickin’ Earls Fried Chicken...........................................................................17 Cypress Frio Waters Cabins on Frio River......................................................11 Frio Canyon Real Estate Shawn Streib Gray, Broker/Owner.........................15 Hello Honey Boutique Clothing, Shoes, Jewelry, Gifts, Decor........................17 Hill Country Properties Doug Shoemaker, Real Estate Specialist...................13 Leakey Beverage Barn....................................................................................11 Leakey Liquors Beer, Wine, Liquor.................................................................17 Leakey Mercantile Groceries, Produce, Supplies, Beer, Wine...........................13 Leakey Springs Cabins Waterfront Cabins & Group Lodge.............................13 Oak Hill Cabins Cabins with Beautiful Views.................................................15 Pioneer Real Estate Shirley Shandley, Broker/Owner....................................13 River Bluff Cabins on the Frio...........................................................................5 River Haven Cabins on the Frio.......................................................................11 The Loft at Owl Hollow Lodging on 320 acres................................................13

Concan Andy’s on River Road Tubing, Kayaks, RV & Tent Camping, Boutique...........27 Camp Riverview Cabins, RV & Tent Sites on the Frio.....................................21 Casa Rio Rentals Pet Friendly Private Homes on & near the Frio....................33 Concan Pies Baked Goods...............................................................................33 Concan River Lodging Vacation homes near the Frio.....................................33 Elm Creek Stables Trail Rides, Pony Rides, Gift Shop.....................................35 El Rod’s On the Frio RV spots/Cabins on the Frio..........................................25 Frio Acres 9 Cabins, 5 Lodges on 51 Acres......................................................19 Frio Country Resort Cabins, Homes, RV Spots on the Frio.............................37 Frio’s Dry 50 River Gear, Gifts, More .............................................................23 Frio Family Getaway Cabin Rentals.................................................................7 Frio Fried Chicken at Concan General Store...................................................59 Frio River Realty Larry Roberts, Owner/Broker, Homes, Ranches ................28 Frio River Vacation Rentals Cabins, Homes...................................................28 Happy Hollow Lodging/Store, B Happy Store, 2 Morrow Ranch............... 29-30 Hippie Chic’s River Shack Unique Eatery.......................................................35 Loca on the Frio Boutique Gifts, Jewelry, Decor, Clothing..............................23 Nana’s RV Park Frio Riverfront Park..............................................................35 Neal’s Lodges Cabins and Events on the Frio..................................................21 Porter’s Tree Haus & Lodge Lodge and suites on Frio River...........................31 Rio Frio Fest Texas-Style Spring Break Music Fest on Frio River......................4 River Grove Rentals Houses on the Frio.........................................................27 River Oaks Resort Homes and Cabins............................................................35

Concan (continued) River Rim Resort Cabins on the Frio River...................................... Back Cover River Road Market Fest ..................................................................................2 The Frio Float Ice Cream, Candy and More.....................................................59 Women Who Wander Outdoor Retreat March 29-31, 2019.........................24 Whiskey Mountain Inn Houses & Cabins on 18 acres....................................37

Utopia/Vanderpool Airdreams Entertainment Vintage Airstream Trailer Rental & Photo Booth........................................41 Bownds Real Estate Brandon Bownds............................................................39 Breathe Utopia Yoga Studio............................................................................43 Clear Springs Lodging Vacation Rentals on the Sabinal River........................45 Four Sisters Ranch Cabin Secluded Vacation Cabin.......................................43 Foxfire Cabins Log Cabins on the Sabinal River.............................................41 Lone Star Motorcycle Museum.....................................................................43 Orange Blossom Real Estate Homes and Ranches.........................................43 Rock ’N Utopia House on Banks of Sabinal River............................................45 Sabinal River Lodge Log Cabin Lodge.............................................................41 Sarah’s Utopia Home Decor, Gifts & More......................................................41 The Lunchbox Eatery Soups, Salads, Sandwiches...........................................43 Unwind Utopia Body Works Professional Therapeutic Massage, Facials...................................................47 Utopia General Store Groceries and Supplies.................................................47 Utopia River Retreat Main House, 6 Cabins With Riverfront.........................47 Utopia Springs Cabin near Lost Maples..........................................................43

Camp Wood Marilyn’s Jewelry, Quilts, Knives, Cowhides & Western Decor........................49

Medina Great Hill Country Pumpkin Patch Saturday- Monday in October................50

Uvalde Amy’s Attic.....................................................................................................53 Jefflandon Antiques.......................................................................................53 Ox Hunting Ranch Hunting, Drive & Shoot Real WWII Tanks...................58 Uvalde County Fairplex Event Venue & Indoor Arena...................................2 Uvalde Memorial Hospital ............................................................................51

Rocksprings/Barksdale Dana’s Hot Dog House Concession Food and More.........................................55 Miss Buffy’s Custom Ammo Casing Jewelry & More.......................................55 Western Hill Country Realty Ranches, Hunting............................................55

Sabinal Sabinal Health Clinic .....................................................................................57

My Stompin’ Grounds My StoMpin’ GroundS

An Oral History Collection by Lora B. Davis Garrison

Texas Hill Country Settlers Their Own Stories An Oral History Collection

By Lora B. Davis Garrison

Texas Hill Country Settlers

Their Own Stories

www.MyStompinGrounds.net

389 Cooper Mountain Rd. Rio Frio, TX 78879 830-232-5775

onthefrio@riverbluffcabins.com

River Bluff Cabins Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

5

Map of Map ofthe theHill Hill Country CountryRiver RiverRegion Region

6

Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

Tim & Linda Hester

830-232-5903 Cell 830-261-0772 Fax 830-232-5801 100 River Road Concan, Texas

Frio Bat Flight

M

arch through September on a ranch near Concan, you can watch in awe as 10- to 12-million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from Frio Cave at Frio Bat Flight. The beautiful and private 10,000-acre property on which the cave is located has been continuously owned by the same family since 1874.

Bain and Kirstin Walker run the tours, each season hosting a whopping 3,000 to 4,000 visitors, all who come to see the second largest bat population in the world (that’s open to the public). Bain takes questions from the audience as the crowd waits for the bats to begin emerging from the cave about 30 minutes before sunset.

These bats will travel up to 35 miles from the cave every night, covering several hundred miles in one evening. They are insectivores, preferring to dine on agricultural pests.

“Scientists have discovered the bats eat, on average, their body weight nightly. That amounts to about 100 tons of insects a year!” says Bain.

Bats emerge from Frio Cave March through September. Frio Bat Flight entry is $12; $10 for kids 10 and under; and $11 for seniors. Kids 5 and under get in free. Tour times vary by season.

For more information, call 888-502-9387, email info@friobatflight.com or visit the web site at www.friobatflight.com.

At the intersection of Highways 83 & 41

Buck Home of Billy and the 830-640-3235 • GarvenStore.com

Cabin Rentals

www.friofamilygetaway.com

Hill Country RV Rentals “We Deliver & Setup, So All You Need to do is Show Up” Equipped Kitchen & All Bedding Provided

Frio Canyon & Bandera

713-858-2617

www.HillCountryRVRentals.com

~ HILL COUNTRY ~

Nature Center & Tours Annual Nature

Quest • April 11-14, 2019 Nature, Bird, Hike, Mountain Bike Trails Birding, Natural History & Big Tree Tours plus

Campfire Storytelling

by Lee Haile & LeAnn Sharp

830-966-2134

HillCountryAdventures.com Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

7

Sarah’s Utopia UTOPIA, TEXAS

Photos courtesy Sarah’s Utopia.

Prepare to be delighted upon entering Sarah’s Utopia — a locally owned indoor and outdoor home decor, and small gift specialty shop. At Sarah’s, you’ll find lots of unique items including pillows, Texas-poured candles, totes, home decor, delicious seasonings, dips, drinks, and so much more.

A proud retailer of FAT artisan style chalk paint, Sarah

offers hand painted furniture, painting services, interior design services, event services, holiday decor services, plus custom embroidery and vinyl services. Don’t miss this gem of a shop in beautiful Utopia.

Check out Sarah’s Utopia out on Facebook, Instagram and via email at sarahsutopia1@gmail.com or call 830-4869508. 359 Main Street, Utopia, Texas 78884. 10 am to 5 pm.

unexpected & delightful shopping Miss Buffy’s

ROCKSPRINGS, TEXAS Shop the unique styles at Miss Buffy’s, with options for all sorts of occasions. Finding your “stepping out” clothes is easy, both in store and online.

“We want you to look and feel like you just stepped off the pages of Cowboys and Indians and still have money to feed the deer and livestock.”

In addition to women’s, men’s and children’s apparel, Miss Buffy’s also offers home goods, unique jewelry, goat milk soaps and lotions, Twisted X boots, Anza knives and much more.

Photos courtesy Miss Buffy’s.

For more information, visit MissBuffys. com or call 830-507-9171. 211 W. Main Street, Rocksprings, Texas 78880. 10 am to 3:30 pm.

See Shopping, page 10

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Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

RIO FRIO

Bonnie’s Bakery Fresh baked goods, from our family to yours

Indian Blanket Ranch Secluded 250-acre Ranch Getaway Private Pool • Hot Tub Star Gazing • Birdwatching Nature Trails • Hiking Mountain Biking • Fireplace Campfire • Wi-Fi TV • Ping Pong Play Area for Kids

Bluebird Hill & Star Suite

Sleeps Up to 18!

On US 83, 1.25 miles north of Garner State Park

Place your order today, call

830-232-5582

Beautiful Ranch Wedding Destination 5 minutes to Garner State Park 25 minutes to Lost Maples State Natural Area

info@indianblanketranch.com

Separate

Hideaway Cabin

830-966-2134 • IndianBlanketRanch.com

830-232-5583 • www.CridersResort.com • criderscabins@hotmail.com Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

9

Canyon Charm LEAKEY, TEXAS

Look for the yellow door!

Don’t miss this unique and charming boutique offering everything from trendy apparel, sandals, boots, jewelry, purses and other accessories. You can also find home decor, vintage items, tee shirts and other special gifts for tourists and locals alike! More than 1,500 sq feet of fun! 22 years in business. Find Canyon Charm on Facebook or call 830-232-6102. 1034 US83, Leakey, Texas 78873. Open Year round. Monday through Saturday 10 am to 5 pm. (Open some Sundays and open later in the summer). Photos courtesy Canyon Charm.

unexpected & delightful shopping Marilyn’s

CAMP WOOD, TEXAS Located in the Beautiful Nueces Canyon and housed in the Old American Legion Hall of Camp Wood, Marilyn’s offers 4,000 square feet of shopping, with a wide array of rustic furniture and home decor including sofas, recliners, bedroom sets, bars, barstools and mattresses. The shop has 100 quilts in stock, starting at just $49.

You will also find sterling silver jewelry and a large stock of hunters fixed blade Anza knives and Muella. Pocket knives such as Case, Moore Maker, Hen & Rooster and Boker. Now offering outdoor furniture and accessories.

Find Marilyn’s on Facebook for more photos and inspiration @ Marilyn’s Home Furnishings or call 830-597-6400. 116 South Nueces, Camp Wood, Texas 78833. Wednesday through Saturday 10 am to 5 pm. Photos courtesy Marilyn’s.

See Shopping, page 12

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Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

LEAKEY

MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS TODAY! Hill Country Views, Wildlife, Tubing, Hiking, Star Gazing, Fishing, More

830-232-5955 • www.cypressfrio.com

welcome

published by the Hill Country SUN

to the Hill Country River Region

CALL NOW TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE IN THE 2020 ISSUE! 512-484-9716 • julie@hillcountrysun.com

Banana Nut Bread Kolaches • Turnovers

r ba

a’s

Baked G

o

s

Private access to a 1/2 mile of the East Frio River 3 miles north of Leakey, Texas on US 83

Cakes • Pies

od

Open Year-Round Reservations Required

BBG’s Bakery r

Where memories can be made for a lifetime....

Ba

Cabins on the Frio River

Call for special orders You’ll also find our goodies at

The Leakey MercanTiLe! HOURS 7 am-noon Wed -Sat

830-232-5703 • 830-486-6343

279 Mountain Street in Leakey EscapE to LEakEy

Enjoy Rest & Relaxation at

RiveR Haven

on 6.5 acres overlooking the Frio River (Rio Frio) Log Cabins with River Views Lodge Available for

Reunions • Weddings • Meetings

Manager: Margie Sutherland

www.riverhavencabins.com • rhc@hctc.net 830-232-5400 • 866-232-5400 (toll free)

Leakey Beverage Barn Large variety of Wine and Import & Domestic Beer

Kegs • Snacks Family Friendly Beverages Apple Scented Corn

821 S US Highway 83 • Leakey, Texas @ the flashing yellow light on Hwy 83 (830) 232-4224 • OPEN 9-7 Daily • 8-9 in Summer • Noon-6 Sunday Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

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Amy’s Attic UVALDE, TEXAS

Amy’s Attic in downtown Uvalde recently celebrated its 8th anniversary, adding embroidery monogramming to an already-wide array of merchandise. You can find a gift for anyone in your family at Amy’s Attic... you just might find something for yourself, too!

Check out Amy’s Attic on Facebook, at www. amysatticgiftsuvalde.com, amysatticuvalde@yahoo. com or call 830-278-1667. 320 N Getty Street, Uvalde, Texas 78801. Monday through Saturday 10 am to 5:30 (ish) pm. Photos courtesy Amy’s Attic.

unexpected & delightful shopping Loca on the Frio CONCAN, TEXAS

Created by two friends’ love of the Southwest, their ranching heritage and lifestyles, Loca on the Frio is a fun, eclectic shopping experience.

Whether you’re looking for furniture, home decor, art, gifts, jewelry or the perfect outfit, you’ll find something for everyone, casual or dressy, sizes 0 to 3X, even a quirky little men’s corner. Plus hand-selected Native American Indian Jewelry from Arizona and New Mexico, beautiful designer jewelry and a huge selection of fun and funky fashion jewelry.

Loca on the Frio is open year round with extended hours during peak season. We ship so please follow on instagram and Facebook @CowgirlLoca. When in Fredericksburg stop by the second location! 23223 N. US Hwy. 83, Concan, Texas 78838. 830-232-4402. Photos courtesy Loca on the Frio.

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Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

Leakey SpringS CabinS Waterfront Cabins Family Cabins Waterfront Group Lodge

LEAKEY

On 320 Private Acres New Salt Water Swimming Pool Sleeps Up To 12

Margie Sutherland, Manager

830-232-6351

www.LeakeySpringsCabins.com

830-232-3746 • FrioCanyonRentals.com

Pioneer Real Estate “We hit the trail for you.”

Ash Creek hideAwAy Shirley Shandley, Owner/Broker 698 S. Hwy. 83 • Leakey, TX

830-232-6422 HillCountryRealEstate.net

leakey mercantile

3 Acre Country Home | Seasonal Creek Wildlife & Birdwatching 3 miles North of Leakey | Sleeps 14

210-842-1555 vrbo.com/1250951

Real Estate Specialist for the Texas Hill Country and Frio Canyon

Groceries • Fresh Produce Camping Supplies Beer/Wine Meat Market We make fresh ground beef daily!

Open 7 Days a week ’til 8 pm

830-232-6299

leakeymercantile.com Highways 83 & 337 in Leakey, TX

To list your property or buy, contact

Doug Shoemaker, Ph,D 830-279-4950 doug@buythefrio.com 547 US Hwy 83 S • Leakey, TX 78873 Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

13

MUSIC VENUES

BUCKHORN BAR & GRILL (LEAKEY)

Karaoke/DJ Friday nights. Live music/DJ every Saturday in summer, plus Halloween weekend, Saturday after Thanksgiving, and New Year’s Eve. 4 pm ‘til midnight Fridays and 4 pm to 1 am Saturdays; open 7 days a week Memorial Day through Labor Day and Spring Break. Food, pool tables, shuffleboard, games. Drive through beverage barn. Family and biker friendly. 4377 US-83, Leakey, TX 78873. Find them on Facebook or call 830-232-4755.

THE BACK PORCH (LEAKEY)

Sandwiches, beer, wine and margaritas. Thursday through Saturday 11 am to 10 pm. At the historic Leakey Inn, 527 S. Highway 83,Leakey, Texas 78873. leakeyinn.com, 830-232-5246.

JOE JIMMY’S (CONCAN)

Open most nights Memorial Day through Labor Day (occasionally during off season). Family friendly with dancing, concession stand and more. Live music most Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays and Karaoke most Wednesdays. Closed Sunday. $5 at the gate. (12 and under free). 20970 TX-127, Concan, TX 78838. nealslodges.com/joejimmys, 830-232-6118.

HOUSE PASTURE (CONCAN)

Thursday Steak night with live music. Live music Friday and Saturday nights spring break and summer through Labor Day. Check website for schedule. 3064 CR 348, Concan, TX 78838. housepasture.com, 830-232-6580.

Leakey Festivity of Lights ushers in holiday season Don’t miss the 2nd Annual Leakey Festivity of Lights. The fun begins with the lighting of the courthouse Thanksgiving evening at sunset and runs through early to midJanuary. You’ll be amazed at the sight of more than 30,000 lights on the Real County courthouse and grounds brightening the City of Leakey to kick off the holiday season. After the grounds are illuminated — a truly aweinspiring moment — enjoy entertainment by local musicians and photo opportunities among the beautiful lights.

The project includes commercial lights around the top of the courthouse, lighted wreaths, and lights around beautiful oak trees on the courthouse lawn. Donations from individuals and businesses fund the project, and many volunteers and professional lighting stagers work multiple days on the installation, with downtown and community businesses participating in the lighting of buildings and property, adding to the beauty and festivity of the holiday season.

The Leakey Festivity of Lights has a non-profit partnership with Downtown Leakey, Inc., a local 501(c)3 organization. Donations to support the Leakey Festivity of Lights can be mailed to P.O. Box 402, Leakey, Texas 78873. The support of the community is well appreciated!

Wylden Hubbard Memorial Youth Rodeo August 31

D

on’t miss the 3rd Annual Wylden Hubbard Memorial Youth Rodeo and Goat Roping Saturday, August 31, 2019, at the Real County Junior Horse Club Arena in Leakey.

Created in honor of Wylden Hubbard of Leakey, the youth rodeo will offer everything from youth saddle-bronc riding and mutton-busting to bull riding and an all out goat roping for the young and the young at heart. It’s sure to be a fun-for-all-ages day you and your family don’t want to miss!

Wylden Blain Hubbard, the event’s namesake, was taken to be with his Lord and Heavenly Father sooner than expected, but in his 13 years on Earth he left behind a gift to others that will never be forgotten. He is remembered for his honesty and hard work, but his contagious smile is the memory that will long be etched in so many hearts.

Wylden loved the outdoors — whether hunting, fishing, riding bulls or trapping with his dad. He also loved sports — all sports— but his sport of heart

was baseball. This was a young man who knew the value of a dollar and he knew the way to earn it was through good, old-fashioned hard work. No matter how hard the work or how tired he was, he always greeted everyone he met with that smile.

Proceeds from the Memorial Youth Rodeo and Goat Roping go to the Wylden Hubbard Memorial Scholarship Fund to be given to a local graduating senior who understands and exemplifies the legacy that Wylden left behind.

Photo courtesy Hubbard family.

ld

#staywy

LEAKEY

Home Decor • Apparel • Accessories • Antiques

Frio Canyon Real Estate

Boutique • Antiques • Home Decor Shawn Streib Gray, Owner/Broker

230 US Highway 83 South • Leakey, Texas

830-232-4500

friocanyonrealestate.com

OPEN YEAR ROUND! We appreciate our tourists/visitors

830-232-6102 1034 US Hwy 83 S • Leakey, Texas

Cedar Oil • Jewelry • Lazy Susans • Pottery • Ornaments • New & Antique Stained Glass • Lariat Baskets

Catahoula Gifts J Decor c ustom WooDWork

Featuring 39 artisans Open Year rOund

105 RR 337W @ Hwy 83 Leakey, TX

830-232-5833

Mantels • Crosses • Custom Furniture • Calf Skins • Cowhides • Pillows • Handcrafted Glycerin Soaps

GicleE Prints & Cards by B.F. CHapa • Lamps • Lampshades

Mohair Clothing by Dolores • Mesquite Cutting Boards

Celebrating more than 20 years in business!

CatahoulaArtisanGallery.com Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

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Frio • Sabinal • Nueces • Frio • Sabinal • Nueces • Frio • Sabinal • Nueces • Frio • Sabinal • Nueces

where did the river get its name?

By Greg Walton

T

he rivers of Southwest Texas are its most unique natural feature. Emanating from a thousand springs spread over a 50-mile band of rugged Balcones Escarpment terrain, they have carved countless cliffs, canyons and valleys on their inevitable journey to the sea.

Each of these rivers originates in the rough and jagged canyon country, commonly called the fault zone, between the Edwards Plateau and the Coastal Plains. The early history of these rivers, and how each got its name, is an interesting aspect of the history of the larger region itself.

The Edwards Plateau is like a giant sponge sitting on a tilted dinner plate. Rainwater enters the ground through various cracks and crevices, caves and sinkholes, until it percolates down to a solid layer of limestone. The water then flows south and eastward underground until it emerges at a spring along the Balcones Escarpment. This Escarpment was created 15 million years ago, when the lower Coastal Plains broke away from the higher Plateau, leaving a highly erodible edge.

Springs occur all along the edge of the Escarpment, with particularly large springs at Del Rio, Brackettville, San Antonio,

New Braunfels, San Marcos and Austin. In the River Region, these springs are smaller but more numerous, and they form hundreds of small canyons and creeks. These tributaries eventually form into notable three rivers.

Spanish explorers first came to this region in the 1600s, moving from Mexico in the south and west toward the north and east. As they did elsewhere, they named each of the natural features as they discovered them.

The Nueces River is the largest of these three rivers, and was the first to be encountered. Indeed the Frio and Sabinal can be considered tributaries of the Nueces. The entire region is sometimes known as the Nueces River basin.

The first explorers, finding the river’s mouth in Corpus Christi Bay somewhat hidden, named it the Rio Escondido, or Hidden River. Other Spanish explorers, further inland and coming from the arid southwest, were relieved to see permanent water, abundant grass and large trees. The trees in particular provided a welcome respite from the desert sun, and the nuts they produced were tasty and plentiful. Therefore they named the river the Pecan River, or Rio Nueces in Spanish.

See River Names, page 18

LEAKEY

Clothing, Shoes, Jewelry, Gifts & Home Decor

631 South US Highway 83

OPEN 11 am-7 pm Tuesdays & Fridays

Mention or bring in this ad for

10% OFF Open Mon-Thurs 11-5 & Fri-Sat 10-8 Memorial Day-Labor Day

830-232-4394 226 N US Highway 83 • Leakey, TX (next to Mama Choles Mexican Restaurant)

Specialty Burgers, & A Variety of Menu Choices Dine-In or To-Go Clean Restrooms

WIFI

657 West RR337 1/2 Mile West of Hwy 83

www.BentRimGrill.com • 830-232-6649 Serving Breakfast 7:30 am to 11 am

OPEN

10 AM to 9 PM MON-SAT CLOSED SUNDAY

(830) 232-4993 417 B Hwy 83 Right Next to the Leakey Mercantile

RV Park/Campground

Ice Cold Beer, Frozen Drinks, Wine Selections Best Burgers in Town!

Live Music, Karaoke, Dancing Pool Tables, Dart Board, Free Shuffleboard Free WiFi • Late Hours Watch your favorite sports on TV Fun for Whole Family • Bikers Welcome

830-232-4755

4377 S US Hwy 83, 4 miles south of Leakey Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

17

River Names, from page 16

In 1762 they established two missions here in the upper Nueces Canyon, Mission San Lorenzo de la Santa Cruz, and Mission Nuestra Senora de la Candelaria del Canon, as well as a presidio, a short distance away.

Continuing to the east, the Spanish explorers next encountered a river which, because of the large and frequent springs along it, produced very cold water. Unlike the Nueces River, the predominant tree along the Frio is not the pecan but the cypress.

The Spanish christened this river the Cold River-Rio Frio in Spanish. The Spanish apparently made no attempt to settle the Frio Canyon, but they did take note of the abundant water, tree cover and other resources. It is this cold and plentiful water which makes the Frio such a great river for canoeing, kayaking, fishing and swimming.

Moving still eastward, they next came to a river lined with very large cypress trees. This stream they named the Cypress River. In Spanish, the word for a single cypress is “Sabino”.

But in the Spanish language if you want to describe a large group of trees rather than a single specimen you add the suffix “al”. Thus a large group of cypress trees is not a sabino but a sabinal. In this way the Sabinal River was named.

Again, the Spaniards made no permanent settlements in the Sabinal Canyon, but General Juan Ugalde, for whom Uvalde County was named, fought a significant battle here against the Apaches in 1790. This canyon has also been known as Arroyo de la Soledad (Stream of Solitude) and Canon de Ugalde (Uvalde Canyon).

At Sabinal River Lodge. Photo courtesy Sabinal River Lodge.

18

Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

At Utopia Springs. Photo courtesy Utopia Springs.

At River Rim Resort. Photo by Kathy Tise Miska.

LEAKEY

It’s the Place to Be! Come visit Frio Acres in Concan, Texas We have 51 beautiful and secluded acres with one acre on the Frio River. The Texas Hill Country at its best, just a few miles from Garner State Park. Cabins and Lodges at the Frio River where you can enjoy the mountains, the wildlife, the cold and relaxing refreshing waters of the Frio River, relax to the cool evening breeze and endless stars.

Look no further, Frio Acres offers 9 cabins and 5 lodges that will accommodate large groups for reunions, corporate gatherings and weddings/receptions.

We have lodges secluded within 2 acres with an outdoor pavilion and beautiful oak trees, family lodge with outdoor playground and fire pit, grand view lodge with spectacular views of the Frio Canyon, a lodge with a great gathering room and private bedrooms and lodges with private Frio River frontage.

If your needs are not that of a large lodge, then our 2 bedroom/2 bath spacious and quaint cabins are just what you need.

1-877-635-4848 www.frioacres.com 1047 CR 350 CONCAN, TX 78838

The most popular state park in Texas

Garner State Park

G

arner State Park encompasses 1,774 acres and 2.9 miles of beautiful Frio River frontage, including 11 miles of scenic trails. So, whether you’re camping overnight or visiting for the day, with swimming, fishing, biking, geocaching, dancing, hiking, picnicking and so much more, there’s always plenty to do and see.

Since the ’40s, folks have been gathering for the familyfriendly jukebox dances at the Garner State Park Pavilion.

Dances are Mon­day through Saturday during Spring Break, and Saturday nights ’til sum­mer. Then in summer, you can enjoy a dance every night of the week, with post-summer dances Saturday evenings.

One fun diversion is putt-putt golf at Stinkin’ Sweet Candy Shop and Mini Golf (located at the Park Pavilion), with rentals $5 each ($2 for kids 3 and under) including a putter, ball and 18 holes.

Want to go for round two? Play again for only $2 per per­ son — any age. You can golf 7 days a week from 10 am to 10:15 pm through the second week in August, Saturday and Sunday only during the off season (closed Decem­ber through March).

The updated camp store has just about everything you need—from firewood to gourmet muffins and coffee, s’mores

20

Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

Photo by Julie Harrington.

fixin’s to candy, drinks, ice cream and more. Find snacks and supplies, and rent tubes, barbecue pits, tables, even fans and heaters at the Garner camp store. Paddle boats and boards, kayaks and canoes are also for rent.

Hungry? Head over to the Garner Grill, serving up burg­ ers, fries, corn dogs and more, made fresh to order, Saturdays and Sundays April through May, dai­ly all summer and Fridays and Saturdays in the fall.

Another fun tradi­tion, summer hayrides (hosted by the Friends of Garner State Park Tuesday through Friday from June See Garner State Park, page 22

ICE CREAM & MORE -

Concan’s Frio Float

H

ave a hankering for something sweet? Head on over to The Frio Float, Concan’s premier sweet shop. This fun, charming shop delights with delicious ice cream floats, milkshakes, sundaes, soft serve, Blue Bell ice cream, cotton candy, a wide selection of candy and more.

You’re sure to find a treat for every member of the family!

The Frio Float is located at 21563 Texas Highway 127 in Concan, and open 11 am to 9 pm everyday in the summer. For more information, including off-season hours of operation, call 830-232-5591 or find The Frio Float on Facebook.

CONCAN

We know you enjoy the river in the summer, but remember...we are OPEN ALL YEAR!

Neal’s is a great place YEAR-ROUND! Plan your next quiet getaway for the “off season” and

ENJOY 20% OFF LODGING!

Great for corporate and church retreats, family reunions, weddings & other celebrations!

Check out our website for Fall and Spring events:

20970 TX-127, Concan, Texas 78838

830-232-6118 • www.nealslodges.com

Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

21

Garner State Park, from page 20

THE GARNER STATE PARK SONG In the Western part of Texas Ninety miles from San Antone, There’s a place I go each summer When I get the urge to roam.

I’d stand out on the highway, If I couldn’t get a ride I’d walk To Garner State Park.

There’s the cutest girls from Texas And from everywhere They trade their city slickin’ clothes For some boots and western wear, We swam all through the day And we danced when it got dark At Garner State Park.

to August) de­part from the Visitors Center promptly at 7 pm, so plan to arrive no later than 6:45 pm. Visit the Friends of Gar­ner Visitors’ Center or call 830-232-5999 to make res­ervations and for more information.

Garner is the most popular state park for overnight camping in Texas. Camping is available in screened shelters, cabins and campsites. Make your reservations early! The busy season is Memorial Day weekend ’til Labor Day weekend, and the park often reaches maximum capacity.

For information about rentals, the Park Store, Garner Grill and much more, visit the web site at www.garnerstatepark.com. To make reservations at Garner State Park, call 830-232-6132 or visit the web site at tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/garner. You can also follow Garner State Park on Facebook, where you’ll find Brett Rimkus’ dam reports and other up-to-date news of the park.

She was the cutest girl around, We walked down to the water Found a big rock, began to talk At Garner State Park.

Next thing I knew it was 4 a.m.

She said my mother’s surely worried About where I am And with the Texas sky above, We couldn’t help but fall in love At Garner State Park.

Ready for the river. Photo by Kelly Marler.

Well, the summer it was over And we had to say goodbye, We said we’d see each other next year, As a tear fell from her eye.

When I came I knew no sorrow; now I’m leaving with a broken heart At Garner State Park.

Oh, but I’ll be back again next year...

Garner dance. Photo by Cliff Trinkaus.

22

Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

CONCAN

Our 35th Summer on the Frio!

A Frio Tradition!

Frio River & GSP T-Shirts Shorts H Flip Flops H Patagonia Consuela H Southern Tide H Chacos Rowdy Gentleman H Hats/Caps River Gear H Yellow Box Jewelry H Gifts H and More!

Hand Dipped Blue Bell H Hawaiian Shaved Ice Open Sunday-Thursday 9:30 am - 5:30 pm • Friday-Saturday 9:30 am - 6:30 pm

Check Us Out On Hwy 127 in Concan

Like Us On

830-232-6300 • friosdryfifty.com

Ivy Jane H Sister Mary Aratta H Totem Double D Ranchwear Silverado H Karma Living Match Point Gretty Zuker H Anu Amy Kaplan H Holyfield

Clothing

Gifts H Jewelry Home Decor 337 E Main Street

Fredericksburg 830-307-3083

23223 N US Hwy 83

Concan

830-232-4402

CowgirlLoca.com Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

23

24

Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

local churches CAMP WOOD Nueces Canyon Church of Christ 1656 N. Hwy 55 • 830-597-4131

LEAKEY Church of Christ 3rd Street • 830-232-6933

First Baptist Church 813 South Nueces • 830-597-5150

Church in the Valley 724 Hwy 83. • 830-232-6841

Hill Country Church of Christ Hwy. 55 N. • 830-597-6175 St. Mary Magdalene Catholic 311 E. 3rd. • 830-597-5165 CONCAN Church of Christ Hwy. 83 at the Y • 830-232-4058 Concan Baptist Mission 32711 Hwy 83 • 830-232-4411 Emmanuel Lutheran 2561 Co. Rd 350 830-232-4006

First Baptist Church Hwy. 83 N. • 830-232-5344 Frio Canyon Baptist Church 919 Hwy. 83 S. • 830-232-5883 Réal County Church of Christ 121 Oak Hill • 830-275-9661 St. Raymond Catholic 2nd Ave.• 830-232-5852 Trinity Fellowship E. on 337 • 830-232-6770 Leakey United Methodist 410 N. Market • 830-232-6266

RIO FRIO New Beginning 5749 RR 1120 830-232-5221 UTOPIA Gospel Tabernacle 371 Main St. • 830-966-2440 Living Waters Church FM 1050 • 830-966-2426 United Methodist 200 Cypress • 830-966-3400 Utopia Baptist Church 241 Johnson St. • 830-966-3688 Utopia Church of Christ Main Street • 830-966-3629 VANDERPOOL St. Mary’s Catholic Hwy 187 • 830-966-6268 CONCAN

EL RODS ON THE FRIO is a new RV Park located just north of Garner State Park. Our secluded part of the crystal clear Frio is pure bliss!

RV SPOTS & CABINS AVAILABLE

The most beautiful spot on the Frio River Reservations at

elrodsfrio.com

1101 Cold Springs Ranch Rd. • Concan • (830)232-6699

/elrodsfrio

Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

25

Hill Country Nature Center

& Indian Blanket Ranch

W

hen out and about, be sure Hill Country Nature Center is on your list of places to visit. Here, you’ll find fossils, arrowheads, and Texas snake, bird, bat, butterfly and insect displays highlighting the natural attractions of the Hill Country River Region. You can even see the happenings inside a bluebird nestbox, with the help of some cool technology.

Perhaps best of all, you might find the knowledgeable and friendly LeAnn Garrison-Sharp, founder of Hill Country Nature Center, who has for years made it her mission to share the natural wonders of the area with guests and locals alike. A visit to the center is a great chance to learn all about birding, bats, native plants, champion trees and the natural history of the area.

Hill Country Adventures Hiking Indian Blanket Ranch. Photo by LeAnn Garrison-Sharp. offers plenty of educational tours. With several national champion trees, including the largest tree in Texas, there’s plenty to see on the Natural History/ Big Tree tour, offered year round.

Guided birding and nature tours offer participants a chance to drive to and hike on private Hill Country Ranches and State Parks along the beautiful Frio and Sabinal River Valleys. And, when river conditions are SEE Nature/Ranch, page 32

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Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

Nature Quest tour group. Photo courtesy LeAnn Garrison-Sharp.

CONCAN

DID YOU KNOW?

How Concan got its name

T

heodophilus Watkins first settled at Con Can and built the first log cabin with a chimney in 1862. When a Post Office was to be established in 1880, a name had to be chosen. One story of how the community of Concan got its name goes like this: “The men of the community gathered on Saturday afternoons and played dominoes and ‘coon can,’ a Texas card game. ‘Coon can’ was a variation of ‘Conquian,’ the earliest known rummy game, played since at least the 1880s. When word came that a Post Office was to be located there and a name for the town had to be decided on, the men decided that they would send in ‘Coon Can.’In Washington, no one had heard of such a game or such a word, so they thought the Texans must have misspelled the word and meant Con Can (now spelled Concan).”

This story was excepted from Lora B. Garrison’s book, “Texas Pioneer Families.”

River Grove Rentals on the Frio

830-834-0434

OPEN YEAR ROUND Located at 2034 CR 350 on the Frio River Brand New! 2 BR/2 BA and 3 BR/3 BA Houses Available!

Private Pool & Private River Access HOME OF Rio Leopard Boutique

FrioRiverGroveRentals.com

“Where All Your Troubles Just Float Away!” Come Stay, Shop & Float!

SHOP Groceries, Boutique Gift Shop, Volleyball, Horseshoes

STAY Cabins, Suites, Rv Sites Tent Camping All Cabins & Suites have free Wireless internet

FLOAT Tubing, Kayaking & Shuttle Service

830-232-5444 • www.FloatTheFrio.com

info@floatthefrio.com • 21488 TX Hwy 127 • Concan, Texas Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

27

Nature/Ranch, from page 26 prime you can travel down the Frio River on a guided three- or four-hour Nature By Kayak Tour March through September.

The beautiful nature trails at Indian Blanket Ranch (adjacent to the Nature Center) cut through the valleys and hills providing a picturesque path for hiking, jogging and mountain biking. To hike or bike, just check in at the Nature Center. Trails hours are Monday through Friday from 10 am to 6 pm, admission $5 per person for the day. To get an earlier start, call the office at least one day in advance; for weekend reservations, call

by Friday.

Another attraction at Indian Blanket Ranch is the Bluebird Trail — 30 nestboxes and six viewing stations with benches where you can see small cavity nesters including Eastern Bluebirds, Black-crested Titmouse, Bewick’s Wren, Ash-throated Flycatcher, and Carolina Chickadee with nests, eggs or baby birds. Nestbox Trail Birding Tours are available March through June — advance reservations only.

There’s plenty more spectacular birdwatching on the ranch with 126 species of birds sighted — you might see a Goldencheeked Warbler, Black-capped Vireo, Vermillion Flycatcher, Zone-tailed Hawk, Hummers and more. Bring your camera— photo opportunities abound.

For information about the Hill Country Nature Center and tours—including Bluebird Nestbox Trail, Hiking and Biking, Big Tree Tours and Nature By Kayak Tours offered through Hill Country Adventures, and NatureQuest April 11-14, visit www.hillcountryadventures.com or call 830-966-2134. Check the website for scheduled Campfire Storytelling at the Nature Center; or reserve Storytelling at your lodging. More info on Indian Blanket Ranch at www.indianblanketranch.com.

Bluebird nestbox along the trail. Photo by LeAnn Garrison-Sharp.

Bluebird eggs in the nest. Photo by LeAnn Garrison-Sharp.

Great trails for biking at Indian Blanket Ranch.

Photo by LeAnn Garrison-Sharp.

28

Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

Baby bluebirds. Photo by LeAnn Garrison-Sharp.

Need A Vacation Home In Concan River Road - CR348

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One Mile of Happy Find YOUR happy place at Happy Hollow!

Happy Hollow

To Leakey

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To Utopia

GARNER STATE PARK

Just 15 minutes away!

• Firewood • Gas & Diesel • Groceries • Ice • Lottery • Shirts, Clothing, Gifts • Tubes & Float Service • ATM

CALL AHEAD!

830-232-6910

• Beautiful 3,300-Acre Ranch • 2 Lodges That Sleep 10 for Rent • World Class Year ’Round Hunting • Native: Whitetail, Turkey, Hogs • Exotics: Axis, Blackbuck, Nilgai, Semitar Oryx, Aoudad, Red Sheep

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Best Vacation Rentals in Concan!

“Providing unforgettable experiences, time & time again” PERSONAL SERVICE/ RED CARPET TREATMENT

10 YEARS IN BUSINESS

More than 45 rental properties RIVERFRONT H POOLS HOMES H CABINS

936-524-4545

Office at 289 CR 348 • Concan, TX

Open All Year

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Homes H Ranches Acreages Vacation Rentals “I can show you any property for sale in the Frio Canyon. Catch the Frio Fever - own a piece of the Frio!”

Larry Roberts, Owner/Broker

Conveniently located in the heart of Concan 289 CR 348 • Concan, TX • 936.537.4555

www.frioriverrealty.com

CONCAN

HWY 83 & 127 Concan, TX 78838

713-562-8043

(800) 591-3421 Family Owned & Operated Open Year-Round

Fully Furnished Vacation Rental Homes near the beautiful Frio River PO Box 45 • Concan, TX 78838

ConcanRiverLodging.com Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

33

so much here to do & see VANDERPOOL

Wine Tastings at Lost Maples Winery Lost Maples Winery is open for tastings Wednesday through Friday from 1 pm to 7 pm, Saturdays 11 am to 7 pm, often featuring live music in the afternoons. Sundays, the tasting room is open from 12 pm to 7 pm. Each tasting includes nine wines for $16. Private tastings area also available and recommended for large groups. Call 830-966-5131 to schedule. 34986 Farm Market 187, Vanderpool, Texas 78885.

CONCAN

Trail Rides at Elm Creek Stables

LEAKEY

Real County Historical Museum

Find a replicated log-cabin parlor, kitchen and bedroom, furnished with pieces donated by locals. See an ornate 1880s horse-drawn hearse and local stone dartpoints from prehistoric Native Americans. A former blacksmith shop (adjacent to the museum) houses ranch relics and there are outdoor exhibits of farm implements, a log corn crib and jail cells from the 1910s. 1/2 block north of the Real County Courthouse on Evergreen Street in Downtown Leakey, open Friday and Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm (March through the first two weekends in December). The museum is closed in January and February. realcountyhistoricalmuseum.com or call 830-232-5330.

CONCAN

River Oaks Mini Golf

9-hole courses and a large practice green situated in a beautiful setting with plenty of benches.

Summer season hours: Monday through Sunday from 9 am to 8 pm Please call ahead for off-season hours. ½ mile River Road, Concan, Texas 78838. 830-232-6106.

Fort Inge Elm Creek Stables offers trail rides from 9 am to 5 pm.

You can take a ride about two miles long with gorgeous trails and great scenery for only $30 per person. Pony rides are available for the younger kids for $10. Adults can also enjoy a High Trail ride (about 2.5 miles) for $45.

The stables are extremely busy in summer, so remember to call ahead for a reservation. All proceeds from the trail rides and petting zoo at Elm Creek Stables go to the Frio Canyon Horse Rescue.

Open every day during spring break, and weekends after spring break through Memorial Day. The stables are open daily Memorial Day through the end of summer. Hours are 9 am to 5 pm; last ride out at 5 pm. Call for reservations. Please bring cash or checks, no credit cards accepted at Elm Creek Stables. For more information, call 830-232-5365 or 830-2794051 or find them on Facebook. Photo courtesy Elm Creek Stables.

UVALDE

Fort Inge is listed as a Historic Site In Texas and was established in 1849 by the U.S. military where it remained active for 20 years. Today, the park offers historic trails perfect for afternoon hiking and biking, fishing, and scenic views of the Leona River. Note: open on weekends only. Country Road 375 Uvalde, TX 78801

Fly Fishing

RIVER REGION

Give it a try! Aaron Riggins of Pescado con Moscas Flyfishing Adventures offers guided canoe and wade fishing experiences on the Nueces, Frio and Sabinal rivers. For information, call 830-486-5629 or visit the web site at pescadoconmoscas.com.

See DO & SEE, page 36

34

Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

CONCAN

Elm Creek Stables “Come ride with us.”

Hippie Chic’s River Shack A unique & fantastically fun eatery

Great Eats • Cold Drinks • T-Shirts BYOB • Dog Friendly

GIFT SHOP

Drinks • Snacks Petting Zoo Trail Rides 00 $

30

Pony Rides 00 $

10 45

High Trail* 00 $ *High Trail: Longer Trail/Adults Only

Open 9 am-5 pm (last ride out at 5 pm) OPEN Everyday during Spring Break, Weekends After Spring Break, & Everyday Memorial Day through summer, Cash/Check Only Please.

1/4 mile N. of Garner State Park

On Hwy 83 N H 830-232-5365

Hours Early Spring: Thurs-Sat 11-7, Sun 11-2 Memorial Day - early August: Mon- Sat 11-7, Sun 11-2

830-232-5459 • 721 River Rd, Concan

NaNa’s RV PaRk & RV ReNtals River frontage park located on Frio River, each site features a picnic table, a fire ring, 20-30-50 amp electrical, sewer & water hook-ups

Across the Frio River from Garner State Park on County Road 350

RIO FRIO, TX • 830-232-4653

nanasrvparkonthefrio.com

36 cabins & homes on or near the Frio River in Concan, Texas 1-6 BEDROOM UNITS Pavilion Rental for Family Gatherings/Special Events Convenience Store on Site for last minute Camping & River Gear Pet Friendly H Hot tubs H Fireplaces Cabins have fully equipped kitchens, DSS/TV/DVD, A/C & heat

reservations@frioriver.com • 1-800-800-5773 • 830-232-6106

Open Daily 9-5. Call or book online at

FrioRiver.com

Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

35

so much here to do & see From page 34

Devil’s Sinkhole SNA

ROCKSPRINGS

Devil’s Sinkhole may be the largest single-chamber cavern in Texas – a 50-foot wide opening gives into a 140-foot shaft that drops into a 320-foot diameter cavern with a total depth of more than 350 feet. The cavern is enormous and is home to one of Texas’s largest colonies of Mexican free-tailed bats.

From late spring through early fall more than 3 million bats leave the sinkhole every evening.

The Devil’s Sinkhole Society offers evening tours to see the massive bat colony as well as nature walks, birding walks, day tours to see the sinkhole, and motorcycle tours. I’m telling you, fall hikes and bird walks might be the way to go. All tours begin at the Rocksprings Visitors Center in Rocksprings on the square – and this is the only way to visit the sinkhole.

Make reservations in advance by calling 830-683-2287. Reservations required – even if the bats have left the batcave.

Photo © Texas Parks & Wildlife Department.

Giant Oak

RIO FRIO

The Rio Frio Landmark Oak, State Champion (Texas Escarpment Live Oak Tree 1988) stands on the east side of the Frio River on Farm Road 1120.

According to the marker at the site, the “mighty oak served the early settlers as a social, religious, educational and political gathering place. During the early 1870’s, a school house was built just west of the tree. It was constructed of native Cypress lumber and its walls were filled with caliche.

Between 1880-1891, N.M.C. Patterson laid out the town of Rio Frio using the tree and schoolhouse mountain to the east as bearing points.” Photo by Melissa Ball.

Sabinal County Museum

UTOPIA

History exhibits at the Sabinal County Museum include pioneer farm implements, Indian artifacts, geological exhibits, including fossils and minerals from the Sabinal River Canyon. Hours are Saturday from 10 am to 1 pm and Sunday from 1 pm to 4 pm. 726 Ranch Road 187, Utopia, Texas 78884.

Wes Cooksey Park

CAMP WOOD

Beautiful and serene Uvalde County park on Lake Nueces and the Nueces River. In addition to the breathtaking setting, this park offers 30 RV hookups, plus scuba, volley ball, boat ramp, basketball, showers, fishing, swimming, horseshoes, tent camping and more. Located at 33719 TX-55, Camp Wood, Texas 78839. 830-597-3223.

Largest Tree in Texas

CONCAN

Check out the largest Texas tree! The Bald Cypress can be seen as you amble along Buffalo Creek at Criders on the Frio in Concan. The massive tree boasts a circumference of 438 inches, a height of 96 feet and a crown spread of 112 feet.

Don’t forget your camera...come take a look at this magnificent specimen and capture your own special family photo. It’s on private property, so please do stop by the office for a pass before you visit. CridersOnTheFrio.com. Photo

by Julie Harrington.

Want to see more big trees? Find BIG TREE TOURS at hillcountryadventures.com!

36

Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

CONCAN

VANDEPOOL

Lone Star Motorcycle Museum

The Lone Star Motorcycle Museum, four miles north of Vanderpool, is open Friday through Sunday (March to November) from 10 am to 4 pm. The museum features an impressive display of machines from around the world, dating from the 1910s to modern day. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 ages 65 and up. Visitors 15 and under and 90 years and up get in free.

Groups of 10 or more are $6 each; active military and spouse $5 each. Photo courtesy Lone Star Motorcycle Museum.The Lone Star Motorcycle Museum is located at 36517 Highway 187, less than one mile south of Lost Maples State Natural Area (also on Highway 187). For more information, visit the web site at lonestarmotorcyclemuseum.com, 830-966-6103.

Photo courtesy Lone Star Motorcycle Museum.

Open Year-Round offering Historic 1869

House & Family Cabins on 18 acres Fully Furnished • Pet-Friendly Satellite TV • Free Wi-Fi Conveniently located 3 miles south of Leakey 3.5 miles to Happy Hollow Tube Rentals & Shuttle 5 miles to Garner State Park

830-232-6797 • cell 936-520-3683 Make your online reservations today!

www.WhiskeyMountainInn.com

Frio Country Resort River Front Lodging

Cabins | RV Spots | Vacation Homes

Weddings & Family Reunions Corporate Retreats & Hunting Trips

www.friocountry.com |1.888.9ConCan 1801 CR 348 | PO Box 140 ConCan, TX 78838 Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

37

The plants of Lost Maples

by Greg Walton

L

ost Maples State Natural Area, at the upper end of the Sabinal Canyon, is a unique place, both geographically and geologically. The park is situated where three distinct Texas bioregions come together-the Texas Hill Country/Edwards Plateau, the South Texas Plains and the West Texas desert.

It includes both open grasslands and steep canyons. Consequently, the park hosts a wide variety of plants, ranging from upland desert plants, such as stool, cactus and several varieties of yucca, to riparian and canyon species such as escarpment cherry, rough-leaf dogwood and maple. Many of the plants in the park are endemic, meaning that they exist only here. Lost Maples State Natural Area is a place of uncommon beauty, at once typical of the Balcones Escarpment canyons and yet unique.

Henry Fisher, who was born in the upper Sabinal Canyon in 1902 and lived his entire life here, described his love for the area this way: “Mornings out here are usually pretty fine, with the warm sun coming up over the hills and a sense of “Go do something” in the air. But evenings are even finer, I think.

The light gets softer, everything seems to relax a bit. The deer come out, the night birds begin to sing. The coyote songs drift down out of the hills. I love it out here. I could never see myself living anywhere else.”

The upland ridges of the park itself form the southernmost edge of the Edwards Plateau, and so are home to large swaths of Ashe juniper (commonly but erroneously called ce-

Photo © Texas Parks and Wildlife Departmen.

See Lost Maples, page 40

Photo © Texas Parks and Wildlife Departmen.

38

Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

Photo © Texas Parks and Wildlife Departmen.

REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE

“Let us show you... Texas” RANCHES • LIVE WATER • FARM RECREATIONAL PROPERTIES Brandon Bownds, Broker

830-966-6111

Lost Maples, from page 38

dar), persimmon and mountain laurel.These rocky, calichebased hilltops and ridges also support seven varieties of cactus, including the rare tobush cactus.

Hillsides and canyon walls are filled with deciduous and evergreen hardwoods such as walnut, Texas ash, madrone and seven species of oak.

Riparian canyons, typically moist and cool in the summer, host a wide variety of plant species, including eight varieties of fern, willow and soapberry, pecan and sycamore, six varieties of milkweed, eleven varieties of sedge, and forty-five varieties of compositae (sunflower family). Among the latter, the fall-blooming Maximillian sunflowers are the most stunning, rising eight feet in the air as they wave in the breeze.

In the fall, the most colorful plant (and the tree for which the park is named) is the big-tooth maple (acer grandidentatum). Ten thousand years ago, during the most recent Ice Age, south Texas was much cooler and wetter than present.

Big tooth maples existed in many locations throughout Texas.

As the ice receded, however, and Texas became hotter and drier, these maple trees could only exist in small, protected canyon environments, including those in the Davis and Guadalupe Mountains and along the Edwards Escarpment. In this area, they thrive in the canyons and tributaries of the upper Sabinal and Medina Rivers. Hub Thompson, whose father came to the Sabinal Canyon in 1852, told a story about the first settler in the Lost Maples area, an immigrant from Vermont. He bought the maple grove specifically to produce maple syrup. “He come from up north about 1880. First, he bought that maple area up there, where all them maple trees is. First owner of it. Thought he would get syrup out of them trees. Come to find out they was a different kind of maple. Where he lived up north, he got syrup out of them trees, but these here didn’t produce.”

Roy Walton, who was born a few miles from Lost Maples

Photo by LeAnn Garrison-Sharp.

40

Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

in 1903, recalled that his family owned much of the park back in the 1920s. They ran goats and sheep there and called it the Wildcat Ranch.

“One of the most beautiful places I know hereabouts is a canyon up on the old Wildcat Ranch, up where the maples are. Mystic Canyon. How it came by that name I cannot say, although it predates my knowledge of the place. The shape of the cliffs there, the colors of the maple trees, the sweet taste and clarity of the water, it is easy to see that God did some of his best handiwork there.”

Although the maples in the park are not “lost” they are somewhat rare, and they provide the park both a distinct identity and a stunning display of fall color.

Greg Walton grew up in the Sabinal Canyon. He is the author of two oral history books on the Southern Hill Country, “Bear Meat ‘N’ Honey” and “Coyote Songs” and a founding member of the Friends of Lost Maples. Contact him at gregwalton12345@gmail.com.

Photo © Texas Parks and Wildlife Departmen.

UTOPIA/VANDERPOOL

Vintage Airstream Trailer Rental & Photo Booth

Great for Events & Parties!

Bridal Suite • Mobile Bar • Pop Up Shop Man Cave • Ultimate Photo Shoot Background Endless Rental Possibilities Bringing the Party to You, Texas!

432-352-5527

Wendy@AirDreamsEntertainment.com

AirDreamsEntertainment.com

Sabinal River Lodge • Sabinal River frontage • Near Lost Maples Natural Area, Garner State Park & Concan-Frio River • Fully furnished cabins with two queen beds.

• Perfect for weekend getaways & reunions!

FoxFire Cabins ON THE SABINAL RIVER

Year-Round

Log Cabin & Vacation Home Rentals in Vanderpool

Highway 187 South • Utopia, Texas

830-966-3393

SabinalRiverLodge.com

info@foxfirecabins.com 830-966-2200 • 877-966-8200

www.FoxFireCabins.com Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

41

sweets & treats CONCAN

LEAKEY

Baked Goods

Baked Goods

Concan Pies TX Hwys 83 & 127 713-562-8043

Ice Cream & Shaved Ice

Frio’s Dry Fifty Snack Shack

Tx. Hwy. 127 • 830-232-6300 Popcorn, Ice Cream, Vintage Candies

Concan General Store 31363 US Hwy. 83 • 830-232-6414

BBGs Bakery 279 Mountain Street 830-232-5703 and at Leakey Mercantile

local info Frio Canyon

friocanyonchamber.com

Uvalde County

visituvaldecounty.com

Pie and More

Utopia and Sabinal Canyon

849 US Highway 83 S 830-232-4805

nuecescanyonchamber.com

RIO FRIO

sabinalchamber.org

Mill Creek Cafe

Baked Goods

utopiatexas.info

Nueces Canyon Sabinal

Uvalde CVB

Gelato & Ice Cream (Seasonal)

Bonnie’s Bakery

at Garner State Park • 210-722-5652

US Hwy 83 830-232-5582 1.5 miles past Garner State Park

State Natural Area

CAMP WOOD

Garner State Park

Ice Cream Shop

Ice Cream, Candy & More

The Frio Float

21563 TX Highway 127 830-232-5591

UTOPIA Baked Goods

Lost Maples Cafe 384 FM 187/Main Street 830-966-2221 Ice Cream, Candies & More

Utopia General Store 406 North Main Street 830-966-3444

Candy, Fudge & More

Bear Creek Fudge & Chocolate Hwy. 55 Downtown 830-597-6160

BARKSDALE Pies, Ice Cream

visituvalde.com

Lost Maples 830-966-3413; tpwd.state.tx.us

830-232-6132; tpwd.state.tx.us

laundry?

Nueces Co. Washateria

Dana’s Hotdog House

in Camp Wood • Hwy 55 South of Downtown

25607 TX-55 830-234-5500

Wash Barn in Leakey 1256 S. US Hwy 83 830-232-5690

located next door to the

B Happy Store

FM 1050 & Hwy 83 830-232-6910

Lost Maples State Natural Area GET UP-TO-DATE

Fall Foliage REPORTS tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/lost-maples/foliage-reports

UTOPIA/VANDERPOOL

Serving Classic American food with a twist Soups, Salad Bar & More

Located inside Utopia General Store

for updates on the changing fall colors at Lost Maples!

406 N. Main Street, Utopia • (830) 966-4030

Lone Star Motorcycle Museum

Four Sisters Ranch Cabin

Secluded. Picturesque. One of a kind. A true Utopia.

“Wonderful Machines from the Past”

A world-class collection of Classic motorcycles on display. Located in the Heart of the Hill Country on Hwy. 187 one mile south of Lost Maples State Park.

Open Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10 am-5 pm March - November

(830) 966-6103 • www.LoneStarMotorcycleMuseum.com

www.foursistersranchcabin.com

1848 LeMond Road • Utopia, TX • 830-426-1602

Utopia Springs At Lost Maples

Cabin Rental

Jada Jo Smith, Broker

•4 Bedrooms •2.5 Bath •200 Yards of Private River •Full Kitchen •Grill & Firepit •Private Spring

Breathe Utopia Yoga Studio

•Weekly and Private Classes

•Womens Retreats Hosted at Utopia Springs

BreatheUtopia.com - 331 Main St Utopia, TX

Tranquility in Utopia

OrangeBlossomLand.com/UtopiaSprings

Benjamin Highsmith B

Benjamin F. Highsmith.

Photo courtesy Sabinal Canyon Museum.

Benjamin F. Highsmith’s grave, at Jones Cemetery just north of Utopia, Texas.

enjamin F. Highsmith was born in Missouri in 1817. His family came to Texas by wagon train and settled in Fayette County in 1823. When Ben was just 15 years of age, he fought in the battle of Velasco.

He took part in major actions of the Texas Revolution, including the fight for the Gonzales “Come and Take It” cannon, the Grass Fight and the siege of Bexar.

He was an Alamo courier and it was Ben who carried the appeal for help sent from Alamo commander William B. Travis to Colonel James Fannin, Jr. at Goliad. When Ben returned to San Antonio, he found that the Alamo had been surrounded by the Mexican Army. As a courier for General Sam Houston, Ben (along with courier David Kent) carried a message to Fannin from General Houston ordering him to abandon Goliad.

He fought in the Battle of San Jacinto as a member of the company of Captain William Ware (who in 1852 founded Waresville—renamed Utopia in 1886— the first non-military colony in Uvalde County).Following the Texas Revolution, Ben had a long career as a Texas Ranger.

In 1853, Ben married Elizabeth Turner and settled in Bastrop, Texas, where the couple had 13 children. He moved with his family in 1882 to a portion of land on Blanket Creek, about eight miles west of Utopia.

Benjamin F. Highsmith died November 20, 1905, at the age of 88.

He was buried beside his wife in Jones Cemetery just north of Utopia.

UTOPIA/VANDERPOOL

THE ORAL HISTORY OF THE SABINAL CANYON

Bear Meat ‘N’ Honey Volume II Coyote Songs

Volume I

The history, folklore, legends and natural history of the Southern Hill Country is a rough blend of frontier hardship, country wisdom and tough personal experience. These volumes are based on numerous interviews of the area’s elders and presented in their own words, along with photos, maps and sketches. The story of this region is worth knowing, for it illustrates much of what makes Texas a special place.

Year-Round Vacation Rentals on the River

“These books of interviews with old-timers of the Sabinal Canyon are models of what such works should be.”

— John Graves, The Rivers of Texas (2002)

$21 INCLUDING TAX

Available thru Onion Creek Press PO Box 545 • Utopia, Texas 78884

830-966-2164

www.ClearSpringsLodging.com

Rock ’N Utopia A Spanish style home that sleeps 10 Sleeps 6 in main house and 4 in the cabana.

Near the banks of Sabinal River on 1.6 acres, just minutes from Main Street in Utopia.

Covered porch facing the river Fishing • Swimming • Canoeing Abundant wildlife & bird watching

830-966-2164

clearspringslodgingutopia.com/lodging/rockn_utopia.html Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

45

golf TIME FOR

Utopia

Concan

Utopia Golf Billed as “the most beautiful nine-hole golf course in Texas,” Utopia Golf is nestled in the Sabinal Valley one mile south of Utopia on High­way 187.

The course is the set­ting for the 2011 movie “Seven Days in Utopia,” based on the novel “Golf’s Sacred Journey: Seven Days at the Links of Uto­pia” by David L. Cook. A clubhouse, includ­ing a self-serve hospitality room, overlooks the ninth hole at Utopia Golf. Weekday rates are $18.23 for 18 holes ($16.09 for juniors and seniors); weekend rates $21.45 for 18 holes, $16.09 for nine holes. Cart rentals are $10. Photo courtesy Utopia Golf.

Utopia Golf is at 20567 Ranch Road 187 in Utopia. For more information, call Utopia Golf at 830-966-5577.

Golf Club of Texas-Concan Featuring a challeng­ing Bechtol-Russell de­signed course, players enjoy picturesque scenery at The Golf Club of Texas - Concan, with gorgeous hills and val­leys and stunning rolling terrain. The par 72 championship course offers 18 holes measuring 7,333 yards from the tips. Panoramic views of the Hill Country are found on every fairway and with premium Zoysia grass underfoot, this a must-play course. Rates are $49 weekdays and $59 weekends. The twilight fee is $35.

The club has a well-stocked Pro Shop, offering the latest in golf apparel and equipment for men and women. A variety of burgers, sandwiches, salads and more are served up in the Patio Grille, which offers year-round dining and a full bar. Check the web site for hours. Photo courtesy Golf Club of Texas - Concan.

The Golf Club of Texas - Concan is located at 520 Mountain Valley Drive. For more information, and to book your tee time, call 830-232-4471. More information is available on the web site at www.clubatconcan.com.

Uvalde

Uvalde Memorial

Uvalde offers an 18 hole public golf course located along the Leona River at 221 East Doughty. Weekday rates are $17, weekends $22 and twilight $25-27. Photo courtesy City of Uvalde, Texas.

For more information about Uvalde Memorial Golf Course, call 830278-6155 or visit the web site at uvaldegolf.com.

UTOPIA/VANDERPOOL

Professional Therapeutic Massage Myofascial Release, Thai Massage, Organic Facials Spa Parties, Self Treatment Classes Gift Certificates

Meat Market • Groceries Fresh Produce • Ice • Firewood Fishing/Camping Supplies T-Shirts

OPEN Monday thru Saturday from 6 am to 6 pm 830-966-3444 406 N. Main • Utopia, TX

www.unwindutopia.com

for more information & to book online

Utopia River Retreat Cabins 1 & 2 BEDROOM

Cozy 1 or 2 bedroom cabins, full kitchens plus microwave, heat/AC, fireplace, BBQ grill, fire rings, picnic table, satellite TV. Mesquite firewood for sale for pits/fire rings.

Vacation Rentals on the Sabinal River The Fortress

Wonderful Vacation Home Rich with History Main House Sleeps up to 16 people; 5 large bedroom areas & 3 - 1/2 baths. Rock fireplace, 52” satellite TV/DVD, cypress kitchen cabinets, 2 dining tables with cactus chandelier, wraparound patio with chairs, BBQ grill & fire ring.

For Weddings, Reunions & Other Events!

Enjoy 15 rolling acres, Giant Cypress

Party Barn

& Oak trees, Watch birds & deer at river & feeders. ¼ mile of private river front on Sabinal River, Swimming Pool for Guests.

www.UtopiaRiverRetreat.com 360 PR 3850 • Utopia, Texas 78884 • 830-966-2444 • info@utopiariverretreat.com Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

47

Riding the Three Sisters A

lthough the list of Hill Country roads is long, many motorcyclists claim The Three Sisters as their favorite ride. This trio of Ranch Roads—337, 336, and 335— is located in the southern portion of the Edwards Plateau.

Whether you travel on two wheels or four, you should make it a point to get out and experience this amazing drive.

As Ranch Road 337 departs Medina, it becomes a roller coaster ride. Shallow creeks tell long-forgotten tales of times when they carved through now-exposed limestone bluffs.

Stately ranch houses cling to mountain tops, commanding some of the best views in Texas. The hills become dotted with maple trees as the road approaches Vanderpool.

These and other deciduous trees make nearby Lost Maples State Natural Area a “must see” destination in the fall.

The highway makes a long, steep climb out of Vanderpool.

For the next few miles, the road narrows and weaves through sheer canyon cuts, offering slow curves with dramatic dropoffs to the valleys below.This is the “real” Texas Hill Country.

The approach to Leakey crosses the Frio River. Motorcyclists congregate at the Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop and Bent Rim Grill, but the hangout is open to all visitors. Some travelers may turn south in Leakey on US Highway 83, toward Garner State Park and Concan.

North of the courthouse in Leakey, Ranch Road 336 splits off and parallels the upper Frio River. This beautiful road makes

by Tom Wiley

sharp curves and steep mountain climbs before breaking onto a dry plateau near its terminus with Texas Highway 41. A favorite stop in the area is the Garven Store, just north of Highway 41 on US 83. There, you can load up on several varieties of jerky; sample one of their home-recipe sausage wraps; or sit out on the deck with a cold beverage. You can continue on Ranch Road 337 west from Leakey towards the small communities of Camp Wood and Barksdale.

From Barksdale, Ranch Road 335 travels 30 miles north, tracing an upper arm of the Nueces River. This route sees little traffic and, yet, offers some incredible views before also “T-ing” into Highway 41.

Hill Country travelers who have never visited this part of the state are always amazed at the scenery they have been missing. The remoteness of this area makes the winding roads and distant vistas even more special.

Other highways tap into The Three Sisters and provide access to Bandera, Utopia, Concan, Rocksprings, and other popular tourist destinations. B&Bs, country cabins, and quaint inns provide opportunities to escape the work week and dangle toes in chilled streams or hike hills teeming with wildlife.

And if the question comes up about where to eat, just follow the motorcycles!

Marilyn’s

CAMP WOOD

IN THE OLD AMERICAN LEGION HALL 4,000 SQUARE FEET!

WED-SAT 10:00-5:00 CAMP WOOD 830-597-6400

LARGE SELECTION OF ANZA, CASE AND MOORE MAKER KNIVES

Candles

Marilyn’s Home Furnishings RUSTIC FURNITURE, RECLINERS SOFAS, BAR STOOLS, MATTRESSES

Sterling Silver Jewelry

Pumpkin patch in nearby Medina

M

aple Trees, cooler weather and bright orange pumpkins are a sure sign fall is near, and nobody celebrates the season better than Love Creek Orchards, home of the Great Hill Country Pumpkin Patch.

The Great Hill Country Pumpkin Patch is designed to both entertain and educate children, and has been consistently voted one of the top Pumpkin Patches in Texas. Love Creek Orchards — pioneers of the Texas Apple industry — has been hosting the Great Hill Country Pumpkin Patch each October for 26 years. Nestled in the heart of the Hill Country in Medina on Highway 16 North, Love Creek is the perfect setting for a children’s festival.

The event includes hayrides, scarecrow building, pumpkin painting, pony rides, games and photo opportunities, plus a petting zoo, apple orchard tours, cider making and processing apples on the apple line and more. “We want children to experience a day on the farm and fun, says owner Bryan Hutzler.

“But we want to make it a learning experience as well. What a great way to learn about agriculture and how apples are grown and harvested.”

It’s pure family fun, featuring pig races, storytelling and

50

Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

playing an instrument in the Great Hill Country Symphony. You can bring a picnic lunch or enjoy food from onsite vendors, offering hot dogs, hamburgers, apple pie, pumpkin pie, apple ice cream and of course, fresh squeezed apple cider. You’ll also find a huge largest variety of pumpkins, gourds, hay bales, corn stalks and squash available to purchase.

The Great Hill Country Pumpkin Patch opens on October 5 and is open every Saturday, Sunday, and Monday in October from 10 am to 4 pm. Admission is $6 , and includes free hayrides, petting zoo, pumpkin painting (you buy the pumpkin and paint is provided), tours and entertainment (with dditional charge for pony rides, face painting and barrel train ride). Also open Thursdays and Fridays in October for scheduled school tours. For more information, call 830-589-2202 or visit www.lovecreekorchards. com. For information about school tours, call 210-215-1995. Special birthday parties can also be accommodated. Photo courtesy Love Creek Orchards.

Specialized Care.

Local Convenience.

You can count on us for the specialized care you need, with the local convenience you deserve.

• • • • • • • •

24-Hr. Emergency Service Hospice Respiratory Care Laboratory Outpatient Specialty Clinic Rehabilitation Center Inpatient & Outpatient Surgery Hyperbaric Therapy & Wound Care

• • • • • • • • •

Medical & Surgical Services Intensive Care Unit Women’s & Newborns’ Center Radiology/Diagnostic Imaging Women’s Imaging Center Social Services Senior Behavioral Health Services Sleep Center Air Transport Capability

Uvalde Memorial Hospital 1025 Garner Field Road • Uvalde, TX 78801 • (830) 278-6251 • www.umhtx.org

Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

51

events SECOND FRIDAYS Uvalde Four Square Friday Late night shopping, food, live music and art. Downtown. 6 pm to 9 pm. 830-278-4115

MARCH 1-2 Concan Freedom Fest BBQ Cook Off Test your skills in a three-way food contest with a BBQ cook-off, margarita pour-off and salsa contest at Frio County Campground in Concan. Plus, washer and cornhole tournament offering awards and prizes benefitting the Concan Volunteer Fire Department. VisitUvaldeCounty.com.

MARCH 14-18 Rio Frio Fest Concan Forget Florida or Mexico … head to Texas’ beautiful Texas Hill Country River Region for the ultimate 5-day Spring Break music festival, featuring the best Hill Country and Americana music around. Nonstop line-up of music and activities, including floating down the crystal-clear Frio River in an inner tube, authentic Texas crawfish boils and affordable lodging options.

This year’s lineup includes Kevin Fowler, Chris Colston, Shane Smith & The Saints and more. VisitUvaldeCounty.com.

MARCH 29-31 Women Who Wander Outdoor Retreat Concan Grab your girls for a weekend of female empowerment featuring classes on yoga, archery, fly fishing, outdoor photography, selfdefense, cooking and paddle boarding not to mention live music, spa treatments and did we mention wine? Activities will take place throughout Concan, so visitors can book lodging from tent camping and private cabins to luxury homes anywhere in the Frio River canyon and Utopia areas to access to the retreat.

Learn more and register at WomenWhoWanderTexas.com.

MARCH – OCTOBER River Region “Don’t Trash Where You Splash” River Cleanup Program To keep Texas Hill Country River Region rivers pristine, groups of travelers with 6+ people (ages 14+) sign up to clean a section of the Frio, Sabinal and Nueces Rivers. Volunteers will be awarded $10/person, which will be donated to a charity of their choice.

Groups must fill out an application in advance and sign a waiver.

To sign up, email info@visituvaldecounty.com.

52

Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

Cowboys compete at the Utopia Ranch Rodeo.

Photo by Hattie Barham.

APRIL 20 Concan Fenders and Food Trucks on the Frio & River Road Market Fest Car show with classics to currents for cars, trucks, motorcycles, performance cars and tractors. Food trucks will be around the entire day for you to fuel up! Swing by Andy’s on River Road for the spring River Road Market Fest, a street-style market popup featuring music and entertainment, local artisan shopping, food and other attractions for all ages. VisitUvaldeCounty.com

MAY 3-4 Concan Neal’s River Rock Fest Have a throwback weekend and sing along with live music from bands playing tribute to some of your favorite artists. Guns 4 Roses and Passing Strangers are confirmed to take the stage, and, back by popular demand, Back in Black will be entertaining the crowds as well. Weekend of poker runs, games and contests, plus an on-site bar overlooking the Frio Canyon. To reserve a cabin, vacation home or tent/RV site for the weekend, call 830232-6118. NealsLodges.com.

MAY 26 Utopia Utopia Ranch Rodeo At the Utopia Park Arena with a Dance immediately following.

Promises to be an action packed night that will keep you at the edge of your seat! lawatersquarterhorses.com.

UVALDE

more events

Get more info from local websites on page 42!

JUNE 21-22 Utopia Utopia Open Rodeo Enjoy rodeo performances at 8 pm Friday and Saturday evenings.

Events include bronc riding, tie down calf roping, breakaway roping, steer wrestling, bull riding, team roping, barrel racing, mutton busting and calf scramble. A dance follows with music

by Bret Mullins each night. Don’t miss the barbecue Saturday at 5 pm. UtopiaPark.org.

Family owned & operated, and a truly eclectic store... offering Antiques, Vintage, Collectibles and Refresher Furniture from all decades S3 Local Honey & Tea, Lubella Candles, Lynda’s Pride Goat Milk Soap, Bear Creek Goods

Jeff landon Antiques

309 N. Getty Ste B, Uvalde, TX • 830-900-5240

To advertise in the next issue of WELCOME to the Hill Country River Region

email julie@hillcountrysun.com or call 512-484-9716 Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

53

events SATURDAYS, MEMORIAL DAY – LABOR DAY Summer Concert Series Concan Make a trip to enjoy live music where Willie Nelson himself has graced the stage. House Pasture Cattle Company will be rocking every Saturday this summer with show stopping music. The outdoor venue provides a perfect backdrop to sit back, relax and let the music take you away. Stay up to date on the latest talent announcements at HousePasture.com/music_events.html.

JULY 4 Utopia Fourth of July in Utopia.

“Don’t Trash Where You Splash” river cleanup crew.

You can join in the fun and help keep Hill Country River Region rivers clean Saturdays March through October.

Photo courtesy VisitUvaldeCounty.com.

Fabulous fireworks show celebrates Independence Day at Utopia Park at dark.UtopiaPark.org.

JULY 5-6 Leakey 43rd Annual July Jubilee in Leakey Enjoy a rodeo Friday and Saturday nights at the RCJHC Rodeo Arena, plus a Saturday morning parade downtown.

FrioCanyonChamber.com.

AUGUST 31 Leakey 3rd Annual Wylden Hubbard Memorial Youth Rodeo and Goat Roping.

Youth saddle-bronc riding, mutton-busting, bull riding and goat roping. Real County Junior Horse Club Arena in Leakey.

Facebook.com/wyldenhubbardmemorial.

OCTOBER 5 Concan Fall on the Frio BBQ Cook Off & River Road Market Fest

Nashville sensations Maddie and Tae perform at House Pasture following Women Who Wander Outdoor Retreat March 31. Photo courtesy VisitUvaldeCounty.com.

Dine on the best BBQ in town and try your luck at the washer and horseshoe tournament. Fall family photo ops and a pumpkin patch at the Fall edition of River Road Market Fest make this the perfect weekend escape for the family.

VisitUvaldeCounty.com.

NOVEMBER 28 - JANUARY 1 Leakey Festivity of Lights More than 30,000 lights on the Real County courthouse and grounds, plus seasonally-decorated businesses and homes throughout the town. FrioCanyonChamber.com.

NOVEMBER 2 Utopia 53rd Annual Arts and Crafts Fall Fair.

NOVEMBER 30 Leakey Christmas on the Square Arts & Crafts show, visits from Santa Claus and more on the Leakey Square. FrioCanyonChamber.com.

More than 80 vendors offering handmade arts and crafts items on the Utopia Town Square. FrioCanyonChamber.com.

54

Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

ROCKSPRINGS/BARKSDALE

more events

Get more info from local websites on page 42!

DECEMBER 7 Leakey Frio Canyon Chamber of Commerce Gala.

Casino themed event features silent auction and live auctions, food and drinks. Frio Pecan Farm. FrioCanyonChamber.com.

DECEMBER 31 Concan Hill Country New Year’s Festival Ring in the New Year at The Golf Club of Texas at Concan.

The celebration will include s’mores and hot chocolate in the evening followed by a musical performance. Visitors will also enjoy a cornhole tournament, glow in the dark putting, a bounce house and snow machine in the evenings and morning yoga and mimosas. Everything leads up to a show-stopping fireworks show to count down to the New Year. It’s the perfect time to explore beautiful Concan and take advantage of winter discounts on lodging. VisitUvaldeCounty.com.

Miss Buffy’s custom ammo casing keepsake jewelry goat milk soap & lotions twisted x boots anza knives

missbuffys.com 211 W. Main St. • Rocksprings, TX • 830-507-9171

Hotdogs, Concession Foods, Pies, Burgers, Chicken, Hand Battered Onion Rings, Nachos, Frito Pie, Sandwiches, Ice Cream, Banana Splits, Sundaes, Milkshakes & More!

Barksdale, TX 830-234-5500

Western Hill Country Realty Quality Ranches • Year-Round Hunting

830-683-4435

www.WesternHillCountryRealty.com Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

55

day trips

FROM THE RIVER REGION

F

all in the Hill Country River Region is one of the best times for you and yours to get out and about — with amazing views, birding, museums, golf, helicopter rides, hiking and much more.

And if you’re up for a little driving, here are just a few of the many fun family day trips you can easily make from the River Region.

Texas’ oldest operating Theater in Uvalde Uvalde’s Grand Opera House on North West Street, built in 1891, is the oldest theater in Texas. The Grand Opera House is a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark and is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. The two-story Romanesque style theater quickly became a social center in Uvalde and a leading venue in the area for plays and musicals and cultural events.

Uvalde Grand Opera House was renovated in 1982 and is open Monday through Friday from 10 am to 3 pm. Call 830-2784184 for more information. Photo courtesy Grand Opera House.

The Biggest Night Sky Celebration In Texas

MARCH 30th, 2019 Night Sky Advocates Workshop March 31 Dripping Springs Ranch Park Dripping Springs, Texas

812-565-9989 TexasNightSkyFestival.org 56

Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

Graff 7A Ranch Corn Maze in Hondo Hondo is the home of the South Texas Maize – get it? A corn maze. Open weekends in the fall, there is so much more to do than try to find your way out of a 7-acre maze, although that could keep kids and grownups occupied for a while. You can also pick out pumpkins, jump on giant pillows, slide down a corn mountain, take a hayride, ride a cattle train, sit by a campfire. This huge corn maze is part of the 7A Ranch, a working cattle ranch where Ken and Laurie Graff are the fifth generation to live and work on the ranch. The corn maze is really sorghum that grows about 12 feet high. The South Texas Maize at Graff 7A Ranch is at 911 U.S. Highway 90 East in Hondo. Bring your own food, or buy food at the Maize.

And your well behaved dog on a leash is welcome. Pluswhich, the maze is wheelchair friendly. Ticket info and events at southtexasmaize.com or 830-741-3968. In the fall, y’all. Photo courtesy South Texas Maize.

Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casiny in Eagle Pass Just a short drive from the River Region, you will find Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino Hotel, proudly owned and operated by the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas.

The biggest casino in Texas with 24hour gaming excitement features more than 3,300 slots including an all-new High Limit Room, a private poker room and live bingo.

Guests can dine at one of the six restaurants and enjoy live entertainment at ¿Qué Pasa? The full-service hotel offers 249 spacious suites and guest rooms with views of the Rio Grande and surrounding South Texas landscape.

Lucky Eagle Casino is at 749 Lucky Eagle Drive, Eagle Pass, Texas 78852. Military, AARP and extended stay discounts available. Call 830-773-2255, or visit www.luckyeagletexas. com for information. Photo courtesy Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino.

FREE LECTURES

Saturday March 23, 2019 Saturday June 29, 2019 Saturday, October 12, 2019

www.heavenpathways.com

Wimberley Metaphysical & Holistic Fair

where to get connected find wifi CAMP WOOD

LEAKEY

The Camp Wood Public Library 106 S. Nueces 830-597-3208

Real County Public Library Main at Evergreen 830-232-5199

CONCAN

Bent Rim Grill 657 W. Ranch Rd. 337 830-232-6649

Uvalde Co. Visitor’s Center 21170 Texas Hwy. 127 830-232-4310

RIO FRIO

UVALDE

Hill Country Nature Center on FM 1050 830-966-2320

Local Fix Coffee Shop 2001 E. Main Street 830-900-7183

UTOPIA Lost Maples Cafe 384 FM 187 (Main Street) 830-966-2221

El Progreso Memorial Library 301 W. Main Street 830-278-2017

517 N. Center St. • Sabinal, TX 78881 • (830) 988-2582 • www.umhtx.org

Care For Minor Injuries and Illnesses.

James A. Kelly, MD

Board Certified in Family Medicine

Liza Hurtado, FNP-BC Family Nurse Practitioner

WALK-INS WELCOME

SHORT WAIT TIMES

PHARMACY PICK-UPS

SAME DAY APPOINTMENTS

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

Call or walk-in to schedule your appointment.

Our office hours are Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

To advertise in the 2020 issue of WELCOME to the Hill Country River Region

email julie@hillcountrysun.com or call 512-484-9716 Welcome to the Hill Country River Region 2019

57

For ALL your Frio needs!

Fuel & Diesel • Specialty Meats T-Shirts • Hot Deli • Pizza Firewood • Tubes • Swimwear Open 7 Days a Week Year Round!

830-232-6414

@ intersection of Hwys 83 & 127 in Concan

21563 TX Highway 127 • Concan, Texas 78838

Hungry??? Head to

inside Concan General Store

& don’t forget dessert!

Ice Cream • Candy Cotton Candy Sundaes • Floats Milkshakes & More!

21563 TX Highway 127 • Concan • 830-232-5591

ON THE FRIO & SISTER RESORTS

River Rim Resort

RiverGate Cabins

Indian Springs Lodges

Lost Canyon Retreat

1204 CR 350 1586 CR 348

2020 CR 350

2785 RR 1050

Oasis at River’s Edge 2039 CR 350

North Village

24295 US 83 North

830-232-5758 • riverrimresort@yahoo.com • RiverRimResort.com Elevate your experience in the majestic Frio Canyon with Frio Premier Rentals, Concan’s finest vacation homes. These lovely private homes offer the utmost in comfort so you can make unforgettable memories.

Many of these homes feature private swimming pools and river access.

Frio Premier Rentals

1204 CR 350 • Concan, TX

830-232-4935 • www.FrioPremierRentalHomes.com