Exploring the Unnamed: Texas Unveils Its Newest State Park to Be

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) unveiled its newest exciting news of a 2,020-acre land purchase in Burnet County. This is phase one of two of the groundwork to develop a new state park in the Hill Country.   

Colorado Bend State Park is in the southeast corner of San Saba County, on a bend of the Colorado River. The development of the new TPWD land includes 2 miles of riverfront access. It is in the northwest corner of Burnet County, on the other side of the river from Colorado Bend State Park.

What Is the Colorado River Like between Burnet and San Saba Counties in Texas?

Between Burnet and San Saba Counties in Texas, the Colorado River flows through the gorgeous Hill Country. Rolling hills, rocky bluffs, and dense vegetation characterize this area. This stretch of the Colorado River includes areas with both slow-moving waters and occasional rapids, making it a popular destination for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.

A mix of oak, pecan, and mesquite trees, native grasses, and shrubs line its riverbanks. Watch for wildlife in the area! Like white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and bunches of birds. Several ranches and small communities dot the landscape along the river, contributing to the region’s rural charm.

One notable feature along this stretch is the Colorado Bend State Park, which sits on the border of San Saba County. This park offers access to Hill Country caves, the impressive Gorman Falls, hiking trails along the river, and a 70-foot spring-fed waterfall. 

Anglers cherish this run of the Colorado River for its hauls of Guadalupe bass, largemouth bass, and catfish. Water levels in this region can fluctuate based on rainfall and dam releases upstream. The river plays an essential role in supplying water to central Texas and supporting agriculture in the surrounding areas.

Word from the January 27, 2025, TPWD Press Release

TPWD’S newly acquired property spans two miles along the Colorado River and lies directly across from Colorado Bend State Park. This purchase marks the first phase of a potential two-part land acquisition aimed at establishing a new state park covering over 3,000 acres.

Under consideration is a proposal that the TPWD purchase an additional 1,100-acre tract in both Lampasas and Burnet Counties. Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission (TPWC) discussed this issue in their January 22, 2025 meeting. The commission granted authorization for TPWD’s executive director to proceed with necessary actions to secure this land from a willing seller.

A combination of a onetime state appropriation and revenue generated by sporting goods sales tax funded TPWD’s recently purchased property. In 2023, Texas voters approved The Centennial Parks Conservation Fund to initiate $1 billion to finance the expansion and development of Texas State Parks.

This acquisition is part of TPWD’s broader efforts to enhance public access to Texas’ natural landscapes. It follows recent additions, including 3,703 acres at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area and the 500-acre Lake Colorado City State Park.

Jeff Hildebrand, Chairman of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission, proclaimed, 

“These land acquisitions are a major step toward expanding public access and preserving Texas’ natural beauty for future generations. This property, located near Colorado Bend State Park, will serve as the foundation for an entirely new state park.”

Jeff Hildebrand

Before finalizing acquisitions, TPWD conducts a thorough review to assess a property’s potential as a state park. In this instance, the site’s natural and historical significance made its new property a prime candidate for public use and conservation.

Rodney Franklin, director of Texas State Parks, announced,

“It’s exciting to see another incredible site added to the Texas State Parks system. This acquisition will provide visitors with access to the scenic Colorado River and the diverse landscapes across the property. It’s inspiring to imagine generations of Texans exploring and enjoying this land. Our team and partners are working together to leave a lasting legacy for Texas.”

Rodney Franklin

Now that the purchase of the 2,020-acre land purchase in Burnet County is complete, TPWD will engage the public in developing a management plan to determine how they will use the land for recreational activities. This process will take several months. TPWD will share updates of its progress on its website, including potential opening dates.