The Lost Maples State Natural Park has several bigtooth maples which are not really “lost” but they are very selective in their habitat. The Lost Maples Park is a land of dude ranches and axis deer where visitors can experience a bit of autumn’s grandeur.

Lost Maples State Park, on the Sabinal River, is home to many Uvalde Big Tooth Maples that display an impressive array of colors from mid-October through early November. Widely scattered over several western states and northern Mexico, this maple thrives only in small, protected areas in mountainous regions where temperature and humidity are moderate, where moisture is retained, and solar radiation is minimal.

The maples have very shallow roots and they are susceptible to damage by soil compaction and visitors are cautioned to stay on approved paths to ensure continued vigor of the maple stands. Other vegetation in the scenic Hill Country Park includes some 350 recorded species. Bird life is also abundant, including the rare golden-cheeked warbler. Of many mammal species in the park, white-tailed deer are most numerous. Mature bigtooth share fertile canyon habitat with monstrous chinkapin and Lacey’s oaks, Florida basswood, pecan, black willow, green ash and American sycamore.

A trip along one of the principal trails will take you across clear streams, through a thicket of trees, across open grassland, and up a craggy hill for an awesome view of the foliage below. The park feels intimate, and is very peaceful.

In keeping with Lost Maples’ state natural area designation, the park has limited development and facilities. However, young and old alike can enjoy nature photography, hiking, camping, bird watching, backpacking, fishing and swimming. The hiking trails are suitable for beginner to intermediate hikers to tackle with minimal effort. There are only 250 parking spaces available, which limit the number of guests at one time, therefore protecting the calmness about the park.

Water-and-electric campsites are at a premium at Lost Maples SNA. The 30 campsites, which also feature in-ground barbecue pits and shaded picnic tables, book up 11 months in advance for the peak fall foliage period.  Lost Maples is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Due to the isolated location, it is also an ideal place to lose yourself.

Visitors hoping to enjoy the park under less crowded conditions of late October and early November when the maples’ color peaks should consider an early fall visit. Nights tend to cool off and during warm, sunny days, the waters of the Sabinal and spring-fed swimming holes prove tempting spots to take a soothing splash.

So, visit this naturally beautiful park “to discover the nature’s lost heritage”.

Tags: lost maples state park, nature's lost heritage, Tooth Maples