the bigger the better

Iconic Texas park Enchanted Rock to double in size after 3,000-acre purchase

The recent purchase will double the amount of publicly available land at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.

Photo courtesy of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

Enchanted Rock Natural State Area, a popular Hill Country destination in Fredericksburg, is continuing its expansion after purchasing a 3,073-acre property in Llano County for $43 million.

The recent purchase comes nearly four months after Texas Parks and Wildlife Department purchased a 630-acre tract of land in nearby Gillespie County, adding to Enchanted Rock's current 1,644 acres of land.

The park's expansion, which doubles the amount of publicly available land, is also a great investment for Texas tourism, according to Governor Greg Abbott.

"Texas is home to 88 state parks that showcase our great state’s natural beauty to Texans and visitors from all over the globe," said Governor Abbott in the release. "The expansion of Enchanted Rock State Natural Area will allow tourists from across the state and around the world to enjoy even more of the majesty of Texas. Together, we will continue to ensure that what makes Texas unique and beautiful is preserved for generations."

The sale was made possible thanks to TWPD's Centennial Parks Conservation Fund, a voter-approved $1 billion fund dedicated to the acquisition and development of new state parks. Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation, the department's official nonprofit partner, also helped review the property's potential as an extension of the park.

The release explains that the Llano County land was previously used as a private hunting ground, but TPWD will seek public input to decide future recreational activities and conservation opportunities for the land.

"Enchanted Rock is cherished by Texans across the state, and we are thrilled to add a property of this size and scope to this beloved park," said Chairman of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission Jeff Hildebrand. "I look forward to families experiencing this new addition to Enchanted Rock SNA and creating lasting memories for generations to come."

TPWD expects planning may take "many months to complete" before announcing an opening date for the new property.

state parks hill country fredericksburg enchanted rock

GRAPE EXPECTATIONS

Hill Country wineries crush summer with grape stomping events

Photo courtesy of Texas Hill Country Wineries

Not all wine stomping is done with the feet.

If you ask Texas Hill Country Wineries, good, clean fun is a tad overrated. The nonprofit’s members are getting messy this summer with a series of grape stomps celebrating harvest season.

Yes, the vast majority of the world’s wines are now made with mechanical destemmers and crushers, but there is no harm in cosplaying as a vendemmiatore hopped up on mezzo vino. As long as you keep the white linen tucked away in the closet.

The main event pays homage to the most famous wine scene in popular culture (unless you count Paul Giamatti guzzling a spit bucket in Sideways). The I Love Lucy Charity Grape Stomp, held August 8-9 at Texas Hills Vineyard, includes live music, a costume contest, freshly made Lucy sangria, and souvenir t-shirts available for purchase. All proceeds benefit area volunteer firefighters.

Meanwhile, other Hill Country wineries are putting their own spin on the harvest tradition. Becker Vineyards will pair its high-stepping event (September 5-6) with cheese and charcuterie from its onsite Verandah Bar. Messina Hof is hosting a raucous harvest festival (August 21-22) with grape picking, and Signor Vineyards will roll out lawn games — just don’t wear cleats into the vat.

Wildseed Farms grape stomp, held every Saturday in August, includes a complimentary glass of wine. Texas Wine Collective adds barbecue and tunes from the Dawson Holland band. Whether two-stepping is the proper technique to release juice from the fruit is up for debate. Maybe try the Boot Scootin’ Boogie.

Whichever event, it might be a good idea to have a good foot scrub waiting at the Airbnb. A full list of grape stomping fun can be found here.

wineries vineyards hill country grape stomping music festivals harvest wine

the bigger the better

Iconic Texas park Enchanted Rock to double in size after 3,000-acre purchase

GRAPE EXPECTATIONS

Hill Country wineries crush summer with grape stomping events

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