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Popular amongst those that have a destination wedding date just around the corner, adventurers looking for outdoor fun, and those that crave moments indulging in old world charm, the Texas Hill Country has long called to travelers from across the map. While the area that makes up the greater Texas Hill Country is vast, there’s only one place that’s earned the title as the gateway to it all and that’s Dripping Springs. This inviting and scenic locale has much to offer up in the way of fun and provides just the right launch point for even more exploration into this appealing terrain that makes up the region. Complete with fun local establishments to check out, boutique stores, and savory dining stops, it’s easy to get swept up in the welcoming ambiance that has long defined this destination. Just as appealing for travelers headed this way is the opportunity to get out and explore the abundance of natural attractions that exist nearby. If you’re the type of visitor that can’t wait to connect with nature, there are plenty of options to choose from in charming Dripping Springs.

Hamilton Pool Preserve

Versatile beauty is every visitor’s for the savoring when they find themselves at Hamilton Pool Preserve. Located at 24300 Hamilton Pool road, this preserve hosts a spectacular natural pool designed by Mother Nature herself within the confines of a captivating canyon crest. The wonder of this natural combination is further enhanced with the inclusion of a 50-foot waterfall that cascades over limestone ledges. Throughout the year, the waterfall never entirely stops thanks to its connecting point with the nearby Pedernales River, but during dry times, it’s likely that visitors will see the spill slow to a trickle. That being said, the pool below has a wonderful way of staying constant in its level, providing an eye-catching blue-green hue to enjoy with your own eyes or capture on camera year-round. Surrounding grottos offer up a whimsical beauty to this area which in total, covers 232 acres of ground.

The land that surrounds the pool is forested and home to a variety of local bird species that are interesting to observe as they thrive in their natural habitat. Among these is the golden-cheeked warbler. Hiking trails wind throughout this preserve to offer up a more direct route to admiring towering trees and wildlife along the way. Those hiking through the uplands of this area will find a landscape dominated by oak and juniper savannah surrounded by a plethora of wildflowers. This area is known for helping rare plant species thrive including the chatterbox orchid, red bay, and the canyon mock-orange. The preserve itself was designated as such in 1990 by the Travis County Commissioner’s Court and to this day, continues to be a place where visitors come to authentically connect with nature at it’s finest.

The Original Dripping Springs

Historic Mercer Street runs through the heart of Dripping Springs and for many, it’s appeal lies in the collection of shops and storefront that speak to centuries past. However, sitting at the very west end of this well-known street is the reason that Dripping Springs has the name it does. Fern-covered limestone slabs and ledges lend themselves to a dropping point for a trickling spring known as the original Dripping Springs. Water cascades over these ledges into a pool below and for those excited to view the original springs, limestone stairs are accessible near the Visitor’s Bureau parking lot. Stories surrounding this original spring suggest it was an important gathering point for First Nation Tribes that called the land home. Later on, it would be an essential water source for early settlers and likely, a primary reason the main street of town was built up around this area.

Charro Ranch Park

Situated at 22690 W. FM 150, Charro Ranch park covers 64 acres of land and was dedicated to the area by Lucy Reed Hibbard in 2008. The park is designed as a place dedicated to preserving the beauty of nature for all visitors. While the parameters are official, nature is truly allowed to pave its own path within this park boundaries and many come this way to enjoy wildlife viewing, bird watching, and learn about the tree and plant species thriving thanks to meticulously placed signage. Comprised of grasslands paired with Juniper and Oak woodlands, Charro Ranch Park houses a stunning variety of animal and plant life and functions as a natural drainage basin too. Over 117 species of birds nest in this area including painted buntings, eastern screech owls, black-chinned hummingbirds, and red-shouldered hawks.

Enjoy the Getaway

Taking time to unwind, relax, and enjoy Dripping Springs is sure to be an inspiring choice. Elevate the experience from start to finish by letting the team at I Love Dripping Springs help you get settled in just the right vacation rental during your next visit. Contact us today to learn more and to start planning your Texas-bound adventure!