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Devil’s Sinkhole State Natural Area to Gain Trails System with Acquisition
State Natural Area grows by 1,200 acres
ROCKSPRINGS – Devil’s Sinkhole State Natural Area, currently open by guided access only in Edwards County, is poised to become a more ‘traditional’ SNA within the Texas State Parks system thanks to the acquisition of 1,200 acres on the western property line.
The newly acquired land is more of the previous Whitworth Ranch, which was split up when the original SNA was formed in 1985. The historic Whitworth Ranch was the first in the area to raise sheep and the families were deeply involved with their community. Reuniting these tracts of land will add to the historic and interpretive programming for the site, including expanded interpretation of the natural history of the Sinkhole and the cultural history of the land.
The Sinkhole SNA in Rocksprings, an hour west of Kerrville and 45 minutes south of Junction, will gain an extensive trail system of around 10 miles in the next few years, perfect for birding enthusiasts and nature walk lovers seeking a more solitary experience in exploring the unique landscape.
The long-term plans for the property tentatively include a headquarters building and maintenance area, along with overnight opportunities.
The park also boasts dark skies, so astronomers and star enthusiasts now have more protected acreage to view the night sky.
With the newly acquired 1,200 acres, the SNA’s full acreage totals more than 3,000 acres in southwest Texas. Full plans for the new tract will be forthcoming.
This acquisition is thanks to the Land and Water Conservation Fund, as well as Texans who voted for Sporting Goods Sales Tax. In 2016, Texas voters dedicated 94 percent of state sales tax revenue from sporting goods to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) in perpetuity. The allotment has since assisted with funding acquisitions, new park facilities, as well as improvements to existing facilities and operations. It has also allowed TPWD to help build and approve community parks across Texas.
For more information on Texas State Parks, visit the TPWD webpage.
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