Cibolo Nature Center & Farm
Discover the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country with diverse trails, cypress trees, and family-friendly activities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful walks
Cibolo Nature Center & Farm
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful walks
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country with diverse trails, cypress trees, and family-friendly activities.
"A beautiful place to swim and good for the little kids! We even caught a fish!"
🚗 Free Parking Thursdays
Save on parking fees by visiting on Thursdays!
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Trails vary from boardwalks to dirt paths; wear comfy shoes for exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cypress Trees Along the Creek
Cibolo Creek
Wander beneath the majestic cypress trees lining Cibolo Creek for an ethereal, nature-filled escape.
Marsh Trail Boardwalk
Marsh Trail
An easy, accessible boardwalk trail offering beautiful views of the marshland and its inhabitants.
Dinosaur Tracks
Near Parking Lot
Discover fascinating dinosaur tracks, an intriguing historical site conveniently located near the parking area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Admission
Trail Variety & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Free Parking Thursdays
Save on parking fees by visiting on Thursdays!
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Trails vary from boardwalks to dirt paths; wear comfy shoes for exploring.
📸 Photography Permits
Be aware of photography fees and potential interruptions during shoots.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome to join you on the trails.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Free Parking Thursdays
Save on parking fees by visiting on Thursdays!
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Trails vary from boardwalks to dirt paths; wear comfy shoes for exploring.
📸 Photography Permits
Be aware of photography fees and potential interruptions during shoots.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome to join you on the trails.
🎣 Fishing Fun
Bring your fishing gear for a chance to catch fish in the creek.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere of Cibolo Nature Center, particularly the stunning cypress trees and accessible trails. Many appreciate the free entry and dog-friendly policy, making it a great spot for families and leisurely walks. However, some find the photography fees and permit checks to be a drawback.
"The trails I walked were great. Lots of shade. Trails are great for a short walk or to extend your walk and walk a few different trails. Some are 1/3 of mile others are 1/2 a mile, but they cross each other, so you can customize your walk. Best part is no entrance fee. The actual center was closed since it was a holiday."
Erica Olvera
"I love the park, but I hate the expensive photography fees and the fact that they interrupt you during sessions (sometimes several times) to check for the permit which stops the flow of the session. I get in the groove and it's always annoying being taken out and precious time being taken from my clients who often only get 10min sessions to begin with. It's forcing me to look elsewhere even though this is my go to spot due to how close it is and how beautiful. I wish they would come up with a better way like badges for us or something and stopped taking time away from my clients who pay for every minute of my time."
Katrina Spain
"Very neat spot and sure to return. Highly recommend walking down by the river under the cypress trees. Very pretty!"
Nicole Briones
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cibolo Nature Center & Farm is located at 140 City Park Rd, Boerne, TX. It's easily accessible by car, and many visitors find it a convenient stop when exploring the Texas Hill Country.
Yes, there is ample parking available. However, please note that parking costs $6.50 on most days, but it's free on Thursdays.
Public transportation options to Cibolo Nature Center & Farm are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to access the location.
Yes, the center is a short drive from San Antonio, making it a popular day trip destination for those looking to escape the city.
From San Antonio, take I-10 West towards Boerne. Take Exit 543 for TX-46 E and turn right. Continue on TX-46 E, and then turn right onto City Park Rd. The center will be on your left. Always check a GPS for real-time directions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Nature Center itself has no entrance fee, offering a free opportunity to connect with nature. However, there is a parking fee of $6.50 on most days, with Thursdays being free.
Yes, professional photography sessions may incur fees. Some visitors have noted that these fees and the permit checks can be disruptive to the flow of a session.
The Cibolo Nature Center is open daily from dawn until dusk, allowing for flexible visiting times.
No, advance ticket booking is not required for general entry to the Nature Center as there is no admission fee. However, for special events or farm activities, checking their website is recommended.
Parking is free on Thursdays, making it a great day to visit and save money.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You'll find a variety of trails, including shaded paths, dirt roads along the river, and an accessible boardwalk through the marsh. You can combine them to create walks of different lengths.
Yes, visitors can enjoy swimming and playing in Cibolo Creek. It's a great spot for kids to cool off and have fun.
Absolutely! There are picnic tables available, making it a perfect spot for a family outing or a relaxing lunch surrounded by nature.
Yes, it's a fantastic place for families. Kids can enjoy exploring trails, hopping across stream rocks, and learning about nature.
Keep an eye out for local wildlife! Visitors have spotted armadillos, and birdwatchers can enjoy a variety of colorful birds like Summer Tanagers and Painted Buntings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Nature Center itself does not have on-site dining facilities. It's recommended to bring your own snacks and drinks or dine in the nearby town of Boerne.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is encouraged, especially for picnics. There are picnic tables available for use.
The town of Boerne, just a short drive away, offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants.
Yes, the Cibolo Center for Conservation is associated with a Farmers Market, which is a great place to find local produce and goods.
While there are picnic tables, specific barbecue grills are not mentioned. It's best to stick to pre-prepared food for picnics.
📸 📸 Photography
The center is very photogenic, with beautiful cypress trees, diverse landscapes, and abundant birdlife, making it a favorite for nature photographers.
Professional photography sessions may require permits and incur fees. Some visitors have found the permit checks disruptive.
The areas along Cibolo Creek with the cypress trees, the marsh boardwalk, and the open prairie offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Yes, the center is a great place for birdwatching and wildlife photography. You might spot various bird species and other local fauna.
Late afternoons often provide beautiful golden hour lighting, while early mornings can be great for bird activity and fewer crowds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the dinosaur tracks near the parking lot for an extra dose of kid-friendly discovery! Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated picnic tables.
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Hikers
Take advantage of the numerous benches scattered along the paths to pause, enjoy the scenery, and listen to the sounds of nature.
📸 Photographers
+1 The variety of ecosystems, from the marsh to the creek banks, provides diverse backdrops for your shots. Keep your camera ready for birdwatching opportunities, as the center is home to many colorful species.
While the natural beauty is a major draw, be mindful of potential photography permit fees and the associated checks, which some photographers find can interrupt their workflow. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
Many trails intersect, allowing you to customize your hike. Whether you're looking for a short, leisurely stroll or a longer, more immersive walk, you can easily create a route that suits your time and energy levels. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as some paths are natural dirt roads.
Beyond the main trails, keep an eye out for unique features like the dinosaur tracks located conveniently near the parking lot, adding an element of prehistoric discovery to your visit.
Family Fun and Activities
The shallow waters of Cibolo Creek are also perfect for swimming and splashing, providing a refreshing way to cool down on a warm Texas day. The center also provides educational opportunities. They offer various camps and homeschool programs, making it an engaging place for children to learn about nature and conservation.
With its accessible trails and natural play areas, it’s an ideal spot for kids to connect with the outdoors and burn off some energy. +1Photography and Nature Observation
The diverse landscapes, from the marsh to the creek banks, offer a variety of backdrops. Birdwatchers will find plenty to observe. The center is known for its avian population, with visitors spotting colorful species like Summer Tanagers and Painted Buntings.
Even in less-than-ideal weather, like a drizzle, the opportunities for bird photography remain excellent. While the natural beauty is undeniable, be aware that professional photography sessions may require permits and incur fees, which some visitors find can interrupt the creative flow.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit