Old Tunnel State Park
Witness millions of bats emerge from an historic railroad tunnel in this small but spectacular Texas State Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Bat emergence spectacle
Old Tunnel State Park
Best Time
Bat emergence spectacle
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness millions of bats emerge from an historic railroad tunnel in this small but spectacular Texas State Park.
"Watching an estimated three million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge for their nightly hunt at sunset is an incredible display of Mother Nature. "
🎟️ Book Tickets Online Ahead
Tickets are required and sell out fast, especially in peak season. Buy online!
⏰ Arrive Before Sunset
Get to the park before dusk to secure good viewing spots and enjoy the presentation.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mexican Free-tailed Bat Emergence
Old Railroad Tunnel
Witness millions of bats take flight from an abandoned railroad tunnel at dusk. A truly awe-inspiring natural phenomenon.
Historic Railroad Tunnel
Main feature of the park
Explore the remnants of the Fredericksburg and Northern Railway, now a seasonal home for a massive bat colony.
Scenic Hiking Trail
Park trails
Enjoy a short, peaceful hike through the park's natural surroundings before the main event.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Bat Viewing Tickets in Advance
Timing is Everything for Bat Flights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online Ahead
Tickets are required and sell out fast, especially in peak season. Buy online!
⏰ Arrive Before Sunset
Get to the park before dusk to secure good viewing spots and enjoy the presentation.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The short hiking trail is pleasant, so wear shoes suitable for walking.
📱 Check FB for Times
Consult the park's Facebook page for accurate bat emergence times.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online Ahead
Tickets are required and sell out fast, especially in peak season. Buy online!
⏰ Arrive Before Sunset
Get to the park before dusk to secure good viewing spots and enjoy the presentation.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The short hiking trail is pleasant, so wear shoes suitable for walking.
📱 Check FB for Times
Consult the park's Facebook page for accurate bat emergence times.
💧 Bring Hand Sanitizer
Restrooms are available, but soap might not be. Carry sanitizer.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the incredible spectacle of millions of bats emerging from the tunnel, calling it a unique and awe-inspiring natural wonder. The educational presentations and knowledgeable volunteers significantly enhance the experience, making it a highly recommended, affordable outing for families and nature enthusiasts. However, the park's small size and lack of amenities, along with the strict requirement for advance online ticket booking, are points of consideration for some.
"We visits a lot of state parks but even though someone told me this one was very small I did not remember. There is no visitor’s center, no nature center, park rangers, etc. of any kind. There is a trail down to the old tunnel, where you can see the bats fluttering around and a few of them whizzing in during the morning, but that’s about it. There was one geocache in the park, which we found without a problem, although we probably will not make the trip back anytime soon, it was a pretty drive to get to and a nice hike. I do wish there was a way to get souvenirs for the park since we collect them from every state park we visit, but I’m glad we checked it off our list. There are a lot of signs warning people about stealing so I guess the area must be a hotspot for theft or something. I will say the portapotties were very clean but bring hand sanitizer because there’s no soap"
Morgan Whitney
"What a hidden gem. My family and I absolutely loved watching the bats fly out of the cave. The volunteers were so sweet and very knowledgeable about the area and the bats. It was definitely worth the $5 and the hour trip it took us to get there. I highly recommend checking their FB page ahead of time so you know what time you should get there. The seats fill up fast. (P.S. Get the bottom seats) Over all what a great and fun time with the family!"
Clari P.
"Watching an estimated three million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge for their nightly hunt at sunset is an incredible display of Mother Nature. The professional presentation about the bats and the excellent storytelling about the history of the Old Tunnel was top notch and the passion of the presenter added immensely to the overall experience. Our kids loved it and came away with a greater appreciation of the value of bats to controlling crop insect damage and how important it is for humanity to protect their continued existence. We highly recommend this experience to anyone who wants to understand how important it is for people to live in harmony with nature. Also, nobody got bats in their hair. :-) Check it out."
James Frost
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Old Tunnel State Park is located between Fredericksburg and Comfort, Texas, on Old San Antonio Road. It's a scenic drive through the Texas Hill Country.
While it's a smaller park, signage is generally good. Many visitors find it a convenient stop on their way to or from Fredericksburg.
Driving is the primary method. The roads leading to the park are generally well-maintained, offering a pleasant journey.
Fredericksburg and Comfort are the closest towns, offering various lodging options if you plan to stay overnight. +1
Absolutely! It's a perfect destination for a day trip, especially if you're exploring the Fredericksburg area. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, tickets are required for bat viewing, especially during peak season. It's highly recommended to purchase them online in advance as they sell out quickly.
Tickets are typically around $2-$5 per person, making it a very affordable and unique experience.
Tickets must be purchased online through the Texas State Parks website. They are not sold at the park itself.
Bat season generally runs from May through October, with the peak population occurring in August.
While same-day tickets might be available early in the season, it's risky. For peak months, booking up to a month in advance is advised.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The park features a short, scenic hiking trail that leads to the historic railroad tunnel. It's a peaceful spot for nature observation. +1
Reports suggest there isn't a permanent ranger station or visitor center. Volunteers often staff the bat viewing events.
There are upper and lower viewing decks. The lower deck is slightly closer to the tunnel entrance, offering a marginally better view.
No, dogs are not allowed in Old Tunnel State Park, which is a consideration for visitors traveling with pets.
The tunnel was part of the Fredericksburg and Northern Railway, which ceased operations in 1942. It became a state park in 2012.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is allowed, but be mindful of others and avoid using flash, which can disturb the bats.
Use a tripod and a camera with good low-light performance. A wider aperture and higher ISO will be necessary.
While generally permitted, always check for any specific park rules regarding photography, especially concerning commercial use.
You can capture the impressive sight of millions of bats taking flight, often silhouetted against the twilight sky.
Yes, during daylight hours, you can photograph the historic railroad tunnel, though access inside might be restricted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families:
* Book tickets well in advance, especially during peak season, as they sell out quickly.
* Arrive early to get good seats on the viewing decks and let kids explore the short trail before sunset.
* Bring snacks and drinks, as concessions are not available.
* Consider bringing a small blanket or cushion for comfort on the viewing decks.
* Check the park's Facebook page for the most accurate bat emergence times.
🚗 Day-Trippers & Road Trippers
Perfect for a quick visit:
* Combine with Fredericksburg: Visit the park in the evening after a day of exploring Fredericksburg's wineries and shops.
* Short and sweet: The park itself is small, making it perfect for a few hours of exploration and the main bat viewing event.
* Unique experience: It offers a memorable wildlife encounter that stands out from typical roadside attractions.
💰 Budget Travelers
Maximizing value:
* Pack your own food and drinks to avoid purchasing expensive items elsewhere.
* Carpool if traveling with a group to share the ticket costs.
* Combine with free activities like exploring nearby towns or scenic drives in the Hill Country.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Remarkable Bat Colony
These incredible creatures emerge from the abandoned railroad tunnel each evening during bat season (May-October) to forage for insects. This nightly spectacle is a breathtaking display of nature's power and a vital ecological service, as bats consume vast quantities of agricultural pests. The park's volunteers often provide educational presentations, sharing fascinating insights into the bats' behavior, life cycle, and importance to the ecosystem. The emergence is a truly unique experience. While the bats may not form the same dense, swirling 'clouds' as seen at Austin's Congress Avenue Bridge, their sheer numbers and the synchronized flight from the tunnel are awe-inspiring. Visitors often describe the experience as magical and unforgettable, with many children gaining a newfound appreciation for these often-misunderstood animals.
It's important to remember that this is a natural phenomenon. While the bats are generally predictable, factors like weather can influence their emergence time. The park's Facebook page is a valuable resource for checking the most up-to-date information on when the bats are expected to fly.
A Glimpse into Texas Railroad History
Today, the tunnel serves a dual purpose: it's a historical marker and a crucial habitat for the bat colony. The park preserves this piece of local history, offering visitors a chance to connect with the region's heritage while experiencing its natural wonders. The short hiking trail provides a pleasant way to explore the immediate surroundings and appreciate the tunnel's scale.
While the park is small, its historical significance adds another layer to the visitor experience. It's a reminder of how landscapes can be repurposed and how human history can intertwine with the natural world, creating unique destinations like Old Tunnel State Park.
Social
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