Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge

Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to connect with nature. The refuge is home to many native Texas wildlife and plants, and was specifically established to protect the nesting grounds of the black-capped vireo and the endangered golden-cheeked warbler. Visitors can go for a hike and look for signs of wildlife, smell the flowers along the trail, bring binoculars to look for birds overhead, or use a smartphone or camera to capture the beauty of the wild. The refuge has several observation decks, including the Shin Oak Observation Deck and the Sunset Deck at Warbler Vista, which offer spectacular views of Lake Travis and the Texas Hill Country. There are also many trails to explore, ranging from easy to difficult, including the Cactus Rocks trail at Warbler Vista and the Creek and Pond & Prairie trails at Doeskin Ranch. Families can spend time reading or journaling at one of the observation decks, or drive to and hike at each of the public areas, including Warbler Vista, Doeskin Ranch, and the Shin Oak Observation Deck