A New Era for Los Rincones Preserve
Path leading into Los Rincones Preserve. // Stephen Ramirez
Featured in the 2024 Fall/Winter Texas Forever Magazine with project updates
We are thrilled to announce that Los Rincones Preserve has received a generous $15,000 grant from HEB to kickstart some much-anticipated trail work. If you haven’t yet had the chance to visit this beautiful property nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, let us share what makes it so special.
Los Rincones is a hidden gem, known for its limestone overhangs, views over the Guadalupe river valley and downtown Kerrville. It’s a place where the wild nature of Texas still thrives. For decades, it has been a haven for wildlife and a retreat for nature lovers seeking a quiet escape. Now, thanks to the support from HEB, we’re able to enhance accessibility and create new opportunities for visitors to explore and appreciate this stunning landscape.
Visitors looking for Golden-cheeked warblers at a guided hike on the preserve. // Sean Bibby
What’s Coming?
Trail System: At the heart of our plans is the creation of the Los Rincones Loop Trail, a 1.6-mile loop that will wind through the preserve, following the paths of restored walking and jeep trails. This trail will reopen parts of the property that have been inaccessible for years, offering visitors a closer look at the natural beauty and ecosystems of Los Rincones.
Parking Area Expansion: To accommodate more visitors, we will expand the parking area from its current 0.2 acres to 0.5 acres, creating space for up to 15 vehicles. This improvement will make visits easier and more convenient for everyone, encouraging more people to experience the tranquility of the preserve.
Gate and Fencing Repairs: Preserving the character and history of Los Rincones is crucial to us. We’ll be repairing half a mile of fencing along Sheppard Rees Road, ensuring the property remains protected, while also restoring the entrance gate. This includes rebuilding two fallen stone pillars that have stood for generations, adding a sense of history and permanence to the gateway of the preserve.
These improvements will not only make Los Rincones more accessible and enjoyable but will also ensure that its natural beauty is preserved for years to come.
A photo taken with American Youthworks Texas Conservation Corps and Alec before starting trail work. // Valeria Bridgewater
Project Updates
Before trail work began, we partnered with the Texas Master Naturalists to conduct biological assessments of the area. Their expertise guides us in making sure that the trails are designed with minimal impact to the land, protecting the wildlife and native plants that call Los Rincones home. On Earth Day 2025, American Youthworks Texas Conservation Corps (TXCC) initiated the first phase of the Loop Trail. While there is still a lot of work ahead, we’re excited about the progress.
Trail work before and after. // TXCC
A Vision for Los Rincones
This is just the beginning! Over the next few years, we envision Los Rincones becoming a vibrant part of the community, where people of all ages can come to reconnect with nature, explore its wonders, and experience the best of Texas outdoors. This preserve will serve not only as a recreational area but as a place of learning, conservation, and inspiration for generations to come.