Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
Attractions at the Rock
Weather pits are fragile and important parts of
the enchanted rock experience. They are often
used as bathrooms and rest stops but should be
protected and cared for. Please help us protect
and preserve these beautiful parts of nature by
only observing them. A Threatened Natural
Resource the “islands” of vegetation on the
bare granite summit of Enchanted Rock are
some of the most ecologically significant and
severely threatened features of this state
natural area. Known as soil islands, weather
pits, gammas or vernal pools, these patches of
vegetation on bare rock develop in depressions
formed by weathering over thousands of years.
The depressions shelter an assemblage of
plants and animals uniquely adapted to a harsh
environment. In fact, by studying weather pits,
ecologists learn: The depressions shelter an
assemblage of plants and animals uniquely
adapted to a harsh environment. In fact, by
studying weather pits, ecologists learn:
 How plants and animals colonize a
newly formed habitat;
 How those organisms modify their
environment and help develop soils
 How plant and animal community
structure and composition change over
time.
Maps of Enchanted Rock
General Information
You are about to enter a primitive hiking and
camping area, an experience far removed from
the everyday “civilized” life to which we have
become accustomed. This experience is most
complete when left exactly how it is in its own
habitat. When changed by man it becomes less
magical. So please help preserve the harmony
and nature of the backcountry.
Route 4, Box 170, Fredericksburg, Texas 78624
915-247-3903
Park Superintendent at the headquarters or residence,
915/247-3903.
Emergency Numbers:
Llano Sheriff 915 247.5050
Llano EMS 915/247-4521
Llano Hospital 91S/247.SOS1
Fires Caution: Extreme hazards exist please
no ground fires.
At Enchanted Rock you can see the
progressive development from bare rockbottom pits, to annual plant establishment, to
miniature prairies with grasses like little
bluestem and even trees like live oak. Vernal
pools also support an interesting species of
invertebrate, the fairy shrimp.
Sanitation/Waste Disposal
Solid Waste
All garbage and litter (including cigarette butts)
shall be packed out of the area for disposal in trash
receptacles at the trailheads. Burying garbage is not
permitted.
Camping Restrictions
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Human Waste
Self-composting toilet facilities are located
adjacent to the trail at the designated camping
areas. Do not throw away any Non-biodegradable
waste or smoking materials into the compositing
tank. Do not throw any non-biodegradable waste
Camping overnight camping is permitted
only in the designated primitive camping
area.
Camp within camping area boundaries.
Rearranging the landscape is not allowed.
Do not construct your campsite. Never cut
branches, saplings, or trees.
Avoid disturbing the groundcover and
topsoil. Locate your camp in order to take
advantage of natural drainage and
topography
Be advised that the river and low-lying
areas are subject to flash flooding.
Conservation/Preservation
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Taking plant parts including lichens and
the taking or defacing of rocks is
prohibited by law.
Historical and archeological materials may
not be disturbed by penalty of law.
Conserve the delicate plant life in the
pools, potholes and/or swales on the
granite dome, by avoiding walking through
these areas—observe their delicate plant
and animal life from the edge.
Cutting corners or cut across switchbacks
is not allowed. Such action results in
unnecessary erosion and gullying of the
trail.
Climbing Rules and Restrictions
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Climb “clean” and preserve the resource
for others to enjoy. The use of pitons is
prohibited.
 Climbing and hiking should be done in
athletic shoes not leather soled shoes.
 Explorers of Enchanted Rock Fissure
should use Caution
This 1,000 foot-long talus fissure contains over
20 entrances with tight passages; wet, slippery
surfaces; numerous steep inclines; and
hazardous vertical drops.
It requires some skill and climbing ability to
experience safely. To insure safety, carry at
least one light source and wear loose,
protective clothing and proper foot gear such
as climbing boots or rubber-soled shoes.
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Please stay on the trail. Please report
any trail problems to the Park Superintendent.
Bicycles are not allowed on the trails.
 Leave vehicles and RV’s on paved ground
at all times, parking only in designated
areas. No trailers, RV’s, buses, or vehicles
longer than 20 feet are permitted to cross
bridge.
 Be considerate when camping. Enjoy the
scenery in quiet.