12 Hidden Hill Country Gems Around Bulverde, Spring Branch, Canyon Lake, Gruene & Wimberley

There’s more to our corner of the Hill Country than rivers and dance halls. Tucked between the oaks and limestone bluffs are small, soul-filling spots where you can breathe a little deeper, let the kids run wild, and remember why we love calling this place home.

Bulverde & Spring Branch: wild places and true-Texas nights

Honey Creek State Natural Area (guided only). This is the Hill Country as it used to be—spring-fed water, canyon walls, and quiet. You can only enter on a ranger-led hike that meets at the Rust House inside Guadalupe River State Park. Tours are typically on weekends and are free with park entry. No pets, bring water, and be ready for 2–2.5 hours of gentle walking. (Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, friendsofgrhc.org)

Bauer Unit Trails, Guadalupe River State Park. Skip the crowds and cross to the park’s quieter side. The Bauer trails wind past a historic homestead and end at peaceful river bends—pack out what you pack in; there’s no water or restrooms on this side. (Texas Parks & Wildlife Department)

Anhalt Hall & Tejas Rodeo. For a night that feels like Texas, two classics: Anhalt Hall’s monthly community dances (all ages, always friendly) and Tejas Rodeo’s Saturday-night rodeo with live music and a great steakhouse. (anhalthall.com, tejasrodeo.com, Visit San Antonio)

Pro tip: Honey Creek books up—check dates before you go and bring sun protection.

Canyon Lake: water, rock, and sky

Canyon Lake Gorge Tours. Carved by the 2002 flood, the gorge is an open-air geology lesson—faults, fossils, even ancient sea life. Guided tours keep it safe and fascinating for kids and grownups alike. (canyongorgetours.com, Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority)

Heritage Museum of the Texas Hill Country. Dinosaur trackways—more than 200 prints—sit just minutes from the lake. The museum is open Wednesday–Sunday afternoons and offers track tours and kid-friendly activities throughout the year. (The Heritage Museum)

Overlook Park & Dam Walk. Park at the south end of the dam for big-sky views and a breezy stroll across the top. It’s day-use only; hours are generally 7 a.m. to sunset. (canyonlaketexas.org, swf-wc.usace.army.mil)

Madrone Trail. Seven-plus rocky miles for hikers and mountain bikers on a lake peninsula, with trailheads inside Canyon Park. Bring water and sturdy shoes. (canyonlakeguide.com, swf-wc.usace.army.mil)

Pro tip: Pack a picnic and finish your day with sunset at Overlook Park.

Gruene: sips, strolls, and shady courtyards

The Grapevine Garden. Slip behind the shop into a shady oak-covered courtyard for Texas-wine tastings. Their free “Come and Taste It” events pair live music with pours from Texas wineries and craft brewers. (The Grapevine in Gruene)

Gruene Coffee Haus. A family-run “hole-in-the-wall” roasting daily—perfect for a mid-morning espresso, pastry, or even a mimosa. Open 7 a.m.–7 p.m., right on Hunter Road. (Gruene Coffee Haus)

Old Gruene Market Days. Nearly 100 artisan booths pop up most months—10 a.m.–5 p.m., typically the third full weekend Feb–Nov (and the first weekend in December). Free to wander. (Gruene, Visit NB)

Pro tip: Hit Market Days early, then cool off with shade and live music at The Grapevine.

Wimberley: creeks, views, and a slower pace

Blue Hole Regional Park. Iconic rope swings under cathedral-tall cypress trees. Swimming requires reservations during the season; trails and picnic spots are open beyond swim hours. (wimberleyparksandrec.com)

Jacob’s Well (look, don’t leap). The spring is gorgeous for a short hike, but swimming is paused due to low water levels. It’s still worth the walk. (hayscountytx.gov)

Old Baldy (Prayer Mountain). Climb 218 stone steps for a 360° view over the valley—quick, memorable, and great at sunrise or sunset. (wimberleyparksandrec.com, cityofwimberley.com)

Cypress Falls Swimming Hole. When Blue Hole is booked, this private creek-side swim spot sells simple day passes—easy access and family-friendly vibes. (thelodgeatcypressfalls.com, Visit Wimberley Texas)

Cypress Creek Nature Trail & Preserve. A gentle, shaded path right off the Square that links toward Blue Hole—perfect for strollers, grandparents, and skippers of rocks. (cityofwimberley.com)

The Shady Llama. Hill-top sunset views, rotating food trucks, and a chance to spot a llama or two. Seasonal hours vary; check before you head out. (theshadyllama.com)

How to plan a simple, happy Hill Country day

• Pick one anchor stop (a hike, swim, or tour), then build snacks and shade around it.

• Book ahead for anything guided or seasonal (Honey Creek, Gorge, Blue Hole). (Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, canyongorgetours.com, wimberleyparksandrec.com)

• Pack for Texas: water, hats, river shoes, and grace for unexpected detours—because the best memories are usually the unplanned ones.

About Sheri

Sheri Edwards is a Bulverde-based real estate professional with Edwards Realty Group, brokered by LPT Realty. A wife, mom of three boys, and proud golden doodle wrangler, she blends Texas hospitality with clear, data-smart guidance to help families buy and sell with confidence. Rooted in faith, Sheri leads with kindness, trust, and service—walking clients through each step like a good neighbor. When you’re ready to talk next steps in the Hill Country, she’s here for a warm, no-pressure conversation.