Skip to content. | Skip to navigation

Devils River State Natural Area

All camping and facility stays are by reservation only. Reservations must be made at least 1 day in advance. The park is unable to accept payments of any kind.

Things to Do

Fed by numerous clear springs within the region's karst topography, the Devils River is one of the most ecologically intact rivers in Texas. From the hilltops and water's edge of the State Natural Area, visitors can revel in the sight and sound of the river's waters tumbling over limestone past rugged ridges, canyons and grassy banks, giving life to diverse plants and wildlife.

The 38,000-acre State Natural Area consists of two units--the north unit (Del Norte), which is open to the public, and the recently acquired south unit (Big Satan), which is not yet open to the public. North-unit visitors can enjoy day hiking, primitive camping, nature viewing, mountain-biking, horseback riding, swimming, and guided rock-art tours by appointment.

Devils River State Natural Area is unique in that it is very primitive and isolated with few amenities and no landscaped playgrounds. Visitors should bring their own food and water and be prepared for a rugged wilderness experience.

Preparing for a Trip on the Devils River

The wild, scenic Devils River draws kayakers and canoers seeking to paddle 32 miles to Lake Amistad National Recreation Area. However, this trip is highly strenuous and recommended ONLY for experienced paddlers who are equipped to spend at least three days in a remote area.

Access to the river (0.9 miles from the parking area) is by hiking, biking or pre-arranged tour only; no public vehicle access permitted. Paddler put-in for canoes and kayaks only may be available by special appointment. No motorized boats are allowed.

Advance planning and preparation is required to ensure that paddlers play a role in maintaining the integrity of the river and its resources. Read more information about preparing for a trip on the Devils River.

Public Use and Planning

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is developing a General Management Plan for the Devils River State Natural Area (SNA), including the original north unit and the newly acquired south unit, to allow for sustainable, resource-based recreation. The plan will allow put-ins and take-outs on the SNA properties at river miles 15 and 30. TPWD is also considering establishing Commercial Use Agreements that would allow outfitters to shuttle river users to Baker's Crossing (river mile 0) or Raccoon Point (river mile 15) in the Devils River SNA-north unit; and allow them to be picked up at the SNA-south unit.

In order to prepare for the opening of the south unit and to preserve the ecological integrity of the Devils River and surrounding lands, Texas Parks and Wildlife has been working with stakeholders and the public to develop plans for Devils River State Natural Areas, as well as for responsible long-term public use of the Devils River.

Educational Programs

Visitation of archeological pictograph sites is permitted on a pre-approved basis only. For natural and cultural resource tour arrangements, call the State Natural Area (1-830-395-2133).  There are no regularly scheduled educational programs. Availability of tours is limited due to staffing constraints.

Outfitters & Guide Services

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is working to develop commercial agreements with outfitters to provide shuttle service for put-in and take-out on state-managed lands.

Area Attractions

Nearby attractions include Seminole Canyon State Park & Historic SiteKickapoo Cavern State Park, Amistad National Recreation Area, and the cities of Del Rio and Ciudad Acuña. More information on Lake Amistad can be found at the Amistad National Recreation Area website, the International Boundary & Water Commission website and the TPWD Amistad Reservoir website.

HC 01, P.O. Box 513
Del Rio, TX 78840

Latitude: 29.929326

Longitude: -100.942938

(830) 395-2133

Reserve by phone: (512) 389-8900
Reserve by fax

Entrance Fees
  • Free Day Use. Camping Fees: Contact the Park
Hours

All camping and facility stays are by reservation only, at least one day in advance (1-512-389-8900). No processing of fees is available at this State Natural Area.

Open Friday through Monday for day use or drive-in camping. River campsites are open seven days a week for paddlers with advance permits to camp at the SNA on their way downriver. Permits are also required to camp at Lake Amistad.

Climate

It gets very hot in this part of Texas during the summer, so dress and prepare accordingly. Rainfall: 17.2 inches; January minimum: 38 degrees; July maximum: 98 degrees. Current campsites offer minimal shade.

National Weather Service forecast for this area
Elevation

1,300 feet - 2,080 feet.

Back to Top