FoolHardyHiker

I almost don't want to post anything on this park for fear of bringing more ppl to it ;-)

One of my biggest things I enjoy about primitive camping is getting away from civilization and sitting in solitude, getting back from nature. Much to my dismay, I found out that the park was completely booked when I arrived (I, at least, had a reservation!). I guess that was my fault for not knowing that it was Earth Day!

Well, come to find out that the folks spend most of there time on the river camping sites and don't go very deep into the trails. My buddy and I didn't see a single person after hiking as little as 1/4 mile into the trail to see the falls. What a shame! They missed all the beauty. This park was pictureesque to say the least. We spent most of the time on the Spicewood springs trail and had a great time looking at the falls and the crystal clear water (wear water-proof shoes, or prepare to walk in soggy socks). The trail is very rocky in parts and makes the hike really enjoyable.

If you are looking for seclusion and getting away from civilization, though, don't bother camping along the river (both primitive and non-primitive sites will be within stone's throw of people/houses). We were not able to get out to the windmill area (we hiked about 7 miles before deciding to pitch tent) but I would expect that to be much more secluded.

You will likely see a decent amount of wildlife at this park. We saw armadillos, lizards, snakes (just hatchlings and non-venomous), armadillos, deer, birds, etc.

One last thing to mention.. seclusion or not, you gotta see the Gorman falls. We paid to see this on the way out of the park and was completely worth it. It is almost "rain-forest" like at the base of the falls and looks completely out of place for central Texas. Bring a camera because every picture you take will be a keeper.