365 Things To Do In The Texas Hill Country

#40. Enjoy a series of hilarious crime-spree mystery novels centered in the Texas Hill Country

2010-08-04T15:53:00.000-05:00

The fact is that it's pretty darn hot outdoors right now. Days like today remind me to stay in the "AC" and maybe enjoy a great novel, especially one that takes place in the Texas Hill Country.

Ben Rehder writes some really hilarious mysteries about a game warden in the Texas Hill Country. There are six books in the series, starting with Buck Fever. Here's a description of Buck Fever from Ben's website at http://www.benrehder.com …

“Blanco County, Texas: It's the week before deer hunting season, as close to a statewide holiday as you get in Texas, and the locals are getting restless. Game Warden John Marlin has his hands full with poaching complaints coming in faster than he can write out-of-season tickets. Then a call of a different sort comes in. A man dressed up in some sort of deer costume has been shot at the Circle S ranch, and witnesses are reporting a massive wild-eyed buck prancing about the pasture in a lovesick frenzy. Marlin's seen a lot in his years, but this is wilder than he could have imagined: the man in the deer suit is a good friend, and the whacked-out whitetail isn't exactly a stranger either. It's the beginning of a mad, frantic weekend in Blanco County, one that will see a few more men shot, an invasion by Colombians with more than hunting on their minds, and damn near the end of Marlin's life. Ben Rehder serves it all up with a huge helping of humor in this debut comic mystery that will firmly establish him as the funniest crime writer in Texas”.

Ben is a Hill Country boy himself and knows how to write a great story. The series of six novels all take place in Blanco County (the Johnson City area of the Hill Country) and feature the names of cities, creeks, roads and rivers that are actually there. Ben has a talent for capturing the essence of some funny Hill Country personality traits in his characters.

You can purchase Buck Fever at most book stores, from Ben’s website, or on-line at
http://www.amazon.com/Buck-Fever-Blanco-County-Novels/dp/0312992203/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1202251600&sr=1-5

Over the next few months I’ll tell you about other books in Ben’s “Blanco County” series. Want you to have time read each one before I tell you about the next one in the series!

Good reading!

-Don Gray

P.S. This posting was suggested by Cindy Ivy, a friend of “365 Things To Do In The Texas Hill Country”.

#39. Rabke’s Table Ready Meats, Willow City, TX (near Fredericksburg)

2010-08-04T09:11:00.000-05:00

A few miles north of Fredericksburg toward Enchanted Rock, and between the little communities of Willow City and Crabapple, you’ll find Rabke’s Table-Ready Meats. The Rabke family has been producing delicious smoked and fresh meats, sausages and cheeses on their ranch since the 1950’s. I love all of their products, but I always gravitate toward the dried sausage, jalapeño cheese beef sticks, and their beef and turkey jerky. Other Rabke products include salami, fresh beef, pork and turkey sausage, smoked boneless turkey breast, smoked hams, whole smoked turkeys, beef sticks, and tamales. Their address is 3875 Eckert Road, Willow City, Texas 78675, just off Lower Crabapple Road.

A visit to Rabke’s is always fun, especially when you are out for a drive through the Hill Country. Rabke’s is not some large glitzy commercial business. You won’t find large billboards pointing the way to Rabke’s. Rather, their processing/smokehouse facility is located right next door to the Rabke family house on the family ranch. When in the area I always stop and pick up some cheese, dried sausage and jerky to munch on during my drive (plus some extra to take home). It’s a good idea to call first to make sure a Rabke will be there to take care of you, as sometimes they are off-site (a run into town, a calf that needs to drop, etc.). If your travel plans include Enchanted Rock, then be sure and stop by Rabke’s. Rabke’s is located just a few minutes from Enchanted Rock, with Rabke’s being located east of the Crabapple Community.

Rabke’s is a great source for holiday gift treats. Send Rabke’s your client list and Rabke’s will ship a gift box that is certain to impress.

Rabke’s began as a family owned and operated turkey hatchery, slaughter facility and processing operation for the sale of fresh and smoked turkey products. Over the years Rabke’s has evolved into a family owned and operated smokehouse, catering, retail, and deer processing business.

Rabke’s is located in the beautiful Texas Hill Country just an hour and a half from Austin and San Antonio. Found thirteen miles out State Highway 16 North from Fredericksburg, then four miles west on Eckert Road, it's a pleasant, beautiful drive. Rabke's also provides custom deer processing; making your venison into delicious German sausage, smoked deer hams, backstrap steaks, salami, jerky, and more.

Rabke’s also has a deer hunting facility; R Diamond Ranch, right next door. The ranch offers guided, in-season, day hunts on 320 acres of high fenced, game managed land. We have available trophy and management hunts for Fallow, Axis, and Blackbuck Antelope as well as White-Tailed Deer. Call them for details.

If you can’t make it by Rabke’s, you can always place an order by phone. All you do is look over the list of select items on their website and call to place your phone order. They will do the rest- box, wrap, and enclose a gift card if you choose. Rabke’s offers free delivery to Fredericksburg, Texas or can ship via UPS to other areas.

Check out the Rabke’s website at http://www.rabkes.com/

I’ve been a Rabke’s customer for 20 years or more. Two Rabke’s have passed on during my years as a Rabke customer, and both times it was like losing family for me. They had become true friends. They are just good ordinary hard working people who make an exceptional product.

Contact Rabke’s at:

Phone: 830-685-3266

Cell Phone: 817-395-3881

Think of me when you snap off a peice of dried sausage or slice a thin strip of jeky!

-Don Gray

#37. Celebrate Whataburger’s 60th birthday with a free burger tonight

2010-08-03T11:05:00.000-05:00

Sixty years ago today, Texas entrepreneur Harmon Dobson opened a small burger stand in Corpus Christi and called it Whataburger because he believed that’s what customers would say when they took a bite of his big, fresh, made-to-order burgers.

Today, Whataburger is a southern burger icon with more than 700 locations in 10 states. To mark the occasion and to thank its millions of loyal fans, the company will host “Orange Night Out” at most of its restaurants on Tuesday, August 3 from 5 to 8 p.m. Every dine-in customer who comes dressed in the company’s signature orange will receive a free Whataburger.

You'll find Whataburger locations all over the Texas Hill Country (but you already know that!)

-Don Gray

#35. The Shade Tree Saloon in Spring Branch, TX

2010-08-03T10:04:00.000-05:00

The Shade Tree Saloon in Spring Branch, TX is a place you feel at home at. It has the feel of a traditional Hill Country ice house, complete with roll-up doors, pool tables and a shuffleboard table. And they often feature live music. They serve lunch and dinner too! You’ll find it on Highway 281, just north of the Guadalupe River Bridge (between where Highways 46 and 306 intersect 281).

Their beer list includes all of the domestics and a wide array of imports, including imports on tap. The Shade Tree also takes care of the vino folks and the “set-up” crowd.

I enjoyed a really good home-style cheeseburger and fries at the Shade Tree. But their menu also features shrimp poor boys, philly cheese steak sandwiches, Reuben sandwiches, catfish sandwiches, onion rings, jalapeño poppers, tater tots, dressed up spuds, and salads. They offer a large assortment of appetizers, including fried calamari. And the service was also great, complete with a server who kindly laughed at my comments and enjoyed a fun round of verbal jousting with me.

The Shade Tree would be a great place to visit after enjoying the nearby Guadalupe River (swimming, tubing, canoeing or kayaking). That’d be my kind of day and how I will do it next time there.

I don’t often include comments about bathrooms, but the men’s room had a special twist. It was scented with a fragrance that smelled just like a vanilla cake coming out of the oven! Except for the traditional bathroom facilities, I thought I was in my grandmother’s kitchen on baking day! Not many places got that going for them!

The Shade Tree is also dog friendly (in the outdoor areas).

Website: http://www.theshadetreesaloonandgrill.com/

-Don Gray

#34. The Eckert/James River Bat Cave near Mason, TX

2010-08-02T12:38:00.001-05:00

Since bat caves seem to be the topic of current interest, here’s a posting about another great Hill Country bat cave.

A gorgeous country road drive will take you to the Eckert/James River Bat Cave about thirty minutes southwest of Mason, TX. The Eckert/James River Bat Cave Preserve is one of the largest bat nurseries in the country. About 4 million female bats inhabit the site from May through September. Most of these are pregnant when they arrive. In the Bat Cave, females give birth to a single pup in June or July. The young bats grow rapidly and are able to fly at about five weeks of age. However, they will remain with their mothers until they return to Mexico in October.

The Bat Cave is owned and operated by the Nature Conservancy. The Conservancy offers public viewing on weekends during the season. The preserve is open from mid-May to early October for interpretive tours. These tours run Thursday-Sunday, from 6 p.m.- 9 p.m. Some sunrise tours of the bats returning from their nocturnal hunts also are offered. The preserve is open to visitors each summer. There is a $5 entrance fee. Children 5 and under are free.

An hour or two before sunset, hundreds of bats flutter and chirp around the mouth of the cave. Slowly, a stream of bats emerges and flies in a large circle, low to the ground, just outside the cave entrance. These bats gradually spiral upwards and form a dark funnel of flying mammals, reaching several hundred feet into the evening sky. The bats at the top of the spiral break off, forming columns that stream out over the countryside. This seemingly impossible torrent of bats forms a densely packed "bat tornado" for about an hour.

Richard Phillip Eckert and Virginia Eckert Garrett donated the cave to The Nature Conservancy in honor of their father, Lee Eckert, and grandfather, W. Phillip Eckert. The Eckert family acquired the property in 1907 when W. Phillip purchased the ranch on which the cave was located. In the early 1900s, W. Phillip mined the bat guano in the cave and sold it to local farmers for crop fertilizer. W. Phillip's son, Lee Eckert, continued his father's legacy of bat conservation and guano mining and left the site to his wife and children when he passed away in 1967.

This generation of Eckert’s wanted to ensure permanent protection of the bats, so in 1990 they donated the cave to the Conservancy on condition that the land around the cave remain open to the public for enjoyment and education, as it had been for more than 100 years.

The management plan developed by Bat Conservation International and The Nature Conservancy prevents human entrance to the cave during maternal activity, controls visitation, monitors the bat population and protects the cave opening. Scientific research continues at the site and the cave remains open to scientists throughout most of the year.

Along the way to the cave I strongly suggest three stops. First, stop at Cooper’s BBQ on highway 87 in Mason, next to the Super S grocery store. Pick up some of the best BBQ in Texas to enjoy on your drive to the cave. Second, don’t miss the “Todd Mountain” historical marker on FM 2389 that tells the story of an Indian kidnapping that occurred at this spot in 1864. That kidnapping became the story for the classic John Wayne movie “The Searchers”. Third, stop and swim in the Llano River where FM 2389 crosses the river. You can park on the gravel island in the river and enjoy the clear cool river. Be sure and wear water shoes to protect your feet.

Prepare for your visit by calling (325) 347-5970 during the season or (512) 263-8878 otherwise.

It is wise to phone ahead to obtain local weather conditions and updates concerning the James River, as you will need to drive through the river to reach the cave. This river is affected by flash flooding. Please note that the flood gauge normally reads 1 foot (even though the actual water height is about ten inches when the sign reads 1 foot). Although higher clearance SUVs and pickup trucks are the preferred vehicles to cross the river, if the flood gauge is at 1 foot or below, most vehicles should be able to make the crossing (other than low vehicles like Corvettes). Use your own judgment based upon knowledge of your individual vehicle. Do not make the crossing if the flood gauge is above 1 foot or higher.) Download PDF map and directions or see the directions below:

Start from the southeast side of Mason town square on Highway 87 South. It is about 16.5 miles to the preserve. Follow Highway 87 about 1 mile to FM 1723. If you pass the city park on the left, you have gone too far. Turn right on FM 1723. Follow FM 1723 for about 2.4 miles to FM 2389. Follow FM 2389 for about 4.8 miles to James River Road. You will cross two bridges over the Llano River just before you reach James River Road (you can park o the island between these bridges and enjoy a nice swim!). Turn right on James River road. It is about 8.3 miles to the preserve. Watch for deer and cattle on this road. The pavement will end about half way through and will then be driving on dirt road. Continue on the James River road to the James River crossing. Before you reach the James River, you will pass the Dalton J. Woods paved turnoff to the right; do not turn, continue straight through this intersection. Cross the James River. The roadway actually fords the river. Drive slowly. When crossing the river, you will see small waterfalls to your right. If you stay near those waterfalls (careful not to go to the right of them) the water level is constant all the way across the river and the river bottom is hard rock all the way across. Although it can be slick at times, it is crossable. Caution: This river is affected by flash flooding. Continue along the James River road about a 1/2 mile until the road turns a sharp left; the gated entrance to the preserve is on the right at this curve. Follow the road to the parking lot.

The drive from Mason to the cave takes about 30 minutes without stops. There is no opportunity to purchase fuel along the drive from Mason to the cave, so be sure and buy fuel in Mason.

Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qNo5AuRH2To

-Don Gray

P.S. Here's some photos taken along the drive from Mason to the Bat Cave...

#33. The “Devil’s Sinkhole” near Rocksprings, TX

2010-08-01T19:46:00.000-05:00

Imagine discovering a huge dark vertical hole in the ground some 50-60 feet across. You walk apprehensively to the edge of the hole, lay down on your stomach and peer over the rock edge to discover that the bottom of the hole is REALLY deep (close to 361 feet deep). As your vision adjusts to the hole, you see that the bottom of the hole is much larger than its mouth, some 250 feet by 450 feet. You also see a large cone shaped pile of rock, some 200 feet tall, rising up from the center of the cavern floor. The pile of rock consists of remains from the roof of the cavern after it collapsed into the cave to create the surface hole you are peering through. At the base of the rock pile you notice two small lakes filled with crystal clear water.

A man by the name of Ammon Billings experienced this find in 1876, but he was not the first discover the hole. Man has visited this hole since at least 2,500-4,000 B.C. Now it’s your turn to discover the sinkhole.

The Devil’s Sinkhole is a collapsed underground cave in the Texas Hill Country near Rocksprings. It is the main drawing card to the 1,800 acre Devil’s Sinkhole State Natural Area (DSSNA). The sinkhole is the summer home to one to four million Mexican Free-tailed bats (up to three times more bats than Austin’s Congress Ave. Bridge). It is an amazing sight at sundown when the bats begin to come out, a trickling out at first in handfulls, then more and more until they become a swirling mass, like a “tornado” of bats reaching upward in the sky.

Visitors are shuttled from a meeting location in the town of Rocksprings to peer down into the sinkhole’s mouth. The Rocksprings Visitors Center serves as the meeting spot. The Visitors Center is located on the town square at 101 N. Sweeten Street in Rocksprings. Rocksprings is located at the junction of State Highway 55 and US Highway 377 on the western edge of the Hill Country, south of IH 10.

Four types of DSSNA tours are offered.

1. Evening bat flight tours are available to the public from May to mid-October, Wednesday through Sunday evenings. Space is limited, so call ahead for reservations. Evening bat tours leave from Rocksprings about 45 minutes before the bats are expected to emerge and then return to town about two hours later.

2. Afternoon sinkhole tours are available to see the sinkhole from a viewing platform located on the edge of the sinkhole, but the bat flight will not been seen during the afternoon tours. The afternoon tours are conducted from January through October. There is no regular afternoon schedule; so you must arrange your tour several days in advance.

3. Guided walking tours of the DSSNA are offered two Saturdays a month, January through October. Reservations for walking tours are required and special group tours can be arranged with prior notice. Walking tours meet in Rocksprings about 10:00 am. and leave about 10:15am.

4. Birding tours are also offered by reservation on the first and third Saturday’s of each month, January through October. The Devil's Sinkhole State Natural Area has nesting sites for black-capped vireo, Montezuma quail, and many other birds. The birding tour involves a walk of about a mile on fairly level undeveloped ranch paths. People taking the bird tour must be ten years old or older.

The Devil’s Sinkhole SNA was established by Texas Parks & Wildlife in 1985. Minimal development was completed in September 1996 to include picnic sites, a chemical toilet, and some trail development. A wheelchair accessible viewing platform is now available and allows visitors to look down into the sinkhole.

Spanish speaking guides are available for each type of tour, but such tours must be arranged several days in advance.

To arrange tours, call 830 683-BATS or 830-683-2287.

Evening Tour Fees (Bats)

Adults— $12

Child 4 to 11—$6

Over 65—$10

Children under 4—Free

Afternoon Tour Fee (No bats)

$6 per person

Children under 4 years old—Free

Minimum 5 persons or $30

Web sites:

http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/devils_sinkhole/

http://www.devilssinkhole.org/

-Don Gray

#32. The World Famous "Blue Bonnet Cafe" in Marble Falls

2010-07-30T12:48:00.000-05:00

Is there anyone left in the world who has not enjoyed the Blue Bonnet Café? Fresh home-style food at its best! Where you can enjoy breakfast from opening til closing with food served by the “tops” in friendly waitresses. Where around 26,000 eggs are cracked each month to take care of hungry customers! Breakfast, lunch and dinner at the Blue Bonnet have been a Hill Country tradition for close to 81 years now.

Did’ja know that the Blue Bonnet is named after a woman’s bonnet and not after the flower? Hence, the “two words” in the name Blue Bonnet.

The Blue Bonnet’s breakfast menu includes eggs, omelets, french toast, pancakes, biscuits, sausage, biscuits and gravy to die for and of course, crispy hash browns. Lunch and dinner features chicken-fried steak, grilled steaks, liver and onions, pot roast, ground steaks, fried catfish, burgers, sandwiches, salads, and Mexican plates. And the Blue Bonnet is well-known for its wonderfully tasty yeast rolls!

Pies are the BIG thing at the Blue Bonnet. And when ordering a slice, you get a HUGE slice! The pie selection includes apple, cherry, peach, pecan, fudge, chocolate meringue, lemon meringue, coconut meringue, and peanut butter. Pies ”to go” are priced at $12. 95.

John and Belinda Kempner have owned the Blue Bonnet since February 1981. The Blue Bonnet first opened in 1925 and opened at its present location in 1946.

Hours: Monday through Thursday – 6 AM to-8 PM, Friday and Saturday – 6 AM to 9 PM, Sunday 6AM to 1:45 PM. Pie Happy Hour 3 PM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday. Breakfast served from opening to closing. No credit cards, but an ATM machine is on site.

You’ll find the Blue Bonnet at 211 Hwy 281 in Marble Falls, close to the 281 bridge over Lake Marble Falls. And you’ll see Blue Bonnet Café t-shirts all over the world worn by folks anxious to return to the Hill Country for a great meal at the Blue Bonnet.

-Don Gray

Liver & Onions

Service with a smile!!

Pot Roast

#31. Fredericksburg's streets spell out “All Welcome” and “Come Back”

2010-07-29T16:43:00.003-05:00

Interesting fact: The first letters of streets intersecting Fredericksburg’s Main Street heading southeast from the center of town spell "ALL WELCOME" (Adams, Llano, Lincoln, Washington, Elk, Lee, Columbus, Olive, Mesquite, and Eagle). The first letters of streets intersecting Main Street heading northwest from the center of town spell "COME BACK"(Crockett, Orange, Milam, Edison, Bowie, Acorn, Cherry, and Kay).

It’s a friendly town for sure.

-Don Gray

#30. Get filled up at "Porky's" in Fredericksburg. You’ll love it!

2010-07-29T15:20:00.000-05:00

Ready for some of the best onion rings and burgers in the greater Hill Country? Then head to Porky’s in Fredericksburg. I do my best to make a stop at Porky’s every time I’m in Fburg.

Porky’s is known for their onion rings, burgers and hand-cut fries. But you’ll also find pulled pork sandwiches, BBQ’ed meat loaf, chicken fried steaks, pork cutlets, muffaletta sandwiches, etc.

Porky's is located in an old wooden house at 904 W. Main Street (north side of the street) at the west end of Fburg where parking is not a problem, near the intersection of Highways 290 and 87, near to the post office. Enjoy the shaded parking lot there.

Porky’s hours are 11-4 on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday; 11-8 on Thursday. & Friday. Closed on Sunday. If you are passing through town and in a hurry, then phone in your order to (830) 997-6882 and they’ll have it ready for you to pick up.

Porky’s has been around for close to 13 years now. Russ and Sue Engelhardt own and operate Porky’s. You’ll find them behind the counter taking care of customers. Tell’em “hi” for me.

-Don Gray

#29. Enjoy Kevin Fowler at "Harperfest 2010", Saturday, August 7th in Harper, TX, USA

2010-07-28T10:10:00.000-05:00

Harper is a neat little hill country town just west of Fredericksburg on Highway 290. Kevin Fowler has a ranch near there and now puts on an annual concert in Harper. I met Kevin though our mutual interest in archery and my son and Kevin have become good friends. He’s a first class person with a great talent for country music. His hits include “Ain’t Drinking Anymore”, “Pound Sign”, 100% Texan til I Die”, and “Biggest Mistake I Ever Made”. Kevin wrote “Long Line of Losers” (recorded by Montgomery Gentry) , Beer, Bait & Ammo” (recorded by Sammy Kershaw), and “The Lord Loves A Drinking Man” (recorded by Mark Chesnutt). Kevin was born and raised in Amarillo but lives in the Hill Country by choice.

The outdoor concert will be at the Community Park in Harper. You can enter as early as 7 PM for the show that begins at 8:30. Pre-show tickets are $17. The pre-sale tickets allow you a quick entry into the event. Tickets are $20 at the entrance. You can purchase pre-show tickets on line at http://www.kevinfowler.com/

The parking spots at the Community Park will fill pretty quick that evening. You will find additional parking at the school nearby with a lighted walking path from football field to park. No ice chests or bottles allowed. Main gate will have separate line for presale tickets. Concessions available.

Harper Community Park is at the intersection of Hwy 290 W and RR 783 S, across from Dauna's Corner Store.

Hope to see you there.

-Don Gray

#28. Enjoy the nectar of Hill Country flowers with a jar of Fain’s natural raw honey!

2010-07-27T13:35:00.001-05:00

Fain's Honey Store south of Llano specializes in 100% Texas Hill Country honey. That is, honey made from bees who pollinate Texas Hill Country flowers, primarily the flowers of “bee brush” found all over the Llano area. Bee brush produces tiny white, incredibly sweet smelling flowers after each rain. The honey it produces is considered by many to be the most delicious honey of all, tasting just like the flowers smell.

Fain’s has always been a family business. The business has been in operation since 1926. It is now owned by Keith Fain, the third in the line of Fains to own the business.

The most enjoyable way to get Fain’s honey is to visit the store south of Llano, open 9-5, except closed for the noon hour, weekedays. There, you can personally select from 9 cremed honey spreads (also called creamed honey), natural raw honey, sorghum molasses, and ribbon cane syrup to custom build your own gift box... or choose from several pre-selected, unique Texas honey gift boxes. Fain’s produces it’s famed cremed honey in several delicious flavors: pecan, amaretto pecan, almond, lemon, cinnamon, jalapeño, peach, and peach amaretto.

If you can’t get to the store, you can order on line or find Fain’s at HEB grocery store. Fain’s Honey is a great, unique gift (Texas gift or birthday gift) for someone special. Visit Fain’s website at http://www.fainshoney.com/

Fain’s is located two miles south of Llano on Highway 16, eastside of the highway. Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM, closed for the lunch hour, Mondays through Friday only.

Take a trip to Fain’s for me…you’ll be glad you did. And I sure wouldn’t complain if you dropped a jar off for me.

-Don Gray

#27. The Hill Top Café near Fredericksburg

2010-07-27T10:21:00.000-05:00

It might not look like it from the outside, but the Hill Top cafe north of Fredericksburg is a first-class restaurant that features Louisiana, Greek and Hill Country cooking and some of the most authentic blues music you’ll ever hear. Johnny Nicholas and Brenda Schlaudt (husband/wife team) opened the Hill Top back in the 80’s. The Greek specialties reflect Johnny’s heritage, the Louisiana dishes reflect Brenda’s roots in Port Arthur. The live “blues” music comes from Johnny’s days as a well-known blues performer.

The café is actually an old gas station that has been transformed to be a diamond in the Texas Hill Country. The Hill Top is a true “destination” experience. Many folks actually plan trips to Fburg for the primary purpose of dining at the Hill Top and then to enjoy everything else that Fburg has to offer.

You’ll find the Hill Top on Highway 87, ten miles north of Fburg. It’s a popular place, so for weekend evening meals you’ll need to make reservations several days in advance. An evening at the Hill Top is an experience in itself. I like to say “If you haven’t taken her to the Hill Top, you don’t deserve her!”.

The evening fare includes fresh salads, fried shrimp, Greek tenderloin, flounder, pork chops, crab cakes, and chicken fried steak (plus music!!). And it’s a sin not to taste the Hill Top’s gumbo, fried oysters and homemade pies. Lunch at the Hill Top offers juicy burgers, poor boys, sandwiches, boudin, gumbo, and of course, gyros.

The Hill Top is open Tuesday through Sunday for lunch (11 AM to 2 PM) and dinner (5 PM to 9 PM except to 10 PM on Friday and Saturday).

For reservations call: 830-997-8922.

Check out their website at http://www.hilltopcafe.com

-Don Gray

#26. Go “Topaz” hunting! Find your own Topaz gemstones

2010-07-25T17:05:00.000-05:00

Grab your shovel, screen, and water, and go hunt for the Texas state gem. It’s fun for all ages. In Texas, topaz is only found within Mason County. The Seaquist Ranch near Mason, TX offers access to topaz hunters for a nominal fee. For a demonstration of what you’re looking for and how to find it, stop by “Gems of the Hill Country” on the north side of the square in Mason. Be sure to pack something to sit on and maybe some knee pads, as the ground can be hard. Gem quality clear and smoky quartz are also found, along with arrowheads. The topaz is found in certain creeks running through the pink granite. It is suggested that your sifting screen have a mesh size of ¼ to ½ inch per square. The screen can be fastened to a frame made from 2x2 lumber, sized to your liking.

Visit the Gems of the Hill Country website (link provided below) to get contact information for the Seaquist and Lindsay Ranches and to view photos of rough gems and cut gems.

The web link is:

http://www.texas-topaz.com/aboutus/rockhounding.htm

Send me photos of your gem finds!

-Don Gray

#25. Angel's Ice House on a hilltop near Spicewood, Texas

2010-07-25T14:28:00.000-05:00

Sadly, there’s only one Angel’s Icehouse. I wish they had locations all over the Hill Country! Angel’s is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon or evening and chill out. I recently picked Angel’s to celebrate my birthday celebration with 50 friends. What a time we had there dancing to the Fabulous GTO’s!

Angel’s is a place for all ages. A place to be casual and enjoy yourself. Hang inside or enjoy the shaded picnic tables outside. Great food, drinks (full bar), live music, good bands, casual atmosphere, pool table, a large outdoor area, a killer jukebox, a playscape for the kids, outdoor misters, and large screen televisions.

Angel’s has the appearance of an old authentic corner ice house, complete with concrete floor and roll-up walls. And even strangers treat each other as old friends at Angels. People-friendly dogs are even welcome outside while leashed. You’ll enjoy live music inside Angel’s on Tuesday and Friday nights, and live music outdoors on Saturday night.

Angel’s food selections include hand-dipped chicken fried steaks, home-style burgers in assorted styles, hand-cut french fries, fresh salads, fish and chips, sandwiches, home-style chili, wraps, etc. Even a menu for kids and pets! Appetizers include nachos, crispy fried pickle wafers, crab cakes, chicken wings, gliders and frito pie. And the food is supported by a great wait staff and cooks that prepare a great meal. The friendly waitresses even call you "baby" if you're sweet. And lately Angel’s has been hosting $2 tacos on Tuesday nights.

And don’t miss the humorous signs posted around the place! Such as “Finish that beer, there are sober kids in India”!! (an old twist on what our parent’s use to tell us about finishing a meal).

Angel’s live music scene is also good. Recent bands have included the Fabulous Chevelles, the Troubadillos, The Fabulous GTO’s, Wyatt Akers, Freddy Powers, Jr., Andrea Marie & Magnolia, Derral Gleason. Angel’s hosts a gospel lunch on Sundays from 1 PM to 3 PM with live music.

Angel’s is located along Highway 71W on a hilltop between Austin and Marble Falls. The address is 21815 Highway 71 West, Spicewood, TX. Check out their website at http://www.angelsicehouse.com/ and see the calendar for upcoming bands.

Open Tuesday through Sunday at 11 AM til late, closed Monday.

See ya' there...

-Don Gray (just turned 56 at Angel's on Friday!)

#24. Watch the stars, satellites and a great meteor shower under the dark skies of the Texas Hill Country

2010-07-22T11:25:00.000-05:00

The Hill Country is filled with miles and miles of areas where you can escape the glow of city lights and enjoy a dark sky. Dark skies at night provide excellent stellar viewing opportunities. Find a hilltop on a county road away from town where you have a good view of the horizons around you and you’re in for a treat! Share the experience with kids or turn it into an evening with that special someone (in my case, that’d be my yellow Lab dog Honey! Oh well!!).

The moon will not be visible at night on August 10, 2010. And it won’t be visible for much of the night during the 3-4 days on either side of the 10th. If you are in a dark spot out in the country and “if” we don’t have clouds, the stars and satellites should be great for viewing that night. You can monitor the time that the moon rises and sets for any day of the year at http://www.usno.navy.mil/USNO/astronomical-applications/data-services/rs-one-year-us . There you will find that the moon will set at 8:44 PM on the 10th, at 9:21 PM on the 11th, and at 9:58 PM on the 12th.

The planets Mercury, Venus, Saturn and Mars will be setting on the western horizon near 10PM on August 10th-12th . Scorpio and the Big Dipper will also be visible at this time. Jupiter will rise above the eastern horizon around 11 PM.

There’s a great website that can be used to show you in advance what the skies will hold on any given night, at any given time and at any give location. Type in your location and it does can provide you with a map of what the skies will show that evening. It will even show you exactly when and where that satellites will pass over! Find this website at http://www.heavens-above.com/ . See the photo above from this website which features the night sky on August 10 at 10 PM.

And to top it off, the annual Perseids meteor shower peaks on the night of August 12 and the dawn of August 13 (but be seen to a lesser degree on the 3-4 nights either side of the 12th). Most of the meteor action will be seen during the hours of 1 AM to 6 AM on the 13th. You can expect to see 25-50 or so meteors per hour as they shoot across the northeastern sky. We’re lucky this year in that the moon will not be up during prime viewing times. In 2009, the moonlight spoiled the whole show! Jupitor will be overhead most of the dark early morning hours on the 13th.

The meteors are certainly bright, but they are actually only tiny objects, usually no more than a grain of sand. They travel at mind-blowing speeds of 71 kilometers per second which helps these small particles put on such a brilliant show year after year.

For photographing the meteors, a digital camera mounted on a tripod helps to steady the images that race across the sky. A quick trigger finger also helps. Even random clicks during the height of Perseid "prime-time" will guarantee that you'll catch something! Be sure to have the camera focused on infinity and, if your camera permits, leave the shutter open for several minutes for the most spectacular photographic effects.

Pack comfortable chairs, bug spray, food and drinks, blankets, plus a red-filtered flashlight for reading maps and charts without ruining your night vision. Binoculars are not necessary. Your eyes will do just fine.

Now let’s just hope for “no clouds” on the nights of the August 10-12!

–Don Gray

#23. Junction, TX and the South Llano River State Park should be on your summer list

2010-07-21T19:10:00.001-05:00

Another great Hill Country place to enjoy is Junction, TX. Junction accurately bills itself as the “Land of the Living Waters”. You will find the South Llano River State park on the southern edge of town. Floating the clear South Llano River is the main draw here (except for deer hunting in season). Summer visitors enjoy swimming, tubing, kayaking, canoeing and fishing the river as it winds its way for two miles through the park, beneath beautiful limestone bluffs and past ranchlands. It’s a relatively small (524 acres) and quiet park.

Campers can choose from water-and-electric sites and 30-amp service or 6 walk-in campsites with picnic tables and fire rings for those seeking more solitude. Most sites are shaded by mesquite and oak trees or have shade shelters.

Next door you will find the 2,200 acre Walter Buck Wildlife Management area which is also operated by the State. Walter Buck is open to the public and features over 20 miles of hike and bike trails.

South Llano River State Park is good for either short or long floats. Most "toobers" put in just above the low-water crossing at the park entrance and enjoy short floats to downriver gravel shoals and banks. For those seeking a longer tubing experience, the park recommends floating more than a mile to a designated takeout point. You can rent tubes at the park's visitor center for $5 a day. In addition, several Junction area outfitters offer canoe and kayak rentals for daylong trips or shorter treks. For a longer float, you can float all the way into Junction (the “City Park”).

Suggested tubing trips are:

• between the first and second crossings on the South Llano River (approximately 15 miles from Junction on Highway 377 south)

• within the boundaries of South Llano River State Park (park fees apply)

• beginning at Flat Rock Crossing (near Texas Tech Center) and finishing at the two privately owned campgrounds or the City Park.

Rio Grande turkeys are seen most every day strutting through the campground, river bottoms and woodlands throughout the park. From October through March, turkeys roost inside the park, restricting visitor access to much of the park during the six-month season. You will also see white-tailed deer and axis deer that roam the park.

Bird watchers love the park too! Four wildlife observation blinds equipped with benches afford a close-up view through large windows that looks out on a water feature, brush piles and feeding stations. Painted bunting, pyrrhuloxia, black-capped vireo, Eastern bluebird, house finch and other colorful species are frequently seen, especially in spring. Occasionally, birders spot the endangered black-capped vireo and golden-cheeked warbler. All three kingfisher species, too, can be spotted at South Llano.

South Llano River State Park is located in Kimble County five miles south of Junction on U. S. 377

The park website is found at http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/south_llano_river/

Time your trip to enjoy Junction’s Summer Classic Rodeo held on August 13-14, 2010.

-Don Gray

(This posting was suggested by Cindy Ivy, a true HC girl)

#22. It’s time to pick apples in Medina, TX (north of Bandera)

2010-07-20T23:19:00.001-05:00

Gather up the family and head to Love Creek Orchards in Medina, TX to pick fresh ripe apples straight from the trees (north of Bandera). Love Creek Orchards opens seasonally for you to pick various types of fruit. May and June typically offer with fresh blackberries. In July you can pick fresh tree-ripened apples and in August they offer some of the sweetest figs in Texas. As with all fresh fruit, this is dependent on Mother Nature. The best time to pick is when fruit is at their peak of ripeness. Love Creek posts picking times on their web site or you can call the orchard at 830-589-2588.
When you come to pick, Love Creek provides the containers for picking. Prices are generally based on current market prices at the time of picking. They have a shaded picnic area near the orchard for you to enjoy a picnic lunch if you want to bring one or visit the Apple Store just up the road from the orchard and eat at the Patio Café. Get the hot apple pie! The Patio Café was listed among the Top 40 best Small Town Restaurants in Texas by Texas Monthly Magazine.

Love Creek Orchards became pioneers of the Texas Apple Industry when Baxter and Carol Adams planted their first experimental apple orchards in 1981. Little did they know that their experiment would not only produce such wonderful sweet apples, but would also start a new industry for the state of Texas.

Baxter and Carol expanded their operation in 1988 when they opened The Cider Mill and Country Store in downtown Medina. At the Cider Mill, Love Creek lovingly produces over fifty different products made from sweet Texas Apples. Their apple butters, jams and jellies, baked goods and specialty items have become famous for their homemade goodness and attention to detail. Each item produced is handmade and packaged by the Adams Family and friends. In 2007 Baxter and Carol retired from the Cider Mill and Country Store and sold it to Bryan and Stacie Hutzler. The store name changed to “The Apple Store” simply because that is what all of the locals and tourist called it. Bryan and Stacie have worked hard to maintain the quality of apple goodies produced at the store and continue to sell the apple that Baxter produces in the orchards. Tours of Love Creek Orchards and The Apple Store are offered April through October. The Apple Store is open seven days a week and there is always fresh apple pie cooking.

The orchard and the store are located on main street in Medina, TX (Highway 16 North). You can’t miss them. The orchard is open daily, except Sundays, 9:30 to 3:30 during the picking season.

http://www.lovecreekorchards.com/

Don’t forget to wade the lovely Medina River while there! Clear water over a slab rock bottom. Fantastic! Enter the river at the crossings on Highway 470 or Highway 337, just to the west of Highway 16 North. Stay in the river to avoid trespassing on private property.

Have fun! -Don Gray

#21. Beat the heat at Krause Springs near Spicewood, TX (west of Austin)

2010-07-20T23:16:00.000-05:00

Krause Springs is one of the best places in Texas. Bar none. It is a wonderful clear water swimming hole in Cypress Creek. They also feature a seperate spring water swimming pool, a butterfly garden and camping (tent and RV). The 115 acre property has more than 30 springs and lots of enormous cypress trees. There are also camp sites and 24 RV sites with electricity.

To get to Krause Springs, take Texas 71 W from Austin. Go about 18 miles past the intersection of 620 and 71 in Bee Cave and take a right on County Road 191 at the Exxon on the corner. Just a bit down 191 and you will see the sign for Krause Springs. Turn right on CR 404 and follow the signs.

General Provisions:

Open Year Round

No dogs allowed

No glass containers

Credit cards not accepted

Admission Prices:

Day Guests

$5 per Adult (12 years and older)

$4 per Child (4 - 11 years)

FREE for Children under 4

Camping Per Day

$10 per Adult

$5 per Child

$10 per RV camp site

Krause Springs is open year round and the pools are open daily from 9 AM til sun down.

Check out their photos at http://www.krausesprings.net/index.html

-Have fun, -Don Gray

#20. Dance at the Quihi Gun Club & Dance Hall in Quihi, TX (near Castroville and Hondo)

2010-07-20T09:01:00.000-05:00

This is the only place I ever got kicked out of (back in the 70’s). But I still love to return (using an alias of course).

Two German men met under an oak tree on Quihi Creek in 1890 to organize the Quihi Schuetzen (shooting) Verein (club). Now called the Quihi Gun Club, it is one of the oldest social clubs in the country with over 600 members. Having been built on the Quihi Creek, the club's building had been washed away 3 times before the building that stands today was built.

Dances are still held every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month! Visitors of all ages from all over the world enjoy dancing on one of the best wooden dance floors ever. You can bring your own bottle. Beer, water, soft drinks and set-ups are provided. Traditional “Texas CW” dancing at its best.

From Boerne

Take Hwy 46 West going towards Bandera-go right on Hwy 16 North

then at Hwy 173 Intersection go South going to Hondo. Turn left on

FM 2676 and go 6 miles. Look for the Quihi Gun Club sign and turn

right. Follow this road to the Quihi Gun Club and Dance Hall.

From San Antonio

Travel to Hwy 90 going towards Del Rio, exit in Hondo at Hwy 173 and

go North towards Bandera. Turn right on FM 2676 and go 6 miles.

Look for the Quihi Gun Club sign and turn right. Follow this road to

the Quihi Gun Club and Dance Hall.

From Devine

Travel on Hwy 173 North and go towards Hondo. Go past Hondo

2 miles and turn right on FM 2676 and go 6 miles.

Look for the Quihi Gun Club sign and turn right. Follow this road to

the Quihi Gun Club and Dance Hall.

-Don Gray

#19. Do some boot scootin’ at the Twin Sisters Dance Hall, south of Blanco, TX

2010-07-20T08:59:00.001-05:00

Twin Sisters Dance Hall, built in 1870, still has dances held the first Saturday of each month from 9PM to 1 AM. On August 7 you can dance to the Mike Cowen Band. The Hall is an old wooden structure and features a large wooden dance floor. Folks of all ages dance here.

Although Gruene Hall in nearby Gruene boasts that it’s the oldest dance hall in Texas, the real honor goes to the Twin Sisters Dance Hall.

You can bring finger foods and BYOB and/or champagne. You cannot bring beer, water or soda water, as these are sold on site.

For additional information and renting Twin Sisters Hall for private parties, contact Karen Jones at 830/833-5773.

The historic hall is located approximately 7 miles south of Blanco on Highway 281, just north of the intersection of 281 and 473. It is not visible from 281, but the entrance is on the west side of 281.

-Have fun , Don Gray

#18. “Chili & Chillin” this Saturday at 9 wineries located near Fburg

2010-07-20T08:57:00.000-05:00

Nine wineries located near and around Stonewall and Fredericksburg will be serving perfectly paired chilies and chilled wines this Saturday, July 24. Enjoy music, fun, and great food from area restaurants. There is no cost to participate in the pairing and there are no tickets. Usual tasting fees apply at each winery for regular wine tastings. Check with each participating winery for hours.

Becker Vineyards: http://www.beckervineyards.com/

Chisholm Trail Winery: http://www.chisholmtrailwinery.com/

Fredericksburg Winery: http://www.fbgwinery.com/

Grape Creek Vineyards: http://www.grapecreek.com/

Pedernales Cellars: http://www.pedernalescellars.com/

Rancho Ponte Vineyard: http://www.ranchoponte.com/

Texas Hills Vineyard: http://www.texashillsvineyard.com/

Torre di Pietra: http://www.texashillcountrywine.com/

Woodrose Winery: http://www.woodrosewinery.com/

-Don Gray

#17. Peaches!!

2010-07-19T13:43:00.002-05:00

I love a juicy Hill Country peach. And this year's crop is super tasty!!

If you travel the Hill County near Stonewall, JC and Fburg, you will see roadside peach stands galore. I'd love to meet that lady "Peaches", her chain of fruit and veggie stands are everywhere. Don't really understand her business plan, as sometimes she has stands right next door to each other! Just kidding about "Peaches" and her business plan, as there is not really a woman named Peaches that owns the stands! They are simply seperate seasonal busiess ventures each advertising their fresh picked peaches! Whether you buy them from a stand or pick them in one of the many orchards along Highway 290, you are bound to find some really tasty peaches this season. Be quick, the season closes soon!

-Don Gray

#16. Enjoy a “Limo” Tour of Hill Country Wineries

2010-07-19T10:32:00.000-05:00

The Hill Country is now home to at least 25 wineries that are open for the public to enjoy. The best way to visit several in a day and to take full advantage of the "wine tastings" is to arrange for a limo tour of several wineries. This way you leave the driving to your tour guide and will be able to fully enjoy the tastings at each winery. You can put together your own group of friends to share the experience with, or join in on a regularly scheduled limo tour and make new wine friends. You can even arrange for the limo to pick up and return you at a central location of your choice (like your driveway!). The tour operators feature luxurious busses and limos for your comfort.

This is a great way to enjoy a birthday or anniversary with friends.

Web links to two tour transportation operators are found below…

Bluebonnet Wine Tours: http://www.bluebonnetwinetours.com/

Texas Wine Tours: http://www.texas-wine-tours.com/

-Don Gray

#15. Tour “Cave Without A Name”

2010-07-19T10:07:00.000-05:00

I think that “Cave Without a Name” is the prettiest cave in Texas. The stairwell into the cave has 126 steps descending to approximately 90 feet below the surface. You’ll even find a large flowing stream in the cave. It’s a constant 66 degrees, so it is a great place to spend a hot afternoon. It features 6 large rooms full of interesting things to see.

The cave is located 12 miles northeast of Boerne, TX. Map it at “325 Kreutzberg Rd., Boerne, TX 78006”. It is open 9 AM to 6 PM from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and from 10AM to 5 PM the rest of the year (except closed Labor Day until Memorial Day)

To get there from San Antonio, head west on Interstate 10, go about 18 miles, take the first exit for Boerne (Highway 87), and follow the road into town. When you reach the fourth traffic light turn right onto 474. Follow the road out of town for 6 miles, turn right onto Kreutzberg Road, and then follow the signs for 5.3 miles to the cave

Check out the cave’s website for admission fees and some really great photos.

http://www.cavewithoutaname.com/

-Don Gray

Just exactly where is the Texas Hill Country?

2010-07-19T08:02:00.002-05:00

According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the following 25 counties comprise the Texas Hill Country:

• Bandera

• Bell

• Blanco

• Burnet

• Comal

• Coryell

• Crockett

• Edwards

• Gillespie

• Hays

• Kendall

• Kerr

• Kimble

• Lampasas

• Llano

• Mason

• McCullouch

• Menard

• Real

• San Saba

• Schleicher

• Sutton

• Travis

• Val Verde

• Williamson

#14. Coopers BBQ in Mason, TX (not the ones in Llano or New Bruanfels)

2010-07-19T00:08:00.002-05:00

The Hill Country is blessed with several open pit style BBQ places named “Coopers”. But the original Coopers is located in Mason, TX and it is in no way associated with the other Coopers. Coopers in Mason was established in 1953 by the late George Cooper, later purchased by Duard Dockal in 1983. When Duard (pronounced doo-erd) took over the business, he decided to make the business more family friendly, and the rest is history. They’ve been using the same delicious recipe for over 50 years now, and over the years they’vde become an institution. Mr. Dockal and his great staff serve visitors from all over the world, and people routinely drive hundreds of miles out of their way just to have lunch in Mason. Drop by and try their unique ‘homemade’ barbecue sauces.

In 2003, when Texas Monthly did its statewide review of the 50 best barbecue restaurants, Cooper’s in Mason was among the top five, while other imitators ranked 39th at best. Cooper’s Mason brisket was also ranked the best in Texas in Delta’s Sky magazine. With numerous write-ups in newspapers all over Texas and the rest of the country, the original Cooper’s Pit Bar-B-Q is without a doubt one of the best places to visit if you enjoy excellent barbecue.

Cooper’s Mason serves beef brisket, chicken, pork chops, sausage, cabrito, pork ribs, beef ribs, sirloin steaks and pork loins. And great pinto beans! First you visit the pit and tell the pit master what piece you want. Then, the meat is carried inside where it is cut to your liking. You can take it with you or eat it in their air-conditioned dining room.
If you’re out of state, and would like Cooper’s to ship an order to you, call and they’ll figure out a price for you. They’ll send their famous barbecue to you anywhere in the country.

Cooper’s Mason is located at 502 San Antonio Street (Hwy 87 South, next to the Super Grocery Store). Their phone # is (325) 347-6897. Hours 8 to 5:30 (or earlier if they sell out), daily.

Post a comment with your thoughts about Cooper’s in Mason or about another favorite BBQ place in the Hill Country.

Tell’m “365 TX Hill Country” sent you and maybe I’ll get lucky to have them toss in a free bag of chips with my purchase!

Come hungry!
-Don Gray

#13. Enjoy a spectacular drive through the real “Hill” Country

2010-07-18T21:01:00.001-05:00

This route takes you through four beautiful river valleys, with all four spring-fed rivers offering crystal clear water flowing over rock slab bottoms. The first three rivers are lined with cypress trees in many places. From east to west you will cross the Medina River, the Sabinal River, the Frio River, and the Nueces River. Between each river you cross high ridges of limestone “hills” covered with cedar and various types of oaks. These hills offer spectacular views into gorgeous canyons. The eastern end of this route is Medina, TX, located at the intersection of Highway 16 and Highway 337. Heading west on 337, this route takes you through Vanderpool, near Lost Maples State Natural Area, to Leakey (and the nearby Rio Frio/Concan area), and over to Camp Wood on the western end. With no stops, you can make this drive in about 1.5 hours. But that’d be a waste. I’d suggest turning the drive into a weekend or longer!
The small town of Medina began as a saw mill operation in 1865. The town is presently known as the apple capital of Texas and you will see apple orchards consisting of dwarf trees that produce a very sweet apple. It’s only 22 miles from Medina to Vanderpool, but it takes at least 30 minutes to drive it due to the curves and wonderful views. Look for the rare Madrone trees along the right of way and on the hillsides.

After crossing the Sabinal River (Spanish for “cypress” which still line its banks in many places), take a right at the T-intersection and you will soon come to the Lost Maples Store where you can buy a snack and a soda and “sometimes” BBQ is served on weekends. The Vanderpool area was first settled by Anglos in the 1850’s but was abandoned in the 1860’s due to the Comanche indians. The valley was later re-settled in the 1880’s. If time permits you can head north on 187 to quickly reach Lost Maples State Natural Area. Lost Maples is a great place to take a short hike to stretch your legs and enjoy some nice hiking scenery. Yes, you can even see its famed maples trees, a rare sight in Texas. From Vanderpool you can also drive south on 187 and enjoy Utopia, TX. Be sure and visit the park there and maybe take a swim in the small lake on the Sabinal River. Back at the Lost Maples Store, continue west on 337 toward Leakey, a drive of only 15 miles that takes another 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can head west from Utopia on Highway 1050 for 15 miles and reach Garner State Park on the Frio River, then turn north on Highway 83 for 8 miles to reach Leakey. Either route to Leakey is gorgeous.

You will enter Leakey after crossing the Frio River (Spanish for “cold”, as in “water temperature”!). Leakey offers numerous restaurants and small stores. “Leakey” is pronounced as “LAY-key” and is not pronounced like a “leakey” faucet. Leakey was settled by Anglos in 1856 (another saw mill operation) and was named in honor of a settler. The last Indian raid in the area was in 1882. The town is now the county seat of Real County. If time permits you can drop south on Highway 83 to explore the Concan and Rio Frio areas which features several crossings of the famed Frio River and Garner State Park. This is clearly “river tubing” country in the summer!

From Leakey head west on 337 to Camp Wood, Tx. Along the way look for “pinon” pine (pronounced “pin-yun”) trees growing along the right of way and on hillsides. You don’t find these trees in many other places in Texas, especially in the Hill Country. Camp Wood is 21 miles west of Leakey, but once again, the curves in the road make it a 30 minute trip. Camp Wood derives its name from a US military outpost camp located here during 1857-1861. This area was also the site of a Franciscan mission that served Lipan Apaches during 1757-1761. The numerous springs in the area served the mission and later the military camp and still serve as the city’s primary source of water. Young pilot Charles Lindbergh made an unplanned stop here in 1924 when attempting to fly from San Antonio to California. A historical marker tells the story of Lindbergh’s crash here. The Nueces river flows just to the west side of Camp Wood. In Spanish, the word Nueces means “nut”. It is not known whether the nut in reference was the pecan or the nut of the pinion pine. Both are plentiful in the area. Spanish explorers traveled across this area in the first half of the 1500’s, possibly including the famed Cabeza de Vaca (a subject of dispute among historians it seems).

To wrap this trip up, the route to your home destination can be as varied as you like. No need to back track unless you want to see the route in reverse!

Learn More?

Madrone trees: http://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=arxa80
Pinon pine trees: http://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=pied and http://www.tpwmagazine.com/archive/2007/may/legend/
Lost Maples State Natural Area: http://tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/lost_maples/
Garner State Park: http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/garner/
Leakey, Texas: http://www.traveltex.com/cities-and-regions/cities/leakey
Concan, Texas: http://www.traveltex.com/search?q=concan
Camp Wood, Texas: http://www.traveltex.com/search?q=camp wood

-Don Gray, with help from cousin Steve in Rio Frio, TX

#12. Catch a bunch of Carp!

2010-07-18T17:21:00.000-05:00

Carp fishing is a bucket of fun for folks of all ages. They are big, fight hard, can be caught from shore and are found in most every body of water in the Texas Hill Country. And they can be caught 24/7. And due to their great numbers, carp fishing does not require at great deal of patience or fishing skill. Sure, most of us are grossed out by the thought of eating carp, but they are still fun to catch and release (or properly discard of). But the fact is that carp are considered a desirable “eating” fish in many other countries.

Carp are typically bottom feeders. Chumming a fishing area is a good way to increase the chances of catching lots of them. You can chum with canned corn, or with “deer” corn, maize, or range cubes purchased at a feed store. Better yet, several days prior to your carp fishing trip, “sour” some grain for use in chumming. To do this, first find a bucket or can that has an airtight lid. Fill a bucket or can halfway with corn or maize, add a package of yeast or a beer to the grain, then add water until the container is about ¾ filled. Set in the sun for a few days to hasten the “souring” process. Then take the lid off after a few days and if the mixture stinks, you are ready to chum!

Carp find food by smell and taste, not by sight. Bait a hook with a piece of canned corn or bait a small treble hook with “dough” bait. You can easily make your own dough bait with the recipe provided below. Allow your hook to sit on the bottom without a cork or bobber. A bottom covered in sand, mud or gravel and without moss is a good place to fish. Medium weight to heavy weight rods and lines are great for catching carp. Most carp you catch will be in the range of 1 to 2 feet in length.

You can catch carp from most any body of water, day or night, any day of the year. Some of my favorite Hill Country public locations include: Blanco State Park, the Pedernales River lake at Johnson City (below the 281 bridge), the Llano River lake at Llano, the Pedernales River at LBJ State Park, the city park in Utopia, the various LCRA parks along the Colorado River (including the Highland Lakes), Inks Lake State Park, public access points on the Guadalupe, San Marcos, Llano, Pedernales, Frio, Medina, and Sabinal Rivers.

Carp “Dough Bait” Recipe:
1 cup of ground up Wheaties cereal (dry grind in a blender or crush finely by hand), 1.25 cups of “red” soda, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix it up and use with a small treble hook. My personal preference is to use the “springed-type” of treble hooks to better hold the dough to the hook. Use Wheaties, no "off-brand".

Please post a comment to suggest your favorite “public” carp fishing location and tips, and post your carp photos here.

Happy carp fishing!

-Don Gray

365 Things To Do In The Texas Hill Country: #10. Wimberley’s famed “Blue Hole”

2010-07-16T11:20:00.002-05:00

http://www.vil.wimberley.tx.us/index.asp?Type=B_BASIC&SEC=%7BB766306E-4CDF-449D-88C2-3778763E9617%7D

#10. Wimberley’s famed “Blue Hole”

2010-07-16T03:16:00.002-05:00

It’s a hot afternoon here and I really should be cooling off at the Blue Hole on spring-fed Cypress Creek in Wimberley, TX! The Blue Hole is one of Texas' most famous and best loved natural swimming holes. It is within 126 acres of natural forests and native grass fields that have remained untouched for decades. The Blue Hole is now owned by the City of Wimberley and operated as a park. Great scenery, crystal clear ice cold water, great swimming and rope swings!

2010 HOURS OF OPERATION

The Blue Hole Regional Park is open for the 2010 Summer Season through Labor Day. The hours of operation are:
Sunday thru Friday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Holidays 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

DAILY ADMISSION

CHILDREN (0-2) FREE
CHILDREN (3-12) $3.00
ADULTS (13-59) $7.00
SENIORS (60 +) $3.00
SEASON PASS $40

Please be advised the Park is subject to closure due to inclement weather and for special events approved in advance by the City. Therefore, call the City at 512.847.0025 before traveling to the park to make certain that the park is open for public use.

Pets (dogs, etc.) are not allowed in the Park. Also, tree jumping and climbing in the Park are prohibited and children under the age of 13 will not be allowed in the Park unless they are accompanied by an adult.

Blue Hole Park is located just east of the downtown square. From the square, take Old Kyle Road to CR 285, hang a left on CR 285 a short distance to Blue Hole Lane. The park is located at 333 Blue Hole Lane.

The City’s “Blue Hole” website is found at http://www.vil.wimberley.tx.us/index.asp?Type=B_BASIC&SEC=%7BB766306E-4CDF-449D-88C2-3778763E9617%7D

#9. Crider’s Rodeo and Dance

2010-07-16T03:14:00.000-05:00

Okay, so now you just dropped off your mother and wife to see a performance of Cats at the Point Theatre in Ingram (see Posting #8). You were a good guy and dropped them off at the door and offered to go park the truck while they hold a seat for you. Now what do you do? Simple. Head west down the road 3.5 miles past the Hunt Store in Hunt, Texas and enjoy a Saturday night at Crider’s!

Crider’s has been doing rodeos and dancing forever, something like 85 years now. Crider’s is a Saturday night thing, from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The rodeo starts at 8 PM, followed by the dance at 9 PM or so. Yes, the rodeo even includes Mutton Busting for the little cowpokes. The dance is held on a large outdoor patio under the arms of a huge live oak tree. You can buy beer and sodas there, and you can even bring your favorite bottle of spirits. They also serve a good burger. Crider’s is located on the banks of the Guadalupe, just like The Point Theatre (explains why you got lost!).

You can view Crider’s website at http://www.cridersrodeo.com/

After the dance you should return to the Point Theatre to pick up the ladies and explain that you got lost while trying to park the truck and ended “up river a ways”. Keep a straight face and look them in the eye (as best you can).

Don’t blame me for this little excursion of fun! You deserve it!

-Don Gray

#8. Catch a performance of the Broadway play “Cats” on the banks of the Guadalupe River in Ingram, west of Kerrville

2010-07-16T03:12:00.001-05:00

For those who need a dose of culture once in a while, one of the best places to get it is Ingram, TX. Ingram is blessed to be the home of the Hill Country Arts Foundation (HCAF). HCAF features an outdoor and indoor theatre on the banks of the Guadalupe River. The outdoor theatre has impressive 722-seats and is known as “The Point”. Operating as the longest running outdoor theatre in Texas, it started in the summer of 1959. The summer season includes a musical and two comedy/dramas which feature talented volunteers. The Point is a true Texas Hill Country gem and a summer tradition for many families.

Right now you can enjoy a performance of “Cats” on the following dates.

Thursday, July 15 at 8:30 p.m.
Friday, July 16 at 8:30 p.m.
Saturday, July 17 at 8:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 22 at 8:30 p.m.
Friday, July 23 at 8:30 p.m.
Saturday, July 24 at 8:30 p.m.

For more information, visit the HCAF website at http://www.hcaf.com/theatre/shows/shows2010/cats.htm

A little culture never hurt me too much.

-Don Gray

#7. Chow down on “Parisa”!!

2010-07-16T03:10:00.000-05:00

When you are visiting Dzuik’s Meat Market in Castroville, be sure and eat some parisa on a saltine cracker. Parisa is a dish that, to my knowledge, can only be purchased around Castroville, Quihi, Hondo and D’Hanis, TX. I was told that it was brought to the area by the Alsatian immigrants in the 1800’s. Most of the parisa made in the 1800’s has already been eaten (ha!), but they are still making fresh batches to this day. Typically only offered for sale on weekends. You will find it in Castroville at Dzuik’s (see Post #6).

Parisa doesn't sound all that good when you describe it, it is basically very lean and very fresh (and by fresh I mean raw and cut fresh) ground steak meat, serranos or jalapenos, onions, lemon juice, and some cheese all mixed together. It’s kind of like paté, but it's not rich. And it’s usually pretty spicy. It is a spread that you put on saltine crackers to watch the ball game with.

Parisa is easy to make at home. But keep things sterile since the beef is raw. Here’s a recipe…

Parisa Recipe

* 14 ounces lean fresh ground beef
* 8 ounces grated Velveeta cheese
* 1 medium onion, minced fine
* 1 or 2 serrano peppers, minced (or jalapeños)
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 2-1/2 teaspoons salt
* chili powder to taste
* a pinch of powdered red pepper
* 4 teaspoons coarse-grind black pepper
* Juice of one large or two small lemons

Mix it up and let it chill overnight, then serve on saltine crackers with beer.
Good stuff!

-Don Gray

#6. Dzuik’s Meat Market, Castroville, TX

2010-07-16T03:06:00.000-05:00

I swear by this place. Yummy for the tummy!!!

Dzuik’s is a first-class small town meat market, as sterile as a hospital. Dzuik’s is located in the small Alsatian town of Castroville, just 20 minutes west of San Antonio on Highway 90. Like jerky? Dzuik’s is the absolute best for beef jerky (slab style or thin), turkey jerky, dried sausage, salami, and snack sticks. They make REAL jerky, not at all like that sweetened flavored junk you find at convenience stores. And their fresh meat counter is also tops! You can even order stuff on line from their website at http://www.dziuks.com/ .

Hours are 8 AM to 6 PM, Monday through Saturday.

When you are there tell them about “365 Things To Do In the Texas Hill Country” and maybe they will drop an extra ring of dried sausage in my bag next time!

-Don Gray (hungry just thinking about Dzuik’s!)

#5. The Doss Fish Fry, September 4, 2010

2010-07-16T03:05:00.001-05:00

If it’s Labor Day Weekend, you will find me at the fish fry in Doss, Tx. Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 4, to attend this year’s fish fry. This great event is hosted by the doss Volunteer Fire Department. It’s their primary fund raiser. Arrive between 5 and 8 PM, and feast of delicious fried catfish with all of the trimmings and cold bier! Yes, you will stand in line for the bier, but volunteers will keep your bier cup full while in line. There is no charge for the dinner, but donations are accepted. Enjoy auction items and good old German “Oompah” music and dance.

Almost 3,000 pounds of catfish are fried by volunteers and served up with homemade potato salad and coleslaw, plus all the trimmings.

This great event is held at the Doss Community Center, located in Doss, TX. Doss is about 27 miles northwest of Fredericksburg, TX at the intersection of Highways 783 and 648.

See you there!
-Don Gray

#4. The Marble Falls Rodeo, July 16 and 17

2010-07-16T03:03:00.000-05:00

Like a great small town “professional cowboy” rodeo? One where you can sit close to the action and mingle with the riders behind the chutes? Where kids age 4-6 entertain you during the famous “Mutton Busting” event, and you are thrilled by bull riders, bronc riders, and amazed by barrel racers? With an unbelievable patriotic “Grand March” performed on horseback and a Saturday night outdoor dance after the rodeo? Where you get several great belly laughs from the rodeo clown?
Then don’t miss the 54th Marble Falls Open rodeo this coming weekend in Marble Falls, Tx. The rodeo grounds are located on Highway 281, just south of town (and just north of the intersection of Highway 281 and Highway 71).
Admission to the rodeo is $10.00 for Adults and $5.00 for Children 12 and under, Toddlers are free.

Gates open a 6:30PM, and the show starts at 8:00.

Don’t look for me to ride the bulls this year. Been there, done that, wised up! (or “wussed out”??). But I would enter the “Mutton Busting for Seniors” event if they had one!
-Don Gray

#3. Fredericksburg Trade Days, July 16, 17 & 18, 2010

2010-07-16T03:01:00.001-05:00

Where? - Highway 290 East, 7 miles east if Fredericksburg, between Stonewall, TX and Fredericksburg (across 290 from Wildseed Farms).
When: Weekend of 3rd Saturday Every Month.
Hours: Friday and Saturday 9:00am - 6:00pm, Sunday 9:00am - 4:00pm.
Phone: (210) 846-4094
Website: http://www.fbgtradedays.com

Experience the excitement of Fredericksburg Trade Days near Fredericksburg. Relax in the biergarten while listening to live music. FTD offer over 100 varieties of bier. Shop with over 350 vendors. You will find 6 barns & acres of antiques, collectibles, tools, crafts, shabby chic, primitives, ranch furniture, hunting accessories, candles, unique clothing, jewelry, food and so much more.

#2. Night in Old Fredericksburg • July 16 & 17, 2010

2010-07-16T02:52:00.002-05:00

Where? - Downtown • Marktplatz • Fredericksburg, Texas

Hours? Friday • 6 PM – Midnight, Saturday • 11:30 AM - Midnight

Admission: Adults • $6 ~•~ Children 12 & under • $1, Two-day passes $10

This weekend marks one of the biggest annual events held in good ol’ Fburg. “Night in Old Fredericksburg” is a celebration of Fburg’s German heritage and Texas hospitality. It is held at the Marktplatz in downtown Fredericksburg, Texas (Main Street, across from the Courthouse). This year will mark the festival’s 47th Anniversary!

Night In Old Fredericksburg is actually two nights and two days, showcasing the history, culture, food, and fun of this charming Hill Country community. Organizers have put together a weekend event guaranteed to stimulate all the senses and to delight folks of all ages.

Revelers can listen and dance to nine different bands playing polka, show tunes, and country from the comfort of two covered stages. Acts include the world-famous Sauerkrauts, plus the popular Seven Dutchmen, Jodie Mikula Orchestra, the Dujka Brothers, the Shiner Hobo Band, Fritz Hodde, Mark Halata & Texavia, and the Red Ravens, as well as Almost Patsy Cline.

Night In Old Fredericksburg serves up a multicultural menu of tasty food and refreshing drinks. German favorites include sauerkraut and wurst served sizzling from the grill. Fans of Mexican food can sink their teeth into fajitas and tacos, and hungry visitors will find enthusiastic cooks serving up delicious burgers, fries, turkey legs, and other festival favorites.

Fredericksburg knows its beer, so once again volunteers will be pouring more than 15 domestic and imported beers, straight from frosty taps as well as local wines.

Night in Old Fredericksburg offers fun for every member of the family. Kids are sure to flock to their own special area where they can test their skills on a bungee jump, ride a Ferris Wheel, jump on a Slide and have fun, or test their skill at a variety of challenging games.

Presenters on the grounds are proud to make history come alive, with exhibits of pioneer crafts and activities. Top arts and craft vendors will set up tents along the walkways, showing off their collectibles, gifts, and one-of-a-kind creations.

Night in Old Fredericksburg is sponsored by the Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce, and has been celebrated since 1962. More information on this and other hill country festivals and events is available toll-free at 1-866-TEX-FEST (839-3378), or by visiting www.tex-fest.com.

To top it off, “Trade Days” also occurs on Friday, Saturday and Sunday this coming weekend. See item #3 on “365 Things To Do In the Texas Hill Country” for more information.

#1. The Llano River “Slab” near Kingsland, TX

2010-07-16T02:28:00.001-05:00

One of my favorite spots in the Hill Country to cool off and slow down is the two-mile stretch of Llano River between the “Slab” on Ranch Road 3404 (northwest of Kingsland) and to Long's Fishing Camp. The “Slab” is simply a spot where the road crosses the Llano River (crosses the river via a concrete slab “low water” crossing). Between these spots, the river separates into many channels. Some of the channels are fast, some slow, some deep, some shallow. All contain clear water. Most have bottoms of solid granite or clean granite sand. This area of the river is a great place to wade, sit in a pool of water, and let the kids run around from pool to pool. Consider taking a lawn chair and plop it in waist deep water to really enjoy the day. Take your dog (if people friendly!).

Or go to Long's Camp and pay a modest fee for a shaded picnic site and walk or wade downstream, or simply park near the Slab and make your way upstream.

To reach the Slab from Kingsland, travel north on RR 1431 to the north edge of town, then turn left on to RR 3404. The Slab is the concrete low water crossing found where 3404 crosses the Llano River. Or to reach Long’s Camp, travel a couple miles north of Kingsland on RR 1431 and turn left where you see the “Long’s Camp” sign.
You can also reach the Slab from Highway 71 West. Travel west on 71 about 23 miles from the intersection of Highway 71 W and Highway 281 (this intersection is just south of Marble Falls, TX). Turn right onto County Road 307 and travel east about 4 miles to reach the Slab. CR 307 becomes RR 3404 at the Slab crossing over the Llano River.

Don’t forget the sunscreen, as you will want to stay for hours!

-Don Gray