Devils River State Natural Area
All camping and facility stays are by reservation only. Reservations must be made at least one 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 Devils River 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 37,000-acre state natural area consists of?two units -- the original 20,000-acre state natural area, now called Del Norte, and?the newly acquired 17,000-acre Dan A. Hughes Unit. At Del Norte, visitors can enjoy?day hiking, primitive camping , nature viewing, mountain biking, horseback riding, swimming, and fishing . There is also a Group Barracks that holds up to 10 people. The Dan A. Hughes Unit?is not yet open to the public.
Devils River State Natural Area is unique in that it is 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.
If you plan to swim at the park, read through our swimming safety tips before you come.
Preparing for a Trip on the Devils River
The wild, scenic Devils River draws kayakers and canoers seeking to paddle 47 miles from the paddler put-in at Baker's Crossing at Highway 163, or 32 miles from Del Norte, downriver to Lake Amistad National Recreation Area.?However,?a Devils River?trip is highly strenuous and recommended only?for experienced paddlers equipped to spend?at least three days?in a remote area.
Access to the river in Del Norte (0.9 miles from the parking area) is by hiking, biking or prearranged tour only; no public vehicle access is permitted. No motorized boats are allowed.
A?Devils River State Natural Area Access Permit (DRSNAAP)?is required for all trips on the Devils River which access Devils River State Natural Area units.?The cost of a DRSNAAP is $10 plus shipping and handling. Read more information?about how to obtain a DRSNAAP and how to prepare 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) to allow for sustainable, resource-based recreation. The plan allows for?put-ins and take-outs on the State Natural Area properties at river miles 0, 15 and 30. TPWD has established shuttle service agreements that allow outfitters to shuttle river users to Baker's Crossing (river mile 0) or San Pedro Point (river mile 15) in Del Norte; and allow them to be picked up at the Dan Allen Hughes?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.
Area Attractions
Nearby attractions include Seminole Canyon State Park & Historic Site , Kickapoo Cavern State Park , Amistad National Recreation Area, and the cities of Del Rio and Ciudad Acu?a. 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 .