by John Jefferson

Ancient Babylonians began building a tower to reach the heavens. It sounded like a prideful thing to give them power. But it didn’t work out well for them – or their future.

An inspiring mountain of pink granite later rose out of the countryside between modern day cities of Fredericksburg and Llano in the Texas Hill Country. Climbing to the summit is relatively easy and a spiritual experience. This natural rock dome is about as close to Heaven on Earth as one can get.

Sitting on the top of the dome and gazing out across the Hill Country frees one’s mind to thoughts and feelings previously imprisoned in a congested eight-to-five world. It’s now known as “Enchanted Rock State Natural Area (SNA).” It IS an enchanting refuge!.

State park staff noticed a for-sale sign on adjacent property and passed the information to Parks leadership. The 630-acre ranch became of utmost importance to Enchanted Rock. We recently drove Ranch Road 965 and as we neared “The Rock” we were shocked at cars backed-up for about a mile in both directions, awaiting entry to the SNA. The Rock is one of the most popular sites in the State Parks system.

Reservations are required.

Comanche Ranch — the 630-acres — would have been an ideal subdivision site. But with a subdivision would come more people, more houses, more noise, more lights, more traffic … and myriad more problems. State Parks Staff, the TPW Foundation and others realized the importance of protecting the ranch as part of the SNA. With the help of previous legislation authorizing use of the Sporting Goods Sales Tax and federal Conservation Funds for land acquisition, TPWD bought the ranch.

Two almost-lost pleasures: dark night skies and remarkable quiet could have been removed forever. Enchanted Rock is a top International Dark Sky Park; the ability to stargaze is a big part of what makes this a favorite park.

And what did TPWD get with the new 630-acres?

Start with a beautiful, rugged ranch with numerous views of Enchanted Rock; Several residences, horse barn, tack room, and a north and a south headquarters, several fields, and a vineyard for wine making.

Add that it has been managed for wildlife since the 1990s and has whitetails, axis deer and blackbuck antelope. A large hunting lodge is still there, left over from the ranch’s former life as a high-fenced hunting ranch. It’s exceptional deer habitat.

There are majestic oaks, rugged granite outcroppings, multiple views of Enchanted Rock, and Sandy Creek crosses it. Several ponds and a swimming pool can keep visitors cool.

It’s easily reached from Fredericksburg or Llano, and not far from the Llano River.

TPWD will develop a plan with input from the public on recreational opportunities. This plan may take months to complete, but the public will be kept informed of upcoming milestones, including a potential opening date. With all the amenities, it will take time to assimilate them into state park activities.

But the wait will be worth it!

JJ