Nature

The Search for Bluebonnets: The Best Places to Find Bluebonnets This Spring

By  | 
Tony Maples Photography

 

Originally published in Heart of Texas Magazine

Nothing says springtime in Texas like a field of bluebonnets. The official state flower, and the unofficial symbol for all things Texan, the bluebonnet makes the perfect backdrop for a Hill Country road trip. Here are some of our favorite places to find bluebonnets in and around the Texas Hill Country.

Burnet

There’s no better place than Burnet for all things bluebonnet! Celebrating the annual Bluebonnet Festival every April, this charming town is situated amongst miles of multi-colored wildflower fields.  Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Burnet is surrounded by natural wonders and historic buildings, all of which are enhanced by the splendor of springtime bluebonnets. In fact, just outside Burnet, on Highway 281, is one of the state’s most photographed bluebonnet locations. Known locally as The Bluebonnet House, this 19th century two-story limestone structure is a favorite stop for photographers and wildflower enthusiasts.

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Turkey Bend Recreation Area, Marble Falls

Nestled alongside scenic Lake Travis, the Turkey Bend Recreation Area comes alive with color each spring thanks to its wide open fields of bluebonnets. This 1,000+ acre park couples the beauty of bluebonnets with magnificent lake views. Continue traveling RM 1431 towards Marble Falls for one of the most picturesque wildflower-viewing routes in the area. While in Marble Falls, be sure to make a stop at Blue Bonnet Café and sample some homemade soups or a slice of their legendary pie.

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg is already one of the Hill Country’s top road trip destinations. Celebrating its German heritage through family, food, and hometown hospitality, Fredericksburg truly shines in the springtime when bluebonnets are in full bloom. Each spring, nearly every roadside in and around Fredericksburg is rife with vibrant wildflowers and the majesty of nature at its finest. For the best in breathtaking bluebonnet views, head north out of Fredericksburg via the Willow City Loop off Hwy 16. This winding 13-mile drive showcases some of the best panoramic views in the Texas Hill Country, featuring not only bluebonnets, but daisies, sunflowers, Indian paintbrush, and more. Fredericksburg is also home to the nation’s largest working wildflower farm, Wildseed Farms, which features over 200 acres of native Texas wildflowers. Wildseed Farms is open year-round and admission is free.

 

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Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Austin

A nature-lover’s paradise, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center at The University of Texas at Austin is a botanical garden with a long history of education and conservation.  The center’s walking trails, display gardens, and rustic structures offer a more landscaped location to take in the magnificence of Texas bluebonnets – and a great variety of backgrounds for photos. Stop in the gift shop to pick up some bluebonnet-inspired keepsakes for your fellow wildflower watchers. The center is open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults, $4 for youth.

McAllister Park

Comprised of nearly 1,000 acres in northeast San Antonio, McAllister Park serves as a city park as well as a nature preserve. Facilities include picnic areas, sports fields, and both paved and unpaved trails—all of which abound with bluebonnets every springtime. Locals flock to McAllister Park for bluebonnet photo ops, thanks to its ease of access and plentiful parking. With room to run and play, and front row access to nature and wildlife, McAllister Park is a welcome oasis inside the hustle and bustle of the growing city.

These are only a handful of the many stunning bluebonnet locations the Hill Country has to offer. Whether taking family portraits or simply taking in Mother Nature’s colorful grandeur, be sure to get out and appreciate Texas bluebonnet season while it lasts. Always remember to be respectful of nature, property boundaries, and your fellow bluebonnet buffs!