Welcome! Block Creek Natural Area consists of two adjoining ranches, The Laurels Ranch and Turkey Hollow, and is comprised of almost 400 acres near Fredericksburg, Texas. Book an Adventure at Block Creek Natural Area to photograph, relax and avail yourself of the many other exciting things the Texas Hill Country has to offer!
History
Founded in 1887 by renowned architect Alfred Giles, the properties have been cared for and loved by six generations of family members, including internationally recognized wildlife photographer and writer David K. Langford, his wife Myrna, and their longtime friends Sharron and Larry Jay.
Photo Opportunities
Creeks flow year-round and diverse vegetation provides habitat for many species of resident and migratory wildlife. With an eye to developing a photo-tourism business, the Jays and the Langfords have installed permanent morning and evening photo settings, complete with water interests and feeders to attract birds and mammals. Insects, reptiles, and amphibians are also plentiful. The blinds are designed to offer portability, and to avoid casting unwanted shadows. There’s a small lake which attracts special species. Scenic, landscape, and waterscape opportunities are abundant on the two ranches, as are many species of native plants and trees. Additionally, for those planning overnight stays, the dark skies allow for some spectacular star viewing and photography.
Other Nearby Attractions
The Texas Hill Country is a great destination for the nature photographer looking for a well-rounded photography experience. It offers a wealth of species and scenics, with creeks, springs, waterfalls, and diverse flora. Area attractions provide other photographic opportunities as well as interesting places to visit for the photographer and non-photographer alike: Willow City Loop is world renowned for its wildflowers; Enchanted Rock; B&Bs, antiquing, dining and shopping in Fredericksburg or Comfort; the Highland Lakes; and fall colors. Close proximity to San Antonio makes it a reasonable distance to visit to see the Alamo, the Riverwalk, and Spanish Missions. The state capital, Austin, can be counted on for live music, state history museums, and much more. Also in the vicinity are rodeos, cowboys, old barns, dilapidated goat sheds, hiking, biking, relaxing, and nightlife.
Book an Adventure at Block Creek Natural Area to photograph, relax and avail yourself of the many other exciting things the Texas Hill Country has to offer!
