Feeding The Soul: Lost Maples State Natural Area

Part One of Three Parks Visited

It's been a while since I last shared the thrilling adventures and incredible experiences tied to my passion for photography. This year has been nothing short of amazing! My work has taken me all over Texas and even as far as South Sudan, with countless exciting stops in between. I've been diving into fascinating projects, including campaigns, ministry work, veteran hunting, historical artifacts, and a few personal passion projects. I'm excited to share them with you in the upcoming months!

Before diving into another whirlwind of work over the next few months, I decided to take a much-needed break—a chance to reboot and refresh my spirit! My ultimate way to recharge is to call up my old Marine buddy Russ. We escape into nature for a few days, exploring trails, capturing stunning photos, soaking in the fresh air, enjoying delicious meals, and swapping stories around a cozy campfire. It's all about discovering the world from a fresh perspective and appreciating those little details that often go unnoticed.

Russ and I planned an exhilarating five-day adventure, exploring three breathtaking Texas parks. Our Navy buddy Cal even joined us whenever he could. We kicked off our journey at Lost Maples State Natural Area, continued to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, and wrapped it all up at Colorado Bend State Park. We returned home to Dallas feeling utterly rejuvenated.

At Lost Maples, we embarked on an invigorating 7-mile trek along the trails. We started on the East trail right from the parking lot, made a grand loop to connect with the East West Trail, and ended back at the parking area. (Be sure to check out the map for all the details.) This park is renowned for its stunning fall colors, though we might have been a touch early. I hope you enjoy my photos from Lost Maples—they truly nourished my soul!

Lost Maples State Natural Area September 24, 2025 in Vanderpool, Texas.

Lost Maples State Natural Area is a 2,906-acre area of hills and canyons on the upper Sabinal River in the Edwards Plateau Region of Texas. It is designated a Natural Area, rather than a State Park, which means the primary focus is the maintenance and protection of the property's natural state. -Wikipedia

To Learn more about this beautiful park follow the link below:

https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/lost-maples

East Trail before the Grotto.

Start of East Trail, Maximilian sunflower.

East West Trail at Maples Pond. American Bumblebee on White Crownbeard.

East Trail opposite Maple Trail on the Sabinal River.

End of Maple Trail at the beginning of East Trail, Old Man’s Beard.

East Trail before Monkey Rock, American Sycamore

East Trail at Monkey Rock, American Sycamore.

East Trail at the Grotto.

East Trail before the Grotto, Texas Madrone.

East Trail before Maples Pond, Lindheimer’s Senna.

East Trail before the Grotto, Golden-Eye Lichen.

East Trail before Monkey Rock, Chinquapin Oak.

East Trail before Scenic Overlook Trail, Black Vultures.

East Trail after Monkey Rock, Chinquapin Oak.

East Trail before Maples Pond, Western Long-Tailed Brush Lizard.

East Trail before Scenic Overlook Trail, Yucca Rupicola.

East West Trail at Maples Pond. Queen Butterfly.

East Trail overlooking Maples Pond.

East West Trail at Maples Pond. Red-Eared Slider Turtle.

East West Trail at Maples Pond. Hairgrass Giant.

East Trail before Maples Pond, Texas Pricklypear.

East West Trail near Trail to Day-Use Area.

East Trail Canyon Rim overlooking Maples Pond.

East Trail after Scenic Overlook Trail, Sleepy Orange Butterfly.

East West Trail near Trail to Day-Use Area, Snapdragon Vine.