For those who are passionate about fishing, birding, hiking, and other outdoor activities, there is nothing like the Texas Hill Country. Along with some of the country’s most spectacular scenery, you’ll find some of the best fishing and bird-watching in the state—we’re home to around 430 species of native and migratory birds. Two nearby rivers, the Guadalupe and the Llano Rivers are almost close enough to hit by throwing a rock, and are not only safe for wading, but are ideal for tubing, kayaking, and other water sports. Rio Grande Perch and Guadalupe Bass can be found here, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department stocks a variety of trout, according to the season, at Canyon Lake Dam.

Birders will feel right at home here, particularly with the chance to see two of our tiny feathered friends that are on the Endangered Species List: the Black-Capped Vireo and the Golden-Cheeked Warbler. A quick jaunt to Fredericksburg and the Live Oak Wilderness nature trail in Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park offers bird-watchers a chance to view as many as 132 species, including the MacGillivray's warbler and the yellow-crowned night heron, along with a myriad of butterflies, wildflowers, and much more.