Discover kid-friendly hikes in Texas Hill Country
Are your kids spending endless hours in front of mobile devices this summer? Are little voices constantly whining about how “boringggg” their summer has become? If these sound all too familiar, it may be time to bring your little ones outside for a summer adventure. But instead of going to the local park or pool, why not take your kids on a nature hike?
Nature hikes can be magical and memorable experiences for kids, especially in the rugged beauty and fresh air of the Texas Hill Country. For families visiting or staying near Medina, TX, there’s no shortage of scenic trails, towering oak canopies, and gentle climbs perfect for little explorers.
One of the Best Family Activities in Medina, Texas
Hiking along nature trails for families in Medina, TX, isn’t just a great way to get your kids out of a summer rut. It’s also an enjoyable way to get some light exercise, explore different places, and take in the beauty of nature. Without the distractions of everyday life and city noise, you and your family will also have the opportunity to reconnect with nature and each other.
Whether your crew includes toddlers in tow or curious preteens with energy to burn, you’ll find plenty of family hiking trails near Medina, TX that check all the boxes: easy, beautiful, and packed with adventure.
And when the day’s adventures are done, you’ll want a cozy place to relax, recharge, and get ready for the next outing. This is precisely why Texas Hill Country Resort is a top choice for families seeking outdoor adventures for kids in Hill Country.
The Top 5 Kid-Friendly Hikes in Texas Hill Country, Texas
Here are five excellent family-friendly hiking trails near Medina that are perfect for making family memories.
1. Lost Maples State Natural Area
📍 Distance from Texas Hill Country Resort: ~30 minutes
If you’re looking for a scenic, shaded trail that keeps both kids and adults interested, Lost Maples is a local treasure. Known for its brilliant fall colors, this park offers well-marked trails ranging from short loops to moderate hikes.
Why families love it:
- The East Trail Loop is a great choice for families with older kids. It offers stunning views, light elevation, and plenty of picnic spots.
- For younger hikers, the Maple Trail is a flat and easy out-and-back route along the riverbank.
Activities: Hiking, birdwatching, picnicking, and spotting wildlife like armadillos and deer.
Bonus: In cooler months, bring binoculars—this area is a haven for bird enthusiasts and a great place to teach kids about nature.
2. Hill Country State Natural Area
📍 Distance from Texas Hill Country Resort: ~25 minutes
This expansive park near Bandera has more than 40 miles of multi-use trails, offering endless options for short family hikes and longer adventures.
Why families love it:
- You can customize your hike based on time and ability. Try the Heritage Loop, a shorter, mostly level path that loops through the countryside and is ideal for young kids.
- Horseback riding and cycling are also allowed on some trails, which is great for older children or teens.
Activities: Hiking, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, and stargazing.
Pro tip: Pack a few snacks and stop by the visitor center for a kid-friendly map and Junior Ranger activities.
3. Medina River Greenway
📍 Distance from Texas Hill Country Resort: ~1 hour and 30 minutes (San Antonio side trip)
This one’s worth the short drive to the edge of San Antonio if your family is in the mood for a shady, well-maintained trail with creek crossings, bridges, and wide walking paths.
Why families love it:
- It’s stroller-friendly, well-marked, and has bathrooms and picnic tables.
- The trails are peaceful and close to the Medina River, making it a refreshing stop in the warmer months.
Activities: Walking, jogging, biking, and river watching.
Best for: Younger kids and families who prefer an easy, nature-filled stroll without rough terrain.
4. Bandera City Park on the Medina River
📍 Distance from Texas Hill Country Resort: ~20 minutes
🟢 Easy, scenic riverside walking paths
Why families love it:
Bandera City Park is a peaceful spot along the Medina River offering grassy picnic areas, shallow river access for wading, and easy paths perfect for walking with young children. While it’s more of a nature stroll than a rugged hike, it’s great for families seeking a relaxed outdoor outing with water features, open space for play, and shade from tall cypress trees.
Activities:
- Strolling along the river
- Skipping rocks and splashing in the water
- Picnicking under trees
- Wildlife spotting and birdwatching
Pro tip: Bring lawn chairs, water shoes, and a packed lunch. There’s a small entrance fee, but it’s well worth the calm, kid-friendly atmosphere.
5. Garner State Park
📍 Distance from Texas Hill Country Resort: ~45 minutes
This classic Hill Country park near Concan is a must-visit for families who want to mix hiking with swimming, paddle boating, and dancing at the famous summer jukebox.
Why families love it:
- The Old Baldy Trail is a short but steep challenge with a big payoff—panoramic views of the Frio River.
- The park also has flat riverfront trails perfect for walking with young children.
Activities: Hiking, tubing, swimming, boating, and evening dances.
Bonus: Bring water shoes—kids can wade and splash after the hike!
Why Families Love Staying at Texas Hill Country Resort
When the hiking boots come off, there’s no better place to unwind than Texas Hill Country Resort, just minutes from many of these nature trails for families in Medina, TX.
Here’s what makes our resort ideal for families:
👨👩👧👦 Spacious Family Cabins
Choose from a variety of cozy cabins with space for the whole crew. Our King Cabins sleep up to 12, while the Getaway Cabins are perfect for smaller families looking for a peaceful escape.
🌳 Outdoor Fun, On-Site
Kids love our open green spaces, fire pits, and hiking trails right on the property. The scenic overlook area is a great place for family photos and evening sunsets.
🏊♂️ Pool & Recreation
Cool off in our resort-style infinity pool and hot tub, or spend time in the Recreation Hall playing games and relaxing indoors.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Options
Bringing a four-legged family member? We offer pet-friendly lodging, so no one gets left behind.
📍 Convenient Location
You’re never far from top attractions in Bandera, Utopia, Uvalde, and of course, Medina. Plus, we’re centrally located for easy day trips to top Texas Hill Country destinations.
🍳 Flexible Stays
From RV hookups to glamping bunkhouses and classic cabins, we have lodging that fits every family’s style and budget.
Your Hill Country Adventure Starts Here
There’s a reason families return to Texas Hill Country year after year: it’s the perfect mix of outdoor freedom, small-town charm, and natural wonder.
So, whether you’re introducing your kids to the joys of hiking or just want to get them outdoors this summer, our resort is the perfect home base for your adventures.
Ready to plan your family getaway?
📅 Book your stay at Texas Hill Country Resort today
📍 Experience the comfort, charm, and convenience that families love
🎒 Explore the best family hiking trails near Medina, TX, and beyond!
Let’s make your Hill Country memories one trail—and one cozy campfire—at a time.