TEXAS. What an amazing state, with so much to see and do! I recently returned from a fantastic few days at the Block Creek Natural Area, photographing the amazing abundance of wildlife there. It truly is a hidden gem for anyone interested in birds!
Located in the hill country north of San Antonio, the BCNA is on a private nature ranch known as Turkey Hollow, nestled among a number of very large old ranches. It’s only a few miles from the quaint little town of Fredericksburg. But when you’re there you feel like you’re in an oasis out in the wild.
To quote from their website: “The landscape, which includes sparkling creeks and waterfalls, ancient gnarled oaks, jutting boulders, and unusual land forms, offers a wealth of photographic opportunity.” And of course the well-maintained photo blinds arranged around the ponds and forest glades make for perfect wildlife viewing and photographing oportunities.
Larry and Sharon were incredible hosts during my stay…taking me on a walking tour of the property, helping me identify and better understand all the wildlife I saw, and making me feel right at home with their home-cooked meals. They maintain the property, manage the wildlife, and run the Block Creek Bed & Breakfast. They even arranged for the AMAZING folks at the Last Chance Forever birds of prey rehabilitation center to bring out some of their beautiful creatures for us to photograph!
If you love birds and marveling at nature, while mainaining some of the comforts of home (delicious meals, excellent wifi connection, etc.), I highly recommend visiting the Block Creek Natural Area. There are a number of excellent photography workshops available there throughout the year…and I hope to be leading one of them this June! More info on that to come…