Old Tunnel State Park

Updated August 10, 2025

Description

Old Tunnel State Park is one of those places that manages to be both small in size and huge in experience. The star of the show here? About three million Mexican free-tailed bats that pour out of an abandoned railroad tunnel at dusk during certain months of the year. It’s not just a quick whoosh and gone – it’s a steady, mesmerizing stream that can last nearly an hour. And yes, the first time you see it, you’ll probably stand there with your jaw hanging open. The park itself is quiet and unassuming during the day, with a short trail that loops around the area and offers a peek into the history of the old Fredericksburg–Comfort railroad line. There’s a certain charm in the way nature has reclaimed this man-made structure, turning it into one of the most remarkable bat-viewing spots in Texas.

It’s not a sprawling state park with endless trails – you could walk the main path in under 20 minutes – but it’s the kind of place where the magic happens when you slow down. Families often bring kids to learn about bats, hikers drop by for a quick leg-stretch, and photographers set up tripods hoping to capture that perfect silhouette of bats against a glowing sky. The atmosphere changes completely as sunset approaches, with a quiet buzz of anticipation in the crowd. And while the bat emergence is the main draw, the park’s mix of history, wildlife, and easy accessibility makes it worth a stop even outside peak bat season.

Key Features

• Seasonal bat emergence from an abandoned railroad tunnel
• Short, easy hiking trail suitable for most fitness levels
• Interpretive signs explaining the history and ecology of the area
• Wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating
• Picnic tables for a relaxed pre- or post-bat-viewing meal
• Kid-friendly environment and educational opportunities
• Opportunities for wildlife photography and birdwatching

Best Time to Visit

The bat season typically runs from late spring through early fall, with June through August being the most dramatic months for big, sustained emergences. If you want the full goosebump-inducing experience, aim for a warm, clear evening in midsummer. Arriving about an hour before sunset gives you time to find a good viewing spot and soak in the pre-show atmosphere. Outside of bat season, the park is still pleasant for a short hike and a picnic, especially in the cooler months when the Hill Country air feels crisp and the trails are quiet.

One thing to note: weather can affect bat activity. On cooler or rainy evenings, they may emerge later or in smaller numbers. I once showed up on a cloudy night in September and saw only a trickle of bats – still neat, but definitely not the full spectacle. So, if you can, keep your schedule flexible and check local bat forecasts before heading out.

How to Get There

Old Tunnel State Park sits in the Texas Hill Country, not far from Fredericksburg. The drive there is part of the fun – rolling hills, stretches of open ranchland, and those big Texas skies that seem to go on forever. From Fredericksburg, it’s a short drive along winding country roads, and you’ll spot the park’s modest entrance sign before you know it. Parking is straightforward, with designated spots for accessible parking close to the main viewing areas. If you’re coming from farther afield, plan your route to arrive well before sunset – rural roads can be tricky to navigate in the dark after the bats have flown.

Tips for Visiting

First and foremost, bring patience. The bats emerge on their own schedule, and sometimes that means waiting a bit longer than expected. It’s worth it. Wear comfortable shoes, even if you’re not planning to hike much – the ground can be uneven in spots. If you’re sensitive to the Texas summer heat, pack water and maybe a small handheld fan. And yes, you’ll want bug spray. You’re in bat country, but the mosquitoes don’t seem to get the memo.

Photography-wise, low-light conditions can be tricky, so a tripod helps if you’re serious about capturing the moment. For families, the park’s educational displays are a great way to keep kids engaged while waiting for the bats. And here’s a personal tip: stay for a few minutes after the main rush of bats has passed. The crowd usually starts to thin, but there’s something special about watching the last stragglers flit out into the night against a quieter backdrop.

Lastly, remember this is a wildlife preserve. Keep voices low during the emergence, don’t shine bright lights toward the tunnel, and respect the boundaries set by park staff. It’s a small place, but it offers one of the most unforgettable natural spectacles you can witness in Texas – and it’s even better when everyone does their part to keep it that way.

Key Highlights

• Seasonal bat emergence from an abandoned railroad tunnel
• Short, easy hiking trail suitable for most fitness levels
• Interpretive signs explaining the history and ecology of the area
• Wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating
• Picnic tables for a relaxed pre- or post-bat-viewing meal
• Kid-friendly environment and educational opportunities
• Opportunities for wildlife photography and birdwatching

Location

Places to Stay Near Old Tunnel State Park

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