TEXAS HILL COUNTRY — Texas is acquiring nearly 54,000 acres in Edwards and Kinney counties to create Silver Lake State Park. The park will become the second-largest state park in Texas, after Big Bend Ranch State Park.

Located about 150 miles west of San Antonio between Rocksprings and Uvalde, the property features steep canyons, rolling hills, miles of river frontage along the West Nueces River, and a 30-acre spring-fed lake known as Silver Lake. The landscape includes caves, creeks, limestone cliffs, and native Hill Country vegetation such as live oak and juniper.

The acquisition was made possible through a partnership between the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the Moody Foundation. The Moody Foundation donated its 87.5% ownership stake in Silver Lake Ranch, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department bought the remaining ownership interest for $11.85 million using funding approved by Texas voters.

"This future state park will grant generations of Texans with a deeper understanding of the land that helps make our state the natural envy of the world," Gov. Greg Abbott said in a news release.

TPWD Executive Director David Yoskowitz said the property is expected to become a major destination for visitors, especially because it sits near one of the state’s most popular park regions. Ross Moody said the foundation wanted to help preserve the land while making it accessible to Texans for generations to come.

Development of the park will occur in phases. Early access could include guided tours and limited day-use opportunities while planning and infrastructure work is completed. The park is expected to eventually include trails, camping areas, visitor facilities, and paddling access. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department will seek public input as park plans move forward. No opening date for Silver Lake State Park has been announced.