GUIDE TO PHOTOGRAPHING BLUEBONNETS IN THE TEXAS HILL COUNTRY

Springtime in the Texas Hill Country is nothing short of magical. As the weather warms and the landscape awakens, vibrant fields of bluebonnets blanket the rolling hills, creating a photographer’s paradise. If you’re planning a trip to this region to capture its natural beauty, here are some tips to ensure your bluebonnet photographs stand out.

WHEN TO VISIT

Bluebonnets typically bloom from late March to mid-April, though the exact timing can vary depending on weather conditions. Keep an eye on wildflower reports or local social media groups for updates on peak bloom times. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for photography, as the golden light enhances the flowers’ rich blue hues and casts a warm, soft glow over the landscape.

My sister and I decided to take a road trip to Texas to photograph these colorful flowers.  Living in Arkansas, close to the Texas border, we knew we could cover a lot of ground in just a few days.

So, with camera and list of places to visit in hand, we headed toward to south Texas. 

The Texas Hill Country offers countless picturesque spots for bluebonnet photography. Some popular locations include:

#1 MULESHOE BEND RECREATION AREA 

The number one place on my list was not actually on my list.  We ran across an employee of Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) and he suggested this location.  

It had miles and miles of bluebonnets and is a photographers dream.

You can read about our visit, see photos, and find location  HERE.

#2 PEDERNALES FALLS 

Perdernales Falls State Park was a complete surprise.  It looks like a small area in photos but it is HUGE!  

Flowing over and around huge slabs of limestone, the Pedernales River can be  turbulent. But most often it is tranquil, and a great place to swim, hike, or just relax.  

You can read about our visit, see photos, and find location  HERE.

#3 NARROWS RECREATION AREA

There is not a lot to see here but if you are looking for beautiful landscapes and you have time, make this one of your bluebonnet stops.  

You can read about our visit, see photos, and find location  HERE.

#4 INKS LAKE STATE PARK

Known as the Bluebonnet Capital of Texas, Burnet hosts the annual Bluebonnet Festival and boasts many vibrant fields.

#5 WILDSEED FARMS




 #6 MARBLE FALLS

Visit the Bluebonnet House and nearby fields for postcard-perfect scenes.

#7 ENNIS BLUEBONNET TRAILS

 With over 40 miles of mapped trails, Ennis is known as the Official Bluebonnet City of Texas.

#8 WILLOW CITY LOOP

This scenic drive near Fredericksburg offers stunning views of bluebonnet fields, rugged terrain, and charming ranch fences.

Lastly, make your trip to the Texas Hill Country an adventure by exploring charming small towns and sites.  Here is a list of a few not-to-miss sites while in the Texas Hill Country: 

• Cross Mountain Park
• Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
• Fossil Rim Wildlife Center
• Hamilton Pool
• Jacob's Well
• Kraus Springs