snake. Western diamond-backed rattlesnake may also occur, as it has been documented nearby. The has been documented in the park. The Texas brown tarantula is often spotted. The Sabinal River maintains surface water even during exceptional drought (as in 2011), so fish and other aquatic animals are always present. Flora Primary vegetation includes the Ashe juniper (often called mountain cedar), several different species of oak, and also bigtooth maple (not a verified presence in Real County), sycamore, mesquite, Texas persimmon, Texas mountain-laurel, Texas madrone, redbud, wild grape, prickly pear, Virginia creeper and various types of brush, grasses, and ferns. Bigtooth Maple colors are brilliant if autumn is droughty, or has cold nights, but are muted in a mild, damp autumn. Texas red oak gives a fine crimson display almost every year and may retain its leaves well into winter. The Natural Area is most crowded when the fall colors peak in late October- early November. Evidence suggests that the maple trees that give the preserve its name are relics: remnants of a larger, more widespread population that flourished during the cooler and wetter climate of the last glacial period. Today, their distribution is limited by the relative rarity of the soils and microclimates they require to thrive. A more extensive list of the preserve's fauna and flora can be found at the LMSNA Ranger Station. Recreation Lost Maples is a State Natural Area and therefore has been developed only enough to provide access to visitors, while still protecting its natural character. The reserve contains of hiking trails, 30 campsites, and eight primitive camping areas. In the center of the park are two small lakes along Can Creek. The Texas Parks & Wildlife Department urges all visitors to respect the Leave No Trace set of wilderness ethics... 1) Plan Ahead and Prepare, 2) Travel on Marked Trails Only, 3) Always Dispose of Waste Properly, 4) Leave Behind What You Find, 5) Never Build An Open Fire, 6) Respect All Wildlife, and 7) Be Considerate of Other Visitors. Please do your part by following this code, and protecting the park's sensitive natural and cultural resources. References Park of the Month, September 2007 Texas Parks & Wildlife - Lost Maples State Natural Area Web Soil Survey (select Bandera County, Texas) City of San Antonio donates 3,000 acres to Government Canyon SNA; 732 acres to Lost Maples SNA. External links Official Texas Parks and