Trueheart Ranch Nature Park

Trueheart Ranch Nature Park is a 351-acre expanse of natural beauty located in San Antonio, Texas. The park, which opened to the public in September 2023, offers visitors a unique blend of historical significance and outdoor recreational opportunities.

The property, acquired by the San Antonio River Authority in 2015, has a rich history dating back to 1848 when it was purchased by James and Petra Trueheart for agricultural and irrigation purposes. The park still contains remnants of its past, including a restored two-story house known as "Casa Vieja" ("Old House"), which was constructed by the Truehearts using rock and stucco.

Trueheart Ranch Nature Park features diverse landscapes, including pecan orchards, former livestock grazing areas, and riparian woodland that fronts the San Antonio River. The park's natural features provide habitats for various flora and fauna, making it an ideal location for nature observation and bird watching.

Currently, visitors can explore two trails within the park. The Acequia Trail, which circumnavigates a former pecan orchard, offers approximately one mile of mowed path. This trail showcases the park's agricultural heritage and provides glimpses of the remaining pecan trees, some of which are over a century old. The Yucca Trail traverses the upper part of the property, featuring native yucca plants and prickly pear cacti.

While only a portion of the park is currently accessible to the public, there are ambitious plans for future development. The San Antonio River Authority has created a master plan that envisions additional amenities and recreational opportunities, aiming to balance preservation of the site's natural and historical features with public enjoyment and education.