Rivers & Recreation

The Blanco River flows through the Hill Country heart of Hays County

The Blanco River is a key waterway in western Hays County, popular for swimming and kayaking when conditions are safe but dangerous during floods.

Hays County The Great Outdoors

The Blanco River runs through Wimberley and the surrounding Hill Country in Hays County before joining the San Marcos River. Under normal conditions it offers swimming holes and scenic views. Under drought, long stretches can run dry. Under heavy rain, it can rise to life-threatening levels within hours.

Much of the riverbank is private. Public access points exist at some city parks and low-water crossings. Check the Hays County WETMap at co.hays.tx.us before visiting during or after rainy weather. If the river is running fast or muddy, stay out of the water.

Source to confirm: Handbook of Texas — Hays County

More Hays County notes

Property Tax Basics

Two offices handle your property taxes in Hays County

Hays County splits property tax duties between two separate offices, and knowing which one to call saves time.

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Homestead Exemption

Filing a homestead exemption lowers your tax bill in Hays County

If you own and live in your Hays County home, you can file for a homestead exemption to reduce what you owe in property taxes.

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Tax Payment Deadline

Pay your Hays County property taxes by January 31 to avoid penalties

Property tax bills in Hays County arrive in the fall, and January 31 is the last day to pay without extra fees.

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Agricultural Valuation

Farmland in Hays County can be taxed at a much lower rate through ag valuation

Land used for farming or ranching in Hays County may qualify for a special lower tax rate based on what the land can produce, not what it sells for.

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