Texas Porch

State Natural Area

Devils River State Natural Area Requires Advance Planning

Devils River State Natural Area is a remote, spring-fed wilderness in Val Verde County that requires reservations and is only open certain days each week.

Val Verde County The Great Outdoors

The park has two units near Del Rio, about 30 miles upstream from Amistad Reservoir. It is open Friday through Monday only; closed Tuesday through Thursday. You must have a reservation before arriving. Entry costs $5 for adults; children 12 and under are free. Paddling the river for extended trips also requires a separate Devils River Access Permit ($10), booked through ReserveAmerica.

Summer temperatures can reach 98 degrees. There are no stores or services inside; bring all your own water and food and pack out all trash. The area has over 25 miles of trails, and the river is popular for paddling, swimming, and fishing. The site is a designated Dark Sky Sanctuary, making it good for stargazing. Call (512) 389-8901 for reservations.

Source to confirm: Texas Parks and Wildlife — Devils River State Natural Area

More Val Verde County notes

Property Tax

Who Handles Property Taxes in Val Verde County

Two separate offices handle property taxes here: one appraises your property, and a different one collects what you owe.

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Homestead Exemption

Homestead Exemption Can Lower Your Tax Bill

If your home is your primary residence in Val Verde County, you may qualify for a homestead exemption that reduces your taxable property value.

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Agricultural Appraisal

Ag Valuation Can Sharply Cut Taxes on Ranch Land

Ranch land used for sheep, goats, or cattle may qualify for a special lower tax value based on what the land produces, not what it would sell for.

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Water Rights

Val Verde County Has No Groundwater Conservation District

Unlike many Texas counties, Val Verde County does not have a groundwater conservation district, which affects what rights you have over water under your land.

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