The drive
The definitive Hill Country driver’s day reaches the western canyon country via Kerrville, Medina, and Vanderpool, then links the legendary Ranch Roads 337, 335, and 336 around Leakey and Camp Wood. Expect elevation changes, tight corners, river valleys, limestone ridges, and long stretches with little development.
Route overview
From Fredericksburg, take TX-16 South through Kerrville and Medina. Follow RR 337 West through Vanderpool and Leakey to Camp Wood, then RR 335 North to TX-41 and RR 336 South back to Leakey. Retrace RR 337 East and TX-16 North to Fredericksburg.
The route, stop by stop
Stop 01
Fredericksburg to Kerrville
TX-16 South · about 24 miles
Settle into the car on the opening leg before the more technical roads farther west.
Stop 02
Kerrville to Medina
TX-16 South · about 25 miles
Continue toward Medina through elevation changes and tighter bends. Top off fuel if needed before turning west.
Stop 03
Medina to Vanderpool
RR 337 West
Turn right onto RR 337 West through Sabinal River country toward Vanderpool. Allow extra room for blind corners, wildlife, and local traffic.
Stop 04
Lost Maples country
Vanderpool / FM 187 · optional stop
Vanderpool is a gateway to Lost Maples State Natural Area and the Sabinal Canyon. A full park visit deserves its own day.
Stop 05
RR 337 to Leakey
The sweeping Sister
RR 337 descends and climbs through dramatic terrain, with broad sweepers, tighter corners, and overlooks above the Frio and Nueces valleys.
Stop 06
Lunch and fuel in Leakey
Bent Rim Grill · 657 RR 337 W
The route card suggests Bent Rim Grill as a lunch stop. Confirm current hours and refuel in Leakey before continuing.
Stop 07
Leakey to Camp Wood
RR 337 West · about 20 miles
Continue to Camp Wood through elevation changes and overlooks. This is a useful fuel and water stop before the more remote section.
Stop 08
RR 335 North
Camp Wood → TX-41
Follow RR 335 North along the Nueces Canyon before climbing toward the Edwards Plateau. Fuel and cell service are limited.
Stop 09
RR 336 South
TX-41 → Leakey
Travel east on TX-41 to RR 336, then turn south toward Leakey. This section has steep grades, blind crests, tight corners, and limited guardrails.
Stop 10
Return to Fredericksburg
Leakey → RR 337 East → TX-16 North
Retrace RR 337 East through Vanderpool to Medina, then take TX-16 North through Kerrville. Take a break if focus begins to fade.