Old Tunnel State Park Bat Viewing
Each year, millions of bats return to Old Tunnel State Park to roost for the summer. As the sun sets, visitors can watch thousands of bats emerge from the tunnel and fill the sky in a breathtaking natural display.
According to Texas Parks & Wildlife, the park is home to:
Mexican free-tailed bats
Cave myotis bats
During the winter months, the bats migrate or hibernate, but once spring arrives, they return—marking the start of bat viewing season.
🗓 Bat Season Begins: Spring
🎟 Ticketed Bat Viewing: Begins May 1
📌 Tickets Available: Starting March 2
Tickets are required during peak season and often sell out, so planning ahead is key.
👨👩👧👦 Is This Family-Friendly?
Yes! Bat viewing is:
Educational
Short and manageable for kids
Outdoors and low-key
A great opportunity to talk about wildlife, ecosystems, and Texas history
Pro tip: Bring snacks, water, and maybe a light jacket—Hill Country evenings can cool off quickly.
🍔 Make It a Whole Outing: Dinner Next Door
One of our favorite parts about visiting Old Tunnel State Park?
👉 There’s a restaurant right next door.
Alamo Springs Café sits just outside the park and is a beloved Hill Country stop known for:
Big burgers
Casual outdoor seating
A relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere
This makes bat viewing the perfect evening plan:
✔️ Early dinner
✔️ Short walk or drive to the park
✔️ Sunset + bat flight
✔️ Home before bedtime
It’s an easy, memorable outing without needing to over-plan.
📍 Location & Tips
📍 Old Tunnel State Park
Near Comfort, TX — about 20 minutes from Boerne
Helpful tips:
Arrive early (especially on weekends)
Bring binoculars if you have them
Follow park guidelines to protect the bats
Check Texas Parks & Wildlife for updated schedules and ticket info
💛 Why We Love It
Bat viewing is one of those experiences that reminds you how special living in the Hill Country really is. It’s simple, awe-inspiring, and creates the kind of memories kids talk about long after.
If you’re looking for something unique, educational, and totally “Texas” to do near Boerne—this is it.
