🎯 Things Teenagers (Ages 13–18) Can Do in Boerne & the Hill Country
A Parent-Friendly Guide to Real Teen Life
The teen years can feel like a tricky in-between — teens want independence, parents want safety, and everyone is figuring it out as they go. The good news? Boerne and the surrounding Hill Country actually offer a surprising amount of healthy, engaging, and realistic options for teens ages 13–18.
This guide focuses on what teens actually do, mixed with gentle parent advice to help you navigate this season well.
🎣 Outdoor Skills, Fishing & Country Life
Boerne City Lake Park
Fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or just hanging out by the water
🧠 Parent note:
Outdoor time gives teens space to decompress. Some of the best conversations happen side-by-side, not face-to-face.
Kreutzberg Canyon Natural Area
A more challenging hike that appeals to older teens who want independence, quiet, and a sense of accomplishment.
Joshua Springs Preserve
A nearby favorite for hiking, fishing, and nature exploration — especially good for teens who enjoy quieter outdoor spaces.
🏹 Archery, Hunting & Outdoor Sports
Many Boerne teens grow up learning:
Archery and bow shooting
Hunting safety and outdoor ethics
Shooting sports and range skills (age-appropriate and supervised)
🧠 Parent note:
Skill-based outdoor activities build discipline, confidence, and respect — and give teens identity beyond screens.
🐄 4-H, FFA & Agricultural Programs
🌱 Texas 4-H
A cornerstone program in Kendall County offering:
Livestock showing & animal care
Leadership development
Public speaking and competitions
🚜 Future Farmers of America
Through local schools, many teens participate in:
Animal science
Welding, mechanics, and ag skills
Stock shows and competitions
🧠 Parent note:
4-H and FFA provide belonging and purpose
🛹 Skateboarding & Independent Teen Spaces
Boerne Skate Park
(Currently Closed)
Historically a major gathering place for skateboarders, scooter riders, and BMX teens. The park is undergoing updates, including new additions such as a pump-style riding area and improved features designed to support a wider range of skill levels.
What’s coming to the park: As part of the Northside Community Park renovation, the skate park will be expanded and integrated into a larger recreational hub featuring pickleball and basketball courts, a splash pad, all-abilities playground, trails, dog park, and community gathering spaces — creating a vibrant multi-use area for teens and families alike.
🏃♂️ Active & Skill-Building Programs for Teens
Boerne Family YMCA – Teen fitness programs, classes, and social opportunities
Black Diamond Martial Arts – Boxing, kickboxing, discipline, and confidence
Code Ninjas – Coding, tech skills, and confidence building.
🎭 Boerne Community Theatre — Teen Troupe
The Boerne Community Theatre Teen Troupe is open to Boerne-area teens ages 13–19 who want to be involved in theatre—whether that’s on stage or behind the scenes. This program offers a structured, supportive way for teens to grow creatively, build confidence, and be part of a committed team. More Info Here
🎬 Season Highlights Include:
Two full productions each year at Boerne Community Theatre
One in the Fall
One in the Spring
TNT Youth Theatre Conference each June
Theatre workshops focused on education and skill development
Additional performances and community service opportunities throughout the year
🌟 Teen Troupe Members Are Expected To:
Participate on or off stage in both seasonal productions
Attend workshops geared toward theatre education
Communicate scheduling conflicts clearly with directors
Uphold the guidelines and values of Boerne Community Theatre
Sign a Teen Troupe contract and individual production contracts
Participate in fundraisers during the season
🎯 Why Parents Love This Program:
The Teen Troupe provides teens with:
Consistent structure and accountability
Teamwork and leadership development
Creative expression in a safe, encouraging environment
Real responsibility and commitment—skills that translate beyond theatre
✝️ Faith-Based Groups, Mentorship & Leadership
🙌 Young Life — Boerne
Young Life is a Christ-centered teen ministry serving middle and high school students (roughly ages 11–18) in the Boerne area. The heart of Young Life is relationship and belonging—leaders intentionally meet teens where they are, building trust through fun, consistent presence, and genuine care.
Local Young Life offers:
Weekly “Club” nights with games, music, food, and a short, relatable message
Campaigners, small groups for teens who want to go deeper in their faith
WyldLife for middle school students
Camps and retreats that many teens describe as life-changing
Additional support programs for teen moms and teens with disabilities
Young Life is designed to feel welcoming and low-pressure—more like hanging out with friends than a traditional church service.
How to get involved:
Teens can attend a club night, come with a friend, or parents can reach out directly to the local Young Life team to get connected. Learn more at younglife.org and follow Boerne Young Life on social media for current meeting times and locations.
🧭 Trail Life USA
New Troop in Boerne | Boys Ages 5–17
A new Trail Life USA Troop launched this year in Boerne and meets at St. John Lutheran Church.
Trail Life USA is a church-based, Christ-centered, boy-focused mentoring and discipleship program rooted in outdoor adventure and timeless Biblical values. Boys are encouraged to grow in:
Character and integrity
Leadership and life skills
Community service
Understanding their God-given purpose
Troops are led by male mentors and offer structure, challenge, and belonging through hands-on learning.
📍 Meeting Location: St. John Lutheran Church, Boerne
📩 Questions: Mark Lynn — Mark.Lynn@stjohnlutheran.com
🔗 Learn more at www.traillifeusa.com
⛪ Church Youth Groups
Many local churches also offer:
Middle & high school youth nights
Worship nights and Bible studies
Service projects and retreats
🍔 Fast Food & Hangout Spots (Yes, These Count)
🍔 Whataburger
Post-game meals, late-night fries, milkshakes, and long conversations — a true teen staple.
🚗 Walmart Supercenter - Boerne
Classic small-town teen culture: sitting in cars, talking, listening to music.
🧋 Bubble Tea, Coffee & Snack Runs
Sometimes the “activity” is just being together — and that matters.
🧠 Parent note:
Safe, familiar hangouts help teens practice independence while staying connected to community.
💡 General Teen Advice for Parents
Teens still want connection — just on their terms
Listen more than you lecture
Independence + boundaries builds trust
Community matters more than perfection
📍 Final Thoughts
Teen life in Boerne may look simple — but it’s rich in skills, relationships, and growth. From fishing and farming to leadership programs, faith-based mentorship, creative arts, fitness, and Whataburger nights, Boerne gives teens room to become who they’re meant to be.
