Leakey
Leakey, the Real County seat, provides attractive examples of early Texas Hill Country architecture on US Highway 83: the hand-cut, native stone structure of Real County Courthouse, First State Bank building, and Leakey School. The history of Leakey and its founders, John and Nancy Leakey, early residents of Frio Canyon, are commemorated with markers at the courthouse. About 6 miles north of Leakey on Highway 336, a marker indicates the site of the McLauren Massacres, the last Indian massacre in the Southwest.
Travel 7 miles south of Leakey on Highway 1120 to Rio Frio, the canyon's first settlement, to see the nation’s largest Texas live oak tree and the Lombardy Irrigation Ditch dug by pioneers to water their crops. The authentic furnishings, equipment, and personal artifacts utilized by the early settlers of this unique ranching and farming valley are displayed at Leakey's Real County Historical Museum. The locals will warmly welcome you.
Frio River
On the photo above, you’ll see the image of the upper Frio River, which flows through 100,000 acres of magnificent grandeur with clear, cool spring water. The Frio River begins in northern Real County with springs and streams. There are limestone rocks around, creating waterfalls, rapids, and pools to Concan in Uvalde county. Boulders, cliffs, and grassy patches are along the banks, which are shaded by pecans, live oaks, sycamores, and massive, centuries-old cypress trees. Swimming and floating on the Frio River are also two of the most popular summer activities.
Frio Canyon
Residents of the "Land of 1100 Springs" are proud of their surroundings' natural beauty and encourage visitors to contribute to its preservation. In addition to Garner State Park, there are other river camps and lodges from Leakey to Concan that offer a variety of lodging and recreational activities. Fishing, hunting, bird viewing, camping, cycling, and driving the gorgeous mountain roads are all-year-round activities. You must view the canyon's pristine beauty in the fall when the foliage becomes crimson and orange. In these peaceful settings, you can ride your iron horse anytime.