Block Creek Natural Area

Teamed with Leo Keeler

*ICF Charter Member Ranch: Texas Hill Country Nature Photography Alliance

Block Creek Natural Area is a collaborative entry located in Kendall County between Comfort and Fredericksburg, Texas. The sixth-generation family properties were once part of Hillingdon Ranch, founded by renowned architect Alfred Giles and named for his home in Hillingdon, Middlesex, England. Giles immigrated to the United States in 1873, settling in San Antonio for health reasons.

Ashe Juniper was cleared from the land before 1900 and the family continues a tradition of holistic range management. Springs flow year round and the crystal clear waters of Elm Bottom Creek bounce and sparkle down their rocky way to unite with the broad meander of Block Creek. Plentiful and diverse vegetation provides habitat for many species of resident and migratory wildlife.

With an eye to developing a photo tourism business, and guided by internationally recognized, award-winning wildlife photographer and writer David K. Langford, the partners have installed morning and evening photo blind settings, complete with water interests and feeders to attract birds and mammals. The lightweight camouflage-draped blinds are designed to offer portability and to avoid casting unwanted shadows.