I love helping my couples choose photoshoot locations that fit their personalities and love stories. From taking photos in your favorite small town to adventuring off the beaten path, the Texas Hill Country has some of the best engagement session locations. Here are a few of my favorites between Austin, San Antonio and all the small Texas towns in between.
Top Small Town Hill Country Engagement Photo Locations
Looking to escape the cities and venture out into the scenic countryside? These small-town engagement photo locations are a sweet way to capture your love.
Louise Hays Park – Kerrville, TX
Romantic Riverside Sanctuary
Louise Hays Park in the heart of downtown Kerrville is an enchanted oasis along the Guadalupe River. From the Cypress-lined paths of Tranquility Island to over 60 acres of riverside, the park is one of the most photogenic spots in Kerrville, TX. Whether you love a good picnic, biking, canoeing or a leisurely walk – this park has a little something for everyone.
- Dog-friendly
- Free admission
Downtown Kerrville, TX
Hidden Hill Country Gem
With places like Boerne, Fredericksburg and Comfort known for their downtowns, Kerrville often gets overlooked in the Texas Hill Country. But our hometown has some unique and fun spots for a couple looking to wander off the beaten path and enjoy our little downtown scene. (The parking garage roof is always a must!)
James Kiehl River Bend Park – Comfort, TX
Intimate Outdoor Oasis
A hidden Hill Country gem, this park is situated along the rambling Guadalupe River with countless walking trails. With much less foot traffic than other popular parks, this location is a sweet spot for a picnic engagement shoot or to relax riverside.
- Dog-friendly
Downtown Comfort, TX
Idyllic Small Town Charm
Sometimes it’s all in a name – and Comfort brings all the quintessential sweetness you could desire for a small town engagement session. Downtown is speckled with quaint shops, restaurants and antique malls for a range of timeless backdrops.Want to see more?
Joshua Springs Park and Preserve – Comfort, TX
Natural Hill Country Vibes
With over 400 acres to wander, Joshua Springs captures the idyllic outdoor setting of the Hill Country. The parkland stretches out all around you with rolling grass fields, a tranquil pond and the shade of oak trees. Check out this Engagement session to see more of the park!
- Free admission
Cibolo Nature Center – Boerne, TX
Hill Country Golden Hour
Grand Cypress trees line the banks of Cibolo Creek and provide a natural canopy for stunning outdoor portraits. The nature center provides six miles of outdoor trails and the perfect setting for capturing those dreamy golden hour engagement photos.
- Dog-friendly
- Free admission
Boerne City Lake Park – Boerne, TX
Lakeside Getaway
If you’re looking for some “summer by the lake” vibes for your engagement session, Boerne City Lake Park is the place to be. The water has been pretty and pristine every time I’ve visited, and is a great option for couples who love to be on (or by) the water.
- Free admission for city residents
- Admission fee ($10-$20 for non-residents)
Downtown New Braunfels, TX
Timeless German Charm
Set along the Comal River, the historic downtown of New Braunfels and the grounds of Wurstfest are worthy of wandering year round. If you want to get back to your German roots or simply love the Bavarian nods throughout town, New Braunfels is definitely a Texas Hill Country favorite. PROST!
- Avoid the Wurstfest crowds and plan your photos Jan-Sept.
- The equally cute town of Gruene is just a short hop away!
Top Hill Country State Park Engagement Locations
For my nature-loving couples, these Texas Hill Country engagement session locations include some of the most diverse outdoor spots in the state. I’m always up for an adventure, and these parks not only create beautiful photos, but wonderful memories.
Note: These locations do require park day passes.
Garner State Park – Concan, TX
Riverside Adventure
One of the most beloved rivers in the Hill Country, the sparkling waters of the Frio are a magical centerpiece of this engagement location. Whether you want to dip your toes into the shallows or hike to the top of Old Baldy Summit, this park does not disappoint. Garner is especially beautiful for fall Hill Country engagement photos with its stunning autumn colors.
Want to see more? Check out this surprise proposal at Garner State Park.
Lost Maples State Natural Area – Vanderpool, TX
Natural Seasonal Beauty
While Lost Maples is known for it’s fall splendor, this park truly doesn’t have a bad season. And if you want to avoid the autumn craziness, I highly recommend winter or spring engagement photos here. Between the rock cliffs along the river and the rolling fields, there’s a little magic to be found every time you visit.
- Park tip: During their busy season (fall), book your entry in advance as the park fills up quickly.
Pedernales Falls State Park – Johnson City, TX
Tranquil River Vibes
Pedernales Falls offers a stunning backdrop for photos with the river running over and around sweeping slabs of limestone. A short drive from Austin, it is an easy hike down to the falls with well-maintained steps that take you down to the riverbank.
Want to see more? Check out Emma & Stephen’s Pedernales Falls engagement photos.
- Park tip: During their busy season (spring/summer), book your entry in advance as the park fills up quickly.
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area – Fredericksburg, TX
Breathtaking Hill Country Views
For thousands of years, people have been drawn to the natural magic of Enchanted Rock. Hike to the top of this spectacular pink granite rock for awe-inspiring views of the surrounding Hill Country.
Want to see more? Check out Prari & Anthony’s dark and edgy Enchanted Rock engagement session.
- Park tip: Make reservations in advance as the park fills up quickly.
Guadalupe River State Park – Spring Branch, TX
Rambling River Vibes
The tranquil shores of the Guadalupe River cut through spectacular limestone cliffs, making this park a beautiful backdrop for nature-inspired engagement photos.
Top San Antonio Engagement Photo Locations
The Pearl – San Antonio, TX
Historic Downtown Hub
Many of my San Antonio-area couples love The Pearl – and it’s easy to see why. With easy access to the Riverwalk and centered around the Culinary Institute of America, this SA staple allows for so many unique engagement photo shoot ideas. Make it a weekend getaway and stay at the historic Hotel Emma located onsite.
Want to see more? Check out Alyson and Jon’s Pearl engagement photos.
The River Walk – San Antonio, TX
Iconic Riverside Oasis
The River Walk has stolen the hearts of countless locals and visitors alike with its vibrant culture, history and boat tours. It doesn’t get more authentically San Antonio than these meandering limestone paths.
Confluence Park – San Antonio, TX
Stunning City Park Vibes
Dramatic stone arches, lush greenery and truly unique (and eco-friendly) architecture capture the eye at this downtown San Antonio city park.
See more with Jenny & Phu’s Confluence Park engagement session here!
Want more San Antonio engagement photo location ideas? Check out this curated list of Best San Antonio Engagement Photo Locations!
Top Austin Engagement Photo Locations
South Congress – Austin, TX
Trendy Downtown Vibes
Taking photos along South Congress is a fun way to capture the spirit of the capitol’s downtown. Countless murals and iconic local businesses line the street for a truly Austin vibe. Plus, a short walk north of the neighborhood takes you to the waters of Lady Bird Lake for even more picturesque possibilities!
Butler Park – Austin, TX
Urban Naturescape
The winding Colorado River cuts through scenic downtown Austin at this urban park engagement location. With the Austin skyline perfectly outlined behind the river, this spot creates a beautiful backdrop for photos.
Want to see more? Check out Nicole and Danny’s Butler Park engagement photos.
- Note: Parking can be challenging. If the lot off of Dawson Road or West Riverside is full your next best bet is the parking garage for Palmer Events Center. Parking in the garage is FREE on Sundays.
Want more Austin engagement photo location ideas? Check out this curated list of Top Austin Engagement Photo Locations!
These are just a few of the best Texas Hill Country engagement session locations – and my list of favorites is always growing!
Want to have your engagement story captured in a fun and romantic way? Let’s plan your session together! Get in touch here.
