El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic Trail

Construction of the mission church began in 1760 but was never completed. The outstanding ruins are virtually the only visible remains of the complex of missions established in the area. The purpose was to convert Coahuiltecan Indians to Catholicism.
Explore a diverse array of histories contained within El Camino Real de los Tejas’ 150-year life, including the Spanish struggle to missionize American Indian nations, the growth of cattle ranching in the Mexican period, and the movement for Texan independence and statehood.
Map showing location of park.
A Caucasian male, dressed in a park ranger uniform, with a brimmed straw hat.
New program manager selected for NPS Regions 6, 7, 8 National Trails Office  
The National Park Service (NPS) has selected Patrick Malone as program manager of Region 6, 7 and 8 National Trails Office. In this role, Malone will administer the Butterfield Overland National Historic Trail, California National Historic Trail, El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic Trail, El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro National Historic Trail, Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail, Old Spanish National Historic Trail, Oregon National Historic Trail, Pony Express National Historic Trail, Santa Fe National Historic Trail, Trail of Tears National Historic Trail, and the Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program.
Mexican mission stands in the dirt
Photo by Christopher Talbot
lots of greenery along a river; sunflowers in the foreground
Photo by Christopher Talbot
stone house ruins; briliant green grasses and trees on the right
Photo by Christopher Talbot
rock indentations in a dry creek with five people walking under clouds
Photo by Christopher Talbot
trail segment indentation with leaves in it, trees along the side
Photo by Christopher Talbot