Lobanillo Swales
The East Texas Weekend Preview — In the late 1600’s, the El Camino Real de los Tejas became a critical path for trade, fortifying Spanish territory in Texas and the establishment of Catholic missions in the region.
This “royal road” connected Mexico City to a variety of Spanish forts all throughout present day Texas. Though there were many forks in the road, they would all funnel into our backyard of East Texas!
*It’s also well to mention that the El Camino Real follows thousand year old trade routes laid down by Native Americans in the region! (How cool!)
Today, there are many locations in the area where you can stroll this historic highway, including portions of downtown Nacogdoches and the Caddo Mounds Historic Site.
But one of the most intriguing features of this pathway is located right outside the city of San Augustine, known as the Lobanillo Swales.
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For nearly 200yrs, travelers entered and exited Texas and Louisiana territory by the El Camino Real. So much so, that the soft, sandy soil near the Lobanillo Creek would start to adapt to the constant traffic.
Formation of massive “swales”, or hilly-shaped lowlands, naturally developed by hundreds of years of constant wagon, mule and foot travel. Some of these deep paths even measure to 18ft deep and 12ft wide!
Seven of these unique walkways still exist in one central location and are well preserved for you and then family to experience!
*Please be sure to abide by all signage and stay on the designated trail to avoid damaging the historic / archaeological resources on site.
Walk a portion of the El Camino Real de los Tejas this weekend and experience piney woods travel like folks did hundreds of years ago.
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The Lobanillo Swales can be found at: 8456 TX-21, San Augustine, TX 75972
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