Real County

Real County is an administrative division in southwest Texas featuring dissected canyonlands that lie between Edwards County and Uvalde County. The terrain ranges from around 1,500 to 2,400 feet (460 to 730 meters) in elevation, with limestone formations defining the landscape.

The area was established in 1913 by the Texas Legislature and named after Julius Real, who served as the only Republican member of the Texas State Senate. This naming choice honored his political service during that era.

The limestone canyons along the Nueces and Frio rivers hold numerous rock art sites left by Tonkawa and Lipan Apache peoples. These locations show the deep connection between Indigenous nations and this landscape over centuries.

The area has two public libraries and a courthouse in Leakey as central facilities. Visitors can reach out to the Frio Canyon and Nueces Canyon Chambers of Commerce for local information and guidance.

Both the Frio and Nueces rivers originate from natural springs in limestone formations within the area. These water sources create a surprisingly green landscape within an otherwise drier region.

GPS coordinates: 29.79494,-99.82809

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:44