The center sits atop the Edwards Aquifer recharge zone, playing a critical role in local water filtration.
The property contains a documented historical lime kiln dating back to the late 1800s.
Cibolo Creek, which runs through the property, is a rare perennial stream in the Hill Country that supports diverse aquatic life.
The Herff Farm portion of the site was an original homestead established by German immigrants in the mid-19th century.
The center utilizes controlled burns as an ecological tool to maintain the health of the prairie grassland.
It serves as a registered Monarch Waystation, supporting the migration cycle of the monarch butterfly.
The Cibolo Center for Conservation is a 160-acre natural area in Boerne, Texas, dedicated to environmental education and ecosystem preservation. It encompasses diverse habitats including tallgrass prairie, riparian zones along the Cibolo Creek, and dense hardwood forests. The center manages the Herff Farm, a historical agricultural site featuring 19th-century structures and heritage gardens. Extensive trail systems provide access to protected wetlands, marshes, and limestone bluffs. The facility serves as a living laboratory for research on local flora and fauna and promotes sustainable land management practices. It operates as a private, non-profit organization rather than a city-run park. Visitors can observe native pollinators in the butterfly gardens and explore various geological features typical of the Texas Hill Country. The site is a primary location for regional conservation efforts and community-based environmental stewardship programs.
The elevated boardwalk overlooking the marshy sections of the Cibolo Creek.
Bring binoculars to spot the wide variety of migratory birds attracted to the riparian habitat.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear as the terrain on some trails can be uneven and rocky.
Check the online events calendar before visiting to see if the Herff Farm is hosting a local producers' market.
Do not attempt to swim in the creek, as water levels can fluctuate rapidly and the banks are protected conservation zones.
The Herff Farm area typically hosts public markets on weekends; some secondary trails may close during periods of extreme weather or conservation maintenance.
Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive habitat, pack out all trash, and keep pets on a leash at all times.
