Bandera, Texas is situated along the banks of the Medina River.

Bandera TX History

The town, according to legend, was either named after a Spanish Officer named Bandera or after a large flag (bandera is the Spanish word for “flag”) that marked the Bandera Pass - the agreed upon boundary that kept the Indians separated from the Spanish settlers. The pass was the scene of several encounters between Rangers and Indians.

In the 1850’s, Bandera served the needs of the military and of settlers who lived in the area. After the Civil War, the town boomed as a staging area for cattle drives up the Western Trail. Farm boys became cowboys and ranchers built holding pens and signed on as trail bosses. Storekeepers contracted as outfitters.

Bandera became "Cowboy Capital of the World" in part because of its numerous Dude Ranches. The area became popular with San Antonians wanting to escape the city's summer heat. In the 1920’s and 30’s, increased car ownership allowed more people to travel to the area (Bandera never had a railroad) and "Dude Ranches" started appearing. Several of the oldest are still in business today.

Bandera Texas – Dude Ranches and Popular Vacation Area

Just 11 miles southwest of Bandera lies the Hill Country State Natural Area which consists of 5,400 acres of primitive camping and equestrian trails. Over 4,500 acres provide trails for people who bring in their own horses to ride. Senior Travel Genie offers many resources for seniors wanting to vacation in Bandera, Texas.