Mexican mission stands in the dirt
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. Christopher Talbot

El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic Trail

Federal Recreation Area · Texas · National Park Service

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.

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Official site
www.nps.gov
Managed by
National Park Service

Getting there

What's here

Highlights: Architecture and Building · Archeology · Arts · Photography · Colonization and Settlement · Commerce · Trade · Explorers and Expeditions · Forts · Native American Heritage · Religion and Spirituality · Missions · Schools and Education · Trails

Activities & features: Auto and ATV · Scenic Driving · Junior Ranger Program · Museum Exhibits

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Sources: National Park Service · updated 2026-08-12