The National Natural Landmarks Program recognizes and encourages the conservation of sites that contain outstanding biological and geological resources. Sites are designated by the Secretary of the Interior for their condition, illustrative character, rarity, diversity, and value to science and education. The National Park Service administers the program and works cooperatively with landowners, managers and partners to promote conservation and appreciation of our nation's natural heritage.
Rated top 10% of attractions WORLDWIDE by Trip Advisor, as well as the #1 paid attraction in San Antonio.
Named one of America’s “10 great places to get nature on film” in USA Today. The only Texas location selected, and was listed along with Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming), the Adirondack Mountains (New York), Muir Woods National Monument (California) and Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado).
Voted #2 by parents in a Kids Out and About poll.
Awarded by the publishers of Austin Monthly, San Antonio Magazine, and the Texas Music Magazine, this award celebrates the top travel destination and attractions in the state!
Lone Star Land Steward Awards, created by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, recognize private landowners in Texas for their exemplary contributions to land, water and wildlife stewardship. With 95 percent of the land in Texas under private ownership, the conservation and stewardship efforts of private landowners are of vital importance to all Texans. Through extensive efforts put in place by the Wuest family, native grasses and forbs flourish on the property, livestock productivity has increased, the family has seen an increase in quality white-tailed deer, small mammals, and reptiles, and have greatly improved the property’s soil and water quality. In addition, hundreds of thousands of Texas citizens get to enjoy the limestone geology of their property and learn about Texas history, geology and beautiful open spaces when they visit. A large portion of the property has been under a conservation easement since 2005 meaning it will remain undeveloped in perpetuity in one of Texas most rapidly urbanizing areas.
Presented by the San Antonio Zoo at its 1st annual Education 2 Conservation Celebration Luncheon. The Wuest family, whose legacy includes the discovery and operations of Natural Bridge Caverns, received the award for their extraordinary commitment to conservation, particularly around subterranean species and their habitats.
For support of the New Braunfels Food Bank with gifts of food, money, and volunteer time. To date guests and Natural Bridge Caverns have given more than $107,800 dollars. “This money provides more than 754,600 meals for people who are struggling to feed their families.
Baylor University’s Institute for Family Business recognizes outstanding firms whose families demonstrate a commitment to each other and to business continuity, and who are responsive to the needs of their employees, communities and industries.
An initiative of the Community Heritage Division of the Texas Historical Commission. Created in 2005 by Senate Bill 920, authored by Sen. Leticia Van de Putte of San Antonio and sponsored by Rep. Charles “Doc” Anderson of Waco, the program pays tribute to the state’s well-established businesses and their exceptional historical contributions to communities across Texas.
