Texas Parks and Wildlife: Albert & Bessie Kronkosky State Natural Area

The Albert & Bessie Kronkosky State Natural Area, located near Boerne, Texas, was acquired by the State of Texas in January 2011 and is managed by Texas Parks and Wildlife. This expansive 3,757-acre property represents one of the most exciting new offerings for Central Texas residents and visitors from across the region.

The comprehensive design/build team, led by Byrne Construction Services and Marmon Mok Architecture, has developed an ambitious vision across four strategic areas: entry/administration/maintenance facilities, headquarters, day use/nature center, and overnight camp loop. DHM Design serves as the landscape architect, masterfully shaping outdoor spaces that seamlessly blend the area's natural beauty with functional design, creating an immersive experience that both honors the region's rich ecological heritage and elevates visitor engagement.

This thoughtfully planned project prioritizes a comprehensive landscape study to safeguard natural habitats while delivering an enriching and educational visitor experience. The development team has placed special emphasis on preserving the sensitive habitat of the Golden-cheeked Warbler and implementing advanced stormwater management systems to protect the area's highly erodible soils.

At the centerpiece of the day-use area sits a striking 100-person amphitheater positioned adjacent to the nature center, designed to serve as a dynamic educational gathering space for state park interpretive tours. The project's overarching goal is to authentically recreate the timeless charm of the Hill Country's pastoral heritage. The design team has committed to sustainable practices through the strategic use of rustic, locally-sourced materials, including windmills, native limestone, and harvested timber from the site itself. Timberlyne's expertise in mass timber construction and sustainable building practices aligns perfectly with the project's vision, offering innovative solutions for incorporating harvested timber elements throughout the development. Advanced sustainability features include solar panel shade structures and rainwater capture cisterns that demonstrate environmental stewardship.

To deepen visitors' connection with nature, the design incorporates an elevated boardwalk experience through the tree canopy and playground structures crafted entirely from site-harvested timber—elements where Timberlyne's specialized knowledge in timber framing and sustainable construction could provide valuable technical expertise and craftsmanship.