Visitor Guide

1 Safety Guidelines

Wildlife Safety  Sandy Creek Sanctuary Park is a vibrant ecosystem, with approximately 90% of its area inhabited by diverse wildlife, including coyotes, deers, wild pigs, snakes, and insects. To stay safe:

  • Remain vigilant and avoid direct contact with wildlife.
  • Watch for allergenic plants such as poison ivy, poison oak, and other potential irritants.
  • Be cautious of natural hazards like tree branches, stumps, and uneven terrain while exploring.

Hiking Safety Hiking at Sandy Creek Sanctuary Park offers stunning views but involves inherent risks, especially on trails with elevation changes or less-defined paths. For a safe experience:

  • Wear appropriate attire, including sturdy hiking shoes, hats, and sun protection.
  • Stay on designated trails and exercise caution during low-light conditions.
  • Carry water.

Fire Ant Safety Texas fire ants are prevalent in warm weather, often found in flat areas or lawns. To avoid painful stings:

  • Avoid stepping on or disturbing ant nests.
  • Check your surroundings before sitting or standing in grassy areas.

Resource: For more information, visit Texas A&M Fire Ant Guide.

Fire Safety To prevent wildfires, especially during dry conditions or when Travis County issues a fire ban:

  • Refrain from smoking, using fireworks, or starting open flames.
  • Follow all posted fire restrictions and check with park staff if unsure.

Campfire Safety Campfires enhance the park experience but require responsible management:

  • Never leave a campfire unattended.
  • Fully extinguish fires before leaving the area or notify the host/event manager if you are the last to depart.
  • Use only designated fire pits and follow park guidelines for firewood.

Children’s Safety We cherish the presence of children at Sandy Creek Sanctuary Park and prioritize their safety:

  • Supervise children at all times, especially during exploration or activities.
  • If fireworks are permitted (and no fire ban is in effect), ensure strict adult supervision and adherence to safety protocols.

Shooting Range Safety Shooting activities carry significant risks and are restricted to individuals with proper safety training:

  • Participants assume full responsibility for their actions.
  • Follow all range rules and instructions from park staff.
  • Unauthorized use of firearms is strictly prohibited.

Privacy and Confidentiality

Guest Privacy Respect for privacy is essential at Sandy Creek Sanctuary Park:

  • Do not share or publish photos, videos, or personal information of other guests, especially children, without their explicit consent.
  • Be mindful of others’ personal space and experiences.

Address Confidentiality

To protect the privacy and security of our guests and property:

  • Do not share the park’s street address publicly or with individuals not on the guest list.

Release of Liability

By participating in any activities at Sandy Creek Sanctuary Park, you acknowledge and accept the inherent risks associated with outdoor recreation, including but not limited to wildlife encounters, hiking, shooting activities, and natural hazards. On behalf of yourself, your minor children, and your guests, you agree to the following:

  • You release Sandy Creek Sanctuary Park owners Lost Ridge Ranch LLC, owners, and their members, managers, affiliates from any liability for personal injury, property damage, wrongful death, or other losses arising from your participation in park activities.
  • You assume full responsibility for your actions and those of your minor children or guests.
  • This waiver applies to all activities, whether supervised or unsupervised, and remains in effect for the duration of your visit.

Acknowledgment

Thank you for your cooperation in ensuring a safe, respectful, and enjoyable experience for all at Sandy Creek Sanctuary Park. We look forward to creating lasting memories with you in our beautiful natural surroundings.

Sandy Creek Sanctuary Park owners:

2 Parking

Trash and Compostable:

Please do not leave trash on the tables or the ground; always use the provided trash bins.

  • Trash: Plastics and dry waste should be placed directly in the trash bin.
    • Dry trash: Place directly into the trash bin.
    • Wet trash: Place in a small plastic bag before disposing of it in the trash bin.
  • Compostable: Food waste, cardboard, paper cups, and glass bottles are compostable.
    • Dry compostable items such as paper bags, cardboard boxes, and glass or metal bottles should be placed in the designated compostable bin.
    • Wet compostable items like paper cups and food should also be disposed of in the compostable bin.
    • It’s very important not to mix trash into compostable bins