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Mission Dolores was founded here by the Spanish in 1721 along the Camino Real de los Tejas, just 20 miles west of the Texas-Louisiana border. It was abandoned in the late 1700s but the town that sprung up nearby – San Augustine – survives.

General Sam Houston once lived in San Augustine – even serving as a Congressman during his time here.

NUESTRA SENORA DE LOS DOLORES DE LOS AIS MISSION

Despite its long name, Mission Dolores survived a mere two years, victim of Spanish and French hostilities in the region during the first part of the 18th century. The site was chosen by Franciscans in 1717 as part of a six-mission expansion financed by Spain in an effort to dominate the New World. The Mission served as a waystation along the busy El Camino Real de Los Tejas during its heyday (busy, at least in terms of 18th century traffic). The Franciscans vacated Mission Dolores in 1719 during a period that saw mission efforts progress westward to San Antonio. Although nothing of the Mission Dolores structure survives today, the site is now listed in the National Register of Historic Places, is designated a State Archeological Landmark, and a Texas Historical Commission State Historic Site. Explore the site’s history at the Visitors Center where interactive and interpretive displays tell the Mission Dolores story. The site grounds offer 32 RV camping sites with full hook-ups (32 amp), restroom and shower facilities, a picnic area and group pavilions.