TEXAS (KXAN) -- Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is set to double in size after the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department purchased a 3,073-acre property next to the popular state park. TPWD announced the land acquisition on Monday, saying it purchased the property for $43 million with funding from the Centennial Parks Conservation Fund that voters approved in Nov. 2023. Top 10 countdown: These are the most popular Texas state parks each fall The property was previously mainly used privately for hunting but will now become an extension of Enchanted Rock, according to the announcement. It features a rock formation that could provide a new scenic vantage point for the iconic pink granite dome the park is named for. TPWD said the land will also help conserve the night sky and viewshed in a rapidly developing area of the state. The 3,073 acres are in addition to the recent purchase of 630 acres for Enchanted Rock and the purchase of Lake Colorado City State Park, which was announced in September. “Enchanted Rock is cherished by Texans across the state, and we are thrilled to add a property of this size and scope to this beloved park,” said Jeff Hildebrand, Chairman of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission. “I look forward to families experiencing this new addition to Enchanted Rock SNA and creating lasting memories for generations to come.” Texas land purchase to add 630 acres to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area TPWD said when it's notified of available properties, it conducts a due diligence review to determine the property's feasibility as a state park, natural area, or historic site. According to the announcement, in this case, TPWD engaged its official nonprofit partner, Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation, to help secure the piece of property. TPWD will develop a plan with input from the public to determine recreational opportunities for the 3,073-acre property. The plan could take months to complete, but TPWD said it will communicate upcoming milestones, including a potential opening date.