Visit our Guadalupe River State Park Photo Gallery

All of the Texas Hill Country State Parks are great family destinations and the Guadalupe River State Park (1938.7 acres) in Spring Branch Texas is no exception.  Located on 4 miles of one of the most picturesque sections of the Guadalupe River high limestone bluffs and giant bald cypress line the spring fed river as it winds through the park.  Natural rapids flow into tranquil swimming spots before disappearing around the bend.  Tubes may be rented in the parking lot of the day use area before you venture the two miles down to the river.  Claim a riverside picnic table (shady ones go first) and watch as the tubers and paddlers put in to begin or take out to finish their float trips.  Fishing is popular as well as a 5.3 mile multi-use trail for hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians although you may not camp with your horse overnight.  Bird watching and nature study are popular past times.   A 3 mile hiking trail paralleling the river is enjoyable and will connect you to the campground located high above the river in case of flash flooding.  The campground offers 40 electric and water multi use sites, 37 tent sites with water only and 9 walk in primitive tent camping sites (not more than 100 yds) with water in the area.  Summer is hot and shade is at a premium in the water and electric sites.  The water only tent sites have some shade and are isolated and quiet.  This park has a spacious feel and offers lots of family activities.  It is located only 30 miles north of downtown San Antonio and is crowded in summer and on weekends.  You should definitely make reservations.  Tip:  The Honey Creek State Natural Area is at the entrance to the park.  It is open by guided ranger tour only Saturdays at 9A.M.  Call to reserve your spot.

Related posts:

1. Goliad State Park, Goliad Texas
2. Blanco State Park, Blanco Texas
3. Pedernales Falls State Park, Johnson City Texas

Visit our Blanco State Park Photo Gallery

Blanco State Park located In Blanco County Texas is yet another delightful Texas State Park in Texas Hill Country.  This small clean park (104.6 acres) borders both sides of the spring-fed Blanco River.  The park, on the south side of the town of Blanco, is only 4 blocks from the charming historic town square and partially backs up to a neighborhood separated from the park by a chain link fence.

  Traffic noise from nearby U.S. Highway 281 does not interrupt the fun activities here of swimming, tubing fishing and camping.  Only 40 miles north of San Antonio this park is popular with day trippers from both San Antonio and Austin.  The best way to enjoy Texas Hill Country in the summer is to get into the water.  Tubes, canoes and kayaks are available for rental.  If you want to camp make reservations well in advance.  Choose from 17 full hook up sites or 12 water and electric only.  The small camping loop offers partial shade among the cottonwood trees but not a lot of privacy.  Screened shelters have a great location overlooking the river.  We liked the day use area and the 3/4 mile nature trail.  A self-guided booklet for the nature trail is available for a small fee at the Texas State Park Store.  Tip:  the river is stocked with rainbow trout in winter and campers receive a good monthly discount November thru February.

Related posts:

1. Goliad State Park, Goliad Texas
2. Pedernales Falls State Park, Johnson City Texas
3. Inks Lake State Park, Burnet Texas