Many folks come here to swim, but the park is more than a great swimming hole. Beautiful scenery and colorful history await, just a short drive from San Antonio and Austin. With four miles of river frontage, the Guadalupe River takes center stage at the park. Step away from the river to find the more peaceful areas.

On the river, you can swim, fish, tube and canoe. While on land, you can camp, hike, ride mountain bikes or horses, picnic, geocache, and bird watch. We loan fishing gear for use in the park. Note: Styrofoam and glass are prohibited in the day-use area along the river banks and while in the river.

Camp at one of 85 water and electric campsites or nine walk-in tent sites. Camping made easy! Texas Park Outfitters provides camping equipment rental and setup at this park. For more information and to book their service, visit the Texas Park Outfitters website.

Explore 13 miles of hike and bike trails. Trails range from the 2.86-mile Painted Bunting Trail to the 0.3 Mile River Overlook Trail, which leads you to a scenic overlook of the river. Some park trails are open to horseback riders but we do not offer equestrian camping. Note: We may close trails to protect sensitive areas or for bad weather. Please observe closure signs. Call or check our Facebook page or Twitter feed for updates.

For a more primitive experience, our remote Bauer Unit day-use area has hiking and biking trails with ratings from moderate to challenging. Experience native prairie grasses and wildlife in the mixed Hill Country forest, along with varied terrain and spring seeps. River access is a 2- to 3-mile hike downhill (4-6 miles round trip). The Bauer Unit has no restrooms or potable water and fires are not permitted. Pack out your trash and Leave No Trace.

Learn more about the park’s natural features at the Discovery Center. Take a closer look at nature using magnifying glasses, microscopes and binoculars. Explore hands-on discovery boxes and exhibits. Ask about borrowing an explorer pack!