travelandhome logo

Discover the Gems of Texas: Garner State National Park

Explore the Natural Beauty of Texas Hill Country at Garner State National Park

Garner State Park, located in the Texas Hill Country, is a popular destination for camping, hiking, and swimming.

Frio River Garner State National Park Texas travel and home camping RV min
Frio River Garner State National Park Texas travel and home camping RV min

What to expect

Upon arriving at the park, visitors can expect to find a variety of recreational opportunities.

  • The park features a large swimming area in the Frio River, as well as several miles of hiking trails that wind through the scenic hill country.
  • The park also has a concession stand and a store where visitors can purchase food, drinks, and souvenirs.

Best time to go

The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and fall when temperatures are milder and the crowds are smaller.

Frio River Garner State National Park Texas travel and home camping RV min
Frio River Garner State National Park Texas travel and home camping RV min
GARNER WEATHER

What makes Garner State National Park in Texas worth going to?

Garner State Park in Texas is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and there are several reasons why it’s worth visiting:

  • Scenic beauty: The park is located in the Texas Hill Country, and offers beautiful views of the Frio River and the surrounding hills. It’s a great place to take in the natural beauty of the area and enjoy the fresh air.
  • Recreational activities: The park offers a variety of recreational activities, such as swimming, hiking, and camping. The park’s hiking trails vary in difficulty, making them suitable for hikers of all skill levels. The park also features a large swimming area in the Frio River, which is a popular spot for visitors during the summer months.
  • Camping: The park offers a variety of camping options, including tent camping, RV camping, and screened shelters. The park’s campground is set in a beautiful location, surrounded by nature, and offers access to restrooms and showers.
  • History: The park has a rich history with the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) which built many of the park’s facilities in the 1930s, which have been well-preserved and are open to visitors.
  • Family-friendly: With its beautiful natural setting, recreational activities, and camping options, Garner State Park is a great destination for families. The park is a perfect place to spend a weekend or a summer vacation with the kids.
  • Variety of wildlife: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, raccoons, and squirrels, making it a great place for bird-watching and wildlife viewing.
Frio River Garner State National Park Texas travel and home camping RV min
Gigantic cypress tree Garner State National Park Texas travel and home camping RV min

Overnight Stays

Accommodation options in the park include tent and RV camping sites, as well as screened shelters. Campsites can be reserved in advance, and the park also offers group camping sites for larger parties. Here is a list of the different camping sites available in the park:

  • Tent camping sites: The park offers a variety of tent camping sites that are located near the Frio River. These sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis and have access to restrooms and showers.
  • RV camping sites: The park also offers RV camping sites with electrical and water hookups. These sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis and have access to restrooms and showers.
  • Screened shelters: The park has a limited number of screened shelters that can accommodate up to six people. These shelters are equipped with bunk beds and a picnic table and have access to restrooms and showers.
  • Group camping sites: The park offers several group camping sites that can accommodate large parties. These sites have access to restrooms and showers and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Walk-in camping: The park also offers walk-in camping sites which are a short hike from the parking area. These sites are secluded and are perfect for those looking for a more primitive camping experience.
Travel Tip(s)

It’s worth noting that some camping options may be closed or have restrictions due to health and safety regulations like we’ve seen with the COVID-19 pandemic- Therefore, it’s always a good idea to check the park’s website or call the park for the most up-to-date information on availability, reservations, and regulations.

Hiking old baldy trail moderate Garner State National Park Texas travel and home camping min
Above: The Old aldy Hiking Trail
RV motorhome travel and home camping travelandhome RV min

Hiking

The park’s hiking trails offer a range of difficulty levels, making them suitable for hikers of all skill levels. The most popular trail is the 1.5-mile loop around the scenic Frio River. The trail offers beautiful views of the river and the surrounding hills and is suitable for hikers of all ages. Other popular trails include the Old Baldy and Painted Rock trails, which offer more challenging terrain and spectacular views. Here is a list of some of the most popular hiking trails in the park:

  • Old Baldy Trail: This 2-mile trail is rated as moderate in difficulty and offers stunning views of the surrounding hill country. It is a great option for hikers looking for a more challenging hike. Up on Old Baldy review >>
  • Painted Rock Trail: This 3-mile trail is considered difficult and is popular among experienced hikers. The trail features a climb to the top of a hill, where hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the park.
  • Frio Canyon Trail: This 2.5-mile trail is considered easy and is a great option for hikers of all ages and skill levels. The trail offers beautiful views of the Frio River and the surrounding hills.
  • Honeycomb Trail: This 1.5-mile trail is considered easy and is perfect for a leisurely stroll. The trail features a boardwalk that takes hikers through a forest of towering cypress trees.
  • Upper Garner Loop: This 3-mile trail is considered easy and offers a scenic route through the park. The trail takes hikers through a variety of habitats, including oak and juniper woodlands, and offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills.
Travel Tip(s)

It’s worth noting that all the trails are marked with difficulty levels and trail maps are available at the park’s Visitor Center. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to check the weather and trail conditions before you head out and bring enough water, snacks and wear appropriate clothes and shoes.

It's time to go camping

All in all, Garner State Park is a great destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some time in nature. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a relaxing swim in the river, the park has something for everyone.

Garner State Park, Texas booking and contact information

To book a camping site or screened shelter at Garner State Park in Texas, you can visit the park’s website at https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/garner or call the park’s reservation line at (512) 389-8900.

Additionally, you can also reserve camping sites, screened shelters, and group camping sites through the Texas State Parks Reservation system at https://texas.goingtocamp.com/home.

It’s worth noting that reservations are highly recommended, particularly during peak season, which runs from March through September.

The park’s physical address is: 234 RR 1050 Concan, Texas 78838

You can also reach out to the park’s staff by phone, the park’s phone number is (830) 232-6132.

You can check the park’s website or social media for the most up-to-date information on hours, fees, and any restrictions or closures due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

San Antonio River Walk in Texas why you should visit Things to do

Paid Link: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.