Did you know Garner State Park attracts over 500,000 visitors annually, making it the most visited state park in Texas? This beloved natural treasure in the heart of Texas Hill Country has been captivating visitors since 1941 with its crystal-clear Frio River, legendary summer dances, and breathtaking limestone canyons. Whether you’re planning a family camping trip, a romantic cabin getaway, or an outdoor adventure with friends, Garner State Park offers an authentic Texas experience that keeps generations of visitors returning year after year.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Located in Uvalde County near the small community of Concan, Garner State Park sits approximately 90 miles west of San Antonio. The park’s address is 234 RR 1050, Concan, TX 78838. Most visitors arrive by car, as public transportation options to this rural area are limited.
Directions
From San Antonio: Take Highway 90 west to Sabinal. Turn right on FM 127 and follow it to Concan. Turn right on Highway 83, then right again on FM 1050. The park entrance will be approximately 1/8 mile on your right.
From Austin: Take I-35 south to San Antonio, then follow the directions above. The drive from Austin takes approximately 3 hours.
Need Transportation?
Find the best deals on flights to San Antonio or Austin, then rent a car for your Garner State Park adventure.
Garner State Park is located in the Texas Hill Country, approximately 90 miles west of San Antonio.
Entrance Fees & Reservations
Daily entrance fees are $8 per person for ages 13 and older, while children 12 and under enter free. Due to the park’s immense popularity, reservations are strongly recommended and often required, especially during peak seasons. You can make reservations up to 5 months in advance for campsites and cabins, and up to 1 month in advance for day passes.
Pro Tip: Garner State Park frequently reaches capacity, especially during summer weekends and holidays. Secure your day pass or overnight reservation well in advance through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department reservation system.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Garner State Park is open year-round, but each season offers a unique experience. The park experiences hot summers, mild winters, and beautiful spring and fall seasons with comfortable temperatures.
Seasonal Highlights
- Spring (March-May): Wildflower blooms, pleasant temperatures (70-85°F), and moderate crowds make this an ideal time to visit. The Frio River may still be chilly but refreshing.
- Summer (June-August): Peak season with hot days (90-100°F), perfect for swimming in the cool Frio River. The famous summer dances are held nightly at the pavilion. Expect large crowds and book well in advance.
- Fall (September-November): Comfortable temperatures (65-85°F), changing foliage, and smaller crowds create a peaceful atmosphere. The river remains swimmable through early fall.
- Winter (December-February): The quietest season with cool temperatures (40-65°F). Perfect for hiking and wildlife viewing with minimal crowds. The river is typically too cold for swimming.
Weather Considerations
The Texas Hill Country can experience sudden weather changes. Summer thunderstorms are common in the afternoons, while flash flooding can occur after heavy rains. Winter occasionally brings freezing temperatures, especially at night.
Safety Alert: The Frio River can rise rapidly during heavy rainfall. Always check weather forecasts and heed all park warnings about water conditions.
What to Pack
- Swimwear and water shoes (essential for the rocky river bottom)
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Insect repellent (especially for summer evenings)
- Layers for variable temperatures, particularly in spring and fall
- Sturdy hiking shoes for the park’s trails
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Garner State Park offers a wealth of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages. From water recreation to hiking and dancing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this natural playground.
Frio River Activities
The emerald-green Frio River is the park’s centerpiece, offering refreshing recreation during hot Texas days. The river maintains a cool 68-70°F year-round thanks to underground springs.
- Swimming: Multiple designated swimming areas with varying depths
- Tubing: Bring your own or rent tubes at the park store for a leisurely float
- Kayaking/Canoeing: Paddle along the scenic river (rentals available seasonally)
- Fishing: Catch bass, catfish, and sunfish (Texas fishing license required for ages 17+)
Ready for river adventures? Book your water activities now!
Hiking Trails
With over 16 miles of trails ranging from easy riverside paths to challenging climbs, Garner’s hiking system showcases the park’s diverse landscapes and offers spectacular views.
- Old Baldy Trail: The park’s most popular hike (0.5 miles one-way) leads to a summit with breathtaking panoramic views. Moderate difficulty with some steep sections.
- Frio Canyon Trail: An easy 2.9-mile loop along the river with abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Crystal Cave Trail: A challenging 0.5-mile trail leading to a small limestone cave formation.
- Bridges Trail: A scenic 2.2-mile trail crossing multiple bridges with river views.
Explore guided hiking tours in the Texas Hill Country!
The Famous Garner Dance
A beloved tradition since the 1940s, the Garner Dance takes place nightly at the park’s historic pavilion during summer months (Memorial Day through Labor Day).
From 8:30 PM to 11:00 PM, visitors of all ages gather to dance to classic jukebox tunes. The tradition has been passed down through generations, with many families returning year after year specifically for this unique experience.
Popular dance styles include the two-step, polka, and line dancing. Don’t worry if you’re new to dancing—friendly regulars are often happy to teach newcomers the steps!
Local Insight: “The Garner Shuffle” is a special dance created specifically for the park. Ask a park ranger or regular visitor to show you the steps!
More Park Activities
- Birdwatching: The park is home to over 80 bird species, including the endangered golden-cheeked warbler and black-capped vireo.
- Miniature Golf: A family-friendly 18-hole course is available near the park store (small fee applies).
- Geocaching: Several caches are hidden throughout the park for tech-savvy treasure hunters.
- Stargazing: The park’s remote location offers excellent night sky viewing with minimal light pollution.
- Photography: Countless scenic vistas provide perfect photo opportunities, especially during golden hour.
- Ranger Programs: Educational programs on wildlife, geology, and park history are offered regularly (check schedule upon arrival).
Where to Stay
Garner State Park offers diverse accommodation options to suit every preference and budget. From rustic camping to comfortable cabins, staying within the park enhances your experience with easy access to all activities and natural beauty.
Camping Options
The park features over 300 campsites spread across multiple camping areas, each with its own character and amenities.
- Water-Only Sites: $15-20 per night, perfect for tent camping with water access and proximity to restrooms.
- Electric Sites: $22-26 per night, offering 30-amp electrical hookups ideal for RVs and trailers.
- Full Hookup Sites: $35 per night, providing water, electric, and sewer connections for maximum convenience.
- Group Camping: $400 per night for large groups up to 40 people.
All campsites include a picnic table, fire ring, and access to nearby restrooms with hot showers. Most sites can accommodate up to 8 people.
Cabins & Shelters
For those seeking more comfort, the park offers historic cabins and screened shelters built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
- Cabins: $130-150 per night, featuring kitchenettes, bathrooms, air conditioning/heating, and basic furnishings. Most sleep 4 people.
- Screened Shelters: $30-35 per night, providing protection from insects while maintaining an outdoor feel. These include electricity, ceiling fans, and concrete floors.
Cabins are extremely popular and often book 5 months in advance, especially for summer weekends and holidays. Winter availability is typically better.
Insider Tip: Cabins 5-8 offer the best river views and are the most requested. For the best chance of securing these, book exactly 5 months ahead when the reservation window opens.
Nearby Accommodations
If park accommodations are full or you prefer additional amenities, several options are available in nearby Concan and along the Frio River.
- Vacation Rentals: Numerous cabins, homes, and cottages are available for rent in the surrounding area, many with river access.
- Lodges: Several family-owned lodges offer rooms and cabins within a short drive of the park.
- Resorts: A few riverside resorts provide hotel-style accommodations with additional amenities like pools and restaurants.
Staying outside the park means you’ll need to secure day passes for park entry, which can be challenging during peak season.
Find your perfect stay at Garner State Park or nearby!
Dining & Local Cuisine
While many visitors bring their own food to prepare at campsites, Garner State Park and the surrounding area offer several dining options to satisfy your hunger after a day of outdoor activities.
In-Park Dining
- The Garner Grill: Located near the main pavilion, this seasonal eatery serves burgers, sandwiches, fries, and ice cream. Open daily during summer months (Memorial Day through Labor Day) and weekends in spring and fall.
- Ice Cream Shop: A separate window serving various frozen treats, perfect for cooling down on hot days.
- Park Store: Offers basic groceries, snacks, drinks, and camping supplies. Also sells firewood and ice.
Local Favorite: The Garner Grill’s “Old Baldy Burger” is named after the park’s famous hill and comes loaded with all the fixings. Don’t forget to get their collectible souvenir cup, which features a new design each season!
Nearby Restaurants
The small community of Concan and the surrounding area offer several dining options within a 15-minute drive of the park:
- Neal’s Dining Room: A local institution serving home-style Texas cooking, including their famous fried catfish.
- House Pasture Cattle Co: Authentic Texas BBQ and steaks in a rustic setting with occasional live music.
- Hippie Chic’s River Shack: Casual riverside dining with burgers, tacos, and cold drinks.
- Andy’s on River Road: Known for their breakfast tacos and lunch specials.
Texas Hill Country Specialties
While visiting the area, be sure to try these regional specialties:
- Texas-style BBQ brisket
- Chicken fried steak
- Fresh-caught catfish
- Homemade peach cobbler (the Hill Country is famous for its peaches)
Practical Travel Tips
Make the most of your Garner State Park adventure with these essential tips from experienced visitors and park rangers.
Safety First
- Water Safety: The Frio River has variable depths and currents. Always supervise children, wear life jackets when appropriate, and avoid swimming alone.
- Wildlife Awareness: Keep a safe distance from wildlife, including deer, raccoons, and occasional snakes. Never feed wild animals.
- Heat Protection: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F. Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and take breaks in shaded areas.
- Trail Safety: Stick to marked trails, wear appropriate footwear, and carry water. Let someone know your hiking plans, especially for longer trails.
Emergency Information: Cell service is limited in parts of the park. The park headquarters can be reached at (830) 232-6132 in case of emergency.
Park Etiquette
- Quiet Hours: Observe quiet hours from 10 PM to 6 AM in all camping areas (except during official pavilion dances).
- Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash and leave your campsite cleaner than you found it.
- Fire Safety: Use only designated fire rings and grills. Check for burn bans before your visit.
- River Etiquette: Respect other river users by keeping noise levels reasonable and avoiding glass containers on the river.
- Wildlife Protection: Observe wildlife from a distance and never disturb nests or dens.
Conservation Note: Garner State Park is home to endangered species like the golden-cheeked warbler and black-capped vireo. Stay on designated trails to protect their habitat.
What to Bring
- River Essentials: Water shoes (the river bottom is rocky), tubes or floats, waterproof bags for valuables
- Camping Gear: All standard camping equipment plus extra tarps for shade
- Food & Cooking: Coolers, cooking equipment, and food supplies (the nearest grocery store is 15 miles away)
- Comfort Items: Portable fans, extra shade structures, comfortable chairs for the evening dance
- Technology: Portable chargers, as electrical outlets are limited
Connectivity Note: Wi-Fi is not available in the park, and cell service is spotty. Download maps, reservation details, and entertainment before arriving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need a reservation to visit Garner State Park?
Yes, especially during peak season (March through September). Day passes often sell out weeks in advance for weekends and holidays. Camping and cabin reservations can be made up to 5 months ahead and fill quickly. Always secure your reservation before traveling to avoid disappointment.
Are pets allowed at Garner State Park?
Yes, pets are allowed in most areas of the park but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. Pets are not permitted in buildings, on the dance pavilion, or in swimming areas. Remember to clean up after your pet and never leave them unattended.
What’s the best campsite area for families with young children?
The Pecan Grove camping area is ideal for families with young children. It’s centrally located near the main swimming area, dance pavilion, and park store. The sites are relatively flat with good shade, and the area has modern restrooms with hot showers nearby.
Ready for Your Garner State Park Adventure?
Garner State Park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and Texas tradition that creates lasting memories for visitors of all ages. From the refreshing waters of the Frio River to the breathtaking views from Old Baldy, from starlit dances to peaceful morning hikes, this beloved park captures the essence of the Texas Hill Country experience.
Whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip, a family reunion, or a romantic getaway, Garner State Park provides the perfect backdrop for connection, adventure, and relaxation. Just remember to plan ahead, secure your reservations early, and prepare for the specific season of your visit.
Start Planning Your Garner State Park Getaway Today!
Ready to swap screen time for starlit dance nights and river adventures? Your Texas Hill Country escape awaits!
The above is subject to change.
Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.
