Garner State Park

Garner State Park stretches across more than 1,700 acres in the Texas Hill Country, following the cold, clear Frio River through Uvalde County. The park draws visitors from across the state who return year after year for its reliable swimming, shaded campsites, and that particular combination of limestone bluffs, cypress trees, and spring-fed water that defines the Hill Country at its best. Few Texas state parks inspire the same level of loyalty, and summer visits often reach capacity, so reservations are strongly recommended.

Swimming and the Frio River

The Frio River is the heart of the park, and swimming is the reason most people come. The water stays cooler than the summer air, though river temperatures near Concan can climb above the low 70s Fahrenheit during the warmest months. A low dam creates a broad swimming area with gentle current, and the riverbanks offer plenty of spots to wade, float, or simply sit with your feet in the water. Paddleboats, kayaks, and inner tubes are available to rent during peak season. The swimming area gets crowded on summer weekends, so arriving early makes a significant difference.

Hiking and the Old Baldy Trail

The park has several trails, but Old Baldy is the one most visitors make time for. The Old Baldy Trail runs about a half mile one way to the top of a limestone hill with views of the river valley and surrounding countryside. The ascent involves some scrambling over bare rock, which gives the trail its character. The Blinn River Trail, when open, is a shorter option along the riverbank, good for families or anyone looking for a casual walk through the cypress groves, though it is frequently closed because of erosion. With about 16 miles of trails in total, hikers looking for a full day on foot may want to combine routes.

Camping and Group Facilities

Garner has a reputation as one of the best group camping destinations in the Texas state park system. The park offers screened shelters, cabins, and campsites ranging from water-only sites to electric sites and full hookups, along with significant group facilities that make it popular for family reunions, church retreats, and school trips. The group facilities include Cypress Springs, which sleeps up to 40 in five bunkhouse shelters with a dining hall, and a separate group hall that accommodates 64 people. Since the 1940s, the park has hosted outdoor dances on summer evenings near the river, a tradition that became deeply tied to its identity and continues during the busy season. The communal atmosphere of the place still reflects that history.

Caves

Garner sits in karst limestone terrain, and the park includes access to a small cave. The cave is not a show cave with guided tours, but it is worth exploring for visitors interested in the geology of the region. The landscape around the park shows the same erosion patterns and sinkholes common throughout the Edwards Plateau, and the cave offers a ground-level look at how water has shaped the Hill Country over time.

Pet Policy

Leashed pets are welcome in most outdoor areas of the park, including trails and campsites. The leash must be no longer than six feet. Pets are not allowed in park buildings, screened shelters, group facilities, restrooms, or in and around designated swimming areas. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their animals.

Wildlife to Be Aware Of

Venomous snakes including the copperhead and western diamondback rattlesnake are present throughout the park, particularly in rocky terrain and along riverbanks; stay on marked trails and watch where you step. Fire ants are widespread in campgrounds and picnic areas and can deliver painful stings, especially to children, so check before sitting on the ground. Raccoons are common at campsites and will raid unsecured food; store all food properly overnight. Flash flooding on the Frio River is a serious hazard: the river can rise rapidly from storms upstream even when skies are clear locally, so monitor conditions and leave the river immediately if the water starts rising or turning muddy.

Practical Information

Garner State Park is located near the town of Concan in Uvalde County, roughly 90 miles west of San Antonio. From San Antonio, take US-90 west to US-83 north, then turn east on FM 1050 for 0.2 miles to Park Road 29 and the park entrance. The physical address is 234 RR 1050, Concan, TX 78838, near coordinates 29.598887, -99.743981. The daily entrance fee is $8 per person for visitors ages 13 and older; children 12 and under are free. Texas State Parks Pass holders enter free. Campers pay an additional nightly rate on top of the entrance fee. During peak season the park often reaches capacity and closes to day-use visitors as early as 10 a.m., reopening at 6 p.m. Reservations are strongly recommended for both camping and day use, especially from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend and on holidays when the park often reaches capacity. The park is open year-round, and fall and spring visits offer cooler temperatures and far smaller crowds. Checking the Texas Parks and Wildlife website before visiting is the best way to confirm current fees and availability.