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| Fall in Guadalupe River State Park |
Guadalupe River State Park: Camping, Hiking & Swimming in the Texas Hill Country
If you're looking for crystal-clear water, towering bald cypress trees, scenic limestone cliffs, and peaceful camping in the Texas Hill Country, Guadalupe River State Park is one of my favorite Texas State Parks.
Located just northwest of San Antonio, the park offers miles of hiking trails, shaded picnic areas, swimming, tubing, kayaking, fishing, birdwatching, and both developed and primitive campsites. Whether you're planning a family vacation, a weekend camping trip, or simply a relaxing day by the river, Guadalupe River State Park is well worth the drive.
I've visited the park several times over the years, and each trip has left me with wonderful memories—and one camping trip that my family still talks about today.
A Brief History of Guadalupe River State Park
Nestled along the scenic Guadalupe River northwest of San Antonio, Guadalupe River State Park opened to the public in 1983 after the State of Texas acquired thousands of acres to help preserve the river's natural beauty and Hill Country wildlife. Today, the park protects more than 1,900 acres of woodlands, limestone bluffs, and river frontage.
The park is a favorite destination for swimming, tubing, kayaking, fishing, hiking, birdwatching, and camping. More than 300 species of birds have been observed in the area, making it a popular stop for birdwatchers throughout the year.
One of the things I enjoy most about Guadalupe River State Park is that it still feels like the Texas Hill Country of years gone by. Towering cypress trees line the riverbanks, clear water flows over limestone, and miles of hiking trails offer beautiful views of one of the most scenic regions in Texas. Whether you're looking for a peaceful picnic, a weekend camping trip, or simply a place to cool off during the summer, Guadalupe River State Park is one of the true gems of the Texas State Park system.
Photo's from my second visit to Guadalupe State Park. Truly a beautiful place, but also a reminder of my camping trip back in 2005. Something strange happened to my family. You can read the story here:
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| Guadalupe River |
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| Cypress tree |
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| Canyon walls over the Guadalupe |
Things to Do at Guadalupe River State Park
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Swim in the Guadalupe River
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Camp under the cypress trees
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Primitive camping
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Hiking
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Birdwatching
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Photography
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Fishing
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Kayaking
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Tubing
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Wildlife viewing
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| Cypress trees at Guadalupe are spectacular |
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| Free fishing with day pass at Guadalupe River State Park |
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| Beautiful hikes at the state park |
Best Time to Visit
Spring
Fall
Summer
Avoid holiday crowds.
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| Watch your step |
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| Breathtaking views |
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| All the leaves are changing |
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| Truly one of Texas most beautiful state parks |
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| Sheba enjoying the cool water |
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| Camping site |
Our primitive camping site where the rocks were thrown. Have you camped out there? If so, would love to hear from you!
One of the best ways to experience a state park is to return during different seasons. I've visited Guadalupe River State Park more than once, and every trip has been different. Water levels change, wildlife changes, and each visit offers a new appreciation for the beauty of the Texas Hill Country.
2 comments:
These pictures are just gorgeous! I found your blog because I was researching alligators on South Padre and Mustang islands. My family is new to San Antonio and planning a few camping trips. We are also urban homesteaders and homeschoolers. Great blog!
Thanks so much! Did you ever make it out to Guadalupe State park? The area is truly breathtaking! Also, Brazo's Bend is a great state park too for alligators. I think I have a blog post on that area too with lots of pictures.
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