Garner State Park
Texas's most visited park, offering Frio River fun, scenic hikes, and summer dances. A Hill Country gem!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene experience
Garner State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Texas's most visited park, offering Frio River fun, scenic hikes, and summer dances. A Hill Country gem!
"Man this place did live up to the hype! The river is cold, but not unbearable, especially when you're in the sun."
🎯 Book Day Passes Early
Day passes sell out fast, especially on weekends. Book online in advance to guarantee entry.
💧 Bring Your Own River Gear
Tube and kayak rentals can be expensive. Bring your own for cost savings on the Frio River.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Frio River Fun
Frio River
Cool off in the crystal-clear Frio River with swimming, tubing, and kayaking. A quintessential Texas Hill Country experience.
Scenic Hiking Trails
Various trails throughout the park
Explore over 16 miles of trails offering stunning Hill Country views, from easy strolls to challenging climbs.
Summer Evening Dancing
Concession Area
Join locals and visitors for a fun, old-fashioned dance under the stars during the summer season.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
River Access & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Day Passes Early
Day passes sell out fast, especially on weekends. Book online in advance to guarantee entry.
💧 Bring Your Own River Gear
Tube and kayak rentals can be expensive. Bring your own for cost savings on the Frio River.
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Download park maps and trail info before you arrive.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The Texas sun is intense. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential for river and trail activities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Day Passes Early
Day passes sell out fast, especially on weekends. Book online in advance to guarantee entry.
💧 Bring Your Own River Gear
Tube and kayak rentals can be expensive. Bring your own for cost savings on the Frio River.
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Download park maps and trail info before you arrive.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The Texas sun is intense. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential for river and trail activities.
💰 Gift Shop is Private
Souvenir shop discounts may not apply with a state park pass.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Garner State Park is widely praised for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the Frio River and scenic hiking trails. Visitors love the family-friendly atmosphere, summer dances, and well-maintained facilities. Some note that the park can get very crowded, and convenience items at the store come at a premium price.
"Amazing park. Primitive campsites, RV sites, screen shelter sites and cabin sites for all preferences of camping. The hiking and views are a wonderful experience and even while being steep and difficult at times most families regardless of age were able to get to the summit. The river was very enjoyable, be sure to bring proper sun protection. Dancing was fun and all ages enjoyed it. Stores are stocked if you forget something but you’ll pay for convenience. Candy shop and putt putt was fun for family. Staff was very friendly and professional. Park is well kept."
Johnny Penner
"Heard rave reviews about this park from everyone under the sun and it’s always been listed as one of the top 5 so we drove down from South Llano River SP to check it out for the day. Few things live up to the hype but man this place did. The river is cold, but not unbearable, especially when you’re in the sun on the Texas heat. There’s a little concrete damn you can climb over to get to another section of the river. It was PACKED with people when we went but it didn’t feel overly crowded. We originally tried to get camping spots here but they were constantly sold out before I could snag one and I eventually gave up. We will def try harder to get them next year.
The river is shallow enough that I could swim comfortably (I’m 5’3) and my kids could enjoy themselves. People had tree swings set up and kayak, paddleboards, etc. Fees to rent them were astronomical so we had to pass on that, and be warned, the gift shop has a ton of great options but apparently is privately operated so if you’re an avid souvenir collector don’t bank on being allowed to use your state parks pass for the typical discount.
Overall, I’m so glad we finally came and got to see the magic of Garner for ourselves. Hopefully we will be back very soon"
Morgan Whitney
"Garner State Park is a hidden gem South of the USA, I reside in Texas and had never been here and the ambience and scenery are simply beautiful. The restrooms and the common areas where clean and smelled great given the fact that hundreds of people use the facilities daily. I recommend this State Park which is family oriented and so much fun under the shadow of mother nature!"
Cesar Gaytan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Garner State Park is located in Concan, Texas. The most common way to reach it is by car. From San Antonio, take US-90 West to Uvalde, then TX-55 North to Concan. From Austin, take US-290 West to Fredericksburg, then US-87 South to Fredericksburg, and then TX-16 South to Kerrville, and finally TX-173 South to Concan.
Public transportation options directly to Garner State Park are very limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle.
The most direct route from San Antonio is to take US-90 West to Uvalde, then TX-55 North to Concan. This drive typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.
Yes, the town of Concan is right next to the park and offers lodging, restaurants, and some convenience stores. Utopia is a bit further but has a larger selection of groceries.
The address is 234 RR 1050, Concan, TX 78838.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees are typically per person for day use. Camping and cabin rentals have separate fees. It's best to check the official Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website for the most current pricing.
Yes, especially during peak season, weekends, and holidays, day-use reservations are highly recommended and often required due to the park's popularity.
Garner State Park offers a variety of camping options, including primitive campsites, RV sites with full hookups, screen shelter sites, and cabins.
A Texas State Parks Pass generally provides free entry for the pass holder and a guest to state parks. However, some private concessions within the park, like the gift shop, may not offer discounts.
Park hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website for the most up-to-date operating hours for Garner State Park.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can swim and float the Frio River, hike numerous scenic trails, go camping or RVing, enjoy nightly dances in the summer, visit the candy shop, and play mini-golf. +1
Yes, the Frio River is a major attraction for swimming and cooling off. It's generally shallow enough for comfortable swimming, especially for families.
Popular trails include the Old Horse Trail, Crystal Cave Trail, and the challenging but rewarding Summit Trail, which offers panoramic views of the park and surrounding Hill Country.
During the summer season, Garner State Park hosts nightly dances, which are a popular tradition and a fun activity for all ages.
The park's infrastructure was largely built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, thanks to the advocacy of Mariette Garner, wife of Vice President John Garner.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a general store and a concession area that offers some food options, snacks, and drinks. For a wider variety, you'll need to visit nearby Concan or Utopia.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks, especially for picnics by the river or at designated areas.
The general store is well-stocked with essentials, snacks, drinks, and some groceries. It's convenient if you forget something, but prices reflect its location.
Yes, there is a popular candy shop that offers a sweet treat for visitors, adding to the park's family-friendly appeal.
Yes, Garner State Park has several designated picnic areas, many with scenic views, perfect for enjoying a meal outdoors.
📸 📸 Photography
The scenic overlook as you drive in offers a sweeping view of the hills. The Frio River banks provide beautiful shots, especially during golden hour. The trails also offer great vantage points.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Texas State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check the park's specific regulations before flying.
Early morning and late afternoon (golden hours) offer the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing the natural beauty of the park.
The Frio River with its clear water and surrounding cypress trees is iconic. The panoramic views from the higher trails are also highly sought after.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions or capturing long exposures of the river.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning your visit, consider booking a cabin or screen shelter for more comfortable accommodations, especially with little ones. The park's general store is well-stocked for forgotten essentials, but bringing your own snacks and drinks for river days is recommended.
🏕️ Campers & RVers
Tip for Tent Campers: Look for sites with grassy spots or tent locations. Some campers recommend sites in the 400s for better shade and maintenance.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Other trails provide opportunities to explore diverse ecosystems and spot local wildlife. Essential Gear: Bring sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water, and sun protection. Download offline maps as cell service can be spotty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Frio River
While the river is a major draw, it's also the park's most popular area, meaning it can get quite crowded, especially during peak summer months. Renting equipment like tubes or kayaks can be an option, but be prepared for potentially high prices. For those looking for a slightly less crowded experience on the river, exploring upstream or downstream from the main access points can sometimes yield quieter spots.
Pro Tip: If you're visiting during the summer, consider visiting on a weekday or during the off-season to experience the Frio River with fewer people. Always remember to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated, as the Texas sun can be intense even when you're in the water.
Hiking Trails for Every Level
Many trails wind through the park's diverse landscape, showcasing native flora and fauna. Hikers often report seeing various bird species and other wildlife. The trails are generally well-maintained, but some can be steep and rocky, so wearing appropriate footwear is essential.
Key Trails to Consider:
* Summit Trail: For the most spectacular panoramic views.
* Old Horse Trail: A moderate option with scenic beauty.
* Crystal Cave Trail: Offers a glimpse into the park's geological features.
Remember to carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, and inform someone of your hiking plans.
The Magic of Summer Dancing
The dances typically feature a mix of country and popular music, appealing to a wide audience. It's a family-friendly event where people of all ages can participate, whether they're seasoned dancers or just looking to have a good time. The energy and camaraderie during these dances are palpable, contributing to the park's overall magical experience.
Don't Miss: If you're visiting during the summer, make sure to check the schedule for the nightly dances. It's a quintessential Garner experience that adds a special touch to your trip.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit