Guadalupe River State Park
A Texas gem offering crystal-clear river fun, scenic hiking, and family-friendly camping amidst beautiful natural landscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Guadalupe River State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Texas gem offering crystal-clear river fun, scenic hiking, and family-friendly camping amidst beautiful natural landscapes.
"One of my favorite state parks. The river felt great to get in and cool off."
🎯 Book Ahead Online
Reservations are essential, especially for weekends and holidays. The park fills up fast! :admission_tickets:
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be rocky and uneven. Water shoes are great for the river too! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Guadalupe River
Throughout the park
Crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, tubing, and kayaking. A refreshing escape from the Texas sun.
Scenic Hiking Trails
Various trailheads
Explore diverse landscapes, from riverside paths to challenging Hill Country trails with limestone bluffs.
+1
Discovery Center
Near the park entrance
Engaging exhibits and knowledgeable staff offer fascinating facts and stories about the local environment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
River Ready Essentials
Check water levels and conditions before your visit. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead Online
Reservations are essential, especially for weekends and holidays. The park fills up fast! :admission_tickets:
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be rocky and uneven. Water shoes are great for the river too!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Texas heat can be intense. Bring plenty of water, especially for hikes. :droplet:
🎣 Fishing Fun
Great spot for fishing, especially for kids learning to catch tadpoles and small fish. :fishingpoleand_line:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead Online
Reservations are essential, especially for weekends and holidays. The park fills up fast! :admission_tickets:
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be rocky and uneven. Water shoes are great for the river too!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Texas heat can be intense. Bring plenty of water, especially for hikes. :droplet:
🎣 Fishing Fun
Great spot for fishing, especially for kids learning to catch tadpoles and small fish. :fishingpoleand_line:
🏕️ Camping Comfort
Campsites are well-maintained with plenty of space. Site 63 is recommended for hammock camping. :tent:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Guadalupe River State Park for its beautiful, clean river and well-maintained trails, making it a top choice for outdoor recreation. The park's facilities are noted as being modern and spotless, and the staff are frequently commended for their exceptional kindness and helpfulness. While the park can get crowded, especially on weekends, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many calling it one of their favorite state parks.
"One of my favorite state parks. The river felt great to get in and cool off. Trails of all levels and you can spend as much time as you would like. Camping spots are nice and have plenty of room."
James McMullen
"One of my favorite state parks (coming from someone who has almost visited them all). The trails are well maintained and the facilities are top notch cleaned. Brand new bathrooms. Gorgeous white rock cliffs along the water and challenging hill county quiet trails. The best of all worlds. Site 63 is my favorite for hammock camping."
Kay Barker
"Went to Guadalupe River State Park for the first time with my family this weekend. We had a great time. Just the what we were looking for to cool off in the water. I did make a reservation online for our visit. When we arrived it was a breeze to get in. The restrooms are big and clean. The water is warm and clean. The river does have some shallow ends and deeper ends. There are picnic tables under some trees. Definitely a must visit."
Diana Ds
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Guadalupe River State Park is approximately a 45-minute to 1-hour drive from San Antonio, making it a popular day trip destination.
The park is located in Spring Branch, Texas. You can use GPS navigation, but it's generally accessible via major highways leading out of San Antonio towards the Hill Country.
Public transportation options are limited to reach the park. It is best accessed by personal vehicle or ride-sharing services.
Yes, Guadalupe River State Park is located near Canyon Lake, offering convenient access for those exploring the wider area.
Yes, Guadalupe River State Park is generally open year-round, but it's always a good idea to check the official Texas Parks and Wildlife website for any temporary closures or alerts.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees typically apply per person, with potential discounts for Texas State Parks Pass holders. It's recommended to check the official Texas Parks and Wildlife website for current pricing.
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekends and holidays, as the park can reach capacity. Booking online in advance is the best way to guarantee entry.
Park hours typically align with standard state park operating times, usually from 8 AM to 10 PM. However, it's best to confirm the exact hours on the official Texas Parks and Wildlife website.
If the park reaches capacity, entry may be temporarily restricted. Making a reservation online beforehand is the most reliable way to ensure you can enter.
Texas residents may be eligible for discounts with a Texas State Parks Pass. Check the Texas Parks and Wildlife website for details on passes and any other available discounts.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, tubing, kayaking, hiking on scenic trails, fishing, camping, and picnicking. The Discovery Center also offers educational exhibits.
Yes, the river is generally safe for swimming, with both shallow and deeper sections. Always supervise children closely and be aware of currents.
Yes, the park offers a variety of trails, including some that are more beginner-friendly and suitable for families.
Absolutely! Tubing is a very popular activity on the Guadalupe River. You can bring your own tube or rent one nearby. +1
The park features well-maintained and clean restrooms, picnic tables, and camping facilities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants located directly within the park. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food for picnics or plan to dine in nearby towns like Boerne or Spring Branch.
Yes, the park has numerous picnic tables available, many of which are located under shade trees, making it a perfect spot for a picnic lunch.
You can bring any type of food and non-alcoholic beverages. Pack out all trash to help keep the park clean.
Yes, the towns of Boerne and Spring Branch, located a short drive from the park, offer various dining options, from casual eateries to local restaurants.
Currently, there is no concession stand within Guadalupe River State Park. It's advisable to bring all necessary food and drinks with you.
📸 📸 Photography
The riverbanks with their white rock cliffs, the scenic hiking trails, and the lush greenery offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Yes, the park is home to various wildlife, including birds and small mammals. Early mornings and late afternoons are often the best times for wildlife photography.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended for capturing both landscapes and potential wildlife. A wide-angle lens can be great for the expansive river views.
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 a drone.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most flattering light for landscape and nature photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Hiking trails like the Bald Cypress Trail are manageable for little legs, but remember to bring sturdy shoes for everyone. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the many shaded picnic tables along the river.
💰 Budget Travelers
Camping is also a budget-friendly accommodation option compared to hotels. 💑 Couples Retreat
+1 Pack a picnic to share by the water or find a secluded spot for a sunset view. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Guadalupe River
When enjoying the river, it's important to be mindful of water levels and currents, especially after heavy rains. While generally safe, always supervise children closely.
The park staff and rangers are a great resource for understanding current river conditions and safety tips. Beyond the water activities, the riverbanks themselves are beautiful. You'll find picnic tables scattered along the river, offering scenic spots to relax and refuel.
Exploring the Trails
+1 The Bald Cypress Trail and Cedar Sage Trail are popular choices, known for their scenic views and diverse flora. Many trails wind through wooded areas, providing shade and a chance to spot local wildlife.
The limestone bluffs along the river offer dramatic vistas and a sense of rugged beauty. Bringing water is essential, especially during warmer months, to stay hydrated while you explore. For those interested in a more structured experience, the park often hosts First Day Hikes or guided nature walks, which are excellent opportunities to learn about the park's geology, history, and ecology from knowledgeable guides.
These events can provide deeper insights into the park's unique environment and are a great way to connect with nature. Camping and Facilities
The park's facilities are frequently praised for their cleanliness and upkeep. Brand new bathrooms and well-kept grounds contribute to a pleasant camping experience.
Beyond camping, the park is also RV-friendly and offers great spots for picnics.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit