The visitor center at Garner State Park is open daily from 9am to 3pm during the summer (Memorial Day to Labor Day) and Wednesday to Sunday during other times of the year.
The entrance fee at Garner State Park is $8 per day, per person 13 and older; children 12 and under are free. An annual Texas State Parks Pass is $70, offering unlimited visits.
From Austin: Take US-290 W → US-281 S → TX-127 W to Uvalde → US-83 N → FM 1050. From Fredericksburg: US-290 W → US-83 S → FM 1050. Public transport is limited; check local services to Uvalde or nearby cities for rental car options.
Parking lots at Garner State Park are limited and can fill up quickly. No specific RV size restrictions are mentioned, but all vehicles must fit within designated parking spaces. Overnight parking is allowed for registered campers. No additional parking fees beyond entrance fees. Motorcycles can park in regular lots. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Have you ever heard whispers of the beauty found in Garner State Park? It’s the place families flock to when the Texas heat kicks in, and for good reason. Garner State Park is one of the most popular state parks in Texas. It boasts crystal-clear streams, scenic trails, and a variety of outdoor activities, making it a staple for both adventure-seekers and relaxation enthusiasts. It’s a bit of Texas Hill Country that holds memories for generations and promises new ones for you and your family. Garner State Park offers something for everyone. Imagine your kids splashing in the cool, refreshing waters of the Frio River, building sandcastles on the riverbank, or exploring the scenic hiking trails that wind through the park. Picture family picnics under the shade of ancient oak trees and evenings spent around a campfire, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under a star-studded sky. With its breathtaking views, abundant wildlife, and endless opportunities for fun and relaxation, Garner State Park is the perfect destination for a family getaway. Whether you’re looking to hike, swim, fish, or simply unwind in nature, Garner State Park offers a little slice of paradise for every member of the family.
- Area (mi²)
- 2.8
- Annual visitors
- 400 000
- Established year
- 1941
Top 3 Facts about Garner State Park
Bald cypress trees along the Frio River can live up to 600 years and reach heights of 120 feet, towering over the landscape with their enduring presence.
Visitor Count: Welcomes thousands every year
Attractions: Offers nearly 3 miles of Frio River frontage and over 16 miles of scenic trails
Family programs
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Best Weekend Itinerary: Sunrise hike, evening dance, Frio River fun, Garner Grill. 3-Day: Add ranger programs and gift shop. 7-Day: Add park store, rope swing, ice cream, and final farewell hike.
Pack Appropriately
Summer: Swimsuits, sunscreen, hiking boots, water bottles. Fall/Winter: Layers, boots. Spring: Rain gear, comfy shoes. All Seasons: Camera, trash bags.
Respect Wildlife
Observe wildlife like deer, turkeys, armadillos, and birds; no feeding.
Stay Informed
Stay updated on park alerts, check for closures, and always book in advance. Peak season is March–November.
Seasons
Average Temp: Mid-50s to high 70s. Mild and warm days, less crowded, peak wildflower season.
Average Temp: High 70s to mid-90s. Hot and sunny, ideal for floating, hiking, and summer dances.
Average Temp: Mid-60s to low 80s. Crisp, dry weather with vibrant foliage in October.
Average Temp: Low 40s to mid-60s. Quiet, peaceful trails; pack layers for variable temps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Garner State Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to Garner State Park is Concan, which is located in Uvalde County, Texas. The park is about 8 miles north of Concan and 31 miles north of Uvalde. It is also near the town of Leakey, which is 9 miles to the north.
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The Old Entrance Road trail is one of the best for kids, as it is easy, manageable for all ages, and stroller-friendly, spanning 0.84 miles with a panoramic overlook of the Frio Canyon. Alternatively, the Frio Canyon Trail and Madrone Walkway offer easy terrain, making them suitable for younger children. The White Rock Cave trail, though shorter at 0.3 miles, can be intriguing for kids due to the cave, but it may require some assistance on steeper areas.
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Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. They are not allowed in the water or in any buildings. This rule applies to all trails within the park.
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You can camp overnight in your RV, including camper vans, motorhomes, and trailers, in the full hookup campsites or the water and electric sites. There are 12 full hookup, pull-through sites in the Shady Meadows area. No RVs are allowed at the screened shelters or cabins.
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You can enjoy swimming, hiking on trails like Mt Old Baldy and the Crystal Cave, and floating on the Frio River. The park also offers mini golf, a candy shop, and free fishing without a license. In the summer, you can dance the night away at the dance hall, a tradition since the 1940s.