Hiking, Camping, And Outdoor Adventures Await At This Underrated River State Park In Texas

One of the most underrated destinations in all of Texas Hill Country is Guadalupe River State Park. The perfect spot for hiking, camping, and adventures, it's a scenic escape that makes the ideal weekend getaway for those who love the outdoors. The park is also easily accessible via State Highway 46, and sits just 45 minutes north of San Antonio, and 1.5 hours from Austin. For those looking for a unique and stunning adventure, this dazzling park and natural swimming spot await in the heart of Texas Hill Country.

Guadalupe River State Park is known for being home to a four-mile stretch of its namesake, the Guadalupe River. Visitors can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities, including swimming, canoeing, and fishing, but head beyond the water, and you'll find a huge range of stunning hiking, equestrian and mountain biking trails, littered with rolling hills, limestone bluffs, and shaded woodland areas bustling with wildlife, such as white-tailed deer, raccoons, and even armadillos. This varied landscape makes it a dream for casual day-hikers and advanced backpackers alike. Whether you're visiting for a relaxing picnic down by the river, or enjoying a multi-day camping adventure, Guadalupe River State Park offers plenty of great ways to connect with nature while avoiding the crowds found at Texas' more famous parks.

The park is open from 8AM to 10PM daily, with the on-site Discovery Center open from 10AM until mid-afternoon most days. It's worth noting that the Discovery Center is closed Monday-Wednesday, and some holidays. There is a $7 daily entrance fee for adults, but children 12 and under get in free. It's important to keep in mind that the park can fill up quickly, and for this reason, it's a good idea to reserve a pass online or by phone well in advance of your visit.

Guadalupe River State Park is a popular choice for hiking enthusiasts thanks to its variety of great trails. The Bauer Unit Loop Trails offer a peaceful, less-traveled section of the park, encompassing diverse terrain and varying levels of difficulty, taking around 2.5 hours to complete. The Painted Bunting Trail is a short, family-friendly loop that's especially stunning in spring and early summer, when wildflowers are in bloom, and should take less than an hour to complete. Be sure to bring along a camera to capture the scenic limestone cliffs, and the colorful foliage that lights up the park during fall.

This state park is also a dream destination for water lovers. Kayaking, paddling, and swimming are all popular activities here, but the Guadalupe river is best known as a destination for tubing, particularly in summer. Many visitors opt to float along the stunning Texas Park's crystal clear river for a soothing weekend escape, and plenty of local outfitters provide rentals and shuttles back up river for those planning a tubing float!

The riverbanks at the park are also excellent spots for fishing, and there are even options for on-site rentals if you forget to bring gear with you. A range of species are commonly found here, including catfish, sunfish, and bass. Be sure to head down to the riverfront picnic area between activities, it's the perfect spot for a midday break between hikes to enjoy a bite to eat as the water flows past. It's also important to note that if you plan on visiting in summer or on a weekend, be sure to arrive early, as parking fills up quickly.

Many visitors who visit Guadalupe River State Park choose to camp. There are over 85 different campsites at the park, ranging from full-hookup RV spots, to tent-only camping areas. Rates start at $15 for basic tent-only sites, and $20 for sites with hookups. Despite how many campsites there are, it's recommended to make a reservation in advance, especially if you're planning on visiting during spring break, during a weekend in summer, and even during early fall, so you can explore the best of Texas Hill Country at a family-friendly riverside RV park or campsite!

When planning your visit, it's important to consider the best time to arrive. Late spring and fall both provide comfortable temperatures for those who enjoy hiking and camping. Summer can be hot, but it's the top season for indulging in river activities (just be sure to bring plenty of drinking water, sunscreen, and a hat!) Winter is mild and quiet, and though much less popular than other seasons, it offers a peaceful escape for hikers and those interested in spotting wildlife.

Guadalupe River State park is located near some other gorgeous and unmissable destinations. Pair your visit with a trip to nearby Canyon Lake (less than 40 minutes away), or head into the heart of San Antonio for a city escape (around 45 minutes away). No matter what your outdoor Texan vacation looks like, be sure to make Guadalupe River State Park a part of it!