Overnight camping is allowed at state parks, and it just might be the easiest way to vacation while continuing to social distance. We’ve compiled a list of 9 state parks that are close enough to the city to make them easily accessible (and perfect complements to your road trips).
If you don’t have a tent, you can pick one up easily for cheap on Amazon. Or if you’d rather upgrade the experience with an RV or camper trailer, we recommend you check out RVShare to rent one – way cheaper than purchasing. Prices start as low as $49 in some cases!
#1 Government Canyon State Natural Area – An urban refuge of 12,000 acres on the north side of San Antonio, Government Canyon State Natural Area has over 40 miles of trails. Don’t miss the dinosaur tracks and prehistoric Native American site. Learn more here. Editor’s note: This state park is now temporarily only open during the day after a positive case. This is as of 8/11/20.
#2 Guadalupe State Park – Located in Spring Branch, the Guadalupe State Park is perfect for fishing, swimming, kayaking, or tubing. There are also over 13 miles of trails for hiking and biking. Learn more here.
#3 Hill Country Natural Area – This natural area features over 5,000 acres with canyons, creeks, and plateaus in the Cowboy Capital of the country, Bandera, TX. And it’s a great place for horseback riders. Learn more here.
#4 Lost Maples State Natural Area – Known for it’s beautiful fall foliage, Lost Maples State Natural Area in Vanderpool is a great summertime destination as well. Located on the Sabinal River, there’s plenty of shade, water fun, wildflowers, and more. Learn more here.
#5 Blanco State Park – This river park in Blanco is located on a one mile stretch of the Blanco River. Great for fishing, swimming, kayaking, and more. It’s also right next to downtown Blanco, which is a great place to walk around and eat (and Real Ale Brewery is located here too!). Learn more here.
#6 Enchanted Rock State Natural Area – If you haven’t been to Enchanted Rock in Fredricksburg, you’re in for a treat. It’s a massive pink dome of granite rising from the ground. It’s absolutely other-worldly and a blast to climb. Read about it here.
#7 Goose Island State Park – Prefer the water as opposed to the hills? Then head south to Corpus and stay on Goose Island State Park located on the bay. Not really a place to swim, but great for Gulf breezes, fishing, birding, and boating. Read more here.
#8 Mustang Island State Park – Another beach destination, Mustang Island State Park is located in Rockport. Swim, build sand castles, work on your tan. What more can we say? Learn more here.
Know of another state park near San Antonio that’s good for overnight camping? Tell us about it in the comments section below! And don’t forget to check out RVShare if you’d like to rent an RV or camper trailer!
