Garner State Park

4.50

92 reviews

234 RR 1050, CONCAN, Texas, 78838, United States

Family FriendlyScenic ViewsSwimmingSummer Destination

Featured in:Hiking Camping Texas Swimming Camping Texas Fishing Camping Texas

Quick Facts

1,421 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

600 campsites

Season

Peak Season (Memoria...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Texas State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,421 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

600 campsites

Season

Peak Season (Memoria...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Texas State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Garner State Park

$8.00 - $8.00 / night

Campsite Fees

DAY USE FEE: $8 per day, per person aged 13 and older. Additional costs for camping or renting shelters and cabins may apply, but specific amounts...

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.50

Recommended

Based on 92 reviews

4784 Google reviews

Most mentioned

spacioussites

"Garner State Park is highly praised for its scenic beauty, wide array of activities, and family-friendly environment. However, some users report issues with noise, overcrowding, and occasional maintenance lapses."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

234 RR 1050, CONCAN, Texas, 78838, United States

Garner State Park

234 RR 1050, CONCAN, Texas, 78838, United States

Driving directionsFrom San Antonio: Take Highway 90 west to Sabinal. Turn right on FM 127. Stay on 127 to Concan and turn right on Highway 83. Continue on 83 and turn right on FM 1050. The park entrance will be approximately 1/8 mile on the right.

Access to the park is relatively straightforward, involving major highways followed by farm-to-market roads. Road conditions are not specified in the authoritative sources, but user reviews do not mention any significant challenges.

Nearby places

Concan (approx. 1 mile), San Antonio (approx. 90 miles), Sabinal (approx. 23 miles)

Nearby supplies

The park features a well-stocked store that sells camping supplies, groceries, and other essentials, open until 10 PM. Grocery stores and other supply sources are also available in nearby towns like Uvalde and Sabinal.

Best Time to Camp at Garner State Park

Each season paints Garner State Park in different hues. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for floating the Frio River or cooling off in its spring-fed swimming holes beneath cloudless Texas skies. As autumn arrives, the cypress trees along the riverbanks burst into flame-colored brilliance, creating a photographer's paradise. Winter transforms the park into a hiker's haven, with crisp, cool air and crystal-clear nights ideal for stargazing far from city lights. Spring awakens the landscape with wildflowers and perfect temperatures that beckon outdoor enthusiasts to explore every corner of this Hill Country gem.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Top 23% in TX

Best for swimming and river activities but very busy and warmer water temps; peak season crowds noted.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 14% in TX

Cooler weather, colorful leaves and fewer crowds make fall especially pleasant per overview.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 24% in TX

Spring offers good weather, river access and abundant activities — popular but highly rated.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.5 / 5

Fewer crowds and excellent stargazing; water activities limited by cooler temps.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Peak Season (Memorial Day weekend - Labor Day weekend). Off-peak season begins the Tuesday after Labor Day and ends the Wednesday before Memorial Day.

About Garner State Park

Deep in the heart of Texas Hill Country, Garner State Park stands as one of the Lone Star State's most beloved outdoor destinations. Here, the crystal-clear waters of the Frio River wind through ancient limestone bluffs, creating a natural playground where generations of families have made memories. The park unfolds across two distinct areas—Old Garner, with its vintage charm and riverside campsites, and New Garner, offering modern amenities and peaceful retreats. Whether you're dancing under the stars at the famous summer pavilion dances, casting a line into the Frio's emerald pools, or hiking trails that reveal sweeping Hill Country vistas, Garner delivers the quintessential Texas outdoor experience.

Garner State Park accommodates a wide array of camping preferences, including RV camping, tent camping, and cabin lodging. Group sites and shelters are also available.

Historical SignificanceThis storied landscape carries echoes of the past in every limestone ledge and river bend. Named in honor of John Nance Garner, the 32nd Vice President of the United States and proud Texan, the park preserves a piece of authentic Hill Country heritage. Long before European settlement, Native American tribes recognized this area's abundance, drawn by the reliable water source and shelter provided by the natural caves and overhangs. The ancient limestone plateau, carved over millions of years, tells an even older story—one written in stone during the Cretaceous period when this land lay beneath a vast prehistoric sea.

Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Garner State Park in different hues. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for floating the Frio River or cooling off in its spring-fed swimming holes beneath cloudless Texas skies. As autumn arrives, the cypress trees along the riverbanks burst into flame-colored brilliance, creating a photographer's paradise. Winter transforms the park into a hiker's haven, with crisp, cool air and crystal-clear nights ideal for stargazing far from city lights. Spring awakens the landscape with wildflowers and perfect temperatures that beckon outdoor enthusiasts to explore every corner of this Hill Country gem.

ElevationRising and falling with the dramatic contours of the Texas Hill Country, Garner State Park offers trails that challenge legs and reward eyes in equal measure. Ambitious hikers can tackle paths that climb hundreds of feet above the Frio River valley, where each switchback reveals increasingly spectacular panoramas. From riverside strolls to ridge-top adventures, the varied elevation creates diverse ecosystems and endless opportunities for exploration, making every visit a chance to see the park from a thrilling new perspective.

Natural Features and SceneryNature has crafted a masterpiece at Garner State Park, where the jade-green Frio River carves through towering limestone bluffs and hidden caves dot the hillsides like ancient secrets waiting to be discovered. White-tailed deer graze in meadows at dawn, while raccoons prowl the riverbanks at dusk. Lucky visitors might spot elusive coyotes or hear the rustle of wild pigs in the underbrush. Majestic cypress trees shade the river's edge, their knobby knees rising from the water like natural sculptures. From scenic overlooks high above the valley to tranquil swimming holes tucked beneath limestone overhangs, the park showcases the raw beauty that makes the Texas Hill Country legendary.

Geological RegionGarner State Park rests atop an ancient seafloor, its limestone foundations laid down over 100 million years ago during the Cretaceous period when dinosaurs roamed and shallow seas covered Texas. Today, this geological heritage defines the landscape—from the porous limestone that filters the Frio River to crystal clarity, to the dramatic cliffs and caves carved by eons of erosion. The Texas Hill Country's signature rolling terrain creates a tapestry of ecosystems where desert meets forest, supporting an incredible diversity of plant and animal life. This unique geological setting, where ancient rock meets spring-fed rivers, forms the backbone of one of Texas's most spectacular natural playgrounds.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in and park access begins at 8 AM.

Check-out

Check-out is required by 6 PM for day-use permits.

Stay Limit

The 14-day maximum stay limit is enforced during Peak Season but not during Non-Peak Season. Customers can extend reservations during transitional periods.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Null as specific guest limits per site are not provided.

Groups

Group sites are available with varying capacities. Specific details about maximum numbers are not provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutDivided into Old Garner and New Garner sections, each featuring distinct amenities and levels of seclusion.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via the official park website or by calling the park directly.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up day use permits are only available until the park reaches capacity, which can occur as early as 10 AM during Peak Season. Customers with prior reservations or 'Save the Day' passes are unaffected by these closures.

Cancellation PolicyIf plans change, visitors are encouraged to modify or cancel reservations as soon as possible to allow others access to the park.

AccessibilityThe park has limited accessibility markings on trails. Guests with disabilities are advised to inquire further with park management.

Site SizeCampsites are described as spacious with options to accommodate RVs, tents, and group camping needs.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary. Some areas, such as Old Garner, offer a secluded experience, while New Garner areas are noted to be more open.

Total Campsites600 campsites

Recommended SitesOld Garner is recommended for premium sites near concessions and the deepest swimming areas. Avoid site #431 in summer due to lack of shade.

Amenities available

Showers

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Firewood available

Lodging and accommodations

Activities you can enjoy

Garner State Park is a hub for various activities catering to all age groups and interests. Visitors can enjoy hiking, swimming, fishing, biking, tubing, and wildlife viewing. The park also offers seasonal dances, cultural programs, and recreational facilities like mini-golf.

HikingThe park features numerous trails with varying difficulty levels. Highlights include the Crystal Cave Trail and the steep climb to Mount Baldy. Guests are advised to wear proper footwear and carry water due to challenging terrain.

FishingFishing is permitted in the Frio River, though specific fish types are not detailed.

SwimmingSwimming is a popular activity in the Frio River. The water is described as clear, cool, and refreshing, especially near the dam.

BikingSurface roads and trails are available for biking. Some trails are rocky and challenging, requiring intermediate skills.

BoatingBoating activities, including paddle boat and kayak rentals, are available. Rental costs reportedly start at $20 per hour.

Wildlife viewingWildlife such as deer, lizards, bunnies, raccoons, and coyotes are commonly observed. Guests are advised to be cautious of wild pigs.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWild pigs, coyotes, and other wildlife are reported. Some trails have loose rocks and steep climbs.

Fire PolicyNull as fire policies are not explicitly stated.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services include Uvalde Memorial Hospital in Uvalde, Texas, approximately 30 miles away. The park also has rangers available for emergencies, as noted in user reviews.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and aluminum recycling facilities are available. Some users have suggested adding dog waste bags.

Water FeaturesOld Garner offers proximity to the deepest swimming areas of the Frio River. New Garner also has river access but requires hiking.

Camp HostRangers and campground hosts are available. Reviewers commend their attentiveness.

Weather at Garner State Park

Reviews

4.5

92 reviews

Recommended

Garner State Park is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Garner State Park is highly praised for its scenic beauty, wide array of activities, and family-friendly environment. However, some users report issues with noise, overcrowding, and occasional maintenance lapses.

Review Summaries

Based on 92 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors often highlight the park's clear Frio River, spacious campsites, diverse trails, and rich amenities such as a well-stocked camp store, mini-golf, and swimming areas.

Based on 92 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include overcrowding during peak seasons, inconsistent trail markings, and cleanliness issues in some restrooms and showers.

Based on 92 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend booking reservations early to secure the best spots, bringing ample water for hikes, and wearing appropriate footwear for challenging trails.

Based on 92 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the busiest season with overcrowding and higher water temperatures, while winter offers fewer crowds, cooler weather, and better stargazing opportunities.

Based on 92 reviews

Camper Quotes

'The hike up Baldy for the view is absolutely worth it!' - Zainab. 'Campsites are spacious with plenty of trees.' - Prashant Aware. 'The park has a crazy amount of amenities, including a camp store...

Based on 92 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites 140 and 141 were described as spacious with electric and water hookups and good tree coverage, though not directly on the water.

Based on 92 reviews

Accessibility Features

Limited reviews mention accessibility; one user noted the need for better trail markings to accommodate all visitors.

Based on 92 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcomed, and some users recommend camping areas away from the main river for more space and seclusion.

Based on 92 reviews

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Last updated February 2, 2026

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