Garner State Park
00 review234 RR 1050, CONCAN, Texas, 78838, United States
Garner State Park
$8.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
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 are not provided.
About this campground
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.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park has limited accessibility markings on trails. Guests with disabilities are advised to inquire further with park management.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious with options to accommodate RVs, tents, and group camping needs.
Sites 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 CampsitesOld Garner is recommended for premium sites near concessions and the deepest swimming areas. Avoid site #431 in summer due to lack of shade.
Best CampsitesSites 140 and 141 were praised for their spaciousness, shade trees, and proximity to the Blinn River Trail.
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 are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutDivided into Old Garner and New Garner sections, each featuring distinct amenities and levels of seclusion.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak Season (Memorial Day weekend - Labor Day weekend). Off-peak season begins the Tuesday after Labor Day and ends the Wednesday before Memorial Day.
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.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
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.
Hiking
The 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.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the Frio River, though specific fish types are not detailed.Swimming
Swimming is a popular activity in the Frio River. The water is described as clear, cool, and refreshing, especially near the dam.Biking
Surface roads and trails are available for biking. Some trails are rocky and challenging, requiring intermediate skills.Boating
Boating activities, including paddle boat and kayak rentals, are available. Rental costs reportedly start at $20 per hour.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as deer, lizards, bunnies, raccoons, and coyotes are commonly observed. Guests are advised to be cautious of wild pigs.Cultural and Educational Programs
Nightly summer dances are a cultural highlight of the park. Other educational activities include interactions with park rangers who educate visitors about the local ecosystem.Winter Activities
The park is a hidden gem in winter, offering fewer crowds, cool weather for hikes, and dark skies for stargazing.Water Sports
Tubing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular water sports in the Frio River.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Null as fire policies are not explicitly stated.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsWild pigs, coyotes, and other wildlife are reported. Some trails have loose rocks and steep climbs.
Weather forecast
91
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 37%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest 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.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
Trash and recyclingTrash and aluminum recycling facilities are available. Some users have suggested adding dog waste bags.
Proximity to water featuresOld Garner offers proximity to the deepest swimming areas of the Frio River. New Garner also has river access but requires hiking.
Common complaintsNoisy campers late at night, unclean bathrooms, and overcrowding during Peak Season are recurring issues.
HostRangers and campground hosts are available. Reviewers commend their attentiveness.
Campground Map
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.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Garner State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % 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
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.
Common Concerns
Common complaints include overcrowding during peak seasons, inconsistent trail markings, and cleanliness issues in some restrooms and showers.
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.
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the busiest season with overcrowding and higher water temperatures, while winter offers fewer crowds, cooler weather, and better stargazing opportunities.
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...
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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.
Accessibility Features
Limited reviews mention accessibility; one user noted the need for better trail markings to accommodate all visitors.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcomed, and some users recommend camping areas away from the main river for more space and seclusion.
Last updated August 10, 2025