Guadalupe River State Park
Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Guadalupe River State Park is more than just a swimming hole—though the swimming is legendary. With 4 miles of river frontage on the crystal-clear Guadalupe River, this park is the ultimate summer escape for San Antonio and Austin residents.
But there’s much more here than the river. Explore 13 miles of hike and bike trails, discover the hands-on Discovery Center, or venture into the remote Bauer Unit for a truly primitive wilderness experience. The park is also the gateway to Honey Creek State Natural Area, where guided tours reveal pristine Hill Country ecosystems every Saturday.
Whether you’re tubing down the river, camping under the stars, or hiking through native prairie grasses, Guadalupe River State Park offers a “River Through Time” experience that connects you to the colorful history and stunning natural beauty of Central Texas.
Park Fast Facts
Guadalupe River State Park is located about 30 minutes north of San Antonio and an hour southwest of Austin.
| 📍 Location | 3350 Park Road 31, Spring Branch, TX 78070 |
| 🗺️ Region | Texas Hill Country |
| 📐 Total Area | 1,938 acres |
| 🌊 River Frontage | 4 miles on Guadalupe River |
| ⏰ Hours | Open daily; day use 8 AM to 10 PM |
| 📞 Phone | (830) 438-2656 |
Entry & Camping Fees
| Fee Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🎫 Adult Entry (13+) | $7 | Per person daily |
| 👶 Children (12 & under) | FREE | With paying adult |
| 🎫 TX State Parks Pass | FREE | Entire vehicle admitted |
| ⚡ Water/Electric Sites | $20-25/night | 85 sites available |
| ⛺ Walk-in Tent Sites | $15/night | 9 sites available |
River Activities
The Guadalupe River is the star attraction—crystal-clear water flowing through dramatic limestone bluffs and shaded by towering cypress trees.
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏊 Swimming | Multiple swimming areas along 4 miles of river |
| 🛟 Tubing | Popular activity; bring your own tube |
| 🛶 Paddling | 5-mile paddling trail starts at park |
| 🎣 Fishing | Loaner gear available at park! |
| ⚠️ Rules | No Styrofoam or glass on river banks/in water |
Trails
| Trail | Distance | Features |
|---|---|---|
| 🎨 Painted Bunting Trail | 2.86 mi | Birdwatching, forest |
| 👀 River Overlook Trail | 0.3 mi | Scenic river views |
| 🚴 Various MTB Trails | 13 mi total | Mixed difficulty |
| 🐴 Equestrian Access | Some trails | No equestrian camping |
Bauer Unit
For a more primitive wilderness experience, the remote Bauer Unit offers challenging trails through native prairie grasses and Hill Country forest.
| Bauer Unit Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 📍 Type | Remote day-use area (separate entrance) |
| 🥾 River Access | 2-3 mile hike downhill (4-6 mi roundtrip) |
| 🏔️ Terrain | Moderate to challenging, spring seeps |
| 🚫 No Restrooms | No potable water, no fires |
| 🌿 Leave No Trace | Pack out all trash |
Honey Creek State Natural Area
Adjacent to the park is Honey Creek State Natural Area—a protected ecosystem accessible only through guided tours.
| Honey Creek Tours | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Schedule | Every Saturday morning (+ some Sundays) |
| ⏱️ Duration | 2.5 hours |
| 📝 Registration | Required—check park events page |
| 🌳 Features | History, geology, flora & fauna of Hill Country |
| 🐕 Pets | No pets allowed on tours |
Discovery Center
The park’s Discovery Center is perfect for families and curious explorers of all ages.
| Discovery Center | Details |
|---|---|
| 🔬 Features | Microscopes, binoculars, magnifying glasses |
| 📦 Discovery Boxes | Hands-on nature exhibits |
| 🎒 Explorer Packs | Available to borrow! |
| 👶 Junior Ranger | Activity journal & badge program |
Best Times to Visit
| Season | Experience | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🌸 Spring (Mar-May) | Wildflowers, comfortable swimming | Bluebonnets in Hill Country! |
| ☀️ Summer (Jun-Aug) | Peak swimming & tubing season | Very popular; arrive early! |
| 🍂 Fall (Sep-Nov) | Great hiking, less crowded | Fall colors along river |
| ❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb) | Peaceful hiking, Honey Creek tours | Fewer crowds |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim at Guadalupe River State Park?
Yes! Swimming is one of the most popular activities. The park has 4 miles of river frontage with multiple swimming areas along the crystal-clear Guadalupe River. There are no lifeguards, so swim at your own risk.
Can you tube at Guadalupe River State Park?
Yes! Tubing is very popular on the Guadalupe River. Bring your own tube—the park doesn’t rent them. Note: Styrofoam and glass are prohibited in the day-use area along the river banks and while in the river.
What is Honey Creek State Natural Area?
Honey Creek State Natural Area is a protected ecosystem adjacent to Guadalupe River State Park. It’s accessible only through guided 2.5-hour tours led every Saturday morning (plus some Sundays). You’ll learn about Hill Country history, geology, plants, and wildlife. Registration required; no pets allowed.
How far is Guadalupe River from San Antonio?
Guadalupe River State Park is approximately 30 minutes north of San Antonio and about an hour southwest of Austin. It’s one of the most accessible Hill Country escapes for Central Texas residents.
What is the Bauer Unit?
The Bauer Unit is a remote, primitive day-use area with challenging hiking and biking trails through native prairie and Hill Country forest. River access requires a 2-3 mile hike downhill (4-6 miles roundtrip). There are no restrooms, no water, and no fires allowed. It’s a Leave No Trace area for more adventurous visitors.
Can you rent kayaks at Guadalupe River State Park?
The park itself does not rent kayaks, but you can bring your own kayak or canoe. The park is the starting point for the 5-mile Guadalupe River State Park Paddling Trail. Contact the park for current river flow levels before planning a paddling trip.
Escape to the Hill Country
Crystal-clear river swimming, 13 miles of trails, exclusive Honey Creek tours, and Texas Hill Country beauty—all just 30 minutes from San Antonio. Book your campsite today!
