Blanco State Park
Blanco State Park is a Texas Hill Country gem where the crystal-clear Blanco River flows through historic CCC-built stone dams creating perfect swimming holes. This compact 105-acre park punches above its weight—offering tubing, fishing (with free loaner gear!), winter trout stocking, and shaded camping just one hour from Austin and San Antonio.
Whether you’re floating downriver on a lazy summer afternoon or casting for Guadalupe bass, Blanco delivers an authentic Texas Hill Country experience without the crowds of larger parks.
Park Fast Facts
| 📍 Location | Blanco, Texas (Hill Country) |
| 🗺️ Distance | ~1 hour from Austin & San Antonio |
| 📐 Total Area | 105 acres |
| 🌊 River Frontage | ~1 mile of Blanco River |
| 📞 Phone | (830) 833-4333 |
Swimming & Tubing
The Blanco River runs for about a mile through the park—spring-fed and perfect for cooling off!
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏊 Swimming | Pools created by CCC dams |
| 🛟 Tubing | Bring your own OR rent at HQ! |
| 👶 Wading Pools | Shallow areas near dams |
| ⚠️ Lifeguards | None on duty |
Fishing
The Blanco River offers excellent fishing—and the park makes it incredibly easy!
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| 🐟 Species | Largemouth bass, Guadalupe bass, channel catfish, sunfish |
| 🌨️ Winter Bonus | Rainbow trout stocked! |
| 🎣 Loaner Gear | FREE rods & reels at HQ |
| 📜 License | NOT required from shore! |
CCC History
The Civilian Conservation Corps transformed this site in 1933-1934, creating structures still in use today!
- 🏛️ Two 7-foot stone dams (create swimming pools!)
- 🛖 CCC Pavilion (still standing)
- 🛤️ Roads & bridges
- 🧱 Native limestone construction
Camping
| Site Type | Amenities |
|---|---|
| 🔌 Full Hookup | Water, electric, sewer |
| 💧 Water/Electric | Standard sites |
| 🏕️ All Sites Include | Covered picnic table, fire ring, grill, lantern hook |
| 🛖 Screened Shelters | Available for rent |
Additional Activities
- 🥾 Hiking trails
- 🧺 Picnic areas
- 🦌 Wildlife viewing
- 📸 Nature photography
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a fishing license at Blanco State Park?
No! Fishing from shore within the park does not require a Texas fishing license. Even better—you can borrow fishing rods and reels for free at the park headquarters! This makes it perfect for spontaneous family fishing trips.
Can I rent tubes at Blanco State Park?
Yes! The park headquarters offers tube rentals for floating down the Blanco River. You can also bring your own tubes. The spring-fed river is perfect for lazy summer tubing!
What are the CCC dams at Blanco?
The Civilian Conservation Corps built two 7-foot-high stone dams across the Blanco River in 1933-1934. These historic dams create calm pools perfect for swimming—still in use nearly 100 years later! The CCC also built a pavilion, roads, and bridges.
Is there winter trout fishing?
Yes! Texas Parks & Wildlife stocks the Blanco River with rainbow trout during winter, making the park a year-round fishing destination. You can also catch largemouth bass, Guadalupe bass, channel catfish, and sunfish year-round.
How far is Blanco State Park from Austin?
Blanco State Park is approximately one hour’s drive from both Austin and San Antonio, making it an ideal day trip or weekend camping destination for Hill Country visitors. The town of Blanco itself offers charming shops and restaurants.
Are there lifeguards at the swimming areas?
No, there are no lifeguards on duty at Blanco State Park. Swimming is allowed in various spots along the river, including the pools created by the CCC dams. Shallow wading areas exist near the dams for younger visitors.
🏊 Float the Blanco River
Tube through CCC-built swimming holes, fish with free loaner gear, and camp under Hill Country stars—all just an hour from Austin!
