San Angelo State Park
Set around one of the most scenic bodies of water in the whole of Texas, San Angelo State Park is a fabulous place for some good old fashioned rest and relaxation. Nestled on the shoreline of the O.C. Fisher Reservoir, this 7,677 Texas state park was originally created by the US Corps of Engineers in 1952, to reduce the risk of the North Concho River flooding. Situated just a 2 hour drive from Abilene, the park has been a tranquil outdoor playground for those who want to escape the frenzy of city life, for over 70 years. Today, fishing is a popular activity here, while the park also offers multi-use trails for hikers, mountain bikers and horse riders. Another big attraction is its fascinating dinosaur tracks that were created upwards of 90 million years ago. Given its natural beauty, the park is definitely the kind of place you would want to linger for at least a weekend, if not a longer period. Thankfully, for those in mind to do this, there is a terrific selection of camping options available onsite.
Activities
The park affords visitors several ways to explore and immerse themselves within its spectacular landscape. Outlined below are a handful of the most popular activities you can engage in during your time there.
Dinosaur Tracks at San Angelo State Park
One of the park’s main draws is the fascinating fossilized tracks that reside within it. Created by the prehistoric animals of the Permian Age, there are 26 dinosaur tracks overall to check out. To take in this captivating spectacle, which dates back millions of years, you will have to hike for around two miles.
Fishing at San Angelo State Park
For those who enjoy fishing, the park provides plenty of opportunities in which to cast a line. With the shoreline of both the Concho River and the O.C. Fisher Reservoir residing within it, anglers have plenty of surface area in which to fish. There are also several piers you can use too. As you are in a Texas State Park, you won’t need a licence either, unless you head out into the middle of the water in a boat. The lake is renowned for being home to some monster catfish. Equipment like rods, reels and tackle boxes can also be loaned out from the park if you didn’t bring your fishing gear with you.
Trails at San Angelo State Park
Like with most state parks in Texas, San Angelo is best explored through its various trails. Overall there are more than 50 miles of trails available for hiking, biking and horseback riding. These trails showcase the parks outstanding beauty, which include several species of native trees and plants. You are also likely to see a diverse range of wildlife including deer, turkey and herds of Longhorn and Bison. Varying in terms of degrees of difficulty and length, some of these trails are easy for everyone to attempt. While others are more suited to experienced practitioners who have an advanced level of skill and fitness. One of the best trails to tackle is the Trailhead Trail that will take you on a six mile jaunt around the shoreline of the lake. If you want to explore the park on your mountain bike, the three mile River Band Trail will take you towards the dinosaur tracks. Horse riders are spoiled for choice as well, with the Dinosaur Horse Trail, Turkey Creek Horse Trail and Badlands Horse Trail all providing huge areas of rugged and untamed terrain to check out.
Picknicking at San Angelo State Park
With a landscape that includes woodlands, rivers, grasslands, lakes and rolling hillsides, the park has several incredibly scenic spots in which to enjoy a picnic. Throughout San Angelo you will find a number of private picnic spots for your convenience. Most of these are equipped with picnic tables and grills and even have access to clean water.
Pets at San Angelo State Park
Pets are welcome at the park, but they do need to be supervised and kept on a leash at all times during your stay there. Some other restrictions may also be in place. So if you intend to bring your dog with you, it would be a good idea to contact the main office to clarify what they are.
Camping at San Angelo State Park
Open all throughout the year, San Angelo State Park presents 126 campsites within several different campgrounds. Situated near its south entrance, the Red Arroyo campground offers 40 sites that come with hookups for water and electricity. Many of these sites are flanked by woods and look out to Fisher Lake. They are a mix of back-in and pull-through sites. Each of these sites comes with its own picnic table, as well as a fire ring and outdoor grill. They are also located near comfort stations that have toilet and shower facilities. Other amenities include a playground for children. Adjacent to this campground is the Chaparral Group Area which contains a sheltered group pavilion. There is also an equestrian campground with 10 sites for those who come to the park with their horse. Like at Red Arroyo, all these sites have water and electricity connections. The rest of the campsites in the park take the form of primitive tent sites and group camps. These offer a rustic and rugged outdoor camping experience for those who really want to get at one with nature. Given its fantastic setting, all the accommodation options at the park provides campers with the opportunity to witness some truly incredible sunrises and sunsets, without having to leave their individual site.
Park Location
San Angelo State Park 362 FM 2288 San Angelo, TX 76901 Phone: 325.949.4757 Website Reservations
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at San Angelo State Park:
No Fishing License Required (Shore/Pier)
Like many Texas state parks, no fishing license is needed when fishing from the shore or pier at San Angelo State Park. Fish the Concho River or O.C. Fisher Reservoir for largemouth bass, channel catfish, and more.
�� 2026 Prescribed Burns: Planned burns occur November–April. Some trails, camping areas, and facilities may close temporarily for safety. Call the park before visiting.
Camping Options
| Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Electric/Water Sites | Multiple campgrounds |
| Primitive (Drive-up) | Backcountry experience |
| Backpack Sites | For remote camping |
| Rustic Cabins | Sleeps 6 |
| Group Bunkhouse | Available for large groups |
Park gates: Open 6 AM–10 PM. For late arrivals, call the park before 5 PM to get late arrival instructions.
Wildlife Watching
Rare free-roaming Texas Longhorns graze the park. White-tailed deer, wild turkey, and over 50,000 acres of wildlife habitat make this a premier wildlife viewing destination.
Do I need a fishing license?
Only from a boat. Shore and pier fishing within the park boundaries does not require a Texas fishing license.
Can I see the Longhorns?
Yes! Texas Longhorns roam freely in parts of the park. They can often be spotted along roadsides and in open grasslands.
Explore More Texas State Parks
San Angelo State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Texas. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Texas guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Insider Tips
Official State Herd: San Angelo protects Texas’s Official State Longhorn Herd — descendants of the original Texas longhorns. Pro tip: The park offers mountain biking, horseback riding, and fishing on O.C. Fisher Reservoir. Petroglyphs: Ancient Native American rock art can be found along some trails.
Best Time to Visit
Spring: Wildflowers and comfortable weather. Fall: Longhorns most active. Winter: Mild Texas winter — perfect hiking. Summer: Hot — early morning only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see longhorn cattle at the park?
Yes. San Angelo State Park maintains the Official State of Texas Longhorn Herd. These animals are descendants of the original longhorns that roamed Texas in the 1800s. The herd grazes freely in the park — sightings are common but not guaranteed. Stay in your vehicle near the herd for safety.
