River Access and Conservation Areas (RACA)

The contracts for the Leased Public Access sites are in the process of being renewed. Public access is granted during this renewal process. New renewal dates will be posted soon.

Leased Public Access

In an urbanizing state with limited public lands, gaining access to the outdoors can be challenging. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is working with private landowners to fix this problem. They are signing lease agreements that allow public river access across private land. This program is called RACA. People can use these areas for fishing and launching non-motorized boats like kayaks and canoes.
Watch Video - "The Rivers are Yours"

Leased Access Viewer

Use the Leased Access Viewer to view the locations of the RACA leased access sites. Within the viewer, select a specific site, see parking areas, find other public river access areas, and get contact information. Access the User Guide by clicking the 'i' in the upper right corner of the viewer window for help to maneuver and get information within the viewer.

Leased Access by River Basin

Visit the links below for directions, details and any limitations on the use of individual sites.

Blanco River

Brazos River

Colorado River - downstream from Lady Bird Lake

Devils River

Guadalupe River

Llano River

Neches River - upstream from Lake Palestine

Sabine River - near Carthage

San Marcos River

Note: Some public access leases have expired, but commercial access may still be available. If you are looking for a site no longer listed here, please e-mail John Botros for contact information.


About this Program

River Access and Conservation Areas are currently funded by a combination of sources including donations from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation, a grant award from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Sport Fish Restoration Program, and sales of the Texas Rivers Conservation License Plate. Download our fact sheet for more information on this program and how landowners can participate.

Watch Accessing Our Rivers: The RACA Team