On the Banks of the Blanco

Come for a picnic, afternoon swim, fishing trip or a weekend campout on the banks of the spring-fed Blanco River. We’re just an hour from Austin and San Antonio.

Things to Do

This small park hugs a one-mile stretch of the river. On the water, you can swim, fish, paddle or boat. On land, you can picnic, hike, camp, watch for wildlife, and geocache. Reserve the CCC-built picnic area or pavilion for your next group gathering. 

Be safe in the water! Read through our Water Safety Tips before your visit.

Fishing

Anglers fish for largemouth and Guadalupe bass, channel catfish, sunfish and rainbow trout. TPWD stocks the river with trout in the winter. You do not need a license to fish from shore within the park.

• Borrow fishing rods and reels at headquarters to use in the park (when available).
• Fishing Tip Sheet
• Winter Trout Stocking Schedule

Swimming

Swim anywhere along the river. Small children will enjoy the shallow wading pool next to Falls Dam. Rent tubes at the park store from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; return tubes by 4 p.m.

Boating

Bring your canoe, kayak or boat (electric motors only). Or rent a single or double kayak or tube at the park store to use in the park (available seasonally; $20 credit card deposit required). Rental hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; return kayaks by 4 p.m.

Camping

Choose from full hookup sites or sites with water and electricity. Or reserve a screened shelter overlooking the river.

Shopping

The park store sells clothes, gifts, souvenirs, field guides and more.

Get involved!

We need your help! Visit the Volunteer page, ask at headquarters, or email Friends of Blanco State Park.

Support state parks by donating to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Foundation.

Ranger Programs

We offer programs on the history and nature of the park. Contact the park to schedule a program for your group. Learn more:

• Events
• Nature
• History

Kids

Become a Junior Ranger!

• Borrow an explorer pack, loaded with tools for exploring the park.
• Pick up a free Junior Ranger Activity Journal. Complete tasks to earn a badge.

Teachers

Call the park to schedule a field trip.

• This park is a Texas Aquatic Science Certified Field Site.
• The Junior Ranger Activity Journal is TEKS-aligned.

Civilian Conservation Corps

The CCC built the picnic pavilion with its stone walks and stairs to the river. CCC boys also built picnic tables and benches, stone dams and bridges, all during an 11-month period in 1933 and 1934. Learn more on our History page.    

Area Attractions

The park is in easy driving distance of Austin and San Antonio. Several small towns nearby, including Blanco, have restaurants, museums and shopping.

Take the short drive north to Johnson City, home of the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park. Explore the Sauer-Beckmann living history farm at the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site. Scientists of all ages will enjoy the Hill Country Science Mill.