Garner State Park, Texas

Since the dawn of time, civilization has been drawn to settling near water sources, and Garner State Park’s eight campgrounds bare no exception! The Frio River runs through Garner, framed by deep canyons, crystal-clear streams, mountainous mesas and carved limestone cliffs. These dramatic rock formations weren’t born overnight, dating back to the Cretaceous age which, *drumroll* lasted from 138 to 63 million years ago. NBD. So what the heck should you do surrounded by such bountiful, beautiful land? In addition to a plethora of hiking, biking, fishing, and climbing, visitors can swim, float or boat the winding Frio which spans 2.9 miles. And when you’ve reached the end, just catch the tube shuttle back and do it again! That’s right, tube shuttle. When you’re done circling the Frio, gather near the park’s concession building on summer evenings for a jukebox dance, stay up late for a star party or join a Frio Bat Flight tour to see the nightly exodus of one of the largest Mexican free-tailed bat colonies in the world. If upon departure you decide that you actually want to stay in Garner State Park forever and ever, they’re always accepting volunteers to serve as a park host, maintain and restore habitats, lead programs, and generally lead a great example to all who come to visit.