Guadalupe River State Park: Winter River Bluff Trails & Discovery Center

About this adventure

Located just 30 miles north of downtown San Antonio in the Texas Hill Country, Guadalupe River State Park encompasses four miles of pristine river frontage bordered by massive, centuries-old bald cypress trees and dramatic limestone bluffs. In winter, the summer tubing crowds are gone, transforming the park into a peaceful wilderness wonderland where families can hike crisp riverfront trails and spot white-tailed deer, armadillos, and river otters. The park's Children's Discovery Center offers engaging hands-on exhibits, taxidermy mounts, microscope stations, and touchable animal pelts. Families can check out free Discovery Backpacks containing binoculars, magnifying lenses, and field guides to take along the trails. The 0.3-mile River Overlook Trail and 1.3-mile Cedar Chopper Loop are easy and scenic for little legs, with crushed-gravel pathways and riverside picnic tables. Modern heated restrooms with hot showers and changing areas are available at the main day-use area.