Garner State Park Is a Magical Escape Along the Frio

The Frio River runs cold and clear at Garner State Park, winding through cypress groves and carved limestone bluffs. On summer afternoons, the banks are crowded with family and friends enjoying the oasis from the Texas heat. In the evening, many trade their flip-flops for dancing boots and head to the pavilion, where the jukebox brings everyone together for a two-steppin’ party under the stars.

There’s something in the air here that makes this place feel like home for its loyal visitors — they call it “Garner magic.”

My visit begins with a guided hike up Old Baldy, Garner’s signature trail known for its scenic views. It’s a short but challenging trek up the hill’s rocky face. Park interpreter Jacob Resendiz leads the way, stopping to check in with parkgoers, including one boy who had learned the sharp lesson not to put a freshly picked prickly pear in his pocket.

“A big part of my job is doing exactly this, going out, going up the hill, talking to people,” Resendiz says. “There’s so much love and happiness in this park, and it falls on staff to keep that happiness going.”

In the campgrounds, campers proudly display handmade banners marking how many years a family has been returning — a reminder of the deep roots that draw people back, generation after generation.

The Civilian Conservation Corps built the park in the 1930s, and it’s been attracting loyal visitors ever since. Garner is known as a summer park, but the fall brings a different beauty and serenity — there are fewer people, and the cypress trees along the river turn to gold. It’s a different kind of magic. 

This smooth, paved path is a relaxed option for both hikers and bikers. A gentle incline adds just a touch of challenge, and springtime visitors may spot golden-cheeked warblers flitting through the surrounding trees. It’s an easy way to enjoy the CCC’s vision for the park with interpretive signage along the way

Watch your step — loose rocks and steep terrain make this stretch a challenge. But the payoff is worth it: a sweeping view of Old Baldy from the Painted Rock Overlook and a well-earned retreat beneath the sprawling shade of a centuries-old Ashe juniper.  

This trail is short but steep. At the top, you’ll be greeted by one of Garner’s most iconic sights: a panoramic view of the Frio River canyon from the weathered limestone crown of Old Baldy. For a longer hike, combine with Foshee Trail for a 1.7-mile loop.

Each evening in the summer, the historic pavilion comes alive with the sound of the jukebox. Since the 1940s, generations of families and friends have gathered for the beloved Garner Dance. Come as you are — from the river or the hills — and join in the fun.

For a lighter activity, enjoy a round of mini golf beneath the shade trees. The park’s concessionaire operates a seasonal putt-putt course that’s perfect for families and offers a break from the sun and trails.

The crystal-clear Frio River runs cold year-round, making it the perfect summer escape. Designated swimming areas are located throughout the park, and visitors can rent inner tubes or paddleboats in season from the park store. Whether you’re floating under cypress trees or splashing near the dam, the Frio delivers a fun time for all.

With 16 miles of trails, Garner’s diverse terrain offers something for everyone, from gentle riverside paths to rugged climbs. There are multiple iconic sites for visitors to seek out, such as Crystal Cave and Painted Rock Overlook. Although trails like Old Baldy can be steep and strenuous, beginner hikers should not be discouraged; during my visit, I saw plenty of families tackling challenging hikes, from grandparents with walking sticks to toddlers on parents’ backs. Just make sure to come prepared with plenty of water and practice safety precautions!

Some campers prefer the charm of Old Garner, the historic part of the park with easier access to trails, the store and Old Baldy. Others like New Garner, where it’s a little quieter and more private. Both offer a selection of campsites, some with electricity, river access and full hookups.

For a more luxurious camping experience, Garner offers 37 screened shelters split between Old and New Garner. The 21 shelters in Pecan Grove(Old Garner) and 16 in River Crossing (New Garner) each sleep up to eight and include electricity, a light and outlet, interior picnic table, outdoor fire ring with grill and nearby water.

Garner offers 17 air-conditioned cabins in the Old Garner area, each sleeping up to six. Thirteen include fireplaces, and four do not. All cabins feature two double beds, private bathrooms and kitchenettes with basic appliances, but guests must bring their own linens and cookware. A $100 cleaning deposit is required at check-in, and pets, tents and RVs are not allowed. For larger groups, the Cypress Springs group camp sleeps up to 40 in five bunkhouses with a shared dining hall and commercial kitchen. 

The sight of the Frio River from the top of Old Baldy is a classic Texas state park view.

Your reward for the hard work is a great view of Old Baldy at Painted Rock Overlook.

The pavilion reflects the craftsmanship of the CCC. The Garner dances held here are a summer tradition. 

“I hadn’t been at Garner as the superintendent but a few months when we got a report of a stolen backpack at a campsite. The visitor was extra-concerned because its contents contained some medications that kept them from having seizures. After looking around the campsite, I decided to look up. The masked bandit was one of our friendly park raccoons who had stolen the backpack and drug it about 40 feet up in an oak tree. After rigging ropes and getting in my climbing harnesses to get up to the spot, I was finally able to confiscate the stolen pack back from the raccoon and get it back to its rightful owner in time for them to take their needed medications.” - Park Superintendent Kelby Bridwell