Palmetto State Park
RV Guide

Palmetto State Park is full of rich history since the Civilian Conservation Corps built many of the structures in the 1930s. You can still explore many of the park's original historic structures today. Just head over to the picnic pavilion, water tower, or rock table to see these remnants of the past. Landscape architects were employed to ensure these structures fit in the natural landscape of the area. You'll see that native sandstone was used to blend these man-made structures with the natural habitat.

Geocaching has become a big thing at state parks in the last few years. If you have never heard of geocaching, then don’t worry about it. In simple words, it is a big scavenger hunt that the whole family can enjoy. You will need a few supplies to make it a successful scavenger hunt: a GPS or smartphone with coordinates, sturdy hiking boots, a pencil or pen, a water bottle, and a bag full of small items to trade. To play, you may have to download a geocaching app from your app store, but the object of the game is to find the hidden objects and record your name in the logbook. When approaching a coordinate, remember to be careful not to disturb the landscape or any of the wildlife around you, and always remember to put things back where you found them. Your cautious approach will help keep the adventure alive. Geocaching is a thrilling, interactive activity that the whole family can enjoy during your RV road trip to the park.

Palmetto State Park is one of the best places to go birding. With over 200 species of birds calling the park home, you have plenty of chances to see unique birds like the red-shouldered hawk and the crested caracara. The park is located on the Great Texas Birding Trail, making it a real hot spot for all different kinds of birds. Bring a set of binoculars in your RV and maybe a bird snack that you can find in the park store. If you look around the park store, you will find a book full of recipes for bird snacks ideas.

The park is a great place to picnic if you are stopping by in the area for the day or if you are camping overnight. There are several spots throughout the park where you can find picnic tables, restrooms, and, in some places, a playground for children to enjoy. These spots are mainly a short distance from the banks of the San Marcos River, and you can enjoy the stunning views over your meal, and children can splash around in the shallows and even swim. One of the park's historical remnants is its pavilion, which is still open for use. It can accommodate up to 100 people and is accessible for people with disabilities or mobility issues. The pavilion is equipped with picnic tables, a grill, folding tables and chairs, and a kitchen with refrigerator, oven, and range. This pavilion is an ideal place for family reunions and group get-togethers because it is reservable.

Palmetto State Park has several trails available for you to explore. These vary in length from 0.3 miles to 1.25 miles and are relatively easy, so if you want a challenge, try hiking all the trails while seeing who can find the most interpretive trail signs. The wooded area has a lot of coverage from the sun, but remember to wear your sunscreen when you go exploring. Pay attention to the warning signs about snakes because they help hikers learn how to interact with the wildlife. Hikers should try and wear closed shoes instead of open shoes when they are hiking because closed-toe shoes give more protection against snakes. Each trail is well managed and very clean. Hikers can expect to walk along the river and swamps and through the forest area.

Tubing along the San Marcos River can be a very relaxing pastime. The river runs through the entire park, so it is pretty easy to get in the water with your tube. While you are floating, you can use the time as an opportunity to see the different types of plants and birds. If you forget to bring your own tube, you can rent one from the main office at the entrance of the park. Once you exit the river, you will have to climb a steep slope that will continue onto a trail that takes you back to the camp, so remember to keep some energy for the hike back. While tubing, a life jacket is required and remember to read the safety guide on how to keep you and your loved ones safe on the water.

If you are bringing a fishing pole in your camper to Palmetto State Park, there are quite a few fishing spots available, and Oxbow Lake is regularly stocked with Florida largemouth bass, rainbow trout, and channel catfish. If you intend to do some pier fishing, then a license will not be required, but if you plan to go in either the lake or the river to fish, then you will need a valid fishing license. Several campsites are right next to the lake and the San Marcos River, so you can fish from the shore as well and enjoy the shade of your site. Visitors should note that the fishing lake is also the swimming lake and that the fishing pier is also the swimming pier. You may need to find a secluded spot on the lake or along its banks if the pier and certain areas of the lake are busy with people swimming.

Pack your canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard along when you visit Palmetto State Park. The park has a lot of water to explore, and you can meander along Oxbow Lake, the San Marcos River, Rutledge Creek, and other smaller canals. The San Marcos River doesn't have any rapids, but there is a steady current. Remember to check the river conditions before setting out. You can also rent stand up paddleboards and two and three-person kayaks at the park if you don't have one. These come with life jackets and oars. It is up to the parents and guardians of younger children to look after their kids while they are out on the water. The park has several safety tips that they recommend you implement when out on the water. While you are in the area, you can also try the Luling Zedler Mill Paddling Trail near Luling. This is a gentle, family-friendly paddling trail that travels along the San Marco River.