Blanco State Park
A charming 106-acre park on the Blanco River, perfect for swimming, camping, hiking, and enjoying nature.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Blanco State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming 106-acre park on the Blanco River, perfect for swimming, camping, hiking, and enjoying nature.
"This place brought peace to this Momma's heart."
Bring a Life Jacket
Water depth varies; life jackets are recommended for children and non-swimmers. :life_jacket:
Weekday Visits Recommended
To avoid crowds, plan your visit on a weekday if possible. :calendar:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Blanco River
Throughout the park
Cool off in the refreshing waters, perfect for swimming, tubing, and paddle boating. A true oasis in the Texas heat.
Hiking Trails
Various points in the park
Explore short, scenic trails offering opportunities for nature study and bird watching. Enjoy the natural beauty of the Hill Country.
Camping & RV Sites
Designated campground areas
Enjoy a peaceful stay amidst tall shade trees, with some sites offering full hookups and river proximity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat & Crowds
River Access Varies
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring a Life Jacket
Water depth varies; life jackets are recommended for children and non-swimmers. :life_jacket:
Weekday Visits Recommended
To avoid crowds, plan your visit on a weekday if possible. :calendar:
Check River Conditions
River flow can vary; check conditions before your visit, especially for tubing. :river:
Shaded Campsites Available
Many campsites offer ample shade from tall trees, perfect for hot Texas days. :tree:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring a Life Jacket
Water depth varies; life jackets are recommended for children and non-swimmers. :life_jacket:
Weekday Visits Recommended
To avoid crowds, plan your visit on a weekday if possible. :calendar:
Check River Conditions
River flow can vary; check conditions before your visit, especially for tubing. :river:
Shaded Campsites Available
Many campsites offer ample shade from tall trees, perfect for hot Texas days. :tree:
Enjoy the Local Town
Blanco town offers quaint shops and restaurants just a stone's throw away. :shopping_bags:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Blanco State Park is a beloved gem on the Blanco River, praised for its refreshing waters and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained campsites with amenities like full hookups and Wi-Fi, as well as the shaded picnic areas. While the river is a major draw for swimming and tubing, some note that access can vary and recommend caution for younger swimmers. The park's proximity to the charming town of Blanco adds to its appeal.
"Nice little park on the banks of the Blanco River in the small town of Blanco Texas.
A quaint little town with restaurants and shopping to enjoy.
We camped at site 12.
The Rv pad was asphalt. Mostly level with plenty of shade on the east side.
Full hook ups with 30 amp power, water and sewer.
Power pedestal was in good shape.
Water pressure was good.
We had good cell coverage on Verizon.
Off air TV channels were strong, but only 6 channels.
Wi-fi in the park was good for streaming Netflix and web browsing.
Bathhouse was close by and kept clean in good shape. Showers are coded for campers only.
This park has good short hiking trails.
River access is great on the day use( North) side,,,, not so much on the campground side, but I hear the fishing is good.
Most of the camp sites are for smaller campers , although a few can accommodate big rigs and there is one pull thru site.
All in all , its a nice quiet park."
True Texan
"My husband and I visited Blanco State Park early August and the park was absolutely beautiful! We were taking a weekend trip to San Antonio and decided to try and beat the Texas heat and make a pit stop here! I was around nine months pregnant when I visited so we stayed in the pool part of the water. To be expected it was very full lots of people. It was around 2 in the afternoon so it makes sense. A great place for children to run around and make friends. There are no lifeguards and the water is not even and very deep in certain parts. I highly recommend bending a life jacket for little ones who aren’t strong swimmers. There are porta potty’s nearby, trash cans, trees with shade, and picnic tables."
Sarah Sanders
"Sites in the middle of beautiful tall shade trees. Next to a cow pasture, nice to hearthe low mooing sounds while enjoying the shade as the soft breeze moves through the campsites. The beautiful Blanco River skirts the park. Swimming, paddle boarding and sunbathing encouraged."
Doris Judd
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Blanco State Park is located about an hour and a half southwest of Austin. Take US-290 West towards Johnson City, then head south on US-281. The park is well-marked and easily accessible from the town of Blanco.
Public transportation options to Blanco State Park are very limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle.
The park is located at 101 Park Road 23, Blanco, TX 78606. It's situated right on the Blanco River, making it a scenic drive.
Yes, there are parking facilities available within the park for day visitors and campers.
Absolutely! Blanco State Park offers RV sites with full hookups, and some can accommodate larger rigs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically $5 for adults and free for children under 12. It's always a good idea to check the official Texas State Parks website for the most current pricing.
Blanco State Park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, allowing for plenty of time to enjoy its amenities.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekends and holidays, as campsites can fill up quickly. You can book online through the Texas State Parks reservation system.
Yes, you can typically purchase entrance tickets at the park. However, booking in advance online is advised to guarantee entry, particularly during peak seasons.
Children under 12 typically get free admission. Check the Texas State Parks website for any other potential discounts or passes.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, tubing, paddle boating, fishing, hiking, picnicking, bird watching, and camping. 
The river is generally safe for swimming, but the depth varies. It's recommended to wear life jackets for children and weaker swimmers, and be aware of changing conditions.
Yes, Blanco State Park offers short, scenic hiking trails that are suitable for most fitness levels and offer beautiful views.
Fishing is permitted in the Blanco River. While some suggest the river doesn't flow often, stocking does occur, and there are areas to try your luck.
Campers have access to campsites with full hookups (30 amp power, water, sewer), clean bathhouses with showers, and picnic tables. Wi-Fi is also available.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants located directly within Blanco State Park. However, the charming town of Blanco, just outside the park, offers several dining options.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. The park provides numerous shaded picnic tables, making it a great spot for a meal outdoors.
The town of Blanco offers a variety of eateries, from casual cafes to local diners, providing a good selection for visitors.
While not explicitly mentioned, many picnic areas in Texas State Parks are equipped with grills. It's advisable to bring your own or confirm availability.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and beverages to enjoy within the park.
📸 📸 Photography
The Blanco River banks, especially during sunrise or sunset, offer beautiful scenic shots. The park's natural landscapes and wildlife also provide great photo opportunities.
The park is a good location for bird watching and observing local flora and fauna, offering chances for wildlife photography.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits. Always check park regulations.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best natural light for photography, creating softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunsets over the river are particularly stunning.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Texas State Parks to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. It's best to confirm specific park rules regarding drones.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The park also features picnic areas with tables and shade, perfect for family meals. The hiking trails are generally easy enough for younger children to navigate. Many families enjoy the camping facilities, which offer a chance to extend the fun and enjoy the outdoors. The nearby town of Blanco also provides additional family-friendly activities and dining options.
🚗 Day-Trippers
Arriving earlier in the day, particularly on a weekday, will help you avoid the largest crowds and secure a good spot. The park's convenient location makes it an easy escape from nearby cities like Austin or San Antonio. Remember to bring your swimwear, towels, and any necessary gear for water activities.
🏕️ Campers & RVers
Tent campers can also find comfortable spots, and the overall atmosphere is described as quiet and relaxing. The availability of clean bathhouses with showers adds to the convenience. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekend stays, as the campground can fill up quickly.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Blanco River
Access to the river is best on the day-use (north) side of the park, which is more conducive to water recreation. While the campground side also borders the river, it's less ideal for direct water entry. Despite potential fluctuations in flow, the river provides a beautiful natural setting for relaxation and fun. The presence of trees along the banks offers welcome shade, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon.
For those interested in fishing, the Blanco River within the park can offer opportunities. Although the river's flow can be inconsistent, it is known to be stocked at times. Anglers might find success in various spots along the riverbanks.
Camping and Accommodations
The campground facilities are well-maintained, with clean bathhouses featuring coded showers for campers' privacy and security. Good cell coverage on Verizon and reliable Wi-Fi for streaming and browsing are also reported, enhancing the comfort of a camping trip.
While most sites are designed for smaller campers, there are a few that can accommodate larger rigs, and even a pull-through site. The proximity to the town of Blanco also means that visitors can easily access amenities and explore the local area if they choose to stay in the park.
Nature and Wildlife
During certain times of the year, visitors can spot wildflowers and a variety of birds, adding to the park's scenic charm. The park's ecosystem supports diverse plant and animal life, providing a peaceful environment for observation and study.
Even the preservation efforts highlight the park's natural significance, as seen in the rescue and repurposing of a historic pecan tree. This underscores the park's commitment to its natural heritage.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit