Garner State Park is a beautiful natural preserve located in the southern section of Edwards Plateau in Texas. Specifically, it can be found in the community of Concan, Uvalde County, at 234 RR 1050, Concan, TX, 78838. The park is nestled about 30 miles north of Uvalde and 7 miles north of Con Can. It is renowned for the cool, clear Frio River, which winds through its scenic Hill Country terrain for approximately 2.9 miles. Spanning 1,774 acres, Garner State Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a multitude of activities. These include swimming, tubing on the river, paddle boating, hiking across 16 miles of scenic trails, camping, nature study, picnicking, canoeing, fishing, miniature golf, geocaching, and biking. An iconic tradition at the park is the Summer Dance. Since the 1940s, visitors have gathered at the park’s concession building on summer evenings for a jukebox dance. This tradition continues today, providing a nostalgic experience for attendees of all ages.
The park offers a wide range of recreational activities and facilities to enhance visitors’ experience. Overnight guests can choose from screened shelters, cabins, or campsites for accommodation. Larger groups can rent screened shelters or group campsites. During busy seasons, the park’s concessionaire sells meals, snacks, and rents out the pavilion. Equipment rentals are available including paddle boats, kayaks, inner tubes, tables, barbecue pits, heaters, and fans. A putt-putt golf course is also operational. Volunteers are essential for maintenance and educational programs, with opportunities for park hosting, trail maintenance, habitat restoration, and leading educational programs. Ranger-led programs cover a variety of subjects including the park’s Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) history, traditions, nature, geocaching, and geology.
Garner State Park not only offers immediate attractions but also serves as a gateway to other area attractions such as the Briscoe-Garner Museum, Fort Inge, Frio Bat Flight tours, and nearby Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) parks like Hill Country, Lost Maples, Devil’s Sinkhole state natural areas, and Kickapoo Cavern State Park. The park’s rich history stems from its acquisition between 1934-36 and its namesake, John Nance Garner, who served as Vice-president of the United States from 1933-41. Additionally, the park features facilities constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps, further enhancing its natural allure with a historical dimension.