Bandera TexasBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Bandera, Texas.
1. Medina River
SCENIC RIVER ADVENTURE
The Medina River flows through Bandera offering visitors a refreshing escape in the Texas Hill Country. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and picnicking along its cool, clear waters that provide relief from the Texas heat. The river's tranquil setting makes it a perfect spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts looking to connect with nature.
2. Bandera City Park
DOWNTOWN RIVERSIDE RETREAT
Bandera City Park is a 77-acre recreational area situated just down Main Street from the courthouse square along the Medina River. The park offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, and picnicking in a scenic natural setting. Its convenient location makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking to cool off and enjoy outdoor activities.
3. Bandera County Park at Medina Lake
LAKESIDE RECREATION AREA
Bandera County Park at Medina Lake is a popular water recreation destination located at the end of Park Road 37 in Lakehills. The park offers swimming, boating, fishing, and picnicking facilities when water levels permit. Visitors should note that the park operates seasonally with different hours throughout the year and has entrance fees that vary for county residents and out-of-county visitors.
4. Hill Country State Natural Area
WILDERNESS SWIMMING HOLES
Hill Country State Natural Area offers visitors a chance to discover hidden swimming holes nestled within its rugged wilderness landscape. The natural area features secluded spots along seasonal creeks where visitors can cool off after hiking the extensive trail system. Its pristine setting provides a more adventurous alternative to traditional waterfront destinations in the region.
5. Lost Maples State Natural Area
CRYSTAL CLEAR WATERWAYS
Lost Maples State Natural Area features tranquil clear-watered waterways surrounded by stunning limestone canyons and spectacular seasonal foliage. Located about 40 miles west of Bandera, the park offers hiking trails that lead to refreshing swimming spots in the Sabinal River and its tributaries. The area's natural beauty and serene waters make it a perfect destination for nature lovers seeking both terrestrial and aquatic adventures.
6. The Flying L Ranch Resort
FAMILY-FRIENDLY WATER PARK
The Flying L Ranch Resort in Bandera combines cowboy heritage with water recreation through its family-friendly water park. The resort offers swimming pools, water slides, and splash areas that provide relief from the Texas heat while maintaining the western atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy both water activities and cowboy-themed entertainment in one comprehensive destination.
7. Garner State Park
BELOVED FRIO RIVER DESTINATION
Garner State Park, located about an hour from Bandera, is one of Texas' most beloved waterfront destinations centered around the crystal-clear Frio River. Visitors can swim, tube, paddle, or simply relax on the riverbanks while enjoying the park's scenic Hill Country setting. The park's combination of refreshing waters and extensive recreational facilities makes it a quintessential Texas summer destination worth the short drive from Bandera.
8. Guadalupe River State Park
POPULAR TUBING PARADISE
Guadalupe River State Park features four miles of river frontage with beautiful limestone bluffs and shady cypress trees. The park offers swimming, tubing, paddling, and fishing opportunities in one of the most scenic sections of the Guadalupe River. Located within driving distance of Bandera, this waterfront destination provides a perfect combination of natural beauty and recreational activities for day-trippers from the Cowboy Capital.
9. Utopia Park
SABINAL RIVER OASIS
Utopia Park offers a peaceful waterfront escape along the Sabinal River just a short drive from Bandera. The park features a designated swimming area, fishing opportunities, and shaded picnic spots that make it ideal for a relaxing day by the water. Its small-town charm and natural setting provide a less crowded alternative to some of the region's more popular water destinations.
10. Mansfield Park
LOCAL SWIMMING SPOT
Mansfield Park in Bandera offers access to the Medina River with areas suitable for swimming and wading during warmer months. The park combines water recreation with other amenities including sports fields, picnic areas, and event facilities for a complete outdoor experience. Its location within Bandera makes it a convenient option for visitors staying in the Cowboy Capital of the World who want to enjoy time by the water.
Bandera Things To Do
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