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Area Closures

The lake will be closed on the following dates:

• 10 p.m. Jan. 4 to 10 p.m. Jan. 20
• 10 p.m. Feb. 20 to 10 p.m. Feb. 23

Only permitted hunters will be allowed on these dates.

Contact the park for more information.

Boat Ramp Closed

Aug. 25, 2022 - The boat ramps are closed, and kayak rentals are not available due to the low lake level. 

Contact the park or check back for updates.

Area Closures

Jan. 10, 2025 - The day-use area and the White Oak Ridge and Wilkins Creek camping areas have reopened.  The Knights Bluff camping area remains closed due to power outages. Check back for updates. 

Park Closure

The park will be closed on the following dates:

• Noon Jan. 17 to 8 a.m. Jan 21

Only permitted hunters will be allowed on these dates.

Contact the park for more information.

Pool Closure

The pool area will be closed from May 5 - 9, 2025 for our annual pool cleaning. The pool will reopen on Saturday, May 10, 2025. Contact the park for details.

Reservations Recommended

Jan. 1, 2024 - We strongly encourage you to purchase day passes in advance for the summer months, weekends, school breaks and holidays. Day passes often sell out throughout the summer.

Online reservations for overnight stays close at 4:30 p.m. 

Sauceda Ranger Station

Oct. 25, 2024 - Sauceda Ranger Station hours vary and limited services are available. Shower and restrooms are available 24/7.

• Check in for camping and day passes at Fort Leaton or Barton Warnock.
• Call either of these sites or email us with questions.
• Souvenirs and concessions are only available at Fort Leaton or Barton Warnock.

Lake Closure

Sept. 18, 2023 - The main lake is closed to prevent erosion as plants re-establish after construction. Fishing is available at Lake Mina. 

Check here for updates or contact the park for more information.

Sauceda Ranger Station

Oct. 25, 2024 - Sauceda Ranger Station hours vary and limited services are available. Shower and restrooms are available 24/7.

• Check in for camping and day passes at Fort Leaton or Barton Warnock.
• Call either of these sites or email us with questions.
• Souvenirs and concessions are only available at Fort Leaton or Barton Warnock.

Winter Weather Notice

Jan. 14, 2025 - We will be turning off water to the campsites and dump station beginning Saturday, Jan. 18, due to freezing temperatures. Water will be turned back on once it's warmer.

Road Construction

Jan. 6, 2025 - Road construction in the park has begun. The project may last through May 2025. During this time, various sections of roadway will be closed or under repair. Please observe warning signs for your safety.

Hydrilla Alert

July 12, 2024 - The lake is infested with hydrilla, an invasive plant that creates large mats of vegetation across the surface of the water. We are working on controlling and removing the hydrilla, but it can affect swimming, fishing and boating. Contact the park office with questions.

Please remember to always clean, drain and dry your boat!

Check back for updates or contact the park for more information. 

Restroom Closure

Oct. 16. 2024 - The Cozy Circle campground restrooms are closed, but port-a-potties are available. 

Check back for updates.

Visiting the Park

• We recommend reserving day passes for weekends and holidays. If your plans change, please modify or cancel your reservation so someone else can visit.
• Trails close for wet weather and maintenance. Call the park or check our Facebook page for updates before visiting.
• Argentine ants have been identified in some of our campsites. These invasive ants do not sting. Be prepared to treat around your vehicle and camping equipment. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is working to reduce the number of ants without harming the park's natural resources.  

Check back for updates or contact the park for more information.

Boil Water Notice

Dec. 31, 2024 - The park is under a boil water notice for 30 days. Bring water for cooking and drinking or be prepared to boil water from the park. 

Boating Notices

Dec. 23, 2024 - Due to very low lake levels:

• Exercise extra caution when operating watercraft on the lake. We recommend only using shallow bottom boats.
• Exercise caution while launching or removing watercraft at the Calliham Boat Ramp. 
• The following boat ramps are closed:
  • South Shore
  • Hwy. 99
  • Mason Point

Contact the park for more information.

Controlled Burns

Dec. 16, 2024 - A recent controlled burn has resulted in smoky areas in the park. More controlled burns may happen through April 2025, depending on weather and other factors. Controlled fires and the associated smoke may impact your visit. Check back for updates.

Boat Ramp Use Limited

April 1, 2024 - The boat ramp is closed to boats requiring a trailer to load or unload due to low water level. Only kayaks and hand loaded/unloaded watercraft are allowed to use the ramp. 

Contact the park for more information.

Facility Closures

Oct. 28, 2024 - The Honey Creek boat ramp at the South Sulphur Unit is closed due to low lake levels. All other boat ramps in the unit remain open.

May 10, 2024 - The floating dock in the Heron Harbor Day-use Area at the South Sulphur Unit is closed due to damage. Fishing access from the wall is still open.

Prescribed Burns

Prescribed burns are planned through April 2025, depending on weather and other factors. Prescribed fires and the associated smoke may impact your visit. Expect trail closures during burns. Contact the park for more information.

Trail Alert

Trails close to horseback riders after rainfall. Check conditions before you come by calling the park. 

Park Closures

The park will be closed on the following dates:

• 1 p.m. Jan. 17 to 8 a.m. Jan. 20
• 1 p.m. Jan. 31 to 8 a.m. Feb. 3
• 1 p.m. Feb. 7 to 8 a.m. Feb. 10

Only permitted hunters will be allowed on these dates.

Contact the park for more information.

Low Lake Level

Sept. 11, 2024 - The lake level is extremely low. The swimming area, fishing pier and boat ramp are closed. Contact the park for updates.

Museum Closed

Sept. 1, 2024 - The museum at park headquarters is closed for renovations.

Sidewalk Project

Jan. 13, 2025 - Part of the day-use area is closed for a sidewalk improvement project. The swim/beach area and the back deck of the pavilion are open.

You may hear construction noise. Please observe all signs for your safety. The project is expected to be completed by the end of March 2025.

Renovations Closures

Jan. 1, 2025 - Indian Lodge, including the Black Bear Restaurant, is closed for renovations. Reservations will not be available until a reopening date has been set.

The Indian Lodge trailhead is closed due to the renovations and can be accessed from the Montezuma Quail Trail only. The trail is 1.5 miles round trip from that intersection. 

Check here for updates or contact the park for more information.

Park Closures

The entire park (except paddling campsites) will be closed on the following dates:

• Jan. 10 to Jan. 13

Only permitted hunters will be allowed on these dates.

Contact the park for more information.

Paddler Notices

April 1, 2024 - The Baker's Crossing launch is closed due to low flow levels in Devils River. The San Pedro Point launch is still open. Contact the park or check back for updates.

April 1, 2024 - The Devils Back paddler take-out is closed due to road construction. Permit itineraries that do not include Devils Back are not affected. 

Check back for updates or contact the park for more information.

Park Closures

The park will be closed on the following dates:

• Jan. 8 to 14, 2025

Only permitted hunters will be allowed on these dates.

Contact the park for more information.

Trails & Tracks

Check for updates.

Reservations Recommended

We often reach capacity and highly recommend reservations for both camping and day use. Reserve passes online or by calling the customer service center before you visit.

OHV Trails Closed

Jan. 13, 2025 - OHV trails are closed due to wet conditions. 

Closures

Oct. 23, 2024 - The restroom in the Deer Haven camping loop is closed due to a plumbing issue. Portable restrooms are available. 

Sept. 4, 2024 - Utility work on the Armadillo Hill Camping Loop will continue through mid-2025. The restrooms and the dump station in the loop are closed. Restrooms are available in other areas.

Firewood Quarantine

May 16, 2024 - This county is under a quarantine to prevent the spread of the emerald ash borer to other areas of the state. This means movement of firewood is restricted.

Please buy firewood where you burn it to prevent the spread of diseases and pests.

Call the park or check back here for updates.

Park Closures

The park will be closed on the following dates:

• 3 p.m. Jan. 20 to 2 p.m. Jan. 24

Only permitted hunters will be allowed on these dates.

Contact the park for more information.

Reservations Required

Advanced reservations for day passes and overnight stays are required on weekends, school breaks and holidays. While not required on regular weekdays, we usually reach capacity every day. Guarantee your entry by reserving passes online or calling the customer service center before you visit.

Conserve Water!

Jan. 1, 2025 - Due to dry conditions, the water wells at the park cannot meet demand. The park restrooms are closed; Porta potties will be available.

Please use water wisely when you visit. Bring your own drinking water or you can buy bottled water at headquarters.

Campers: The shower building will be open from 5 p.m. to 9 a.m. daily and closed during daytime hours. 

Trail Closures

Get trail status updates here, on our Facebook page, or on our X feed.

Road Construction

Oct. 12, 2024 - Roadwork is underway on FM 1015 next to the park's entrance. Expect lane closures and redirected traffic; use caution when entering and exiting the park. A temporary alternate entrance to the park is in place.

Flooding Alert

June 11, 2024 - All trails are open but are undergoing maintenance due to recent flooding. Use caution and hike or bike at your own risk. Some campsites remain closed. Check back for updates.

Front Office Construction

June 11, 2024 - The front office/ headquarters building is under construction, but we are still open. Use the self-pay station if the office is closed or make your reservation online.

Sauceda Ranger Station

Oct. 25, 2024 - Sauceda Ranger Station hours vary and limited services are available. Shower and restrooms are available 24/7.

• Check in for camping and day passes at Fort Leaton or Barton Warnock.
• Call either of these sites or email us with questions.
• Souvenirs and concessions are only available at Fort Leaton or Barton Warnock.

Boat Rentals Notice

We will not be renting kayaks and canoes from the office on Jan. 25-26 due to a special event.

The kayak rental machines at the day-use and Navasota River boat ramps will still be available from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

Fishing Piers Closed

Sept. 23, 2024 - Both fishing piers are closed for maintenance. These closures do not affect any reservations. Check back for updates.

Reservations Recommended

Reservations are recommended (even for those with park passes). Reserve online or call the Customer Service Center before you visit. Spanish-speaking agents are available at the CSC. Carry your pass (either a printed or digital version) with you while in the park.

Trail Closures

Dec. 10, 2024 - Some boardwalks are closed due to flood damage. Please observe closure signs for your safety.

Check back for updates.

Park Closures

The park will be closed on the following dates:

• 10 p.m. Jan. 1 to 8 a.m. Jan. 15

Only permitted hunters will be allowed on these dates.

Construction Notice

Nov. 1, 2024 - Construction to repair the scenic overlook section of Park Rd. 29 will begin in December 2024. From Dec. 1, 2024, through Feb. 28, 2025, the south side of Garner (Old Garner) will be closed. This includes:

• Pecan Grove camping loop
• Oakmont camping loops and cabins
• Pavilion
• Park store
• Boat house
• Day-use picnic area
• River Dam
• Rock Beach

All trails will be closed except for the Nature Trail and the Frio Canyon Trail. 

On March 1, 2025, the south side of Garner will reopen with limited access, as construction continues. 

Check back for updates; contact the park for more information.

Water Conservation Alert

June 5, 2024 - Please use water sparingly for drinking, cooking, and in restrooms. Bring your own water or buy bottled water at headquarters. 

Trails Updates

Check for trail closure updates.

Park Closures

The park will be closed on the following dates:

• 8 p.m. Jan. 13 to noon Jan. 17, 2025

Only permitted hunters will be allowed on these dates. Contact the park for more information.

Prescribed Burns

Prescribed burns may occur at any time through April 2025. Expect trail closures during burns.

Conserve Water

Dec. 1, 2024 - Due to ongoing drought conditions, please use water wisely when you visit.

Check back for updates on these alerts.

Park Closures

The park will be closed on the following dates:

• 10 p.m. Jan. 20 to noon Jan. 23

Only permitted hunters will be allowed on these dates.

Contact the park for more information.

Trail Updates

Trails may close in wet weather. Check for updates before visiting. 

Phone Outage

Jan. 9, 2025 - Phones are down at the park. Email the park with any questions. 

Water Shortage

Nov. 7, 2024 - Water conservation measures are in place due to drought. Please bring enough water for your visit. Water is available at the campsites. Public restrooms and campground showers are available.

Due to water shortages, campsite availability is limited. Reservations are recommended; call (512) 389-8911.

Park Closure

The park will be closed from April 7 - 10, 2025 for natural resource management. 

Area Closures

Aug. 26, 2024 - The park is open, but the swim area remains closed. Some trails are open with limited access. Check back for updates.

Lodge Closure

Indian Lodge, including the Black Bear Restaurant, is closed for renovations. Reservations will not be available until a reopening date has been set.

Partial Trail Closure

Jan. 27, 2023 - The Indian Lodge trailhead is closed due to the renovations and can be accessed from the Montezuma Quail Trail only. The trail is 1.5 miles round trip from that intersection.

Contact the park for details.

Reservations Recommended

We strongly encourage you to make reservations in advance for weekends, school breaks and holidays. Day passes and camping sell out every weekend and holiday.

Park Hours

The park is open from 8 a.m. Fridays through 4:30 p.m. Mondays. It is closed the rest of the week.

Prescribed Burn

Prescribed burns are planned through April 2025, depending on weather and other factors. The fires and smoke may impact your visit. Expect trail closures during burns. Contact the park for more information.

Facility Closures

Dec. 31, 2024 - The park's crappie dock is closed, due to unsafe conditions. 

The Rec Hall, group lodges, and cabins will be closed for renovations starting on June 1, 2025. Renovations are expected to take about 18 months.

Check back for updates to these alerts.

Headquarters Hours

Jan. 3, 2025 - The park will be open, but headquarters is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Pay fees online or use the self-pay kiosk if you visit on these days. 

Courtesy Dock Closed

Sept. 6, 2024 - The courtesy dock is underwater and not accessible, due to the rising lake level. Check back for updates. 

Boat Ramps Closed

Sept. 4, 2024 - Both boat ramps are closed due to low lake levels. Contact the park or check back for updates.

Trailway Closure

June 1, 2023 - Part of the trailway, from FM 1195 in Mineral Wells to the Vietnam War Memorial, is closed until further notice. Please observe closure signs for your safety.

Fishing/Boating Alerts

Oct. 29, 2024 - The lake level is low; most boats cannot be launched from the Nails Creek boat ramp.

Feb. 16, 2024 - The Birch Creek fishing pier is closed due to damage. Contact the park for more information or check back for updates.

Nails Creek Unit Closure

The Flag Pond Loop and Waldo's Loop Trails will be closed from sunrise to noon daily during Early Teal, Regular North Zone Duck and Youth Only Waterfowl.

The Trailway will be closed starting 1/2 mile from Nails Creek to the Wolf Pond primitive campsites on the following dates:

• 3 p.m. Jan. 24 to 8 a.m. Jan. 30

The entire park and Trailway from Nails Creek to the Nails Creek Trailway Bridge will be closed on the following dates:

• 5 pm. Jan. 21 to 2 p.m. Jan. 24

Only permitted hunters will be allowed on these dates.

Contact the park for more information.

Trailway Bridges Out

May 1, 2024 - Two bridges on the Trailway have been washed out, one over Nails Creek and one over Yegua Creek near the Newman Bottom parking area. Please reach out to either Nails Creek or Birch Creek headquarters for more information before heading out on the Trailway.

Park Closures

The park will be closed on the following dates:

• 5 p.m. Jan. 10 to 2 p.m. Jan. 17

Only permitted hunters will be allowed on these dates.

Contact the park for more information.

Firewood Quarantine

May 16, 2024 - This county is under a quarantine to prevent the spread of the emerald ash borer to other areas of the state. This means movement of firewood is restricted.

Please buy firewood where you burn it to prevent the spread of diseases and pests.

Call the park or check back here for updates.

Argentine Ants

Argentine ants, an invasive species, have been identified in some campsites in the park. The ants do not sting.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is working with experts to reduce the ants without harming natural resources. Before leaving, thoroughly inspect your vehicle, RV, camping gear and other equipment; if you see the ants, please notify park staff immediately and they can offer guidance for treating. For park-specific questions, please contact the park at (903) 836-4336.

Unit Closure

Beginning Jan. 2, 2025, the Walnut Ridge Unit beyond the locked entrance gate will be closed for repairs and roadwork on the bridge. The closure includes all campsites, cabins, shelters, boat ramps, trails and restrooms. 

The Wildscape Garden and Education Center will remain open. Check back for updates.

Reservations Recommended

We strongly encourage you to purchase day passes in advance for weekends, school breaks and holidays. Day passes sell out every weekend and holiday.

Check back here for updates.

Closures

Portions of the park will be closed for construction beginning Jan. 6, 2025 through mid-2025. Areas closed include the Commemorative Mission, camping, fishing pond, El Camino Real access, day-use area and playground. 

The park will remain open during this time for day use with limited access to some hiking/biking trails and the Rice Family Log Cabin.

Contact the park for updates.

Closures 

Sept. 17, 2024 - The lower part of the park is closed due to repeated flooding events.

Swimming, fishing, and day use along the river are unavailable until flood repairs and cleanup are completed.

Scheduled Closure

Most of the park will be closed Jan. 26 to Feb. 28, 2025, for a construction project on Park Road 11. All areas on the south side of the San Marcos River will be closed including all water/electric campsites, the main trail system, showers, the Refectory building/parking and picnic area. Limited day-use and tent camping sites will remain open near Oxbow Lake.

Contact the park or check back for updates.

Trails Closed

Jan. 11, 2025 - The park is open, but all trails are closed due to severe winter weather. Check back for updates.

Park Closed for Construction

Jan. 1, 2025 - The park is closed to all public access as it is under construction Check back for updates. 

Burn Ban in Effect

Nov. 15, 2024 - No ash-producing fires (wood or charcoal) allowed in park fire rings or grills. You may use containerized fuel stoves (propane or liquid stove fuel) for cooking. Contact the park for the latest information.

Closures

Oct. 22, 2024 - The North Loop Equestrian Trail and Duck Pond are closed. Check back for updates.

Reservations Recommended

Guarantee entrance by making reservations for day passes or campsites before visiting on weekends, school breaks and holidays. Permits often sell out for these busy times.

Firewood Quarantine

May 16, 2024 - This county is under a quarantine to prevent the spread of the emerald ash borer to other areas of the state. This means movement of firewood is restricted.

Please buy firewood where you burn it to prevent the spread of diseases and pests.

Call the park or check back here for updates.

Scheduled Water Outage

Jan. 8, 2025 - Restrooms remain open, but due to freezing temperatures water has been shut off to the day use area, fish cleaning stations, and RV dump station.

Trail Closures

Dec. 2, 2024 - The Red and Blue sections of the Wolfpen Hike and Bike Trail are open after maintenance. Read signs and trail markers carefully, as areas of the trail have changed. Check back for updates. 

Restroom Closures

Jan. 7, 2025 - Some restrooms are closed due to freezing temperatures. Check back for updates.

Greenbelt Closures

Dec. 4, 2024 - U.S. 380 access and all trails south of the Pecan Grove Trail remain closed due to flood and storm damage. 

Check back for updates.

Trail Closures

Oct. 24, 2024 - Some trails have standing water from recent storms. Check at the office for trails to avoid. Check back or contact the park for updates.

Park Closures

All trails north of the Burkett Trailhead, as well as the River Bend, Bald Eagle and North Concho camping areas, will be closed on the following dates:

• 5 p.m. Jan. 20 to 8 a.m. Jan. 24
• 5 p.m. Mar. 30 to 8 a.m. April 4

Only permitted hunters will be allowed on these dates.

Contact the park for more information.

Reservoir Levels Notice

Sept. 4, 2024 - Due to recent rains, the lake's level has risen and it has reopened for boating. The lake is near 8 percent capacity and one boat ramp is open. Watch for debris that may have washed in during rain events. 

Sticker Bur Alert

We have lots of sticker burs in and around our campsites right now. Wear good shoes and be cautious with pets and children.

North Shore Gate Locked

Check in at the South Shore entrance (362 S. FM 2288) to get the gate code for the North Shore.

Check back for updates or contact the park for more information.

Park Closures

Portions of the park will be closed and day passes will be unavailable on the following dates:

• Jan. 15-17
• Jan. 22-24
• Feb. 5-7
• Feb. 19-21

Only permitted hunters will be allowed in closed areas on these dates. 

Beach Closure

Jan. 14, 2025 - Due to high tides:

• Beach camping is closed until Jan. 20.
• A large washout about a mile down West beach is limiting vehicle access.

Oct. 10, 2024 - The East Beach is closed until further notice. Check back for updates.

Closures

The Roadrunner Flat camping loop will be closed for construction beginning April 2025. Check back for updates. Contact the park for more information.

Tower Alert

Nov. 23, 2024 - The John Jacob Observation tower is open, but the elevator is out of service. Check back for updates. 

Park Closure

The park will be closed on the following dates:

• 5 p.m. March 24 to 2 p.m. March 28

Only permitted hunters will be allowed on these dates. Contact the park for more information.

Construction Notices

Jan. 1, 2025 - Campgrounds, trails and bird blinds are open and accessible. 

• Construction continues on a replacement of the low-water crossing at the park's entrance. Access to the river for tubing, paddling, fishing and swimming is available. Watch for signs or ask park headquarters about temporary river access points. River portage around construction is clearly marked.
• Expect construction noise, construction traffic on the roadways, and possible road or lane closures at the park.

Check back for updates or contact the park for more information.

Trail Closure

Dec. 29, 2024 - Some trails are closed due to storm damage. Please observe closure signs for your safety. 

Trail Closures

All loop trails will be closed on Saturday, Jan. 25, for a trail race. Whispering Pines and Lakeshore trails will remain open. All trails will reopen on Sunday, Jan. 26.

New Park Headquarters

Sept. 17, 2024 - Our new headquarters building is open. Please continue past the old headquarters and check in at the new building.

Area Closures

Sept. 29, 2024 - The park is open, but some areas are closed due to hurricane damage: 

• Some trails
• Creekside primitive campgrounds
• Swimming area

Please call the park for up-to-date trail conditions before making reservations.

Check back for updates.

Jan. 1, 2024 – The tram and tramway grounds are closed except for special events.