Five of our favorite parks around San Antonio

Whether you prefer to hit the trails or enjoy the amenities of local parks, there are many ways to enjoy the natural beauty of San Antonio and the Texas Hill Country.

Conserving and appreciating these resources is central to the mission of Ben & Annie’s Trees for Tomorrow. Here are five of our favorite parks around San Antonio that we plan to visit this summer.

Brackenridge Park
With some of the area’s top attractions located on its grounds, Historic Brackenridge Park is a top destination for area families and visitors alike spanning 343 acres. Stroll along the San Antonio River or see more than 750 species of animals in the San Antonio Zoo. The Japanese Tea Garden, Sunken Garden Theater, Witte Museum and San Antonio Botanical Gardens are also in Brackenridge Park. There are also winding trails and tree-lined paths between sprawling greenspaces where you can plan a picnic or toss a frisbee

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
Climb to the top of the ancient dome to see breathtaking views of the Texas Hill Country. This massive, pink granite dome is the centerpiece of Enchanted Rock State Natural Area in Fredericksburg and is surrounded with other natural rock formations. Eleven miles of hiking trails allow you to safely explore the park and campgrounds are available for overnight stays. Bring the family dog along for a long walk on the Loop Trail and enjoy one of the day-use picnic areas. 

Government Canyon State Natural Area
With 12,000 acres of wilderness, the Government Canyon State Natural Area protects the city’s drinking water while offering eye-catching views of the natural area around it. Walk 40 miles of trails like the Joe Johnston Route where you will pass 110-million-year-old dinosaur tracks. There is also plenty of room to camp, enjoy a picnic, attend a program or guided hike, geocache, and look for native wildlife. Children will find “natural fun” at the playscape and Discovery Trail. 

San Pedro Springs Park
San Pedro Springs Park is the second-oldest park in the country, behind only Boston Common. The land was reserved by the Spanish government for public use in the 18th century and it was named for the springs and creek that originated there. Since its founding, people have gathered for a number of purposes from gathering food and water to hiking, biking, and swimming. The McFarlin Tennis Center and a swimming pool are also included in the park. 

Woodlawn Lake Park
Winding along the shore of the man-made Woodlawn Lake, this 62-acre park offers a number of amenities including walking trails, boat docks, a pool, a gym, a dance studio and community center. There is also a community center and the Woodlawn Island House where events are held throughout the year. The Centennial Garden at Woodlawn Lake Park is another popular feature. It was installed as part of the park’s 100-year celebration in 2018.

For more information about Ben & Annie’s Trees for Tomorrow and its work around the San Antonio area, call 210-670-5297 or email info@benannietrees.org.