Garner State Park Camping
in October

Booking Garner State Park in October

Most Texas state park overnight camping and lodging reservations can be made up to five months in advance. Confirm the current reservation schedule for your accommodation and dates with Texas Parks and Wildlife.

Texas Parks and Wildlife reservation guidance · Checked 2026-09-07.

What to Expect in October

Cooler weather and turning cypress make fall a second peak. Weekends fill for the foliage and ideal hiking conditions.

Park Highlights

• ✓Swimming and tubing in the Frio River — spring-fed and ice cold
• ✓Nightly summer dance at the concession building (a Texas tradition since the 1940s)
• ✓Old Baldy Trail — 1.7-mile climb with panoramic Hill Country views
• ✓Paddleboard and kayak rentals on the river
• ✓Mini golf and game room at the concession
• ✓One of the largest campgrounds in the Texas parks system

Tips

• →Summer weekends book up the instant the 5-month window opens — set your alarm
• →The river can be low in late summer during dry years — check conditions before you go
• →Bring water shoes — the river bottom is rocky limestone
• →The nightly dance is free and open to all ages — it's genuinely fun, not touristy
• →Sites near the river can flood after heavy rain — check the weather forecast