Palmetto State Park

Palmetto State Park is a tropical-feeling oasis along the San Marcos River, featuring dwarf palmetto plants that give the park its name. Artesian wells, lush vegetation, and the Ottine Swamp create an unexpectedly exotic landscape in Central Texas. The warm-water swimming hole on the river is a highlight.

40 campsites|Central Texas|1 hr 15 min from Austin|$4/person entrance fee

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Campsite Types

Water + Electric

$20/night

Riverside Loop · Sites 1-20 · 20 sites

Water, 30-amp ElectricRV OKTent OK

Water Only

$15/night

Palmetto Grove Loop · Sites 21-30 · 10 sites

WaterRV OKTent OK

Walk-in Tent

$12/night

Palmetto Trail Loop · Sites 31-40 · 10 sites

Water nearbyTent OK

Guide to Palmetto State Park

Best Campsites

For Families:Sites 1-20 (Riverside) — water/electric, close to river and swimming area

For Privacy:Sites 30-40 (Palmetto Trail) — walk-in tent sites in dense vegetation

For RVs:Sites 1-20 — level pads with water/electric

When to Go

April through October. Summer weekends at the swimming hole are the main draw. Spring and fall are ideal for hiking.

Tips

→The San Marcos River swimming hole is the best feature — bring towels and swimsuits
→Walk the Ottine Swamp trail for a unique ecosytem experience
→The warm artesian wells are worth finding along the trail
→Only 75 minutes from Austin — great for a quick weekend trip

Highlights

Tropical dwarf palmetto landscapeSan Marcos River swimming holeArtesian wells with warm mineral waterOttine Swamp nature trailLush, jungle-like vegetationRiver tubing and fishing

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