Palmetto State Park is a state park located in Gonzales County, Texas, United States northwest of Gonzales and southeast of Luling. The land was acquired by deeds from private owners and the City of Gonzales in 1934 - 1936 and was opened in 1936.A visit to Palmetto State Park represents just the start of the adventure when you use our Gonzales route maker site to plot your vacation.
The park is named for the dwarf palmetto, which grows abundantly in the park. The San Marcos River runs through the park. The 4acre Oxbow Lake, initially created by flood waters, is now independent of the river and is spring fed. There are many bogs throughout the park that are surrounded by dense vegetation, giving the park a jungle-like atmosphere.
The park was constructed by Civilian Conservation Corps Companies 873 and 886 between 1934 and 1937. The CCC built Park Road 11, a low water crossing on the San Marcos River, a water tower/storage building, refectory, and residence, barbeque pits, picnic seating, rock pool and retention dams, rock table, culverts, concrete picnic tables, and two sets of entrance portals.
FloraIn addition to the dwarf palmetto, red buckeye and rattan vine are prevalent in the park.
FaunaWhite-tailed deer are common throughout the park, as are raccoons, nine-banded armadillos, and fox squirrels. Over 240 species of birds such as the pileated woodpecker, and Kentucky warbler have been recorded within the park's boundaries. Some of the birds often spotted include the prothonotary warbler, and red-shouldered hawk.
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Palmetto State Park reviews
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This State Park was a pleasant surprise! Went in Feb, so probably didn't experience the total beauty of the plant life, but the trails were VERY well kept and marked. The CCC structures were in good.... more »
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First time to this state park. A bit small but still good park. Sort of split into two sections. One by the headquarter where the lake and play ground is located. Then there is another section... more »
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One of my favorite hiking trails and kayaking. Not far from San Antonio. The Park Rangers are always full of so much knowledge. They have excellent activities. Check out their calendar online.
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Nice little state park. All sites were booked so we couldn't camp over night. We drove around to familiarize ourselves with the park then took the dogs on some trails. It is a very nice, clean park and even when fully booked, it isn't so packed with people that you can't enjoy yourself. Plenty of space for everyone to swim and walk the trails without feeling like you're on top of each other. We can't wait to take our RV back and spend the weekend there!
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