The Frio River is spring fed and has cool crystal clear water with a consistent flow. It is a popular summertime destination, particularly at Garner State Park.
Parkview Riverside RV Park
Parkview Riverside RV Resort is located across the Frio River from Garner State Park. Our site was pull in and faced the river. Picturesque views through old oak trees overlooking the Rio Frio. We had 50 amp service, 40 psi water pressure, sewer, average internet, and no Verizon cell service for 15 miles. First time we had no cell service, but we eventually figured out how to use the iPhone over the internet to make a call. We left the day before Thanksgiving, probably should have stayed longer since they put on a huge Thanksgiving feast including 20 deep fried turkeys.
There were numerous rope swings along the river. Some kids were brave enough to swim in the cold water. Its the off season. In the nearby town of Leakey, Texas most of the stores, kayak/tube rentals, and restaurants were closed.
Garner State Park
Garner State Park is about the only attraction open in the area. Therefore, it was busy. On Saturday, the park was closed because it reached its maximum capacity by 10 am. We went on a Sunday and waited in line to get in. There were numerous short hiking trails with nice views.
We rented a paddle boat so that Jake could go with us on the Frio River.
He stood on the back of it and looked at fish, turtles, and people on the shore. Jake wanted to jump in after a large painted turtle.
We came across a brown tarantula busy on its way. Females have been known to live 40 years, but mature males only a year. Their defenses consist of posturing, fangs and urticating hairs, but for the most part are docile.
The Frio River is noted in a song performed by George Strait, written by Sanger Shafer ; “All My Ex’s Live in Texas”. George Strait grew up not far from the Frio River. We were still in the beautiful Texas Hill County and loved the scenery, even though we were out of the wine country. There was hardly anyone on the roads. The landscape consisted of endless miles of rolling hills, large ranches, cattle, live oak trees, and an absence of buildings or people. Stunning.
