In Texas, there’s a hill that makes you feel on top of the world, with a steep, rocky climb that’ll probably have you catching your breath.
Reach the top and you’ll find pure magic, with a winding river below, green hills stretching in every direction, and skies that seem endless.
It’s the kind of place you hear about from someone who’s been going there since they were a kid, a spot that’s part hike, part tradition, and all Texas.
Ready to find out where it is and why everyone’s obsessed with it? Here’s the scoop.
Where Is It?
You’ll find Old Baldy inside Garner State Park, tucked away in the Texas Hill Country.
The drive takes about 90 minutes from San Antonio, 3 hours and 10 minutes from Austin, or 4.5 hours from Houston, with views that make the trip worthwhile.
About
With an elevation of 1,849 feet, Old Baldy is a limestone hill that rewards you with some of the Hill Country’s most breathtaking scenery.
It’s named “Old Baldy” because the summit is mostly bare rock, with little shade and a wide-open, sun-soaked climb.
As for Garner State Park, it’s been a go-to getaway since the 1940s, with Old Baldy as its crown jewel.
That’s why if you’ve seen those dreamy photos of people standing on cliffs with the Frio River winding below them, odds are it was taken from up here.
If you’re hoping for a remote, quiet wilderness vibe, you won’t find it here, especially in summer when families, hikers, and longtime visitors fill the park.
Yes, people come to soak it all in because it has that classic Texas summer camp feel.
And even if you’ve hiked bigger mountains, there’s something about Old Baldy that just hits different, leaving a feeling that lingers long after the climb.
Things To Do
Kick things off with the climb up Old Baldy, a short but steep hike over rocky terrain that comes with plenty of bragging rights once you complete it.
Afterwards, hit the trails and enjoy over 16 miles of hiking throughout Garner State Park.
The Foshee Trail is a solid choice if you’re looking for a challenge, giving you 1.7 miles of hills, rock scrambles, and sweeping views.
For a chill stroll, the Blinn River Trail runs less than a mile along the Frio River, which is pretty and easy enough to slow the pace.
And speaking of the Frio, you can actually swim in it, and nothing feels better than that icy water in the Texas summer heat.
The river’s name literally means “cold” in Spanish, and it definitely lives up to it.
If you do, the section near the camping entrance has a dam that creates calm water perfect for splashing and cooling off.
And of course, no time on the Frio River feels complete without floating, which is a slow, scenic, and completely relaxing experience.
You can also rent paddle boats, kayaks, or inner tubes during the warmer months.
In the mood for something nostalgic? Don’t miss the nightly jukebox dance.
Every summer evening, the pavilion near the concessions stand comes alive with people dancing to country music under the stars.
This tradition has been around since the 1940s, and it’s still just as fun, even if you don’t have two-stepping skills.
Next up is camping, a big part of the Garner experience with over 300 campsites, as well as cabins, screened shelters, and even group bunkhouses.
Whether you’re bringing a tent, an RV, or just a sleeping bag and high hopes, you’ll find a spot that works.
Prefer exploring during the day? Keep an eye out for the park’s mini caves and cool rock formations.
Some are hidden just off the trails, and kids love scrambling around to discover little pockets in the limestone.
And after all the fun, you can swing by the park’s grill or pavilion gift shop (both open seasonally) for a burger or a Garner shirt to take home.
From hiking and swimming to dancing or simply relaxing by the river, this is the kind of place where doing everything or nothing still gives you the best memories.
Know Before You Go
Before you toss your hiking boots in the car and head for the hills, here’s everything you need to know.
Best Time to Visit:
If you want to avoid the crowds, aim for spring or fall, when the weather is pleasant and the park is quieter.
Summer is by far the busiest season (especially on weekends), so expect packed trails, full campsites, and long lines at the entrance.
If summer is your only option, plan to arrive early or consider visiting on a weekday when things are a bit calmer.
Hours & Fees:
Garner State Park is open year-round from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., but overnight guests can come and go 24/7.
Entrance fees are super reasonable: $8 per adult, while kids 12 and under get in free.
To avoid disappointment, reserve a day pass or campsite in advance through the Texas State Parks website.
Getting There:
To get there, plug 234 RR 1050, Concan, TX 78838 into your GPS.
Cell service can get spotty the closer you get, so it’s smart to screenshot your directions or download offline maps before you hit the backroads.
Nearby Adventures:
Lost Maples State Natural Area is about 40 minutes from Garner State Park and comes alive with fall colors from late October to November.
There’s also the Frio Bat Cave, only a few minutes from the park, which offers seasonal tours where you can watch millions of bats fly out at sunset.
And the town of Utopia is also close by, complete with a golf course, cozy cafés, and a slower pace for anyone ready to unwind.
Extra Tips:
- Wear shoes with a good grip because the limestone on Old Baldy can be slick, especially after rain.
- Pack water, snacks, and sunscreen: shade is limited and the Texas sun is intense.
- Bring layers if camping: Hill Country nights can get surprisingly cool, even in summer.
- Don’t leave without taking a photo at the iconic Garner sign near the park entrance, a true rite of passage.
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