Nestled in between the town of Gonzales and Luling, Palmetto State Park is a 270-acre state park that defies Texas’ arid landscape. Home to lush wetlands, multiple water sources, and palm trees, the state park is known as “a little piece of the tropics” compared to the likes of Jurassic Park.
Palmetto State Park
Located at 78 Park Road 11 South in Gonzales, Texas, Palmetto State Park is the closest thing to a jungle you’ll find in Texas. Its namesake is based on the dwarf palmetto — fan-like plants that cover the park’s floor.
The palmettos are among over 500 other plant species native to the state park, providing a surreal, swampy landscape around the San Marcos River, 4-acre Oxbow Lake, and other water sources.
As for its wildlife, the state park is populated with over 240 bird species, along with otters, armadillos, white-tailed deer, and other species.
What to do at Palmetto State Park
The park features three primary hiking trails — making it easy for visitors to make a day of the park. Ottine Swamp Trail is most recommended trail; elevated by boardwalks, the one-mile trail weaves through the swampy, jungle-like terrain of the park.
Other popular trails include the San Marcos River Trail. Running around 1.3 miles, the trail borders the river for the most part, weaving throughs at some points and provides several scenic view points along the river.
Mesquite Flats Trail, a little over one mile long, is also a popular trail, providing the best sites of mesquite trees.
Palmetto State Park also offers a range of aquatic entertainment. Its primary watering holes consist of San Marcos River and Oxbow Lake. Guests have highlighted the foot bridge across the San Marcos River as an idyllic swimming spot.
No lifeguard is on duty, so swim at your own risk. Visitors can rent tubes at Oxbow Lake. Guests can also bring their own kayaks and/or paddleboards. Fishing is available at Oxbow Lake — no license necessary if fishing from the shore or pier.
Staying at Palmetto Park
Palmetto State Park is located off Hwy 183 near Luling at 78 Park Road 11 South, Gonzales, TX. Admission is priced at $3 for adults; children 12 and under are free.
The park offers 19 tents sites and 17 RV sites on the grounds. It also feature an air-conditioned cabin sleeping six available for rent starting at $55. A group campsite for parties up to 25 people is also available. Interested parties are encouraged to book 2-3 weeks ahead of time.
