Capture the Current, Share the Beauty—Submit Your Best Shot to the 8th Annual River Clicks Photo Contest!
April is Earth Month, a time to reflect on our connection to nature and take action to protect the planet’s precious resources. What better way to celebrate than by capturing the beauty of the San Antonio River Basin through photography? By sharing your perspective, you help highlight the importance of conservation and inspire others to appreciate and protect our natural world. Whether you’re an experienced photographer or simply enjoy capturing the beauty of nature, the San Antonio River Authority invites you to participate in the 8th Annual River Clicks Photo Contest.
Since 2018, this contest has celebrated the diverse landscapes, ecosystems, and recreational opportunities found throughout the San Antonio River Basin. Each year, participants of all skill levels are encouraged to submit their best images taken within Bexar, Wilson, Karnes, or Goliad counties. These photos help showcase the natural beauty of the region and contribute to a growing visual archive that highlights the importance of safe, clean, and enjoyable creeks and rivers.
This Year’s Special Category
In honor of the 25th anniversary of Canoe Trail Goliad, this year’s special category highlights the Goliad Paddling Trail and Branch River Park. Canoe Trail Goliad, a nonprofit organization, has been a key partner in promoting river recreation and nature-based tourism in Goliad. To celebrate this milestone, photographers are encouraged to explore this scenic waterway and submit images that capture its beauty, history, and recreational opportunities.
Contest Timeline
- March 1, 2025—Contest opens
- May 31, 2025 (5:00 p.m. CST)—Contest closes
- July 1-15, 2025—Online voting for the People’s Choice category
- Fall 2025—Winners and finalists announced at the Witte Museum reception
Contest Categories
Participants can submit photos in the following categories:
- Creeks & Rivers—Images that highlight the beauty of a creek or river within the San Antonio River Authority’s four-county jurisdiction.
- Animals—Photographs capturing native wildlife in their natural, undisturbed habitat.
- Plants & Insects—Images showcasing plant life, pollinators, and insects in their natural environment.
- Recreation Featuring Disc Golf—Photos capturing outdoor recreation, with a special emphasis on disc golf. Submissions can be from any course, though images from the River Authority’s 18-hole course at Graytown Park in Wilson County or 9-hole course at Branch River Park in Goliad County are highly encouraged.
- Pet—Images featuring domesticated pets enjoying the San Antonio River Basin or any River Authority park.
- Student—Any photograph from the above categories submitted by a contestant under the age of 18. A parent or guardian must provide consent and submit a waiver at the time of entry.
- Seasonal Variation—While the contest takes place in the spring, this category is for photographs taken during a different season. The goal is to showcase how the San Antonio River Basin transforms throughout the year.
- Special Category: Goliad Paddling Trail & Branch River Park—Photos in any of the above categories, taken specifically within the Goliad Paddling Trail or Branch River Park, with an emphasis on kayaking, canoeing, or paddling.
Who Can Enter?
The River Clicks Photo Contest is open to all community members, regardless of skill level. However, individuals affiliated with the San Antonio River Authority or the San Antonio River Foundation—including employees, board members, and interns—are not eligible for prizes.
Judges’ Choice and People’s Choice Awards
In addition to category winners, the following awards will be presented:
- People’s Choice—Selected through an online public vote from July 1 to July 15.
- Judges’ Choice for Best Photograph from Bexar County
- Judges’ Choice for Best Photograph from Wilson County
- Judges’ Choice for Best Photograph from Karnes County
- Judges’ Choice for Best Photograph from Goliad County
How to Enter the Contest
Photographers may submit one photo per category, ensuring that all images are taken within Bexar, Wilson, Karnes, or Goliad counties.
By entering, participants not only have a chance to win outdoor recreation prize packages valued up to $1,000, but they also help showcase the incredible landscapes and wildlife that make the San Antonio River Basin a vital and cherished resource.
Ready to capture your own stunning shot? Grab your camera, explore the outdoors, and let your lens tell the story of our rivers and creeks! Then, submit your best photos on the River Clicks Photo Contest page.
This Earth Month, join us in celebrating the beauty of the San Antonio River Basin—one photo at a time!
