There’s a rhythm to a river that speaks to all of us—calming, powerful, and full of life. This June, as we celebrate National Rivers Month, we invite you to pause and reflect on what the San Antonio River means to you. Whether it’s a quiet moment under a cypress tree, a morning kayak with a friend, or the burst of color from a blooming pollinator garden, the river offers something for everyone. It’s more than just water—it’s community, culture, and connection.
Photo Credit: Chelsea Lynee Lahey. River Clicks Submission
The San Antonio River Foundation is the nonprofit partner to the San Antonio River Authority, working hand in hand to support projects and programs that advance the River Authority’s vision of safe, clean, enjoyable creeks and rivers. Together, we help bring the river to life for our community.
At the San Antonio River Foundation, our mission is to enhance the San Antonio River Basin as a vibrant resource for all—ecological, cultural, educational, and recreational. Everything we do is driven by the belief that every person, regardless of background or zip code, deserves the opportunity to experience and connect with the river. We’re committed to making it a place where people can learn, grow, and be inspired. We believe in that mission so deeply that we made it our motto: discover your river.
One of our proudest programs is our monthly City Council District Clean-Ups, where volunteers of all ages come together to roll up their sleeves and care for the river. These cleanups rotate through each of San Antonio’s 10 districts, creating opportunities for civic pride, environmental stewardship, and good old-fashioned teamwork. It’s a chance to meet your neighbors while making a tangible difference.
Photo Credit: Rudy Ruedas
If you’ve never been to Confluence Park, our award-winning education and community space where the San Antonio River and San Pedro Creek meet, there’s no better time than now. We host a free Ecology and Nature Tour every 4th Saturday of the month, offering an in-depth look at the sustainable design, native landscaping, and the rich biodiversity found in this special part of the river. These tours are great for all ages and interests—whether you’re a native plant enthusiast, a casual walker, or just curious about how the built environment can work in harmony with nature. Sign up here to join the next tour.
Earlier this month, we hosted the Pollinator Tea Party, a colorful, family-friendly celebration of the winged and buzzing creatures who depend on the river just as much as we do. Did you know that pollinators are responsible for every third bite of food we eat? From bees to butterflies, they are vital to our ecosystem. That’s why we partner with like-minded organizations throughout San Antonio to build habitat, grow native plants, and educate the community. Together, we’re working to keep our river buzzing with life and beauty.
The San Antonio River Foundation invites you to get involved this summer. Join our next clean-up, sign up for a Confluence Park tour, or explore one of our many public events happening year-round. If you’re part of a school, workplace, or community group, reach out—we’d love to help arrange a meaningful experience tailored just for your group, no matter the age or background. There’s always a way to connect with the river. Tell us what you’ve discovered or how the river has inspired you by filling out our feedback form.
And don’t forget—the best way to stay up to date is by joining our newsletter and following us @sariverfoundation and https://www.facebook.com/sariverfoundation/. We’re always planning something new, and we’d love to see you there.
Come find your place in the current—discover your river.
This piece is contributed by the San Antonio River Foundation (River Foundation), who supports scientific and educational activities that promote and encourage the conservation, stewardship, restoration, preservation and enjoyment of the land and water resources of the San Antonio River Basin.
Disclaimer: The River Foundation is a separate entity from the San Antonio River Authority. Any donations would be solely to the River Foundation, which is a non-profit tax-exempt organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
