Happy Trails! Summer 2023 Edition ~ San Antonio River Authority

Last Updated on January 30, 2024

Welcome back to the Happy Trails Blog Series! We hope you have had a chance to get outside and enjoy some fresh air at the San Antonio River Authority (River Authority) parks and trails!

A Quick Thank You

Many thanks to those of you that were able to attend River Authority programs and events! Your support allows us to keep providing free activities throughout the San Antonio River Basin.

Thank you to those that join us every Monday night from 6-7PM at San Pedro Creek Culture Park’s Culture Crossing for Yoga on the Creek!

Thank you to those that came out and learned about fishing on March 4 at Family, Fishing, & Friends with Fin Addict Angler Foundation on Saturday, March 4^th! If you missed us in March or want to join us again, there’s an upcoming clinic on Saturday, May 13.

Thank you to everyone that competed in the cold and rainy paddle race at Race the River – Downtown Riverwalk on Saturday, March 18! Watch the full event video!

Thank you to all those that attended CreekFest! Also, special thanks to our performers, educational partners, retail vendors, food vendors, and volunteers that helped us create an amazing event. For more pictures from CreekFest, check the San Pedro Creek facebook page.

SASPAMCO Paddling Trail

Need ideas for some summer fun?! Do you enjoy paddling, disc golf, or camping? If so, check out the SASPAMCO paddling trail. Located just south of Loop 1604 in Bexar and Wilson counties, the SASPAMCO paddling trail is a great way to experience the great outdoors without traveling too far from home.

This 29-mile paddling trail has a wild feel as you float down the river. It’s easy to forget how close you are to nearby towns when your view is filled with a winding river lined by Cyprus, Willow, and Pecan trees. All you hear is the moving water and wildlife surrounding you.

Starting at River Crossing Park, paddlers will find easy access to the river as well as an opportunity for a beautiful pre-paddle picnic space.

Six miles downstream (about 2.5 hours of leisurely paddling) you’ll find Graytown Park. A great midway stopping point for lunch and a bathroom break if you’re paddling the trail. If not, check out Graytown Park for its gorgeous disc golf course. The full 18-hole course is a blast for casual disc throwers. However, if you’re feeling competitive, stay in touch with the local disc golf community for information on one of the many tournaments held throughout the year!

At mile 12 of the SASPAMCO paddling trail, you’ll arrive at John William Helton- San Antonio River Nature Park. The River Authority’s largest park in Wilson County presents visitors with plenty of open space to enjoy the outdoors and host gatherings of family and friends under the reservable pavilion. If you find yourself wanting to stay a little longer, reserve one of the 44 campsites and enjoy a night under the stars. Helton Nature Park is also a frequent location of some of our community recreation programs. Keep an eye on our events calendar to see what’s coming up.