Last Updated on July 1, 2026
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 this summer! We have enjoyed seeing everyone out at our programs as well as enjoying the parks with friends and family.
To keep the fun going, the River Authority invites you to explore our beautiful nature parks this summer — and with a full calendar of programs running July through September, there’s something for everyone along the river.
How many of these must-do events can you check off your list this summer?
Discover nature’s secrets at Nature Days!
Nature Days is an exciting program series where we explore the wonders of the great outdoors at one of the San Antonio River Authority Parks. Each session focuses on a unique nature-based topic, from bird watching and plant identification to local wildlife and ecosystems. Whether you’re a seasoned nature enthusiast or just looking to spend some quality time outside, Nature Days offers something for everyone. Come discover the beauty of nature with us and deepen your appreciation for the natural world. Click here for a list of all upcoming Nature Days!
Groove to live music under the stars!
Join us for free music at Escondido Creek Parkway in Kenedy, TX, and Branch River Park in Goliad, TX! Local musicians will light up the night and share their artistic talents with all who would like to join. Bring your lawn chairs, invite your friends, and enjoy a relaxing night outdoors. Complimentary treats will be available while supplies last. Click here for more information.
Hike through the night and spot wild wonders!
Join San Antonio River Authority staff on a nature hike to explore the nocturnal flora and fauna that call the River Authority’s nature-based parks home. Learn about native plants and wildlife in a fun and exciting way. You never know what you will find, so join us for these wild-card night hikes through these amazing nature parks. Start times and end times change depending on the time of sunset. We will hold night hikes once a month from July-November. Stay tuned for upcoming hikes on our Events Page.
Learn to play Disc Golf and win prizes!
Join us for a casual, unsanctioned tournament with eighteen holes, 180 feet and under. Whoever scores the lowest round wins! Players must use the discs provided in their player’s pack for all throws. All skill levels are welcome to come out and have a great time! To sign up, please click here.
Beat the heat on an early morning Nature Walk!
If you’re looking to beat the heat this summer and check out San Antonio River Authority Parks, join River Authority staff for an hour-long nature walk! Discover the beauty of the San Antonio River watershed and all that the San Antonio River Authority parks offer. All nature walks will begin at 8:00 a.m. Click here for a complete list of Nature Walk offerings!
Pedal along the river on a Guided Bike Ride!
Join the San Antonio River Authority staff for a one-hour bike tour along the Mission Reach section of the San Antonio River!
Participants will enjoy a scenic ride on B-cycle electric bikes while learning about the area’s natural and cultural history. It’s a perfect combination of exercise and exploration, making each ride a unique and enriching experience.
Please note that to participate, you must know how to ride a bicycle and be 18 years of age or older. Click here for a complete list of Guided Bike Rides.
NEW! Curl up with a good book at Current Reads!
CALLING ALL BOOK AND NATURE LOVERS! Join The San Antonio Recreation team for their upcoming book club: Current Reads, hosted at the Estela Avery Classroom at Confluence Park at 6PM. Dive into various genres, including sci-fi, narrative fiction, and nonfiction, to deepen your understanding of the natural world. Meet-ups will be monthly and will include an in-depth discussion of the book. Please click here to register! The book for July 16th is Annihilation by Jeff Vanermeer.
NEW! Explore, complete challenges, and win at Nature Field Day!
Nature Field Day is a fun day of exploration for all!
Explore one of the San Antonio River Authority’s nature-based parks in an exciting way! Utilize the Goosechase app as your guide through the park anytime between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Explorers who download the Goosechase app and participate in 3 or more activities will win a prize! View upcoming dates below.
- Friday, July 17, 2026 (Facebook Event Page)
- John William Helton Nature Park
- 15662 FM 775, Floresville, TX 78114
- Friday, August 21, 2026 (Facebook Event Page)
- Trueheart Ranch Nature Park
- 14984 Blue Wing Rd, San Antonio, TX 78221
We truly appreciate those of you who attend River Authority programs and events! Your support allows us to keep providing free activities throughout the San Antonio River Basin. Stay updated on all free programs and events taking place at River Authority Parks and Trails by visiting our events page.
We hope to see you out on the trail, under the stars, or at one of our many programs this summer. The River Authority parks are yours to explore — come make some memories with us!
