Blanco State Park: small, accessible, and worth a visit

Blanco State Park is one of Texas’ smallest state parks, but its size can be deceptive: The park packs a lot, without overpacking, in 104.6 acres. You can swim in the spring-fed Blanco River, hike easy trails, spot wildlife, fish for rainbow trout and more from the bank, and admire the Civilian Conservation Corps “parkitecture” that’s stood the test of time for nine decades.
Even if you’ve never visited Blanco State Park, you might have seen it without realizing it, especially if you travel south through Blanco on U.S. 281. The park straddles both sides of the Blanco River bridge and abuts the city. To get to there, exit onto Park Road 23.
Stop at park headquarters to pay an entrance fee ($5 for ages 13 and older), ask questions, get park and trail maps, and shop for souvenirs. You can also rent fishing gear, inner tubes, and kayaks. Then, find your picnic spot, camping space, or screened shelter and get ready to explore this little gem.

SWIMMING, BOATING, TUBING

The cool, clear waters of the Blanco River, the heart of Blanco State Park, have drawn aquaphiles for decades. The Falls, cascades of water formed by the historic Falls Dam, offers a cool, refreshing respite from the hot sun. Jump in for a swim or float on an inner tube or non-motorized watercraft. Younger kids can splash around in the adjacent wading pool. (NOTE: Due to drought, The Falls might not be flowing.)

HIKING

Explore the flora and fauna of Blanco State Park on two short trails. The 0.3-mile Pumphouse Trail overlooks the river and passes the ruins of a CCC pumphouse. The longer Caswell Nature Trail (1.3 miles) takes hikers through heavily wooded areas along rocky terrain. Pack a camera and be on the lookout for wildlife: You could spot a great blue heron among other animals that populate the park. In the spring, look for splashes of color as wildflowers bloom.

FISHING

Drop a line almost anywhere along the riverbank and try your luck snagging a largemouth bass, channel catfish, or sunfish. In the winter, you might land a rainbow trout, which the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department stocks in the river each year.

PICNICKING

You’ll find scenic picnic areas with stone tables and grills throughout the park. Large groups can make a special occasion even more memorable by reserving the CCC-built picnic pavilion or outdoor picnic area with its native stone long table and a view of the Blanco River.

OVERNIGHT

Savor a restful night under the stars at one of 29 campsites or a screened shelter.

CIVILIAN CONSERVATION CORPS LEGACY

The vintage Civilian Conservation Corps ‘parkitecture’ at Blanco State Park. The park was one of the first four Texas State Parks to welcome a CCC crew in the 1930s. Staff photo by Chuck Hamilton

This was one of the first four Texas State Parks to welcome a Civilian Conservation Corps crew when Company 854 arrived on June 16, 1933. Many of the bridges, dams, park structures, picnic areas, and roads the they built remain an integral part of the park.
Blanco State Park’s central location (less than an hour from San Antonio, slightly longer from Austin, and a short drive from almost anywhere in the Highland Lakes) makes it an ideal meetup spot for nearby family and friends and a peaceful getaway year-round.
Blanco State Park is located at 101 Park Road 23 in Blanco. Call 830-833-4333 for more information.

OTHER THINGS TO DO AND SEE

While at Blanco State Park, schedule time to visit the quaint town of Blanco, Texas. It’s just a short stroll or drive from the park and well worth visiting.
Here are a handful of attractions you’ll find:
Blanco Bowling Club & Café
310 E. Fourth St., 830-833-4416
Bowl retro at the club, where they still set pins by hand. The café serves a comfort food menu and hearty breakfasts.
Deutsch Apple Bakery
602 Chandler St., 830-833-3077
Load up on fresh-baked delectables, including bacon cinnamon rolls and apple cider donuts.
Josie’s Kitchen
18 Main St., 830-833-3232
Made-from-scratch soups, sandwiches, and pies.
Liz on the Square
405-A Third St., 830-833-0405
Shop for clothes, shoes, locally made gifts, and Miller Creek Lavender products.
Old Blanco County Courthouse
300 Main St.
An outstanding example of Second Empire-style architecture, the courthouse was built in 1885 and vacated just five years later, when the county seat moved to Johnson City. A visitor center and museum are on the first floor. Browse the vendors on the lawn during Blanco Market Day, which is the third Saturday of each month.
OroBianco Italian Creamery
503 Main St., 830-833-3114
The “old country” meets the Texas Hill Country at this Italian-style dairy that churns out cheeses and gelatos from water buffalo milk and locally sourced ingredients. Also serves coffee drinks and specialty sandwiches.
Real Ale Brewing Company
231 San Saba Ct.
Visit the taproom for a rotating menu of craft beers and cocktails with housemade spirits.
This is by no means a complete list of Blanco attractions, shops, and restaurants. Tout your favorite spot in the comment section below.
chuck@thepicayune.com