MonkeyMamma

I've never been to Garner SP before and was thinking of stopping there for a few days either on the way to or on the way from the Davis Mountains and Balmoreah this July. I have heard so many good things about Garner. Can someone please tell me which area is nicest for tent camping? Old or New? Specific sites?

I just got my first ever State Park pass so I am also thinking of day tripping to a couple other parks from Garner. Which should I not miss?

Thanks in advance!

campermom

Old Garner water/electric sites are very close together. The water only sites for tents are in a pecan grove. As with the other sites, there is little privacy. We like New Garner. There is more shade, more space between sites, and less of a crowd. Try to get a site that backs up to the river and find a trail to your own piece of the Frio.

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MonkeyMamma

Thanks Campermom! I think we will go ahead and make the reservations for New Garner. I prefer not to be in my neighbors lap when I camp. A little space will be nice. Thanks again!

JohnK

I agree 100% with Campermom. New Garner is much quieter and affords a little privacy. Old Garner is very noisy and has a constant stream of traffic. As far as New Garner is concerned, you might want to try the Rio Frio area, sites 400 - 513. We have stayed at Persimmon Hill before, which was quite nice, with the exception of the fact that you can hear traffic on FM 1050 all night long. If you are capable of tuning out road noise, it's a great spot to camp.

You asked about other places to visit in the area. Lost Maples SNA is gorgeous. If you have time, check it out.

JohnK

JohnK

I took a closer look at New Garner campsite info. As far as the Rio Frio area is concerned, sites 429 - 473 are water only sites; so, there would be less chance of air conditioner noise, etc, unless, of course, someone is running a generator. Of those sites, the even numbered sites from 434 to 458 are along the river and look like they might be good possibilities.

Be sure to post a report after your trip! Hope you have a great time!

JohnK

MonkeyMamma

John thank you so much for that information. Very helpful indeed. The dh and I certainly prefer less noise and crowds. Granted Garner probably isnt the best place to go for peace and quiet but I'd like to not be right in the middle of a huge party 24/7. Now I am thinking maybe this should be our first stop instead of our last. Put the more relaxing and quiet places at the end of the trip.

MonkeyMamma

What do you guys think about Pedernales Falls for three days? We could take a day trip over to Longhorn Caverns. Since I couldn't get into Garner I began looking again. We still may try and get into Garner but I'd like opinions on other places as well for our return trip home.