Outdoor Activities

Viewing Native American Pictographs
Prehistoric Native American paintings abound in the Amistad area. Visitors may view these 4,000 year-old pictographs by boat or on foot.

Panther Cave, located on the Rio Grande near the Pecos River, is accessible only by boat. Forty minutes west of Amistad Visitor Center is Seminole Canyon State Park and Historic Site. Guided walking tours of caves featuring pictographs are available on select days. The Rock Art Foundation, a non-profit conservation organization, also offers guided tours to regional pictograph sites. Learn more about visiting pictograph sites.

Swimming
Swimming at Amistad is a great way to escape the desert heat. Water temperatures range from 54°F in winter months to 86°F in late summer. Unsupervised swim areas are located at Governors Landing and at Diablo East.

Swimming is not allowed in harbors, within 200 feet of fishing docks, near mooring areas and boat ramps, and in any other area posted as closed to swimming or visitor use. These areas are unsafe areas for swimmers because of vessel concentrations and fishing hooks and lines that might cause injuries.

There are no lifeguards on duty and swimming is at your own risk, so life vests are recommended.

Remember, Safety First when Swimming!

• Stay within reach of children.
• Do not swim alone.
• Diving from the cliffs is extremely dangerous and is not recommended.
• If you swim from a boat, make sure the boat is anchored. Never start the engine while swimmers are overboard.
• There are no lifeguards on duty; all swimming is at your own risk.
• Small children and non-swimmers should wear Coast Guard approved life jackets; some areas in Amistad Reservoir have sudden drop offs.
• Remember: Water activities and alcohol do not mix. Many drownings are alcohol-related and can be prevented by not drinking alcoholic beverages before or during water sports.

Picnic By the Lake
Relax and enjoy lakeside views at any of Amistad National Recreation Area's eight picnic areas. Each area is equipped with tables, grills, and shelters. There is no charge for picnicking.

Nature Photography
Amistad's desert-like environment offers photographers vast landscapes, beautiful skies, clear waters, and the surprise of cactus flowers after a good rain.

 

Birding

Situated on the U.S.-Mexico border in the Central Flyway, Amistad offers opportunities to observe neotropical birds and some familiar ones.

Boating

With beautiful, crystal blue waters, Amistad National Recreation Area offers premier boating opportunities for your vessel.

Camping

Enjoy sleeping under the stars while in the great outdoors. Visit the Camping page for more information on campsites in the park.

Fishing

It's all about that bass! Especially known for its record bass, Amistad provides world-class fishing.

Trails and Trail Maps

Take a stroll along the lake. Explore Amistad on foot with one of these trails.

Hunting and Hunting Area Maps

Amistad provides many opportunities for hunters. While TPWD hunting laws apply, hunters also must follow regulations unique to the park.

Paddling Maps

Want more of a challenge? Consider trying some of the park's unmarked paddle trails. Maps are available.

Scuba Diving

Bring your scuba gear and training with you to Amistad. The reservoir's clear, blue waters provide opportunities for exploring.

Basic Information

Find links to operating hours, fees & passes, current conditions, permits, NPS App, weather, pets, and more.

Become an Amistad Junior Ranger!

Learn more about the Amistad National Recreation Area Junior Ranger program and about the specialty Junior Ranger programs offered.

Event Calendar

When we have programs or park events, we'll post them here.

Things To Do

Looking for more ways to enjoy the park? Check out some ideas on the park's Things to Do page.