Things To Do

Amistad National Recreation Area offers a variety of activities for everyone. Want to go for a drive? The unpaved Viewpoint Road at Diablo East offers sweeping views of the lake. The park also has eight picnic areas: Black Brush Point, Diablo East, Governors Landing, Pecos River, Rough Canyon, 277 North, and 277 South. Visitors may also swim anywhere in the lake, except in coves with boat ramps or marinas. Remember: The park has no lifeguards, so you swim at your own risk.

Active and retired military also have exclusive access to Southwinds (United States Air Force) Marina, which may provide additional opportunities for recreation.
 
Aerial view of Amistad Dam with reservoir behind
Amistad Dam and Reservoir

International Boundary and Water Commission Photo

Visiting Amistad Dam

Because the Amistad Dam is an official Port of Entry, visitors wishing to cross any portion of the dam are required to have a valid passport or other citizenship documentation with them. For information about accepted documentation and hours of operation for the Port of Entry, please visit US Customs and Border Protection.

The International Boundary and Water Commission operates Amistad Dam. Tours of the dam are not offered.

 
Image of motorboat stern making a sharp turn and wakes on a still, blue lake
Boating

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

Osprey with fish on denuded tree branch tip
Birding

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

Picture of picnic shelter with table and tent in a Governors Landing campsite.
Camping

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

Two single-person, sit-down-in, touring kayaks on calm, crystal blue reservoir
Paddling

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

Image of white-tailed deer buck looking toward camera.
Hunting

Now taking applications for Amistad permits for the 2023-2024 hunting season.

Silhouette of angler in the sunrise. Photo Credit: NPS / K Dunlap
Fishing

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

Improved trail with trail sign - NPS Photo
Hiking

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

Man-down flag, which is a red flag with broad, white, diagonal line
Scuba Diving

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

Amistad Visitor Center front porch with overhang.
Operating Hours & Seasons

Need a break from the weather? Come to the Visitor Center and watch park films, shop for souvenirs, or check out the exhibits.

Last updated: December 12, 2023

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

10477 Highway 90 West
Del Rio, TX 78840

Phone:

(830) 775-7491

Contact Us