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National Recreation Area · Texas

Amistad National Recreation Area

National Recreation Area in Texas. No entrance fee. 2 hikes listed.

By The Green Adventures · Updated · How we check

TypeNational Recreation Area
StateTexas
Entrance feeNo entrance fee
Campgrounds6
Nearest national parkBig Bend (132 mi)
Closest airportSJT (131 mi)
Sunset over Amistad Reservoir with Highway 90 bridge to left of photo going over the reservoir and i
Enjoy the serenity of sunset at Amistad National Recreation Area's Governors Landing Day Use Area. Photo: NPS / E Paola

Amistad National Recreation Area is a national recreation area run by the National Park Service in Texas.

In the park service’s words

An oasis in the desert, Amistad National Recreation Area consists of the US portion of the International Amistad Reservoir. Amistad, a Spanish word meaning "friendship," is known for excellent water-based recreation, camping, hiking, and rich cultural history dating back nearly 5,000 years. Amistad is also home to a wide variety of plant and animal life both above and below the water.

From the National Park Service (public domain).

Things to do

  • Hike the Diablo East Nature Trail: Hiking at Amistad - Diablo East Nature Trail
  • Boating at Amistad: Boating at Amistad National Recreation Area
  • Swimming at Amistad: Swimming and playing in the water at Governors Landing, and throughout the park, is popular during Amistad National Recreation Area's hot summers. Swimming is allowed throughout the park except at mooring locations, designated fishing locations, and boat ramps.
  • Hiking at Amistad: These trails at Amistad National Recreation Area will provide opportunities for wildlife watching, lake views, and quiet reflection.

Fees and hours

Entrance fee: No entrance fee.

Hours: Open 24 hours, every day. Amistad National Recreation Area is open throughout the year. However, some areas may experience temporary closures because of low water levels. Please see our Operation Hours and Seasons and Current Conditions pages for more specific details.

Camping

Campground Sites Booking From RVs Amenities
San Pedro Campground 41 Both $6 Yes cell signal
277 North Campground 18 Both $6 Yes cell signal
Governors Landing Campground 15 First come $10 Yes, up to 28 ft water, cell signal
Spur 406 Campground 6 First come $6 Yes cell signal
Rough Canyon Campground 4 First come $6 Yes cell signal
Rock Quarry Group Campsite 1 Reservable $35 Yes dump station, cell signal

Getting there

Amistad National Recreation Area is located on the US-Mexico border 7 miles west of the Del Rio city limit and 6 miles west of the US Highway 90 and 277 North intersection. The park is 160 miles west of San Antonio on US Highway 90 and about 230 miles east of Big Bend National Park via US Highway 90 and US Highway 385. Access to Amistad from the north or south is via US 277/377. The visitor center address is 10477 Highway 90 West, Del Rio, TX 78840.

Airport City Drive to the park Straight-line miles Type
San Angelo Regional Mathis Field (SJT) San Angelo, TX No road route 131 Regional
San Antonio International Airport (SAT) San Antonio, TX No road route 157 Large hub
Laredo International Airport (LRD) Laredo, TX No road route 169 Regional

Drive times run from the airport to Zion Canyon Visitor Center, estimated with OSRM routing on OpenStreetMap roads at normal speeds; allow extra for traffic, stops and construction.

Miles are straight-line distances.

Visitor centers

Weather

Weather in Southwest Texas can change in a matter of minutes. It is best to check the local weather report. Amistad National Recreation Area usually has hot summers and mild winters. For more information, please visit the park's Current Conditions page at https://www.nps.gov/amis/planyourvisit/conditions.htm.

From the National Park Service (public domain).

Know before you go

Drones are banned at almost every park site, and you may not take rocks, plants or artifacts. Pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet where they are allowed. Bring no firewood from home.

Nearby

The nearest national park is Big Bend, about 132 miles away in a straight line.

Sources

Last checked 1 November 2026.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee at Amistad National Recreation Area?

No entrance fee.

Where is Amistad National Recreation Area?

In Texas. The closest airport with scheduled flights is San Angelo Regional Mathis Field, about 131 miles away.

Can you camp at Amistad National Recreation Area?

Yes, at 6 campgrounds the park service lists.

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