San Marcos offers a variety of parks perfect for hiking, fishing, and immersing oneself in nature. Each of these parks provides a unique way to experience the natural beauty of the area. Whether you're seeking challenging hikes, tranquil fishing spots, or leisurely walks, there's something for every nature enthusiast.

2102 Hunter Rd.
 Spanning over 570 acres, Purgatory Creek features diverse landscapes including upland meadows, canyon bluffs, and dense juniper thickets. The area is divided into Prospect Park, Lower Purgatory, and Upper Purgatory, each offering unique trails. Popular trails like Dante, Paraiso, and Malcoda lead hikers through limestone formations and offer birdwatching opportunities, including sightings of Golden-cheeked Warblers and Black-capped Vireos.

397 San Marcos Springs Dr.
 Home to the Meadows Center for Water and the Environment, this 251-acre park is rich in biodiversity. Trails meander through woodlands and along the lake's edge, providing views of endangered species such as the Texas Blind Salamander and Fountain Darter. Visitors can enjoy glass-bottom boat tours or explore the trails that wind through the preserve.

100 Ridgewood
 This 21-acre natural area offers a peaceful retreat with its sloped canyon hills and mature trees like live oaks and cedar elms. The park features both accessible and natural surface trails, making it suitable for hikers of all abilities. It's also a prime spot for birdwatching, with species such as Northern Cardinals and Carolina Wrens commonly observed.

San Marcos River Walk
 A 2.2-mile paved trail that runs through San Marcos City Park and Rio Vista Park, the River Walk offers scenic views of the San Marcos River. It's a popular spot for walking, jogging, and wildlife observation, with opportunities to see birds and other local fauna along the way.

On those hot Texas days, come relax with a leisurely one-hour float on the 72-degree spring-fed San Marcos River. They even have a shuttle that will bring you back. You do plan on coming back, don’t you?