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Amistad National Recreation Area

National Recreation Area · TX

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.

Official NPS page →

Current Alerts (3)

Park Closure

Diablo East Marina Cove, Scuba Cove, and Walkway Access Are Closed

The Diablo East Marina Cove, Scuba Cove, and walkway access are closed because of the presence of excessive docking material, unsafe walkway and dock, and unstable, loose ground. The area will reopen once these hazards have been corrected.

Caution

Help Prevent Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Infestation

A number of lakes are infested with an array of aquatic invasive species that damage natural ecosystems and waterways. Boaters are advised to Clean, Drain, and Dry all boats and equipment every time they leave the water.

Park Closure

Only Left Side of Diablo East and Rough Canyon Boat Ramps Are Open - Rest Are Closed

Due to low water levels, only the left side of Diablo East and Rough Canyon boat ramps are open. Please use caution with Spur 406 and Spur 454 launches, as the water may be too shallow to launch most boats. To see a list of open ramps, click on "more."

Entrance Fees

This park is fee-free.

Campgrounds (6)

277 North Campground

277 North Campground is generally open year-round and rarely fills up. A boat launch ramp off the campground may be available depending on lake levels. 277 North offers 17 primitive sites, which are first-come, first-served only. Each site has a covered picnic table and a BBQ grill. A group site is available with reservation only. No ground fires are allowed. The sites are suitable for tents or RVs. Vault toilets are available. No drinking water or hookups are available.

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Governors Landing Campground

Governors Landing Campground is open year-round and rarely fills up, except possibly on holiday weekends. It is suitable for tents and RVs up to 28 feet in length. Governors Landing is the only campground in the park with potable water available, though there are no hookups. This campground has access to some of the most popular swimming areas in the park. Picnicking at vacant sites in Governors Landing Campground is allowed 7am to 3pm. Occupying sites outside these times requires payment of camping fees.

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Rock Quarry Group Campsite

Rock Quarry Group Campsite is open year-round and is a limited development campsite. It offers a private space for a group of up to 35 people. Amenities include a pavilion-covered picnic area with tables and an accessibility ramp, a grill, trash receptacle, vault toilet, and a campfire ring. By reservation only, no less than three days in advance.

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Rough Canyon Campground

Rough Canyon Campground is generally open year-round and is in close proximity to a boat ramp. There may be a camp host on duty in the winter, and a Ranger Station is staffed intermittently. This campground offers 4 primitive sites, each with a covered picnic table and a BBQ grill. The sites are suitable for tents or RVs. No drinking water or hookups are available. Comfort station and running water available nearby at the Ranger Station.

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San Pedro Campground

San Pedro Campground is open year-round and rarely fills to capacity. Of Amistad's campgrounds, it is the best suited for large RVs. This campground is accessed via a 1¼ mile graded, gravel road and offers 34 sites suitable for tents or RVs. There are also 8 walk-in (tent only) sites. Each site has a covered picnic table and a BBQ grill. Ground fires are prohibited. Vault toilets are available. No drinking water or hook-ups.

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Spur 406 Campground

Spur 406 Campground is generally open year-round and rarely fills up, except possibly on holiday weekends. It may close on occasion due to high water events. A boat launch ramp off the campground may be available depending on lake levels. This campground offers 6 primitive sites, each with a covered picnic table and a BBQ grill. No ground fires are allowed. The sites are suitable for tents or RVs. Vault toilets are available. No drinking water or hookups are available.

Details →

Things to Do

Boating at Amistad

Boating at Amistad National Recreation Area

Hike the Diablo East Nature Trail

Hiking at Amistad - Diablo East Nature Trail

Hiking at Amistad

These trails at Amistad National Recreation Area will provide opportunities for wildlife watching, lake views, and quiet reflection.

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. 

Visitor Centers

  • Amistad National Recreation Area Visitor Center

Webcams

Source: National Park Service.

Amistad National Recreation Area: Alerts, Camping & Things to Do | ExploreParksUSA