The Goliad State Park and Historic Site is a 188-acre state park located along the San Antonio River in Goliad, Texas. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on March 12, 2001. The park is excellent for hiking, bird-watching, and exploring historic buildings.
The park is also dog-friendly and has campsites. There’s also a museum and a paddling trail. The park also has hiking trails and a nature trail. You can also bring your pet here for a picnic or a quiet afternoon. Camping and picnicking are both permitted at Goliad State Park.
The park’s historic buildings include Mission Espiritu Santo, restored by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. The mission has exhibits that showcase the ranching history of the area. Visitors can also kayak on the San Antonio River. You’ll find many other historical attractions at the park, such as the Presidio La Bahia, which served as a Spanish fort.
The Goliad Paddling Trail is a 6.6-mile stretch of the San Antonio River that starts under Highway 59 and ends at Goliad State Park. While you’re in the park, you can grab a bite to eat. The area has plenty of historic structures, and the Blue Quail Deli is famous for their homemade sandwiches. The park also has a Tackle Loaner Program for those who want to fish.
Goliad State Park was originally established between 1933 and 1941 as a Civilian Conservation Corps project. Its objective was to preserve historical sites and commemorate the Spanish and Texas Revolutions. Judge J. A. White first conceived the park, and a three-member park commission later ran it. In 1930, Goliad County bought the land for the park, and the Texas Highway Commission agreed to build a road through the park. The county then donated the property to the state to preserve and beautify it as a state park.
Camping, hiking, biking, and fishing are just some of the activities available in this 188-acre park. It also contains a museum and a historical site that dates back to 1749. Several historic buildings are worth seeing, allowing you to contextualize the formation of Texas. There is something for everyone at this park, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable visit. And if you’re a history buff, you might even get inspired to go on a historic tour!