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.
Photo: NPS / E Paola
Amistad National Recreation Area
An oasis in the desert, Amistad National Recreation Area consists of the US portion of the International Amistad Reservoir.
- LocationDel Rio, TX
- Entrance No fee listed
- HoursOpen 24 hours, daily
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Weather now80°F Sunny
- Alerts 3 active alerts
Overview
Topics
- African American Heritage
- Animals
- Archeology
- Architecture and Building
- Asian American Heritage
- Birds
- Canyons and Canyonlands
- Caves, Caverns and Karst
19 more topics
- Explorers and Expeditions
- Fish
- Geology
- Hispanic American Heritage
- Indian and Frontier Wars
- Infantry and Militia
- Laborer and Worker
- Lakes
- Latino American Heritage
- Migrant Workers
- Military
- Native American Heritage
- Scenic Views
- Tortoises and Turtles
- Trains and Railroads
- Transportation
- US Army
- Wars and Conflicts
- Westward Expansion
Alerts (3)
Park ClosureDiablo 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 mate… Read more
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.
Park ClosureOnly 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… Read more
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."
CautionHelp 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. B… Read more
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.
Things to Do
4 experiences from the National Park Service, plus every activity offered in the park. Check details on NPS.gov before you go.
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Boating at Amistad
Fee applies
Boating at Amistad National Recreation Area
Learn more about Boating at Amistad on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Hike the Diablo East Nature Trail
Hiking at Amistad - Diablo East Nature Trail
Learn more about Hike the Diablo East Nature Trail on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Hiking at Amistad
These trails at Amistad National Recreation Area will provide opportunities for wildlife watching, lake views, and quiet reflection.
Learn more about Hiking at Amistad on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
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…
Learn more about Swimming at Amistad on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab)
Showing 4 of 4
Activities in the park
Pick one to find other parks that offer it.
Camping
3 campgrounds listed on Recreation.gov. Check availability and current conditions before you go.
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277 North Group Campground
Reservable Campground
Situated on the United States-Mexico border, Amistad National Recreation Area is known primarily for excellent year-round, water-based recreation including boating…
Reserve on Recreation.gov- Picnicking
Details
Overview
Situated on the United States-Mexico border, Amistad National Recreation Area is known primarily for excellent year-round, water-based recreation including boating, fishing, swimming, scuba diving, and waterskiing. Amistad National Recreation Area also provides opportunities for picnicking, camping, and hunting. Amistad Dam created the reservoir at the confluence of the Rio Grande, Devils, and Pecos Rivers in 1969. In addition to excellent recreation, Amistad National Recreation Area is rich in archeology and rock art and contains a wide variety of plant and animal life. Amistad park headquarters is in Del Rio, Texas, population 35,000.
Recreation
Amistad National Recreation Area offers a diverse array of land- and water-based Outdoor Activities including fishing, swimming, boating, birding, hiking, picnicking, camping, and hunting. Visitors can experience expansive views, night skies, and a number of the area’s rock art sites. Examples of facilities that support these activities include boat ramps, picnic and camping areas, and hiking trails.
Facilities
The group campground offers a private primitive camping space for up to 35 people. The site has a large pavilion, vault toilet, campfire ring, pedestal grill and table. Bring your own water as water is not available at this site. Leashed pets are welcome.
Natural Features
Amistad National Recreation Area consists of 57,292 acres (23185 ha) of federally owned land and is one of the largest tracts of land available for hunting in southwest Texas. Three ecological zones and three rivers meet at Amistad National Recreation Area. Plant communities are determined by topography, soil type, and rainfall and support a wide variety of plant and animal life. Rugged canyons provide outstanding scenic vistas. A majority of Amistad National Recreation Area contains Lake Amistad, which is fed by the Pecos, Rio Grande, and Devils Rivers. Crystal clear stretches of river, natural springs, and fluctuating reservoir levels support a variety of aquatic plant and animal species. The recreation area has some of the best bass fishing in the American Southwest.
Nearby Attractions
Lake Amistad is a top quality fishing spot for largemouth, smallmouth and striped bass. Amistad National Recreation Area offers 12 boat ramps allowing access to Lake Amistad, however, due to low water levels only 4 ramps remain open.
- Boat rentals are available at Rough Canyon just 15 miles (24 km) from 277 North Campground.
- Park Approved Guides and Rentals offer activities such as guided fishing and kayak trips on the lake.
- Texas Parks and Wildlife maintains 3 state parks in the area-- Kickapoo Cavern State Park (63 miles/101 km NE off of Ranch Road 674), offering guided cave tours, Devils River State Natural Area (50 Miles/80 km NW off of St Hwy 277) offering paddling, swimming and fishing opportunities and Seminole Canyon State Park and Historic Site (41 miles/66 km NW off of Hwy 90), offering world class ancient rock art viewing.
- 277 North Group Campground is 11 miles (18 km) north of Del Rio, TX (pop. 35,0000). Del Rio enjoys many restauraunts, a movie theater and shopping.
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Rock Quarry Group Campground
Reservable Campground
Situated on the United States-Mexico border, Amistad National Recreation Area is known primarily for excellent year-round, Outdoor Activities including boating, fishing…
Reserve on Recreation.govDetails
Fees: 1-15 people for $35.00 per night, 16-35 people $75.00 per night.
Overview
Situated on the United States-Mexico border, Amistad National Recreation Area is known primarily for excellent year-round, Outdoor Activities including boating, fishing, swimming, scuba diving, and waterskiing. Amistad National Recreation Area also provides opportunities for picnicking, camping, and hunting. Amistad Dam created the reservoir at the confluence of the Rio Grande, Devils, and Pecos Rivers in 1969. In addition to excellent recreation, Amistad National Recreation Area is rich in archeology and rock art and contains a wide variety of plant and animal life. Amistad park headquarters is in Del Rio, Texas, population 35,000
Recreation
Amistad National Recreation Area offers a diverse array of land- and water-based recreational opportunities, including fishing, swimming, boating, birding, hiking, picnicking, camping, and hunting. Visitors can experience expansive views, night skies, and a number of the area’s rock art sites. Examples of facilities that support these activities include boat ramps, picnic and camping areas, and hiking trails.
Facilities
The group campground offers a private, primitive camping space for up to 35 people. The site has a large pavilion, vault toilet, campfire ring, pedestal grill and table. Bring your own water as water is not available at this site. Leashed pets are welcome.
Natural Features
Amistad National Recreation Area consists of 57,292 acres (23185 ha) of federally owned land and is one of the largest tracts of land available for hunting in southwest Texas. Three ecological zones and three rivers meet at Amistad National Recreation Area. Plant communities are determined by topography, soil type, and rainfall and support a wide variety of plant and animal life. Rugged canyons provide outstanding scenic vistas. A majority of Amistad National Recreation Area contains Lake Amistad, which is fed by the Pecos, Rio Grande, and Devils Rivers. Crystal clear stretches of river, natural springs, and fluctuating reservoir levels support a variety of aquatic plant and animal species. The recreation area has some of the best bass fishing in the American Southwest.
Nearby Attractions
Lake Amistad is a top quality fishing spot for largemouth, smallmouth and striped bass. Amistad National Recreation Area offers 12 boat ramps allowing access to Lake Amistad, however, due to low water levels only 4 ramps remain open.
- Boat rentals are available at Rough Canyon just 29 miles (47 km) from Rock Quarry Group Campground.
- Park Approved Guides and Rentals offer activities such as guided fishing and kayak trips on the lake.
- Texas Parks and Wildlife maintains 3 state parks in the area; Kickapoo Cavern State Park (67 miles/108 km NE off of Ranch Road 674 ) offering guided cave tours, Devils River State Natural Area (67 Miles/108 km NW off of St Hwy 277) offering paddling, swimming and fishing opportunities and Seminole Canyon State Park & Historical Site (26 miles/42 km NW off of Hwy 90) offering world class ancient rock art viewing.
- The campground is just 15 miles (24 km) NW of Del Rio, TX (pop. around 35,0000). Del Rio enjoys many restauraunts, a movie theater and shopping.
Charges & Cancellations
Canellations and/or changes must be made at least two days in advance in order to receive a refund. All camping regulations apply.
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San Pedro Group Campground
Reservable Campground
Situated on the United States-Mexico border, Amistad National Recreation Area is known primarily for excellent year-round, Outdoor Activities including boating, fishing…
Reserve on Recreation.govDetails
Overview
Situated on the United States-Mexico border, Amistad National Recreation Area is known primarily for excellent year-round, Outdoor Activities including boating, fishing, swimming, scuba diving, and waterskiing. Amistad National Recreation Area also provides opportunities for picnicking, camping, and hunting. Amistad Dam created the reservoir at the confluence of the Rio Grande, Devils, and Pecos Rivers in 1969. In addition to excellent recreation, Amistad National Recreation Area is rich in archeology and rock art and contains a wide variety of plant and animal life. Amistad park headquarters is in Del Rio, Texas, population 35,000.
Recreation
Amistad National Recreation Area offers a diverse array of land- and water-based recreational opportunities, including fishing, swimming, boating, birding, hiking, picnicking, camping, and hunting. Visitors can experience expansive views, night skies, and a number of the area’s rock art sites. Examples of facilities that support these activities include boat ramps, picnic and camping areas, and hiking trails.
Facilities
The group campground offers a private primitive camping space for up to 75 people. The site has a large pavilion, vault toilet, campfire ring with benches, pedestal grill and table. Bring your own water as water is not available at this site. Leashed pets are welcome.
Natural Features
Amistad National Recreation Area consists of 57,292 acres (23,185 ha) of federally owned land and is one of the largest tracts of land available for hunting in southwest Texas. Three ecological zones and three rivers meet at Amistad National Recreation Area. Plant communities are determined by topography, soil type, and rainfall and support a wide variety of plant and animal life. Rugged canyons provide outstanding scenic vistas. A majority of Amistad National Recreation Area contains Lake Amistad, which is fed by the Pecos, Rio Grande, and Devils Rivers. Crystal clear stretches of river, natural springs, and fluctuating reservoir levels support a variety of aquatic plant and animal species. The recreation area has some of the best bass fishing in the American Southwest.
Nearby Attractions
Lake Amistad is a top quality fishing spot for largemouth, smallmouth and striped bass. Amistad National Recreation Area offers 12 boat ramps allowing access to Lake Amistad, however, due to low water levels only 4 ramps remain open.
- Boat rentals are available at Rough Canyon just 22 miles (35 km) from San Pedro Group Campground.
- Park Approved Guides and Rentals offer activities such as guided fishing and kayak trips on the lake.
- Texas Parks and Wildlife maintains 3 state parks in the area; Kickapoo Cavern State Park (60 miles/97 km NE off of Ranch Road 674) offering guided cave tours, Devils River State Natural Area (60 Miles/97 km NW off of St Hwy 277) offering paddling, swimming and fishing opportunities and Seminole Canyon State Park & Historic Site (34 miles/55 km NW off of Hwy 90) offering world class ancient rock art viewing.
- The campground is just 9 miles (14 km) NW of Del Rio, TX (pop. around 35,0000). Del Rio enjoys many restauraunts, a movie theater and shopping.
Facilities & Services
Find visitor services available in the park. Check current hours and availability before you go.
Other Visitor Services
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Amistad National Recreation Area Visitor Center
Facility
The Visitor Center offers several park-related movies. _Transparent Border_ is the park's official movie about how the reservoir came to influence a relationship between…
10477 Highway 90 West, Del Rio, TX (830) 775-7491 Directions
Details
The Visitor Center offers several park-related movies. _Transparent Border_ is the park's official movie about how the reservoir came to influence a relationship between the US city of Del Rio and Mexico's Ciudad Acuña. It is available in English and español and is 35 minutes long. The Visitor Center takes credit or debit card only and sells America the Beautiful National Park and Federal Lands passes, lake use passes, Amistad hunting permits, and camping permits. There is also a bookstore with souvenirs. -
Governors Landing Campground
Facility
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…
Details
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. -
Rough Canyon Campground
Facility
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…
Details
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. -
Spur 406 Campground
Facility
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…
Details
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.
Plan Your Visit
Hours
Open 24 hours, daily · Amistad National Recreation Area
Hours details
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Amistad National Recreation AreaOpen 24 hours, daily
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.
Entrance fees
No entrance fees listed.
Address
10477 Highway 90 WestDel Rio, TX 78840
Contact the park
Weather & conditions
80°F
Sunny · feels like 78°
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Today
84° 74°
Overcast58% rain -
Tomorrow
75° 67°
Light rain shower88% rain -
Sunday
80° 68°
Overcast46% rain
Updated 4 hr ago
WeatherFlood Warning Details
Flood Warning issued October 1 at 10:32PM CDT until October 2 at 9:00PM CDT by NWS Austin/San Antonio TX
...The Flood Warning continues for the following rivers in Texas...
Devils River At Pafford Crossing nr Comstock affecting Val Verde
County.
Devils River At Bakers Crossing 19N Of Comstock affecting Val Verde
County.
Devils River At Cauthorn Ranch Near Juno affecting Val Verde
County.
* WHAT...Moderate flooding is occurring and moderate flooding is
forecast.
* WHERE...Devils River at Pafford Crossing nr Comstock.
* WHEN...Until Friday evening.
* IMPACTS...At 8.0 feet, (2.4 meters), Moderate flooding covers
several hundred yards of the flood plain. Campers, automobiles and
equipment can be washed downstream below Juno to Amistad Reservoir.
Livestock should be moved from flood prone areas of the flood
plain.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...
- At 10:15 PM CDT Thursday the stage was 6.1 feet.
- Bankfull stage is 4.0 feet.
- Recent Activity...The maximum river stage in the 24 hours ending
at 10:15 PM CDT Thursday was 7.3 feet.
- Forecast...The river is expected to rise to a crest of 7.2 feet
just after midnight tonight. It will then fall below flood stage
late tomorrow morning.
- Flood stage is 5.0 feet.
- Flood History...This crest compares to a previous crest of 7.9
feet on 09/23/1990.
- http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
WeatherFlood Warning Details
Flood Warning issued October 1 at 8:18PM CDT until October 3 at 12:00AM CDT by NWS Austin/San Antonio TX
...The Flood Warning continues for the following rivers in Texas...
Devils River At Pafford Crossing nr Comstock affecting Val Verde
County.
* WHAT...Minor flooding is occurring and moderate flooding is
forecast.
* WHERE...Devils River at Pafford Crossing nr Comstock.
* WHEN...Until late Friday night.
* IMPACTS...At 6.0 feet, (1.8 meters), Moderate lowland flooding over
1/4 mile wide covers the right bank to the canyon walls. The
turbulent flow can wash motorists, campers, and equipment
downstream from Pafford Crossing to Amistad Reservoir. Livestock
are cut off and potentially drowned below Juno to Amistad
Reservoir.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...
- At 7:15 PM CDT Thursday the stage was 5.4 feet.
- Bankfull stage is 4.0 feet.
- Recent Activity...The maximum river stage in the 24 hours ending
at 7:15 PM CDT Thursday was 7.3 feet.
- Forecast...The river is expected to rise to a crest of 6.4 feet
just after midnight tonight. It will then fall below flood stage
early tomorrow afternoon.
- Flood stage is 5.0 feet.
- Flood History...This crest compares to a previous crest of 6.2
feet on 10/19/2018.
- http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
WeatherFlood Warning Details
Flood Warning issued October 2 at 2:48AM CDT until October 3 at 12:40AM CDT by NWS Austin/San Antonio TX
...The Flood Warning is extended for the following rivers in Texas...
Devils River At Pafford Crossing nr Comstock affecting Val Verde
County.
* WHAT...Moderate flooding is occurring and moderate flooding is
forecast.
* WHERE...Devils River at Pafford Crossing nr Comstock.
* WHEN...Until late tonight.
* IMPACTS...At 8.0 feet, (2.4 meters), Moderate flooding covers
several hundred yards of the flood plain. Campers, automobiles and
equipment can be washed downstream below Juno to Amistad Reservoir.
Livestock should be moved from flood prone areas of the flood
plain.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...
- At 2:15 AM CDT Friday the stage was 8.3 feet.
- Bankfull stage is 4.0 feet.
- Recent Activity...The maximum river stage in the 24 hours ending
at 2:15 AM CDT Friday was 8.3 feet.
- Forecast...The river is expected to rise to a crest of 8.5 feet
early this morning. It will then fall below flood stage this
afternoon.
- Flood stage is 5.0 feet.
- Flood History...This crest compares to a previous crest of 8.1
feet on 07/11/1988.
- http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
WeatherFlood Warning Details
Flood Warning issued October 2 at 8:41AM CDT until October 3 at 3:00AM CDT by NWS Austin/San Antonio TX
...The Flood Warning is extended for the following rivers in Texas...
Devils River At Pafford Crossing nr Comstock affecting Val Verde
County.
Devils River At Bakers Crossing 19N Of Comstock affecting Val Verde
County.
* WHAT...Minor flooding is occurring and minor flooding is forecast.
* WHERE...Devils River at Pafford Crossing nr Comstock.
* WHEN...Until late tonight.
* IMPACTS...At 5.0 feet, (1.5 meters), Minor lowland flooding one
quarter mile wide at Pafford Crossing covers most of the right
bank. Turbulent flow above Pafford Crossing to Amistad Reservoir
can wash campers, automobiles, and equipment downstream.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...
- At 8:15 AM CDT Friday the stage was 5.3 feet.
- Bankfull stage is 4.0 feet.
- Recent Activity...The maximum river stage in the 24 hours ending
at 8:15 AM CDT Friday was 8.3 feet.
- Forecast...The river is expected to fall below flood stage late
this afternoon.
- Flood stage is 5.0 feet.
- http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
WeatherFlood Warning Details
Flood Warning issued October 1 at 10:32PM CDT until October 3 at 3:20AM CDT by NWS Austin/San Antonio TX
...The Flood Warning continues for the following rivers in Texas...
Devils River At Pafford Crossing nr Comstock affecting Val Verde
County.
Devils River At Bakers Crossing 19N Of Comstock affecting Val Verde
County.
Devils River At Cauthorn Ranch Near Juno affecting Val Verde
County.
* WHAT...Moderate flooding is occurring and moderate flooding is
forecast.
* WHERE...Devils River at Bakers Crossing 19N Of Comstock.
* WHEN...Until late Friday night.
* IMPACTS...At 12.0 feet, (3.7 meters), Campers, automobiles and
equipment near the river above Juno to Amistad Reservoir can be
washed downstream. The river is very turbulent at this level and
dangerous for inexperienced swimmers, canoeists and kayakers. Five
feet of flow covers the Highway 163 bridge below Juno.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...
- At 10:15 PM CDT Thursday the stage was 11.5 feet.
- Bankfull stage is 4.0 feet.
- Recent Activity...The maximum river stage in the 24 hours ending
at 10:15 PM CDT Thursday was 15.7 feet.
- Forecast...The river is expected to fall below flood stage
tomorrow afternoon and continue falling to 3.1 feet Tuesday
evening.
- Flood stage is 6.0 feet.
- Flood History...This crest compares to a previous crest of 9.9
feet on 05/07/2007.
- http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
What to expect by season
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.
Photos
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A peaceful view of the shores along Amistad National Recreation Area — NPS / Cesha Hernandez -
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Getting There
Del Rio, TX 78840
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.
Full directions
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.
Mailing address: 10477 Highway 90 West, Del Rio, TX 78840
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