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 wi
Free — you won’t need your pass here.
Free entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
- Fee type No fee — No fee is charged here.
- HoursAmistad 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
- Source National Park Service ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Confirmed
- Official pagewww.nps.gov ↗
- Contact (830) 775-7491 · amis_interpretation@nps.gov
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
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Amistad National Recreation Area — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
No Is there a fee at Amistad National Recreation Area?
No — it’s free to enter, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Amistad National Recreation Area. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you camp at Amistad National Recreation Area?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Diablo East Loop, Diablo East Nature Trail, Diablo East Pathways, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Depends Can you ride OHVs or ATVs here?
Yes — off-highway vehicle use is among the activities here. Stay on designated routes and check any permit or registration rules.
Depends Is there winter recreation?
Yes — snow and winter activities are available seasonally. Check conditions and closures before you head out.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Usually only leashed and in developed areas, campgrounds, and paved paths — not on most trails or in buildings. Pet rules vary by park, so check first.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Park Service land.
Nearby sites
NPS / G. Fisseler National Park Service Rio Grande Wild & Scenic River
ConfirmedYour pass covers the $30 park entrance fee.
USDA NRCS Texas / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons Bureau of Reclamation Twin Buttes Reservoir
CheckReclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here.
