Top 20 kid-friendly hiking trails in San Antonio
Looking for a fun and engaging activity for your kids in San Antonio? Why not try kid-friendly hiking trails? These trails offer a great opportunity for children to explore nature, get some exercise, and learn about the outdoors. With scenic views and easy terrain, kid-friendly hiking trails in San Antonio make for a memorable family adventure. So pack some water and snacks, and hit the trails with your little ones today!
- 1. Friedrich Wilderness Park
- 2. McAllister Park
- 3. Lady Bird Johnson TrailHead
- 4. Headwaters Sanctuary Trails
- 5. Jack White Park Trailhead
- 6. Rainbow Hills Park Picnic & Walking Trails
- 7. Oakwell TrailHead Park
- 8. Oxbow Park
- 9. Stone Oak Park North Trails
- 10. McAllister Park Trailhead
- 11. Tobin Park Trailhead
- 12. Eisenhower Park
- 13. Hill Country Trailhead
- 14. Walker Ranch Trailhead
- 15. Buddy Calk Trailhead
- 16. Riverwalk: Eagleland Dr Trailhead
- 17. Gold Canyon Park
- 18. Government Canyon State Natural Area
- 19. Fox Park
- 20. Bamberger Nature Park
1. Friedrich Wilderness Park
Free admission, dog-friendly trails

A 5-year-old needed help tiring out, so we visited a local park with easy trails and ample shade for young hikers. The park features a popular trail suitable for families, providing a range of inclines to keep the hike engaging.
This small park offers an easy hiking experience, with shaded trails and varied inclines to keep children engaged. Its popular trail is an excellent option for families looking for a fun and active way to spend a few hours.
2. McAllister Park
Scenic views, dog park

McAllister Park Blue Loop Trail is an excellent choice for families looking for an outdoor adventure, measuring 6.3 miles long with an elevation gain of 226 ft. The trail has received a high rating of 4.6 stars from 1,958 reviews, indicating its popularity and quality. This trail is one of the many family-friendly activities available at McAllister Park, which boasts over 10 miles of unpaved natural bicycle and cross-country trails.
In addition to the Blue Loop Trail, McAllister Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities suitable for families. With more than 10 miles of unpaved natural trails for bicycles and cross-country use, the park provides a perfect opportunity for families to enjoy the beauty of nature while engaging in physical exercise. The park's various trails cater to different fitness levels and interests, making it an ideal destination for families seeking a fun and engaging outdoor experience.
3. Lady Bird Johnson TrailHead
Historic landmarks nearby

The trail is conveniently easy to park at and not overly crowded, making it a great place to visit. Bathrooms are available for visitors, and the trail is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners. The trail is in great condition, making it a perfect place to visit, especially during the summer months.
The trail is nicely paved, flat, and shaded, providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience for visitors. There is plenty to see along the way, including a historical marker for the Battle of Salado and the Black Swan Inn. While most cyclists on the trail are courteous, there are a few speedsters to watch out for.
4. Headwaters Sanctuary Trails
Dog-friendly trails

The Headwaters Sanctuary is an ideal location for families with young children who enjoy the outdoors, featuring a variety of trails that are well-maintained and easy to navigate. This setting proves to be perfect for a family hike, as children can engage in physical activity while also learning about nature.
At the Headwaters Sanctuary, families with young children can take advantage of kid-friendly trails that create a safe and educational environment. The sanctuary offers a unique opportunity for children to explore the wonders of nature, providing them with an unforgettable experience that is both fun and educational.
5. Jack White Park Trailhead
Historic Seguin Aqueduct

Salado Creek Greenway, starting at Jack White Park, is a frequently used trail for various activities such as road biking, running, and walking. Its kid-friendly and stroller-friendly quality makes it an ideal spot for families. The trail boasts a mostly gentle grade with numerous rolling hills, providing a scenic and enjoyable experience.
Jack White Trailhead is a fantastic location for San Antonio residents to spend quality time with their loved ones in the fresh air. The trail is paved, making it perfect for a family-friendly hike. This greenway offers an accessible and enjoyable outdoor experience, suitable for people of all ages and abilities.
6. Rainbow Hills Park Picnic & Walking Trails
Affords visitors the opportunity to connect with nature

Rainbow Hills Park offers easy hiking trails suitable for families, including a paved trail that features an enjoyable playground and basketball court. The area is equipped with numerous benches and picnic spots, making it an ideal location for families to relax and enjoy the outdoors together.
The trail offers a great opportunity for young children to explore nature while remaining safe and accessible. With its paved surface, the trail is stroller-friendly and suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities. Additionally, the park provides well-maintained picnic areas, where families can enjoy a packed lunch and take a break from their hike.
7. Oakwell TrailHead Park
Dog-friendly trails, accessible facilities

Oakwell Trailhead Park, located along the Salado Creek Greenway, is a lovely and peaceful place to explore. The trail is well-paved with overhanging oak trees, providing shade and a home to vibrant wildlife. It is an easy trail with no significant elevation changes, making it accessible to wheelchairs, mobility equipment, and strollers. The trail surface is smooth paved asphalt, typically at least 8 feet wide, and offers gentle grade categories, making it a comfortable trail for most users. The trail is accessed from a paved parking lot off Ira Lee Road at the south end, which has a designated accessible space for vans.
One of our recent favorite trails, Oakwell Trailhead Park is tucked away off Austin Highway, providing easy access to a quiet and peaceful environment. The trail is surrounded by large oak and pecan trees that offer shade and protection from traffic noise. This trail is a great option for those looking for a quick escape from the city, as it is located close to home and offers a beautiful and serene setting for a walk, run, or bike ride.
8. Oxbow Park
Scenic river views, family-friendly

For families with children over the age of six, I recommend the kid-friendly trails that we recently explored. The trail was easily completed, and although there were many dogs and people, they were spread out enough to provide a pleasant experience. The trail conditions were good, making it an ideal option for families looking for an enjoyable outdoor activity.
One of the highlights of the trail was the tower view, which was a real treat. The walk itself was also nice and well-suited for children. Overall, it was a great experience that I would recommend to anyone looking for a fun and engaging activity to do with their kids.
9. Stone Oak Park North Trails

10. McAllister Park Trailhead
Family-friendly, free admission

The city park is a beautiful location that offers plenty of nature and hiking trails for visitors to enjoy. There are two large playgrounds in the park, both of which are in good condition but can get very crowded. The park could benefit from having a few more playgrounds to accommodate the high demand.
Overall, the park is a great destination for families with children. The nature and hiking trails provide enjoyable outdoor activities, while the playgrounds offer a place for kids to play. However, the playgrounds could use some improvements, such as additional shade structures and seating areas for parents and caregivers to rest while their children play.
11. Tobin Park Trailhead
Dog-friendly trails

This trailhead provides a perfect opportunity for a family outing, particularly with young children. The paths are paved, ensuring a smooth and easy hike, and there are numerous rest spots available throughout the trail. The trail's accessibility and convenience make it an excellent choice for families looking for a comfortable and enjoyable hike.
The park offers hiking and biking trails that are well-equipped with amenities, creating a kid-friendly environment. The presence of low-water crossings and bridge structures adds a sense of adventure for young hikers, enhancing their overall experience. These features make the trail an engaging and entertaining option for families with children.
12. Eisenhower Park
Free admission, vast area

Eisenhower Park is a wonderful destination for outdoor enthusiasts with its well-maintained trails and family-friendly activities. The park features a rock climbing wall for children's enjoyment and allows dogs, making it a great spot for families. Additionally, the observation tower provides a stunning view of the city.
13. Hill Country Trailhead
Historic landmarks and bridges

The trails at this location are well-maintained and easy to navigate, making it an ideal place to take young children. Families with kids can enjoy the scenery while walking on the easy paths.
The author's kids had a great time exploring the trail and appreciating the beautiful scenery. The trail is a perfect choice for a family outing, particularly for those with young children.
14. Walker Ranch Trailhead
Historic ranch building and windmill

Walker Ranch Loop Trail is a generally easy-to-complete route that takes around 11 minutes to finish, making it a popular choice for hiking and walking. The trail is open year-round and offers a beautiful landscape to enjoy, whether you prefer to visit during quieter times or join the crowd during peak hours. Dog owners can also enjoy the trail with their furry friends, as long as they keep them on a leash.
Walker Ranch Historic Landmark Park in San Antonio is a must-visit destination for running and walking enthusiasts, boasting a range of amenities such as a leisure playground, parking lots, and restrooms for visitors' convenience and comfort. The park offers a versatile and enjoyable experience for people of all ages who wish to enjoy the great outdoors.
15. Buddy Calk Trailhead
Historical Calk Farmstead

The Buddy Calk Trailhead on Babcock Rd. serves as an entry point to the Leon Creek Greenway trails, offering a pleasant starting point for a leisurely hike. This trailhead is equipped with amenities such as a filtered water fountain for adults and children. Nearby Op Schnabel Park adds to the attraction, featuring a playground for young visitors to enjoy.
Continuing on the Leon Creek Greenway, you'll come across a scenic pond, accessible via a short walk from the Buddy Calk Trailhead. Surrounded by a wooded, natural setting, the area boasts dirt and rock paths for exploration. This serene pond, nestled in the heart of the greenway, invites visitors to immerse themselves in a calming, organic environment.
16. Riverwalk: Eagleland Dr Trailhead
Historic missions and the San Antonio Museum of Art nearby
The Riverwalk: Eagleland Dr Trailhead is a wonderful place for a family outing, featuring a well-maintained trail that offers beautiful views of the river. Kids will enjoy the walk and the chance to take in the scenery, making it an ideal spot for a family outing.
This trail is a great option for families looking for a nice place to take a walk together and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The Riverwalk offers a scenic route along the river, with opportunities for kids to explore and enjoy the outdoors. The area is well-maintained, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.
17. Gold Canyon Park
Golden-cheeked warbler habitat

This trail is suitable for various activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and running, and it provides a secluded exploration experience due to its infrequent visitor traffic. The trail remains open throughout the year, treating visitors to its scenic beauty in every season.
For families with children, San Antonio offers several kid-friendly trails to explore. These trails come with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions, as well as reviews and photos from other hikers, campers, and nature enthusiasts.
18. Government Canyon State Natural Area
dark sky park

The Dinosaur Trackway Trail in Government Canyon State Natural Area is a visually stunning path that leads to ancient dinosaur tracks. This out-and-back trail offers hikers a glimpse of the area's natural beauty, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to experience the park's splendor.
Hikers can bring their dogs on this trail, one of only two in the Government Canyon State Natural Area that allows it. Its short length and family-friendly nature make it an ideal option for those looking to enjoy a brief but enjoyable hike while taking in the park's natural beauty.
19. Fox Park
Community events, dog park

Fox Park Trailhead is an ideal location for families to engage in outdoor activities, particularly hiking. The area offers a peaceful and tranquil setting, making it perfect for families with children who want to explore nature. One of the main attractions of Fox Park is its network of scenic walking trails that weave through lush greenery, providing visitors with a chance to connect with nature.
Fox Park is a great spot for families with kids, offering a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park's walking trails are picturesque and provide a safe and secure environment for children to play and explore. The area's greenery is lush, and the park is well-maintained, making it an ideal location for families looking to spend time outdoors. Overall, Fox Park Trailhead is a wonderful destination for families seeking to enjoy nature and engage in healthy outdoor activities.
20. Bamberger Nature Park
Scenic views, dog-friendly

Bamberger Nature Park is a great spot for families and children who love the outdoors, offering two loop trails for visitors to enjoy. The first trail, the Exercise Loop, is a 0.4-mile paved, flat path that is ideal for kids. The second trail, the Leon Creek Loop, is slightly longer and takes visitors through the woods, making it a lovely option for children to explore and connect with nature.
Overall, Bamberger Nature Park is a peaceful destination that boasts a variety of walking trails suitable for families and children. The Exercise Loop is a short and accessible path, while the Leon Creek Loop offers a longer and more immersive experience in the woods. Both trails provide an excellent opportunity for kids to get some fresh air, exercise, and learn about the natural world around them.