Southside Lions Park

Park Overview

Located in San Antonio, Texas, Southside Lions Park spans roughly 600 acres in total. The eastern section of this expansive park offers a refreshing mix of recreational spots and natural beauty that's hard to resist, whether you're flying solo or bringing the whole family along.

The park welcomes visitors daily from 5AM to 11PM, giving you plenty of time to soak in all it has to offer, from dawn joggers to evening picnickers.

The Fishing Lake

At the heart of the park sits a 10-acre lake, created by damming Salado Creek, which has become something of a fishing hotspot. It's not just any fishing spot either - it's actually part of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's Neighborhood Fishin' program.

Depending on when you visit, you'll discover different catches waiting for you. Winter brings trout to the waters, while summer sees the lake stocked with catfish. Year-round residents include bass and perch, so there's always something to cast your line for, regardless of when the fishing bug bites you.

A picturesque fountain bubbles away in the middle of the lake, adding a touch of tranquility to the scene. The catfish here can get particularly frisky during certain seasons - a little insider tip from regular parkgoers.

Trails and Natural Beauty

If fishing isn't your thing, the park's extensive trail network might be more your speed. A segment of the Salado Creek Greenway runs through the park, offering a 2.3-mile stretch that's well-suited for walking, jogging, or biking alongside the scenic Salado Creek.

The trails wind under the shade of impressive bottomland hardwood trees, while natural springs trickle down from nearby hillsides to feed the creek. These shaded paths are a real blessing during those sweltering San Antonio summer days.

Keep your eyes peeled as you explore - you might spot ducks, geese, and swans gliding across the lake, or encounter a variety of insects, frogs, and butterflies that call the park home.

Places to Picnic and Play

Scattered around the grounds are numerous picnic spots, featuring both covered and uncovered tables. With plenty of BBQ pits at your disposal, this is a fantastic spot to host anything from casual family get-togethers to birthday celebrations.

The kiddos aren't forgotten either - a playground fitted with equipment for various age groups ensures the younger crowd stays entertained. With slides and climbing structures galore, it's a surefire way to burn off some of that endless energy children seem to have.

Recent Upgrades

Back in 2010, the park received some serious TLC in the form of a $3.5 million project that overhauled the dam and spillway. The improvements included raising the earthen dam, adding a concrete labyrinth and spillway, and implementing measures to control erosion.

Beyond just making the park prettier, these enhancements addressed some practical concerns about potential flooding issues downstream.

Amenities You'll Find

The park comes equipped with restrooms, but it's worth noting that cleanliness can vary depending on when you visit. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the sports facilities, which include baseball fields, basketball courts, and tennis courts.

There's also a senior center on the grounds, highlighting the park's role as a gathering place for community members of all ages.

A Natural Retreat

What makes Southside Lions Park special is how it offers a peaceful escape from city life without actually leaving the city. Between the lake, winding trails, and open green spaces, you might forget you're still within San Antonio's city limits. Whether you're looking to cast a line, break a sweat, or simply sit back and watch the clouds drift by, the park offers year-round outdoor activities.