Lake Amistad and Highway 90 Bridge

Most visitors come to Amistad National Recreation Area for world-class fishing and boating, but there are a variety of other activities both in the park and surrounding area. For example, spectacular prehistoric Native American paintings are accessible by boat or by foot.

Fishing

Pro anglers have recently discovered the secret of Amistad Reservoir- top-quality year round fishing, especially for largemouth, smallmouth, and striped bass. Boaters and anglers on shore also try for channel and blue catfish, crappie, various species of sunfish like bluegill, and alligator gar. To maintain the high-quality fishery, ‘Catch and Release’ is encouraged.

A valid Texas fishing license is required for the United States side of Amistad Reservoir.  See our Fishing section for more information.

Boating

Good weather most of the year makes Amistad a boater’s paradise. Typical lake levels sport around 60,000 surface acres of water. Even at record low water levels, there was 25,000 surface acres. Personal watercraft, ski boats, sail boats, and house boats are commonly seen on the lake. Houseboats and other craft can be rented from Forever Resorts.

A Lake Use Permit is required required for the United States side of Amistad Reservoir.  See our Boating section for information about Amistad Lake Use Permits.

Mexican Permits

For current Mexico boat permit and fishing license information, go to www.conapescasandiego.org or call 619.233.4324.

Information on Mexican permits can also be obtained at:
Amistad Marine (Ranger boat dealer on Hwy 90 West across from Spur 454), 830.775.0878, or
Fisherman's Headquarters (Chevron at the intersection of Hwys 90 & 277 N) 830.774.5670.

Camping

The recreation area provides four campgrounds- all primitive without RV hookups. Campgrounds are not located next to the water except at maximum lake levels. Campgrounds are first-come-first-served and cannot be reserved. RV parks and campgrounds with full facilities are located nearby.

Camping is permitted by boat on undeveloped shorelines. Group campsites are available and may be reserved up to 90 days in advance.

See our Camping and Fees section for more information.

Native American Pictographs

The Amistad NRA area is home to dramatic 4,000 year-old rock art. These mysterious paintings adorn rock shelter walls in the upper reaches of Amistad Reservoir. Boaters can usually access Panther and Parida Caves (depending on lake level), and hikers can go on a guided tour at nearby Seminole Canyon State Park and Historic Site.

See How to See Rock Art for more information.

See Things to Do for other activities, including swimming, picnicing, hiking, and bird watching.