McAllister Park is a sprawling public park located in San Antonio, Texas, spanning over 976 acres of land. The park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States and is known for its diverse range of recreational activities, such as hiking, biking, jogging, and picnicking.

The park was established in the 1960s, and its history dates back to the early 1900s when the land was owned by the McAllister family. In the early 1930s, the family began selling off parcels of the land, and by the 1960s, the city of San Antonio had acquired the majority of the property.

The park was officially named McAllister Park in honor of the McAllister family, who were prominent landowners in the area. The park’s development began in the 1960s and continued throughout the 1970s, with the addition of various amenities such as playgrounds, picnic areas, sports fields, and hiking trails

Today, McAllister Park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike, offering a range of outdoor activities and events throughout the year. The park’s most popular feature is its extensive trail system, which includes over 15 miles of trails that wind through the park’s varied terrain, from grassy meadows to wooded hillsides. The trails are popular with hikers, joggers, and mountain bikers and are also used for organized races and events. Helpful Link

In addition to the trails, McAllister Park also features several sports fields and courts, including soccer fields, baseball fields, and tennis courts. There are also several playgrounds and picnic areas located throughout the park, making it an ideal spot for families to spend a day outdoors.

One of the unique features of McAllister Park is its dog park, which spans over 1.5 acres and is one of the largest in the city. The dog park features separate areas for small and large dogs, as well as a variety of agility equipment and obstacles for dogs to play on.

Another popular attraction in McAllister Park is the Phil Hardberger Park Urban Ecology Center, which offers a range of educational programs and events focused on ecology and the environment. The center features interactive exhibits, nature trails, and a demonstration garden, making it a great place for families and school groups to learn about the natural world.

McAllister Park is also home to several annual events, such as the San Antonio RoadRunners’ Summer Series, which includes a series of races throughout the park’s trails, and the annual Bark in the Park event, which brings together dog owners and their pets for a day of fun activities.

Overall, McAllister Park is a beloved fixture in the San Antonio community, offering a range of outdoor activities and events that cater to people of all ages and interests. Its size and diversity make it a great place to explore, and its commitment to environmental education and sustainability makes it a valuable resource for the city and its residents.

Is It Worth Visiting?

Yes, McAllister Park is definitely worth visiting! With over 976 acres of land, there is something for everyone to enjoy, whether you’re a hiker, biker, dog owner, or just looking for a scenic spot to have a picnic. Hop Over To This Site

The park’s extensive trail system offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of San Antonio, and the varied terrain provides a challenging and rewarding hiking or biking experience. The park also features several playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas, making it a great place for families to spend a day outdoors.

Additionally, the Phil Hardberger Park Urban Ecology Center offers educational opportunities and events focused on environmental sustainability, making it a valuable resource for the community.

Overall, McAllister Park is a great destination for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors in San Antonio. Its diverse range of recreational activities, beautiful natural scenery, and commitment to environmental education make it a must-see attraction for locals and visitors alike.

How to Go There?

There are several ways to get to McAllister Park, located at 13102 Jones Maltsberger Rd, San Antonio, TX 78247.

By Car:

If you’re driving, take the 1604 Loop to the Jones Maltsberger Rd exit and turn onto Jones Maltsberger Rd. Follow the road for about half a mile, and the park entrance will be on your right.

By Bus:

There are several bus routes that stop near McAllister Park, including the 502, 648, and 648W. Visit the VIA Metropolitan Transit website to plan your trip.

By Bike:

If you’re coming from nearby neighborhoods, biking to McAllister Park can be a great option. The park has several bike racks available near the entrances.

By Foot:

If you live within walking distance of McAllister Park, walking to the park can be a convenient and healthy option. There are several pedestrian entrances located throughout the park.

Once you arrive at the park, there are several parking areas available for visitors, including the main parking lot near the entrance and several smaller parking areas located throughout the park.

Important Information You Need to Know 

  • Address: 13102 Jones Maltsberger Rd, San Antonio, TX 78247, United States
  • Website: http://www.sanantonio.gov/ParksAndRec/Parks-Facilities/All-Parks-Facilities/Parks-Facilities-Details/ArtMID/14820/ArticleID/2578/McAllister-Park
  • Contact:  +12102077275
  • Open Hours:  Open daily (5 am-11 pm)