The Hays County parks system has two existing parks at its Five Mile Dam Park Complex near San Marcos and is co-developing an additional 43-acre site with the City of San Marcos. Development is being guided by the Hays County Parks & Open Space Master Plan.

When completed, the new park area will include 10 soccer fields (four of which will be lighted), a concession stand, a playscape, walking paths and parking. The infrastructure for the park is currently under construction, and the first soccer fields are expected to be open in Spring 2010. See a slide show (slide show coming soon!) of construction progress. The new park is adjacent to Hays County’s two other parks.

Dudley Connaly Johnson Park became Hays County’s first park in 1973 when Thomas C. Johnson, Jr., of San Marcos donated approximately 16.5 acres of land at Five Mile Dam (between San Marcos and Kyle) to the County for a park named in honor of his brother. Johnson Park has a natural setting with trails for hiking and biking and beautiful nature views. Read more about Dudley Johnson.

Randall Wade Vetter Park was named in November 2003 for the Texas Department of Public Safety trooper who lost his life in the line of duty on Aug. 7, 2000, on nearby Yarrington Road. Vetter Park is 18 river-front acres of trees, natural settings and approximately a quarter mile of Blanco River access. The park has seven BBQ grills with picnic tables shaded by trees or covers and an innovative trail constructed of pervious concrete that is ADA (American with Disabilities Act) compliant. It also has its own parking area. Read more about Trooper Vetter.