CENTER POINT, TX — If you're looking for a way to cool off without fighting a crowd, your solution may be nestled in a small town north of San Antonio... Center Point.
This particular stretch of the Guadalupe River is calm, making it perfect for swimming, floating, or fishing. But unlike many spots on the river, it’s not overcrowded.
Early Friday, the area was deserted except for a young boy and his fishing rod. Mason flicked his wrist and a quickly cranked his reel, hoping to catch a fish.
For most of the day, this has been the most movement on the otherwise calm river. Mason and his papa, Robin, have visited this small-town spot for years.
“It’s quiet. There's plenty of shade,” Robin Lane said. “They keep it up, they maintain it. There's little trash out here too.”
This area is a family-oriented watering hole officially known as Lions Park. But the locals call it something else: Paradise.
“I don't like crowds so this is perfect for me,” said Lane, who added that it’s not unusual to see a small handful of folks out on the water.
However, the duo agrees that this area can get more crowded on a hot summer weekend. Mason recalls seeing up to 30 people at this secluded spot.
Throughout the day, the park became more crowded. As temperatures rose, so did the number of visitors.
Cars pulled into the gravel parking lot but the visitors quickly left via canoe.
Bill Oliver and his wife were part of that group.
“We go for about three hours up on the Guadalupe River,” said Oliver, whose group was embarking on an adventure to soak in more sun and scenery. “This is one of the most beautiful rivers I've ever seen.”