Named for the tropical Dwarf Palmetto plant found here, these 270 acres of swamp woodland, swift San Marcos River, and oxbow lake are located in Gonzales County, northwest of Gonzales and southeast of Luling. This unusual botanical area resembles the tropics more than Central Texas, as the ranges of eastern and western species merge here, resulting in an astounding diversity of plant and animal life. Located on The Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail, Palmetto State Park has long been noted as a birding "hot spot," with over 240 species of birds. Some of the birds most often spotted include the Crested Caracara, Prothonotary Warbler, and Red Shouldered Hawk. Activities include camping, picnicking, hiking, fishing, birding, nature study, pedal boat rentals, swimming, tubing, and canoeing. The area is also rich in Texas state history. The nearby town of Gonzales, established in 1825, was the farthest west Anglo settlement until the close of the Texas Revolution. In 1831, the Mexican government sent a six-pound cannon to Gonzales as protection against the Indians. This cannon was used in the "Come and Take It" Battle on October 2, 1835, when the first shot of the Texas Revolution was fired.

• Canoe the swift San Marcos river. Watch for the myriad birds of the palmetto swamp, while walking the 3 miles of interpretive and hiking trails. Learn from the Wild Outdoor Adventure and Ecology Program for 8 to 12-year-old children.