Goliad State Park | campingadventures

Goliad State Park & Mission Espiritu Santo State Historic Site

The area now known as Goliad State Historical Park is linked to one of the most pivotal moments in Texas history. After nearly two days' of fierce combat, Texas forces commanded by Colonel James Fannin, Jr. surrendered to their Mexican foes on March 20, 1836. Upon their peaceful surrender, Colonel Fannin and 342 of his men were imprisoned at the Presidio La Bahia in Goliad and put to death under orders of General Santa Anna. As word spread of the massacre, Texans embraced the battle cry "Remember Goliad!" and vowed to win the war for Texas independence.

Established by Spanish missionaries in 1722, Mission Espiritu Santo was originally located near Matagorda Bay on the Texas coast. In 1749, the mission was moved to its present-day location, where it continued for over a century. In 1886, a severe hurricane destroyed virtually the entire mission. Reconstruction efforts began in the 1930s with the Civilian Conservation Corps, giving Mission Espiritu Santo and nearby Presidio La Bahia new life.

Today, Mission Espiritu Santo is part of 187-acre Goliad State Historical Park. Free self-guided tours of the mission's church, living quarters, and grounds are the focal point of the park. An informative museum, documenting the mission's history, adjoins the church. A small petting zoo, featuring goats and rabbits, is also available.

Primitive, developed (RV) and screened shelter campsites are available. The San Antonio River runs through the park, offering fishing and canoeing opportunities. The park swimming pool--located across Highway 183 from the park headquarters--is open during the summer. Hikers can explore the leisurely 1/3-mile Aranama Nature Trail which takes visitors through typical South Texas woodland and riparian habitats; a free nature guide is available at the trailhead. The river trail parallels the San Antonio River and links several large picnic areas shaded by cottonwood, sycamore, and pecan trees.

Due to its location and diverse plant species, Goliad State Historical Park offers good opportunities for viewing migrating birds. Commonly sighted species during the migratory periods include Northern harrier hawk, red-shouldered hawk, broad-winged hawk, Swainson's hawk, upland sandpiper, Franklin's gull, black tern, Whip-poor-will, and many others. A large roosting colony of turkey vultures is located within the park.