Palmetto State Park is named for the tropical dwarf palmetto plant found there. The park abuts the San Marcos River and also has a 4-acre oxbow lake. The land was acquired by deeds from private owners and the City of Gonzales in 1934 - 1936, and was opened in 1936. The beautiful stone buildings in the park were constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the 1930s. Activities include camping, picnicking, hiking, fishing, birding, nature study, pedal boat and canoe rentals, swimming, tubing and canoeing.