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    Hays County Five-Mile Dam Park

    About 5 Mile Dam Park

    The dam here on the Blanco River was constructed in 1931 by the State Game, Fish, and Oyster Commission, now known as the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. It was constructed with native stone and concrete and was reinforced with steel. All of the labor involved was volunteered by the men of San Marcos and Kyle with each man volunteering for one day a week until the dam was completed.


    From the July 18th, 1931 edition of the College Star Newspaper: “The purpose of the dam is to impound the waters of the Blanco for the propagation of fish. It will also add to the scenic beauty of this section, help preserve soil, and add to the recreational facilities of the people.”


    ๏ปฟWhen built, the dam was named Mountain Laurel Dam. It is unknown when the name shift occurred, but today it is simply known as Five Mile Dam. The present day name appears to stem from the fact that it is located five miles from the Hays County Courthouse in downtown San Marcos. 



    Five Mile Dam Park Rules

    Swimming: There is no lifeguard on duty. Swimming alone is discouraged.


    Prohibited: Diving, alcohol, firearms, hunting, glass containers, overnight parking or camping, motorboats, skiing, nudity, personal watercraft and rowdy or disruptive behavior. Violators could face fines and/or be removed from the park.


    Lost and Found Policy: All lost items recovered on the property of Five Mile Dam Park will be held for a period of 30 days during which you are responsible for contacting the Hays County Parks Department to claim your item. Any lost item not claimed after 30 days may be subject to disposal by the Hays County Parks Department.


    Dudley Connaly Johnson and Randall Wade Vetter Parks

    Five-Mile Dam Park includes two specially-named areas within the county property. Learn more about each namesake by clicking on the green links.


    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 to the County for a park named in honor of his brother. Johnson Park has a natural setting and beautiful nature views.


    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 riverfront acres of trees, natural settings and approximately a quarter mile of Blanco River access. The park has seven BBQ grills with picnic tables and an innovative trail constructed of pervious concrete that is ADA (American with Disabilities Act) approved.


    Soccer Complex

    Five Mile Dam Park added a recreational venue on Sept. 18, 2010, with the grand opening of a 43-acre soccer complex developed in conjunction with the City of San Marcos and other partners. The soccer complex includes a playscape, pavilion and concession stand. The Soccer Complex features 10 soccer fields (four are lighted), a concession stand, playscape, walking paths, restrooms and parking.


    To schedule use of the soccer fields or concession stand, please contact the City of San Marcos Parks and Recreation.


    Back to the Hays County Parks Department Page

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