Spring break is quickly approaching, and whether you are from San Antonio or visiting here for the break — there are many inexpensive ways to have fun this coming week. Below are five ways to enjoy the outdoors this spring break. 

1. Lost Maples State Natural Area — $6

Located around two hours northwest of UTSA, Lost Maples is a state natural area with hiking, camping, fishing and bird watching. The natural beauty of the park serves as a great place to spend a day or night this spring break enjoying nature. Lost Maples is located outside of Vanderpool at 37221 RM 187. 

2. Boerne City Lake Park — $10 to $15

Boerne itself is a fun and close destination to explore this spring break. If you are looking to escape the heat, Boerne City Lake Park is an inexpensive and fun place to visit. For $10 Monday through Thursday and $15 Friday through Sunday, you have access to the picnic area, the volleyball court, fishing, swimming and more. Hill Country Paddle Sports also operates out of Boerne Lake and offers paddleboard and kayak rentals. Make sure to bring water shoes though, the bottom of the lake is covered with sharp rocks that can hurt your feet. Boerne Lake is a 25-minute drive away at 1 City Lake Rd.

3. Texas State Tubes — $17

Tubing is a Texas spring break necessity; it is also not very expensive. Tubing with Texas State Tubes costs students $17, including a rented tube and bus ride back to the car. If you have your own tube, it is even cheaper at $15. The ride is listed as three hours long, but from my experience, it takes closer to four. During spring break, Texas State Tubes will be open March 10 to 12 and March 17 to 18 in San Marcos at 2024 North Old Bastrop Hwy. 

4. Aquatica Water Park — $34.99

Aquatica is open during spring break and has day passes starting at $34.99. They also offer veteran and active duty discounts. While waterparks are more expensive than visiting local pools, Aquatica offers a large range of water slides and pools. A waterpark is a great way to escape the heat but still have fun and get your adrenaline pumping. Aquatica Water Park is 15 minutes from UTSA at 10500 SeaWorld Dr.

5. La Cantera Resort & Spa — $50 to $75

If you are willing to splurge this spring break, purchasing a resort day pass is a great way to experience the best parts of a resort without spending the night. Day passes for many local resorts are available for purchase at ResortPass.com. La Cantera Resort & Spa is the closest resort to campus and offers day passes ranging from $50 to $75. The passes include access to all their pools, hot tubs, pool food service, fitness center, arcade, waterslides, tennis courts and more. While this is more expensive, it allows for an escape from the usual college experiences while still staying close to campus. La Cantera Resort & Spa is six minutes from campus at 16641 La Cantera Pkwy.

Whatever you decide to do this spring break and wherever you go — enjoy the break from school and stay safe.

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