There are abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation on the Westside, many focused on its two lakes and a large number of City public parks. Walking trails and boat rentals are among some of the activities offered, and Woodlawn Lake, located just outside the WDC boundaries, is home to one of the City’s largest Fourth of July celebrations each year.

Elmendorf Park and Lake

Elmendorf Park features a small shelter, playscape, and 26 picnic units, outdoor swimming pool and a 1.22 mile long trail of decomposed granite for walkers. The biggest asset, however, is the beautiful lake that runs along the southside of the park and separates it from Our Lady of the Lake University. Currently, District 5 Councilwoman Lourdes Galvan is working on a project to revitalize and beautify the park, and increase utilization. Recently, over 50 new trees were planted as part of the effort.

Plaza Guadalupe

The historic Plaza Guadalupe located at 1327 Guadalupe Street is a favorite stop for tourists. An open air amphitheater equipped with twelve food booths, a stage, and seating, the Plaza has played host to Pope John Paul II in 1987, Presidente Carlos Salinas de Gortari in 1991, and Democratic Presidential candidate Barack Obama in 2008. Annually the Plaza hosts several events including the Fiesta event "Piñatas en el Barrio" and the Avenida Guadalupe Association-sponsored, "Diez y Seis de Septiembre" celebration to honor Mexican Independence Day.

Rosedale Park

Rosedale Park was first established in 1892 with the park covering only 1.7 acres in the middle of the 60-acre Rosedale subdivision. The park shares its name with the real estate developer who built the subdivision. Now covering all 60 acres of land, Rosedale Park features two pavilions, a kitchen, a playscape, a swimming pool, a stage, several sports fields, and ample parking. The entire park can be rented out for an event and is often used for large festivals and concerts.

Woodlawn Lake

Located just northwest of downtown, Woodlawn Lake is the second-most widely used park in the City. The park is 62 acres in size and includes a 1.3 mile walking trail, party house, pavilion, gym, swimming pool, softball field, basketball courts, and a large lake for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Woodlawn Lake and the surrounding land were privately owned until 1918 when the City of San Antonio bought the property and opened up the space for the community. The City’s annual Fourth of July celebration is held at Woodlawn Lake and enjoyed by thousands from across the area.

For an overview map of all City of San Antonio Parks & Recreation facilities, please visit the following link.