McAllen city officials marked the opening of Camp McAllen, a 20-acre outdoor recreational facility, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 16. Located at 8701 N. 23rd St. in the Rio Grande Valley in Texas, the city-owned site officially welcomes the public.
Camp McAllen was developed on a previously unused city-owned parcel known as the Kappler Property.
The land, which features a small manmade lake, had not been open to the public despite being in the city’s possession for decades.
City leaders moved forward with the project following public feedback that prioritized expanding park and recreational space in the community.
“This is more than just a new park — it’s a space where families can connect, where kids can learn about nature, and where people can take a break from their screens outdoors,” McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos said, as reported by My San Antonio.
The campground includes multiple outdoor amenities designed to accommodate both day visitors and overnight campers.
Features include a lakeside gazebo, family-friendly restrooms, screened shelters, fire pits, and trails for hiking and biking through South Texas vegetation.
To support extended stays and outdoor education, the facility is equipped with solar-powered lighting and offers equipment rentals ranging from $5 to $50.
Camping is permitted throughout the year, with the grounds open to families, school groups, scouting organizations, and other community members.
Camp McAllen’s lake is central to its recreation offerings. The site includes three fishing piers and dedicated kayak and canoe launch points. Officials say these features are designed to encourage both casual recreation and outdoor learning.
In addition to its water-based activities, Camp McAllen features an archery range for visitors interested in target practice. The range adds to the diversity of the facility’s attractions, aimed at engaging a wide age range of visitors and skill levels.
The campground’s development aligns with the city’s broader efforts to invest in family-oriented, nature-based recreation. “This new campground is more than just a destination. It’s a place for exploration, education, and connection with the natural world,” McAllen Parks and Recreation Director Denny Meline said.