City officials had previously expected the program to begin in May over Memorial Day weekend, but the launch was pushed back. Under the updated timeline, the $5 entry fee for non-local visitors will apply on weekends and holidays from June 20 through September 7, during the peak summer season along the San Marcos River.
At the same time, free access will remain available for qualifying residents and community members through the Rio Vista Park Pass system. Eligible “local area participants” include people living within San Marcos city limits, the 78666 ZIP code or the San Marcos CISD boundary.
The city said the registration system is now live at the Rio Vista Park Pass Registration. The same portal will be used by out-of-area visitors to purchase entry passes once the fee period begins.
City officials first launched managed access at Rio Vista Park last summer as part of an effort to address overcrowding, reduce litter and improve enforcement of park rules during peak season.
Reflecting on the program’s first year, San Marcos Parks and Recreation Director Jaime Lee Case said it led to noticeable improvements at the park.
“Last year was the first time we implemented managed access,” Case said in a previous news announcement. “One of the benefits we really found was a huge reduction in litter. We also saw greater compliance with park rules, which led to a more enjoyable experience for both residents and visitors.”
City leaders have said summer operations across San Marcos riverfront parks cost more than $500,000 annually, and the managed access fee is intended to help offset staffing, maintenance and environmental management during the busiest months of the year.
Revenue from the program is expected to support park ambassadors, rangers and seasonal crews tasked with managing heavy summer use along the river.