The park was named in honor of Louise Hays, a local businesswoman who donated the land to the city.
The interactive fountain area uses recycled river water for its aquatic displays.
The park is home to the 'Kerrville River Trail,' which serves as a vital component of the city's hike-and-bike infrastructure.
The site hosts the annual Kerrville Folk Festival's off-site community events and other large-scale city gatherings.
The pedestrian bridge linking the park to Lehmann Park provides a direct route for viewing river wildlife from a vantage point over the water.
Louise Hays Park is a 64-acre public space situated along the banks of the Guadalupe River in Kerrville, Texas. The park is anchored by a large interactive fountain plaza known as the 'dancing fountains' that operates during warmer months. It features a dedicated splash pad for children and expansive open green spaces. A major component of the park is its seamless integration with the Kerrville River Trail, a multi-use path stretching several miles through the city. The facility includes multiple covered pavilions equipped with picnic tables and barbecue grills. A pedestrian bridge connects Louise Hays Park to the adjacent Lehmann Park on the opposite riverbank. The area serves as a primary hub for community festivals and local public gatherings. The grounds include native landscaping and mature trees providing natural canopy coverage.
The pedestrian bridge overlooking the river with the dancing fountains and the Kerrville skyline in the background.
Bring a change of clothes if visiting with children to enjoy the interactive fountain and splash pad areas.
Check the city's events calendar before visiting, as the park is frequently reserved for large public festivals that may limit parking.
Utilize the covered pavilions early in the day if you plan to host a group, as they are available on a first-come, first-served basis unless reserved.
Attempting to swim in areas of the Guadalupe River outside of the designated park boundaries where currents can be unpredictable.
The interactive fountains typically operate only during the spring, summer, and early autumn seasons.
Proper attire, including shirts and shoes, is required when not in the designated splash pad area; pets must remain on a leash at all times.
