Christoval Pugh Park / Concho River in Texas - Weekend Trip Report

Trip Overview

We decided to have a central camp on the river this time so we could paddle out in both directions over the next two days.

The Concho River is in really good shape right now, or at least the sections we paddled this weekend were. Friday we didn't get much paddling in. You know, set up tents, showers, little kitchen, played catch with the boys, you know the drill.

Good Morning, Saturday! This day dawned with wonderful written all over it. Lots of sunshine, singing birds, jumping fish, huge turtles parked on logs, and of all things, beavers! I had no idea that there was a small population of beavers on this arm of the Concho River. The water clarity is incredible once you're out about a quarter of a mile up river. We could very easily see fish, turtles and water snakes swimming under our boats this morning.

We paddled a couple of miles up river from camp when we came across some small rapids, probably 100-150 yards worth. They weren't too exciting, although very enjoyable. They varied between ankle to knee deep. We portaged the boats about 200 yards past, after the boys got done splashing around for an hour or so, and found that although the river narrows quite rapidly, it is still wonderful paddling with plenty of clear water.

Sunday was another wonderful day of great paddling. The lower end is pretty mossy still. It isn't hard to navigate around, and sometimes through it, no matter, still worth the time to get there and try and set up a big camp with two crazy 12 year old boys.

This was a great way to spend a weekend camping and doing all the things that are fun. From this area you can take out in your vehicle and be at 3 different lakes and 3 other sections of this river in less than an hour.

Accommodations:

Primitive camping and porta-potties

Outfitting:

5 Kayaks and a good pair of water socks for climbing the trees to get to the ropes.

Directions:

From San Angelo, TX take 277 South 16 miles and then follow the signs to Pugh Park.