Many know and call this beautiful creek El Frio or Frio River, however the real name is “Rio Frio” – Spanish for “Cold River”. Anyone who has submerged their feet or entire body in The Frio Waters will agree that the literal translation suits Frio well. When the Texas heat hits near 100 degrees, the Frio River and rows of shadowy cypress trees that encompass the area are known to be a perfect remedy for tourists and locals alike.
The West Frio is fed by springs that begin in the northeast corner of Real County north of Leakey, Texas, near where the popular HEB Camp resides. Yes…the same HEB family owns The HEB Store, but you won’t find groceries for sale here. At Leakey, The Frio joins forces with the East Frio and continues the remainder of its 200-mile journey to the southeast ending at the mouth of the Nueces River south of the city of Three Rivers, Texas.
During the Frio’s journey, he also ventures through the cities of Rio Frio, Concan, East of Uvalde, West of Pearsell, Knippa, Fowlerton, Tilden, Three Rivers, and Uvalde, Frio, LaSalle, McMullen, and Live Oak counties. . While in these counties and towns listed above, the Frio River also contributes to damming Lakes Corder, Frank Kincaid, Miller, Garwood, Tips, Sirianni, V-Bar, and Shamrock Lakes and Choke Canyon, Bennett Reservoirs and Burns.
Many know the Frio River because it runs through the popular “Garner State Park” where more than 200,000 people camp, swim, kayak and bike each year. The August 2008 issue of Texas Parks & Wildlife Magazine ranks Garner second among the top ten “Texas” state park swimming holes.
Even famous country music stars sing about the Frio River… Country fan or not… chances are you’ve heard of George Strait’s song “All My Ex’s Live In Texas.” Estrecho sings… “I remember that old cold river where I learned to swim……”
The “Rio Frio” area is also well known to vacationers for its crystal clear waters, cypress trees, rolling hills, rocky beaches, popular river crossings, tubing trails, horseback riding, wildlife, Texas hospitality, cabins, cabins , Bunkhouses, Lodges, RV Sites, tents, and other accommodations that are located on or near the Frio River; concentrated in Concan, Rio Frio and Leakey Texas.
Reference(s): http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frio_River
http://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/online/articles/FF/rnf1.html