SAN ANTONIO – After two years, San Antonio families are ready to bond and celebrate the traditional Easter camping weekend at local parks.
Many families were already pitching a tent on Thursday, claiming their spots at Brackenridge and Woodlawn Lake parks.
Sandra Perez secured a picnic table and was gearing up for about a dozen aunts, uncles, and grandparents to show up. But she says her reason was to make sure her four kids had a memorable time.
“I do it for them just to be outdoors. They love being outdoors,” she said.
Phillip Magallanez was expecting about 200 family members to drop by. He had a huge area for the games, food, and tents.
“It’s great just to be outside, you know? It’s that being clustered inside,” Magallanez said.
After a difficult two years, getting family back together is more special than before. Magallanez said some key members of the family were lost in the pandemic.
“It’s going to be different, yeah. So I’m doing it for the kids. You know, you’ve got to appreciate life,” he said.
Magallanez’s family will be camping until the park closes at 6 p.m. Sunday.
San Antonio police ask that families be vigilant while camping out and call authorities if they see anything suspicious.
San Antonio Fire Department asks those who are grilling not to leave a lit fire unattended. Dispose of coal ashes properly after they cool down to prevent a fire.
Parks staff will be working all weekend, picking up trash and managing the facilities. If you have a non-emergency service call, they ask that you call 311.
RELATED: Get more tips for campers from SAFD and the parks department here