River Clicks Photo Contest

River Clicks Photo Contest

Embrace the wonders of nature! As temperatures rise, native flora bursts into bloom, pollinators dance in action, and wildlife embarks on exciting journeys. Seize the moment and immerse yourself in the enchanting natural treasures of the San Antonio River Basin by participating in the 7th Annual River Clicks Photo Contest!

This year’s Special Category spotlights our newest park additions – Hendrick Arnold Nature Park and Trueheart Ranch Nature Park. Venture out, explore the parks’ amenities, and witness the innate charm of these green havens, along with the entire San Antonio River Basin. Unleash your creativity and share your captivating photos with us! 

Thank you for your interest! The 2024 River Clicks Photo Contest has now closed. Congratulations to our 2024 River Clicks Winners!

                     

What is the River Clicks Photo Contest?

Since 2018, the River Clicks Photo Contest has captured the beauty, diversity, and wonder of the San Antonio River Basin. The San Antonio River Authority is proud to present this years’ photo contest to celebrate the entire San Antonio River Basin. 

The River Clicks Photo Contest begins March 1st and ends May 31st at 5:00 P.M. Central Standard Time.

Online voting for the People’s Choice category will begin on July 1st and end on July 15th at 5:00 P.M. Central Standard Time.

Winners will be announced prior to a reception at the Witte Museum in Fall 2024. More details will be given to all finalists. 

Categories

  • Creeks & Rivers: Images that have a focal point of a creek or river within the San Antonio River Authority’s four-county jurisdiction.
  • Recreation: Images capturing the use and enjoyment of creeks or rivers within the San Antonio River Basin, including, but not limited to: paddling; walking, running, or cycling on a trail; fishing; picnicking; or camping.
  • Plants & Animals: Images capturing plant life, pollinators, insects, and native wildlife in their undisturbed habitat.
  • Seasonal Variation: The photo submission period for this contest is during the springtime to encourage citizens to get outside and enjoy the natural beauty of the San Antonio River Basin. However, there is no time limit as to when the submitted photo is required to be taken. This category is specifically for photos that were taken during a previous season of the year. The focal point of the image may qualify the photo for one of the above categories, but the intent of the Seasonal Variation category is to showcase the beauty of the San Antonio River Basin during a season other than springtime.
  • Student: Images capturing any of the above categories but submitted by a contestant under the age of 18. *Parent or guardian consent is required, and a waiver must be submitted at the time of entry.
  • Aerial: Any photograph captured using an unmanned aerial vehicle, commonly known as a drone. Images shot from planes/helicopters are also accepted. Operator must abide by all local, state, and federal rules & regulations.
  • Pet: Any image of your domesticated pet along the San Antonio River Basin or at one of our parks
  • Special Category – Hendrick Arnold Nature Park and Trueheart Ranch Nature Park: Images capturing any of the above categories but taken specifically from either Hendrick Arnold Nature Park or Trueheart Ranch Nature Park located in Bexar County. 

Who Can Enter the Contest?

The River Clicks Photo Contest is open to everyone in the community of all photographic skill levels. Individuals affiliated with the San Antonio River Authority or the San Antonio River Foundation, including employees, Board members, or interns are not eligible for any prize. The San Antonio River Authority will determine winners’ eligibility in its sole discretion.

What Can I Enter into the Contest?

The contest categories mentioned above are drawn from subjects of special interest to the San Antonio River Authority. To be eligible for any category, a photograph must have been taken by the entrant within Bexar, Wilson, Karnes, or Goliad county.
* Limit 1 photo submission per category

Judges' Choice and People's Choice

Your submission may also be considered in one of the following categories.

  • People’s Choice – You can help select this category! Online voting for the People’s Choice will occur July 1 – July 15 on our website. The public is encouraged to vote and choose the winner.
  • Judges’ Choice for Best Photograph from Bexar County 
  • Judges’ Choice for Best Photograph from Wilson County
  • Judges’ Choice for Best Photograph from Karnes County
  • Judges’ Choice for Best Photograph from Goliad County

Alerts

Parks Notice – Mission Reach Art

Please be aware the San Antonio River Foundation in coordination with the River Authority will be de-installing public art benches for maintenance on January 22, 8am-5pm. Located along the Mission Reach between Roosevelt Park and Confluence Park, the benches Serapes by Vincent Valdez and Butterflies by Anita Valencia, will be reinstalled when restoration is complete.

Freezing Weather Alert

Freezing weather is expected in the San Antonio area from Sunday to Tuesday. We advise all park and trail visitors to exercise caution during this time. Please watch for icy conditions and prioritize safety while enjoying our parks and trails. Mission Reach:
  • Water Fountains will be shut down starting Saturday, January 18th. We will provide updates once they are turned back on.
  • Espada Park, River Front Parkway & Camino Coahuilteca restrooms will be closed until further notice. Updates will be provided once they are reopened.
Brooklyn Lock and Dam & San Pedro Creek Culture Park:
  • Restrooms will be closed until further notice. Updates will be provided once they are reopened.

Trueheart Ranch, Helton, Escondido, and Branch River Parks:

  • Restrooms will be closed until further notice. Updates will be provided once they are reopened.

Stem Density Efforts

Please be advised that trails near the Confluence Park and Conception Park area will be temporarily closed due to ongoing Stem Density efforts. We appreciate your cooperation and ask that you remain mindful of workers and closures when in the vicinity. Thank you for your patience as we work to improve our natural spaces!  Stem Density efforts in the Eagle Land segment will be extended through the end of February 2025.

SASPAMCO Paddling Trail Temporarily Closed

Staff have removed two large log jams just downstream of Helton Nature Park, keeping the southern portion of the SASPAMCO Paddling Trail temporarily closed. Staff are working to contact adjacent landowners to support a land-based removal solution.

SASPAMCO Paddling Trail

The SASPAMCO paddling trail is open from River Crossing Park to Helton Nature Park. *Please Note: Paddling Trail from Helton Nature Park to HWY 97 is still closed due to blockages. 

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