San Pedro Springs Park is the oldest park in San Antonio. It was set aside for public use by the Spanish government in the 18th century. The only older park in the U.S. is Boston Common, which dates back to 1630.
People have been coming to the springs and creek here for about 12,000 years. Hunter-gatherers found water, food, and rocks for weapons. Spanish explorers set up camps in the late 17th century. In 1709, the waters were named "San Pedro springs." The first settlement, a presidio and mission, was likely founded in 1718 near the springs. Even after moving south in the 1720s, the springs still supplied water. From 1731 to 1734, an acequia was built to bring water to the town.
Surrounded by trees, the springs became a favorite spot for residents and a popular place for fun. In 1852, the City Council made a reserve around the springs. John Jacob Duerler leased the area, built pavilions, and in 1856, the U.S. Army used the park to stable camels. Sam Houston spoke here in 1860, and during the Civil War, prisoners were held in the park.
All these uses damaged the springs and park. In 1863, the City Council banned military encampments and livestock. J.J. Duerler agreed to fence the park, plant trees, and clean the springs. He added fish ponds, a flower garden, a zoo, and a race track. When he died in 1874, the park was leased to Frederick Kerbel, who continued improvements.
By the 1890s, the park declined as spring flow decreased. Mayor Bryan Callaghan led a renovation in 1897. The lake was cleaned, the old pavilion demolished, and a new bandstand built. Grass, plants, and water lilies were added. The "beautiful, rejuvenated San Pedro Springs" reopened on August 11, 1899.
In 1915-1920, Parks Commissioner Ray Lambert renovated the park, moving the zoo and adding a swimming pool, tennis courts, a library, and a community theater. These changes kept the park popular into the late 20th century.
In 1998-2000, the park was renovated again, keeping its historical uses. It was entered in the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. In 2012, it was named a Lone Star Legacy Park for its cultural significance by the Texas Recreation and Parks Society.