Biking Through History with Military Families at San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

On February 28, 2026, National Park Trust teamed up with the National Park Service and our partners at Our Military Kids to host a special outdoor adventure for San Antonio–area National Guard and Reserve families at San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. The day blended history, exploration, and time outdoors as families experienced one of America’s most unique national park sites from the seat of an e-bike.

The morning began at Mission Concepción, where families gathered for an introduction to the park and a chance to explore the historic grounds. As the oldest unrestored stone church in the United States, the mission provided a powerful starting point for the day’s journey and a glimpse into the centuries of history preserved within the park.

Soon the group set out along the scenic San Antonio Missions Bike Trail, riding south through stretches of river, fields, and quiet parkland. The next stop was Mission San José, often called the “Queen of the Missions,” where families learned more about the people and cultures that shaped the mission communities of the 1700s.

After time to rest and refuel, the ride continued toward Mission San Juan, where the group explored the site’s new National Park Service exhibit and toured the surrounding historic farm fields. One of the highlights for many of the kids was getting hands-on experience opening the gates of the acequia, the centuries-old irrigation system that once watered mission farmland and continues to operate today.

The journey concluded at Mission Espada, the southernmost of the missions. Along the route, families experienced the peaceful beauty of the park landscape while learning how the missions, farmland, irrigation systems, and surrounding communities were once closely connected.

By the end of the ride, families had covered nearly ten miles, shared new experiences together, and explored a national park site that tells an important story of culture, resilience, and community. For many of the children and parents who participated, it was also a chance to simply enjoy time outdoors together.

National Park Trust is grateful to partner with Our Military Kids to create opportunities like this for military families. Days spent exploring national parks not only bring people closer to nature and history—they also provide moments of connection, discovery, and lasting memories.