The Friends of Stephen F. Austin State Park was founded in 1940 as The Friends of Stephen F. Austin State Historical Park. When The Texas Historical Commission took ownership of the Historical Park along the banks of The Brazos River, the Friends Group remained connected only to the State Park. The early Friends Group was responsible for many park fundraisers which benefited Stephen F. Austin SP tremendously. Many of the projects funded by the early Friends Group are still visible in the park today.

Today’s Friends group is a rejuvenated group of inspired individuals who collectively have a vision to help Stephen F. Austin State Park in achieving their goals and objectives to the community. Our group is made up of individuals, families, and businesses as well as park volunteers. Our primary purpose is to raise funds to augment projects and needs for the park by following the outline of our mission statement.