Castroville Regional Park, located in the southwest part of Castroville, consists of 126 wooded acres on the Medina River. It was originally part of the "McMullen Grant, a parcel of land granted by the Governor of Spain in 1766 to the Indians of Mission San Jose and by them conveyed to John McMullen."  It was later deeded to Henri Castro and the Society of the Colonization of Texas.  In the late 1800's, the land came into the possession of the Ihnken Family, where it remained through the 1940's.  It was purchased by Mr. and Mrs. Joe Hoog in 1950.  

 In 1968 they sold the land to the City of Castroville, at a fraction of its worth, with the stipulation that it be turned into a park for everyone to enjoy.  A grant from the government, an allocation of city funds, plus the support of the Castroville Chamber of Commerce, made Mr. and Mrs. Hoog's dream a reality.  The park was dedicated and opened in 1974.  In 1997, it became home to the "Jardin des Racines", or "Garden of Roots", established as a gesture of friendship by the people of Alsace. Mr. and Mrs. Hoog had no children of their own, but generations of children now benefit from their generosity and community spirit. This unique gift has enhanced the natural beauty of our tranquil park, as well as added even more meaning to its historical significance!