So it seems like there is a large amount of lodges here in San Antonio. Some are big and very prominent looking and some are more small town/laid back looking. Appearance and numbers mean nothing to me. I'm a person who is more concerned with how active a lodge would be. Can anyone shine any light on how to tell how active a lodge is?
Visit the Lodges, most will have a meal before their stated meeting which is a good way to get to know the bretheren, and discuss what sort of things they have going on. Ask what activities they have going on in addition to Stated and Extra meetings, what sort of presence they have in the community, what if any charitable activities they are engaged in.
Check with the Grand Lodge and get the contact information for the Secretaries of the lodges you have an interest in. Contact the Secretaries and check with them as to when the appropriate time to visit as a potential petitioner would be.
It is just like anything other organization you might be interested in joining, such as a place of worship, a community organization, a special interest club...Meet the members, ask questions and see where you will best fit in.