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16 Best State Parks in Texas for Beautiful Desert, Mountain, Waterfall, and River Views

These state parks in Texas offer something for everyone.

With its diverse terrain, ranging from dense forests and vast deserts to dramatic canyons, Texas is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The Lone Star State has more than 80 state parks — many offering opportunities to hike, camp, fish, kayak, mountain bike, or spot wildlife.

These protected lands are also steeped in history. Humans have inhabited Texas for about 13,000 years, and before that, prehistoric animals left their marks on the state. Today, visitors to Texas parks can see traces of the past in various forms, including pictographs, petroglyphs, ancient dwellings, and even dinosaur tracks. Here are 16 of the best state parks in Texas, whether you're looking for adventure, history, or stunning landscapes.

Big Bend Ranch State Park

As Texas' largest state park, Big Bend Ranch State Park offers all of the flora and fauna of its neighbor, Big Bend National Park , but is even more remote. Located in far West Texas on the U.S.-Mexico border, this state park offers rugged adventures like hiking, horseback riding, river floating, biking, and more. Don't miss the stargazing here at night, as it's a designated International Dark Sky Park .

Garner State Park

With nearly three miles of Frio River access, plus 1,774 acres of Hill Country adventure , it's no wonder that Garner State Park is Texas' most-visited state park. Float the Frio on an inner tube in true Texas style, or hike along 16 miles of scenic trails. Camping, canoeing, fishing, mini golf, and geocaching are also available. In the summertime, gather at the park's concession building for an evening of dancing around the jukebox — a park tradition since the 1940s.

Inks Lake State Park

On the eastern edge of the Llano Uplift, known as the geological heart of Texas, Inks Lake State Park offers some of the best views of Precambrian geology in the state. Cool water meets rock outcrops here, making for great swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking. Nine miles of trails are available, too. Check out the bird blind to see what species are visiting the park.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Texas is home to the second-largest canyon in the country, and it's found in Palo Duro Canyon State Park in the Panhandle. More than 30 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails are available, along with birding, geocaching, and glamping. Be sure to look for hoodoos as you hike, and in the summer, catch a show at Texas Outdoor Musical , which tells the stories of early Texas settlers.

Caprock Canyons State Park & Trailway

Home to the Texas State Bison Herd, Caprock Canyons State Park is the perfect place to get back to nature. The bison roam the plains, so take caution when driving, and do not approach them. Ninety miles of trails are open for easy to strenuous hiking and biking, and Lake Theo offers no-wake boating, fishing, and swimming.

Caddo Lake State Park

Covered in bald cypress trees dripping with Spanish moss, as well as a labyrinth of bayous, ponds, and swamps, Caddo Lake is quintessential East Texas. The park covers more than 26,000 acres and contains more than 70 species of fish, drawing in anglers from all over the world. A fishing pier and boat ramp are both accessible, too. Rent or bring your own canoe or kayak and explore the 50-plus miles of paddling trails in the area. Wildlife, including alligators, are abundant here.

Seminole Canyon State Park & Historic Site

While people have been visiting this area for 12,000 years, it was a group that arrived about 7,000 years ago that left the most important mark at Seminole Canyon . These hunter-gatherers painted pictographs in the rock shelters of the Lower Pecos River Country, and today, more than 200 sites still have these paintings. Aside from looking for pictographs, visitors here can geocache, mountain bike, hike, and more.

Dinosaur Valley State Park

In Glen Rose, Texas, take a walk back in time at Dinosaur Valley State Park . Around 113 million years ago, dinosaurs roamed this area at the edge of an advancing and retreating sea. Today, fossilized footprints and claw marks, most likely from sauropods and theropods, are preserved in the riverbed. While the tracks are hidden under mud and water most of the year, they are visible during periods of drought or during late summer when water levels are low. Twenty miles of trails are also available for hiking and mountain biking, and the Paluxy River is a paddler's paradise.

Longhorn Cavern State Park

A special treat less than 90 minutes from Austin , Longhorn Cavern State Park is known for its namesake underground cave, which was partly carved out by an ancient river. Anglo settlers mined bat guano from the cave to make gunpowder during the Civil War, and legend says that outlaw Sam Bass hid $2 million inside the cave. Cave tours are available.

Balmorhea State Park

No, that's not a mirage you see. It's actually the world's largest spring-fed swimming pool, located in the West Texas desert. Balmorhea State Park 's pool, up to 25 feet deep, is filled from San Solomon Springs. The water temperature stays between 72 and 76 degrees year-round, creating a warm oasis.

Monahans Sandhills State Park

You can surf on the Gulf Coast in Texas , but you can also surf at Monahans Sandhills State Park in West Texas. Essentially a giant, hilly sandbox, the park is a small part of a dune field that extends further into Texas and New Mexico. Bring your horse and check out the 800-acre equestrian area, or rent sand disks and cross off "surfed in a desert" from your travel wish list.

Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site

People have visited these rocky hills in West Texas for thousands of years, looking for rainwater in the huecos, or natural rock basins. This area also provided food and shelter to those meandering through the Chihuahuan Desert , and these people left pictographs and petroglyphs that can still be seen today. The rock art depicts animals, deity-like figures, and face masks with intricate designs. More than 200 masks have been identified, making it the largest collection of these in North America.

Lost Maples State Natural Area

Texas may not come to mind when you picture fall foliage , but think again. Lost Maples protects a special stand of Uvalde bigtooth maples, and these trees, along with others in the park, come alive each autumn with warm, golden colors. The park even puts out an annual fall foliage report to help you plan the best time to visit. Birding is also popular here, as the endangered golden-cheeked warbler is known to make appearances.

Pedernales Falls State Park

Approximately 30 miles west of Austin in Johnson City, Pedernales Falls State Park attracts visitors to its massive slabs of limestone in the Pedernales River, where people love to swim and sprawl out for a day of lounging. Tubing, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, birding, and horseback riding are also available. And the butterfly garden and bird blind allow you to look for wildlife.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

A billion years ago, the large pink granite dome known as Enchanted Rock was part of a big pool of magma miles under the earth's surface. It pushed into the rock above in spots, then cooled and hardened, turning into the granite dome it is today. The dome has drawn people here for thousands of years, and today, visitors can hike, backpack, rock climb, bird, and even stargaze, as the park is designated an International Dark Sky Park.

Colorado Bend State Park

West of Lampasas, explore more than 5,000 acres above Lake Buchanan at Colorado Bend State Park . The park is known for Gorman Falls, a 70-foot, spring-fed waterfall you can reach on a three-mile round-trip hike. You can also mountain bike, fish, or paddle along the Colorado River. Check to see if the park offers guided cave tours during your visit, as it's home to more than 400 underground caves.

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17 Best State Parks in Texas

Written by Brad Lane Updated Feb 10, 2023

Author Brad Lane enjoyed a lengthy reporting trip throughout Texas, camping his way throughout much of his stay.

State parks in Texas highlight the full diversity of landscapes in the Lone Star State. From high mountains in West Texas to the piney woods and prairies to the east, Texas State Parks cover it all. Hiking, mountain biking, and horse riding are all popular ways to explore the varied environments of Texas state parks. Many of the state parks are also popular for stargazing, thanks to incredible night skies.

Waterfalls, enchanted rocks, and deep underground caverns are a few centerpiece attractions. Some state parks are enormous, like Big Bend Ranch State Park, covering over 300,000 acres. For these big state parks, camping is the best way to experience the breadth of nature throughout.

The best state parks for camping in Texas include sites for tents, RVs, and those willing to hike in their supplies. Check with the state parks for availability and to make reservations .

Each state park in Texas offers a unique experience to enjoy. From canyons in the Texas Panhandle to churning waves on the Southern Coast, the state is as varied as it is large. Several state parks are easy to reach from big cities in Texas, including Houston, Dallas, and Austin. These accessible state parks make escaping the city an easy thing to do.

For more ideas, read our list of the best state parks in Texas.

1. Big Bend Ranch State Park

2. palo duro canyon state park, 3. colorado bend state park, 4. franklin mountains state park, 5. guadalupe river state park, 6. longhorn cavern state park, 7. pedernales falls state park, 8. brazos bend state park, 9. enchanted rock state natural area, 10. hueco tanks state park & historic area, 11. caddo lake state park, 12. davis mountains state park, 13. lost maples state natural area, 14. caprock canyons state park & trailway, 15. monahans sandhills state park, 16. garner state park, 17. dinosaur valley state park.

Big Bend Ranch is the largest state park in Texas. It's on the U.S./Mexico border in West Texas and encompasses over 300,000 acres of high-desert terrain, providing endless exploration opportunities. Popular things to do at the state park include hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, and finding solitude in nature.

The Rio Grande is accessible in Big Bend Ranch State Park, which makes activities like boating and fishing fun things to do. Camping is available in a variety of forms at Big Bend Ranch, including basic bedding options at the Sauceda Bunkhouse . Big Bend Ranch is also a designated International Dark Sky Park . This interstellar designation lends to spectacular stargazing following blazing sunsets.

Big Bend Ranch State Park incorporates a wide range of elevations. Summers are scorching at Big Bend, and winters provide milder temperatures with chilly conditions at night. For even more to explore, Big Bend Ranch State Park is adjacent to the more massive Big Bend National Park .

Address: 1900 South Saucedo, Presidio, Texas

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Big Bend Ranch State Park

Near Amarillo in the Texas Panhandle , Palo Duro Canyon is also known as the Grand Canyon of Texas . A park road, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, descends into the canyon and connects several campgrounds, hiking trails, and day-use areas. Hiking, mountain biking, and horse riding are all popular ways to explore the park. The canyon views at the state park offer one of the most stunning Texas landscapes.

The unique TEXAS Outdoor Musical occurs at the Pioneer Amphitheater at the park throughout the summer. This musical performance features singing, dancing, and fireworks that highlight the struggles and triumphs of Texas pioneers. Photographers also flock to Palo Duro Canyon to capture the blending colors of the canyon walls.

Address: 11450 State Highway Park Road 5, Canyon, Texas

Colorado Bend State Park is a choose-your-own-adventure destination. It's less than two hours north of Austin and encompasses over 5,000 acres, including six miles of Colorado River shoreline. Activities at Colorado Bend take place on land, water, and underground. The state park is also a prime spot to spend the night, with a variety of camping options.

The best and only way to explore the caves at Colorado Bend is through a guided tour. Above the caverns, Colorado Bend State Park features over 30 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. The most popular trail at the park, Gorman Falls , leads hikers to one of the best waterfalls in Texas . This approximately three-mile hike is strenuous at times, but the 70-foot spring-fed waterfall is well worth the effort.

Address: 2236 Park Hill Drive, Bend, Texas

Near the city of El Paso in West Texas, Franklin Mountains State Park offers over 27,000 acres of elevated landscapes to explore. Popular activities at the state park include camping, rock climbing, and exploring the over 100 miles of trails that traverse the area. A rugged landscape defines the Franklin Mountains, and visitors should prepare for the wild environment.

The Tom Mays Unit is on the northern edge of El Paso and is the most accessible area of the park. The Tom Mays Unit contains the densest collection of developed campsites. Visitors from El Paso can reach the various entrances of the Tom Mays Unit by car in 15 minutes. Several hiking trails stretch from the Tom Mays Unit, including extensive Upper and Lower Foothills loops.

Address: Tom Mays Park Access Road, El Paso, Texas

This picturesque state park is 30 miles north of San Antonio , on the banks of the Guadalupe River. The river environment provides ample recreation options, including fishing, swimming, and tubing.

Other popular things to do at Guadalupe River State Park include camping, hiking, and spotting wildlife. Keep your eyes out for armadillos when visiting. Sunsets at Guadalupe River State Park provide a beautiful moment among others to snap some pictures.

The park also features an interactive Discovery Center . This educational space enables children to engage with the natural environment. Eighty campsites at Guadalupe River State Park range from full hook-up RV spots to primitive sites to pitch a tent. A recommended trail to check out is the half-mile Bald Cypress Trail , which follows a significant portion of the Guadalupe River.

Address: 3350 Park Road 31, Spring Branch, Texas

Home to one of the best caverns in Texas , Longhorn Cavern State Park presents an interesting history both above and below ground. Under the surface, guided tours of Longhorn Cavern shine a light on the geologic and cultural history of the cave. Professional guides dive deep into this history that spans ancient seas and subterranean dance halls.

The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) added significant development to the park in the 1930s. Many of these structures remain at the park, like the stone steps leading down to the cave. Also on display are nature-inspired structures, including a stone Observation Tower. The view from the Observation Tower offers a great look at the surrounding Texas Hill Country .

Longhorn Caverns is a day-use only park. For those looking to spend the night, the nearby Inks Lake State Park features over 200 places to stay, including campsites and cabins.

Address: 6211 Park Road 4 S, Burnet, Texas

The Pedernales River carves through a series of ancient limestone steps at the north end of this popular state park. This twisting and turning display of gravity creates the park's namesake feature and a fantastic place to spend a sunny afternoon.

Due to the turbulent nature of the river, swimming is not allowed at Pedernales Falls. Rock-hopping around to see the impressive falls, however, is time well spent.

Pedernales Falls State Park is under an hour's drive west of Austin. Swimming is allowed in other areas of the park, and the river provides a refreshing place to cool off during a Texas summer.

Camping is also enjoyed at Pedernales Falls, as is hiking on a variety of trails. The park's longest hiking trail, the 10-mile Juniper Ridge Trail , is as standard for mountain bikers as it is for hikers. The park also has equestrian-exclusive trails.

Visitors need to be aware that the Pedernales River is subject to flash flooding, even if it's not raining at the park. Adhere to park signs and warnings when visiting.

Address: 2585 Park Road 6026, Johnson City, Texas

Brazos Bend State Park offers a wild and natural place under an hour south of Houston. The park encompasses over 5,000 acres of vibrant wetlands and a diverse mix of forest and tallgrass prairie.

Among the many species of wildlife at Brazos Bend, the American alligator is perhaps the most exciting to see. Visitors need to keep their distance when viewing alligators. The park provides ample information about staying safe near these reptiles.

The half-mile Creekfield Nature Trail is an excellent first place to start exploring Brazos Bend. Information about the area lines this interpretive path alongside several wildlife viewing opportunities. Other trails, like the 40 Acre Lake Trail , offer the best chance to spot alligators. Electric campsites, screened shelters, and cabins are available at Brazos Bend State Park.

Address: 21901 FM 762 Road, Needville, Texas

Within the Texas State Park system, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is a special place in the Texas Hill Country . This unique natural area is near the German town of Fredericksburg and encompasses a massive granite dome. This pink landmark is visible from miles on the horizon and has attracted visitors for thousands of years.

Visitors to this state natural area today can enjoy the landscape by climbing to the top of the rock via a steep hiking trail. It's less than a mile to the top of Enchanted Rock, where unique vernal pools filled with rainwater are teeming with life. Other popular activities at Enchanted Rock include rock climbing, camping, and stargazing in the incredible night sky.

Address: 16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg, Texas

Forty miles east of El Paso in West Texas , Hueco Tanks offers a beautiful landscape and bountiful history. Native cultures flocked to this natural area for thousands of years to use the park's namesake natural rainwater deposits. Many cultures left their mark at Hueco Tanks in the form of pictographs and petroglyphs.

Due to the fragile nature of these ancient markings, park visits are limited each day by permitted self-guided and guided tours . It's advised to call ahead before a visit, especially for the busy season between November and March. Rock climbing is another popular activity at the park, and permits are also required to scale the impressive rock features at Hueco Tanks.

Address: 6900 Hueco Tanks Road No. 1, El Paso, Texas

Thirty miles west of Shreveport, Louisiana , near the state border, Caddo Lake State Park offers a unique Texas landscape. Cypress swamps, alligators, and Spanish moss define many of the views at Caddo Lake State Park. The Civilian Conservation Corps also left their mark here, with several historic stone structures. While hiking trails meander throughout this diverse area, the best way to explore Caddo Lake is by kayak or canoe.

Visitors can bring their own canoe to Caddo Lake, and the state park also provides rentals by the hour. Big Cypress Bayou connects the state park to Caddo Lake, where over 50 miles of paddling trails encourage exploration. Fishing is also popular at Caddo Lake, and the state park provides a convenient fishing pier to cast a line.

Address: 245 Park Road 2, Karnack, Texas

One hundred miles north of Big Bend National Park, Davis Mountains State Park offers more elevated landscapes to explore. The state park represents some of the earliest work of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the state. Many of the CCC projects, like the 39-room Indian Lodge , still operate today inside the park. The Indian Lodge is at the heart of the park and continues to provide a welcoming oasis from the Texas summer sun.

Hiking is one of the most popular activities at Davis Mountain State Park. The 4.5-mile Skyline Drive Trail offers some of the best views of the mountainous environment. A hiking trail at Davis Mountain connects to the nearby Fort Davis National Historic Site . For a great way to cool off, the nearby Balmorhea State Park features one of the largest spring-fed swimming pools in the world.

Davis Mountain State Park is also well regarded for its popular bird blind.

Address: TX-118, Fort Davis, Texas

While any time of the year is pleasant to visit this state natural area in the Texas Hill Country , the park displays its best color come fall.

A sprawling trail system opens views of the expansive foliage at Lost Maples State Natural Area. The trail system is a day hiker's dream come true, including a steep path that leads to the top of a 2,200-foot cliff. Explorers can also spend the night at one of the park's 30 electric campsites.

Other popular activities at Lost Maples include fishing, photography, and stargazing. The park's centerpiece natural feature is the bigtooth maple, which is unique in the state. These maples add to the vibrant color of Lost Maples State Natural Area in the fall.

For more trails to explore, the expansive Garner State Park is 30 miles southeast of Lost Maples.

Address: 37221 FM 187, Vanderpool, Texas

Fifty miles southeast of Palo Duro Canyon State Park , Caprock Canyons is home to magnificent bluffs, roaming bison, and miles of multi-use trails. The rugged landscapes of the state park host activities like mountain biking, hiking, and rock climbing. Water sports are also popular on the 120-acre Lake Theo .

Caprock Canyon is a great state park for tent camping with over 80 walk-in primitive campsites available.

The state park also lends access to the unique Caprock Canyons Trailway . This 64-mile-long converted railway offers a rugged path to hike, bike, or ride a horse. Camping is allowed along the trail for multi-day pursuits.

The trailway is broken up into sections, and the Clarity Tunnel is one of the most popular areas to explore, home to a nesting colony of Mexican free-tailed bats. Visitors need to exercise caution when exploring this deserted railroad tunnel.

Address: 850 Caprock Canyon Park Road, Quitaque, Texas

This state park in West Texas offers a unique landscape filled with many active sand dunes. These shifting landscapes can dramatically change overnight. The park doesn't maintain any trails for this reason, and visitors are free to explore in any direction they choose. Dunes at the park reach up to 50 feet in height.

One of the fun activities at Monahans Sandhills State Park is surfing down the dunes. The state park rents out sand discs for interested visitors. Packing along extra water and supplies is essential when visiting Monahans Sandhills. Summers are blazing at the state park. Twenty-six campsites with electricity are at the state park, and each have shade structures and fire rings.

Address: 2500 E Interstate 20 Exit 86, Monahans, Texas

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Midland, TX

Several adventure attributes bring visitors to Garner State Park, approximately 90 miles west of San Antonio—but it's the Frio River that draws the biggest crowds. Nearly three miles of this spring-fed and icy-cold river wind throughout the park, encouraging activities like tubing, canoeing, and kayaking. Visitors enter this wild waterway at their own risk.

Other eye-catching reasons to visit Garner State Park include 16 miles of woodland trails and unbeatable Hill Country landscapes. The park also has a bountiful collection of campsites to spread out the travel, including full hookup RV sites and primitive tent sites.

Step back into history at Dinosaur Valley State Park, approximately 60 miles southwest of Fort Worth . The main focal point of this state park is found along the banks of the Paluxy River. Here, over 100 million years ago, a relative of the Tyrannosaurus Rex left its footprint behind in the riverbed. Today, when river levels are low, visitors flock to see this left-behind footprint and unique display of the state's geologic history.

There's much more to see and do at Dinosaur Valley State Park outside of the dino tracks. The unique terrain of the park, comprising a hilly limestone landscape and a rich riparian corridor, is also well spent exploring. Popular activities include horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, and camping at one of the park's 44 campsites.

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Other Outdoor Attractions in Texas : Many of the top places to camp in Texas are in the best state parks. The best waterfalls in the state also find homes in state parks, as well as other natural areas across Texas. For some underground exploring, our guide to the best caverns in Texas dive deep into the Earth for a unique adventure to be had.

Exploring Big Bend National Park: Encompassing over 800,000 acres, Big Bend National Park is one of the largest national parks in the country. It takes time to explore this massive public space in West Texas, and the top campgrounds at Big Bend National Park enable overnight adventures. For some daytime explorations, our guide to hiking trails in Big Bend National Park will lead you down some memorable paths.

More on Texas

ONE CHEL OF AN ADVENTURE

16 best texas state parks to visit.

As the largest state in the lower 48, Texas is full of incredible cities , great food, and most of all: stunning nature. That’s why I’ve put together this list of the 16 Best Texas State Park s — each one offers a unique glimpse at the varying foliage, wildlife, and natural landscapes that this great state has to offer. 

From ancient cave dwellings to alligator-filled swamps to sweeping red rock canyons and more, read on to find out which Texas state park you should visit next!

16 Best Texas State Parks

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1. Explore Texas’s largest state park: Big Bend Ranch State Park

As the largest state park in Texas, Big Bend Ranch State Park is not one to miss. Comprised of high-desert terrain fit for incredible hiking, mountain biking, trail riding and more, you’ll never run out of things to do in this park. 

Big Bend Ranch is also an  International Dark Sky Park , making it one of the best places in Texas for stargazing!

2. Journey into the earth at Longhorn Cavern State Park

Looking to go underground? Longhorn Cavern State Park is the place to go. Take a guided tour of the caverns to learn all about the unique geological history of the park and see where ancient seas once flowed with full force.

3. Explore ancient cultures at Hueco Tanks State Park - Best Texas State Parks

Many different native communities have flocked to the Hueco Tanks State Park area to make use of the natural rainwater deposits that the park is named after. And most of these native groups left their own unique mark on the region through fascinating pictographs and petroglyphs. 

Just note: to come and see this bit of history, or to climb the impressive rock features at Hueco Tanks, you have to obtain a permit first.

4. Cool off in the springs of Balmorhea State Park

This state park is a true oasis: in the middle of the high desert lies the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pool of Balmorhea State Park . You can scuba dive, snorkel, or just swim around the cool waters of this park. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Balmorhea State Park (@balmorheastatepark)

While you’re there, don’t forget to check out the restored desert wetlands teeming with endangered wildlife.

5. Make the pilgrimage to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

As part of the Texas state park system, Enchanted Rock is one of the most popular parks in the entire state. Thousands of visitors flock here every year to climb up the natural pink domed rock that rises above the surrounding Texas Hill Country . It’s a short but steep trek to the top, but you’ll be rewarded with incredible views, making it absolutely worth it!

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6. Explore the rock formations of Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Dubbed the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” Palo Duro Canyon State Park is filled with stunning red rock formations and day-use areas. There are plenty of hiking and mountain biking trails, and exploring by horseback is a popular option too.

Consider visiting in the summer, when Palo Duro Canyon hosts the  Texas Outdoor Musical  at the Pioneer Amphitheater within the park.

7. Slide down the sand at Monahans Sandhills State Park - Best Texas State Parks

This is one of the only state parks in Texas that doesn’t have any maintained trails… and that’s because visitors simply don’t need any in order to explore! Monahans Sandhills State Park is filled with sand dunes that shift and change shape each and every day with the wind, and visitors are encouraged to explore in any direction they so choose. 

Make sure to rent some sand discs to slide down the dunes with!

8. Admire the rushing waters at Pedernales Falls State Park

The massive Pedernales river twists and turns through ancient limestone deposits in Pedernales Falls State Park , and is a great place to hike around observing the natural beauty of the river. 

Note: because the river is so swift and strong, swimming at the falls is not allowed, though you can swim in other parts of the river within the park.

9. See the alligators at Brazos Bend State Park

With a unique mix of wetland areas, tallgrass prairie, and lush forests, Brazos Bend State Park is filled with both stunning nature and fascinating wildlife. Most notably, Brazos Bend is a great place to spot the American alligator. Visitors can trek along several different trails in hopes of seeing these carnivorous creatures in their natural habitat.

10. Paddle your way through Caddo Lake State Park - one of the Best Texas State Parks

Situated close to the state border with Louisiana, Caddo Lake State Park offers an interesting landscape that isn’t seen in much else of Texas. If you like to canoe or kayak, then this may be one of the best Texas state parks for you. You can explore the swamps and marshy wetlands, and you may even see some alligators while you’re there.

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11. Don’t miss the Fate Bell Shelter at Seminole Canyon State Park

Seminole Canyon State Park is home to Fate Bell Shelter, one of the oldest cave dwellings on the entire continent. You can see ancient pictographs and areas where evidence of human life dates back all the way to 7,000 B.C. 

While you’re there, you can also check out the impressive Presa Canyon overlook and hike along the Rio Grande.

12. Choose your own adventure at Colorado Bend State Park

Colorado Bend State Park is one of the best Texas state parks no matter what sort of outdoor activity you’re into. Here are just a few ideas for your visit to this state park:

• Hike to one of the best waterfalls in Texas: Gorman Falls.
• Camp overnight for incredible stargazing.
• Take a tour through the caves of Colorado Bend.
• Go kayaking or fishing along the 6 miles of Colorado River shoreline within the park.

13. Enjoy the beach at Mustang Island State Park - Best Texas State Parks

Mustang Island State Park is one of the best Texas state parks for beating the heat in the summer. With over 5 miles of beach shoreline, this barrier island between Corpus Christi and Port Aransas is the ultimate spot to play in the sand and the surf. Visitors can swim, fish, camp, and even surf in the waves at Mustang Island.

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14. Take in the fall foliage at Lost Maples State Natural Area

While beautiful any time of year, Lost Maples State Natural Area is the park you’ll want to visit most in the autumn. Home to the Bigtooth Maple, a variety of maple tree unique to Texas, this park bursts to life with stunning fall colors from September-November. Trek along one of the many hiking trails, and be sure to bring a camera to capture the bright autumnal hues of the trees changing color.

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15. Go tubing in Guadalupe River State Park

Guadalupe River State Park is great for all visitors, but especially families with small children. This state park hosts an interactive Discovery Center that’ll keep little ones entertained and engaged with the natural environment for hours. 

While you’re there, don’t miss out on tubing down the gorgeous Guadalupe River to cool off from the heat. Visitors can also fish or swim in the river.

16. Geek out at Dinosaur Valley State Park

Great for science buffs as well as families, Dinosaur Valley State Park is one of the most unique Texas state parks on this list. That’s because this park is home to real dinosaur tracks left behind millions of years ago in the bedrock of the Paluxy River.

In between searching for dino prints, visitors can also swim and fish in the river, or hike along the 20 miles of trails running through the state park.

Which of these best Texas state parks is at the top of your list to visit this year? Let me know in the comments or send me a DM on Instagram ! 

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THE 10 BEST Texas State Parks

State parks in texas.

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• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

2. Longhorn Cavern State Park

3. Dinosaur Valley State Park

4. Caprock Canyons State Park

5. Davis Mountains State Park

6. Pedernales Falls State Park

7. McKinney Falls State Park

8. Brazos Bend State Park

9. Inks Lake State Park

10. Old Tunnel State Park

11. Goose Island State Park

12. Galveston Island State Park

13. Caddo Lake State Park

14. Hueco Tanks State Historic Site

15. Franklin Mountains State Park

16. Mustang Island State Park

17. Tyler State Park

18. Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site

19. Lost Maples State Natural Area

20. Balmorhea State Park

21. Isla Blanca Park

22. Colorado Bend State Park

23. Huntsville State Park

24. Lake Mineral Wells State Park

25. Big Bend Ranch State Park

26. Lake Livingston State Park

27. Guadalupe River State Park

28. Seminole Canyon State Park and Historic Site

29. Monahans Sandhills State Park

30. Boca Chica State Park

What travelers are saying

The 10 Best State Parks in Texas You Need to Visit

Desert mountains, sandy beaches, clear blue rivers, and deep canyons. the lone star state has it all—and you can find it in a state park..

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At 300,000 acres, Big Bend Ranch State Park is the largest state park in Texas.

Photo by jesmo5/Shutterstock

Texans often fight the misperception that their home state is nothing but high desert dressed with tumbleweeds and a few cities—I mean, how many of us were asked if we rode a horse to school by people from out of the state? But as a native of the Lone Star State, I can say for certain: It’s one of the most geographically diverse states in the union—it is the largest state in the contiguous United States, after all—with a thriving state park system to match that has more than 80 different sites across the state to explore.

Officially established in 1923, Texas’s state park system was loosely modeled on the United States’ national parks. When Texas was annexed into the U.S. in 1845, the state government stipulated that Texas must retain control over its public lands, so when the country’s national park movement was first gathering steam in 1916, very little land was allocated to the federal government. There’s now a grand total of 603,748 acres of Texas state parks to traverse, so there’s a little something for every type of adventurer.

Here are the 10 best Texas state parks to visit:

Thanks to their high elevation, the Davis Mountains enjoy cool temperatures all year round.

Photo by Craig Stocks Arts/Shutterstock

1. Davis Mountains State Park

• Why go: Desert mountain hikes and a historic lodge
• Nearest town: Fort Davis, Texas
• Where to stay: Davis Mountains State Park offers primitive camping, campsites with electricity and water, and full hookup campsites for RVs. If you’re not into camping, check out the Indian Lodge .

If you ask any Texan what they think of when they hear the words “west Texas,” the first thing that probably comes to mind is Big Bend National Park (or, alternatively, the cool little art town in the middle of nowhere, Marfa ). But about 140 miles north of Big Bend country are the Davis Mountains, which are geologically classified as a “sky island”—an isolated mountain range surrounded by a radically different lowland. The mountains were created 35 million years ago after a series of violent volcanic eruptions, which gave the area a large outcropping of rare (for Texas) igneous rock, like granite. The park offers a variety of hiking and biking trails, horseback riding corridors, plus what the park fondly calls the “best little bird blind in Texas.” Thanks to the state park’s proximity to the McDonald Observatory , the area enjoys mandatory dark skies , making it an ideal spot for stargazing.

Davis Mountains State Park isn’t known only for its outdoor activities. One of the most distinctive hotel options in the area is the Indian Lodge , built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1933. The pueblo-style lodge functions as a full-service hotel and has 39 rooms and a dreamy swimming pool.

Lost Maples State Natural Area is the best place in Texas to see brilliant fall colors.

Photo by Silvio Ligutti/Shutterstock

2. Lost Maples State Natural Area

• Why go: Fall colors like none others in the Lone Star State
• Nearest town: Vanderpool, Texas
• Where to stay: Lost Maples has primitive campsites and campsites with electricity available.

Lost Maples State Natural Area is one of the most popular parks in the state, for good reason. It’s the best spot in Texas to experience real autumn colors, thanks to a special species of Uvalde bigtooth maples that turn brilliant shades of scarlet and apricot orange at the first hint of fall. Yes, tidal waves of tourists and influencers do descend on the area every year, but that shouldn’t dissuade you from visiting. There are only 10 miles of trails within the park, and most lookie-loos stick to the shorter trails like the Maple Trail or East-West Trail, while the 3.5-mile West Trail promises tranquility—and smaller crowds. This part of the Hill Country is famous for its small towns with big personalities, so consider dancing the night away at a honky-tonk in Leakey or Bandera. Vanderpool is a key stop on the famous, 100-mile Twisted Sisters’ motorcycle route , so you’re likely to hear and see a few hogs revving by, especially in the cooler months of the spring and fall when bikers can bust out their leather gear without breaking a sweat.

The Rio Grande runs along Big Bend Ranch State Park.

Photo by Paul Leong/Shutterstock

3. Big Bend Ranch State Park

• Why go: Big Bend’s geography without the crowds of Big Bend National Park
• Nearest town: Lajitas or Terlingua, Texas
• Where to stay: Primitive camping only. Nearby towns of Lajitas and Terlingua have hotels, motels, and Airbnb options.

Big Bend Ranch State Park is often overshadowed by its spectacular national cousin, Big Bend National Park . But just a few minutes down Highway 170 (which, by the way, was named one of the most scenic drives in the country) is this state park—the biggest in Texas at a whopping 300,000 acres. Admittedly, Big Bend Ranch State Park is not for the faint of heart: There’s only primitive (a campsite with no water or electricity, but can be driven to) and backcountry (campsites with no water or electricity either, but require a hike to reach) camping in the park. Because of its size and remoteness, it offers little in the way of amenities. What the park does have is 238 miles of multiuse trails for hiking, biking, and riding horses. Bring plenty of water—temperatures can reach as high as 130 degrees in the summer, so plan your visit for sometime during late November to early March. Due to its proximity to the McDonald Observatory, this west Texas park also makes a great place to stargaze.

For an extra dose of personality, add a stop in Terlingua to your trip. The famous revitalized “ghost town” serves up some serious western-inspired grub, drinks, and music at the Starlight Theatre .

Seminole Canyon is famous for its ancient river wall paintings.

Photo by Hundley Photography/Shutterstock

4. Seminole Canyon State Park & Historic Site

• Why go: Ancient pictographs and unparalleled solitude
• Nearest town: Comstock, Texas
• Where to stay: The park has primitive camping and campsites with electricity and water.

Seminole Canyon State Park sits along the old two-lane Highway 90, once the primary way of traveling by car to and from west Texas before I-10 was built. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, this is the place to be. In the chaparral region of Texas that’s sandwiched between the Hill Country and the high desert, the park and the surrounding area were once inhabited by the Seminole people.

The park is well known for its pictographs, aka rock paintings, in two river grottoes, the Panther Cave and the Fate Bell Shelter. The Panther Cave, named for its leaping panther painting, dates back at least 7,000 years. The Fate Bell Shelter is thought to house some of the oldest cave paintings in North America; ancient Indigenous artifacts were found when the area was first excavated in 1932.

There are plentiful water and electricity camping spots around the park—but stock up on ample provisions before heading out. There isn’t much in Comstock: a U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility, a gas station, and a diner that looks like it hasn’t opened its doors since 1970. Be sure to buy all the food, snacks, and water you need from the H-E-B (a grocery store chain fiercely beloved by Texans ) in Uvalde.

Located about two hours from Austin, Enchanted Rock is one of the state’s most iconic parks.

5. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

• Why go: Hike a gorgeous pink granite monolith
• Nearest town: Fredericksburg, Texas
• Where to stay: Group campsites, campsites with water, and backcountry camping are all available.

As any Texan knows, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is a must-visit park. You can see what makes the region special from miles away along the drive on Ranch Road 965—a gargantuan hunk of pink granite that’s completely unique to Texas. (The state capitol is made of the same rock.) Geologically, the unusual formation is known as a monadnock, a hill of bedrock that rises above its surroundings. The stunning monolith has always had a mystical ambience. Before the area was colonized by Spanish and Anglo settlers, the Plains Native Americans who frequented the area called the formation the “Singing Rock.” When the granite would cool from Texas’s ultra-hot summer temperatures as the sun went down, the stone would moan and groan as it shrank in the cool night air. If you’re lucky, you can still catch this phenomenon during a sunset hike.

There are 11 miles of trails in the Enchanted Rock State Natural area; the most popular hike goes straight up to the top of the rock, the Summit Trail. The “trail” (there are few ways to mark a path on bare rock) can be slippery at times, but the view of the Hill Country at the apex makes the near vertical trek worth it. Because this hike is up a hunk of granite, the trail has little to no shade or vegetation, so be prepared with hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water.

Inks Lake is a popular destination among Texans in the summer.

6. Inks Lake State Park

• Why go: A cool, deep lake that’s a popular hangout during summer
• Nearest town: Burnet, Texas
• Where to stay: Cabins, primitive camping, and campsites with electricity and water are available.

I think it’s fair to say that tubing is most Texans’ favorite summer pastime. There are almost 185,000 miles of rivers in the state, though few lakes—in fact, Inks Lake isn’t even a natural lake. It was created during the 1930s by damming the Colorado River. Since the lake is manmade, it enjoys a constant water level year round and the surrounding regions are less vulnerable to flooding.

Although swimming is the most popular activity at Inks Lake State Park , there are also nine miles of trails. When Valley Spring Creek is running, visitors can check out the waterfall just upstream of the lake. The park is also a designated geocaching location for those with a love for outdoor scavenger hunts. If you’d like to sit back and relax on the water with a cool drink and try your luck with a pole and some tackle, the lake is stocked with catfish, sunfish, and several species of bass.

On your way to Inks Lake, consider a detour to the town of Marble Falls, which is home to the Blue Bonnet Cafe , a local diner famous for its wide variety of house-made pies.

Take in the United States’ second largest canyon at Palo Duro Canyon State Park.

7. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

• Why go: Explore the second-largest canyon in the United States
• Nearest town: Amarillo, Texas
• Where to stay: “Glamping” cabins, campsites with electricity and water, primitive camping, and group camping are all available.

With all due respect to the Panhandle, there is admittedly not a lot to see in that region besides pancake-flat prairie and cows . . . except the second-largest canyon system in the United States! Sometimes referred to as “Texas’s Grand Canyon,” Palo Duro Canyon is 120 miles long and 800 feet deep. (For reference, the Grand Canyon is 277 miles long and 6,000 feet deep.) Visitors to Palo Duro Canyon State Park can enjoy more than 30 miles of trails, which they can explore by car, bike, horse, or on foot.

The stratified canyon walls show that the rock is about 250 million years old. You can also see rare hoodoos (dazzling, thin spires of rock that have nothing to do with voodoo, sadly) in the area. At the park, you can expect to run into a wide variety of wildlife, from wild turkeys, meadowlarks, and bobcats to the endangered Texas horned lizard. For a real taste of the Wild West, consider making the 90-mile journey from Palo Duro down to Caprock Canyons State Park where a large herd of Southern Plains bison roam a 700-acre open range.

Mustang Island is located near the small beach town of Port Aransas.

Photo by Rebekah W/Shutterstock

8. Mustang Island State Park

• Why go: White, fluffy sand in Texas’s best beach town
• Nearest town: Port Aransas, Texas
• Where to stay: Campsites with electricity and primitive camping are available. There are also many hotels in the area.

OK, so calling Port Aransas Texas’s best beach may be a controversial statement—South Padre Island is regularly flooded with spring breakers each year, Galveston enjoys a steady stream of tourists, and let’s not forget Latina superstar Selena’s hometown of Corpus Christi. But this Texan will say it and say it again: Port Aransas easily beats them all. And if you’re into fishing, the reel-’em-in heaven of Rockport, Texas, is only 18 miles away from this island community.

What makes Port Aransas so special? Think small-town Texas with charming coastal vibes and the whitest, fluffiest sand your toes will ever have the pleasure of knowing. Plus, being located on the barrier island, the area enjoys an ecosystem populated by seabirds, 600 species of saltwater fish, sea turtles, dolphins, and even a few alligators. One of the best places to experience the island’s environment is Mustang Island State Park .

The park has five miles of coastline where visitors are encouraged to camp, bird-watch, kayak, fish, or simply play in the surf. Camping here is a little different than in most Texas state parks—though there is a designated camping area with electric hookups, guests can also camp primitive-style directly on the sand near the surf with the appropriate permits.

Hike along an ancient dinosaur path at Dinosaur Valley State Park.

Photo by Stanley Ford/Shutterstock

9. Dinosaur Valley State Park

• Why go: Hike alongside ancient dinosaur tracks
• Nearest town: Glen Rose, Texas
• Where to stay: Primitive campsites, campsites with electricity, and group campsites are available.

Dinosaur Valley State Park’s name says it all—this place has dinosaurs, or at least the remnants of them. More than 113 million years ago during Earth’s Cretaceous period, the land in and around Glen Rose, Texas, was part of an ancient shoreline and, as the footprints indicate, a pair of dinosaurs walked through the area. Over the past million years, the climate and geography of what is now Texas changed dramatically, and the rockbed eroded to expose the footprints. Now you can hike alongside the dinosaur footprints on the Limestone Ledge Trail, an ancient path that a few sauropods carved out millions of years ago.

There are more than 19 miles of other trails to explore in the park, and visitors are encouraged to bring their horses to the 100-acre South Primitive Area. Other activities include fishing, swimming, mountain biking, and geocaching. Fun fact: In addition to being a state park, Dinosaur Valley is also a National Natural Landmark.

Balmorhea State Park offers cool waters in a desert environment.

Photo by Allycreations/Shutterstock

10. Balmorhea State Park

• Why go: Visit one of the largest spring-fed pools in the world
• Nearest town: Balmorhea, Texas
• Where to stay: Campsites with electricity, group campsites, and cabins are available.

Barton Springs in Austin is indisputably one of Texas’s favorite swimming pools thanks to its year-round chilly temperatures and convenient location in the heart of the capital. But if Balmorhea were a little closer to central Texas, it would definitely be a fierce competitor. It offers a sizable spring-fed pool that hovers around 72 to 76 degrees all year, right smack in the middle of the desert.

Before the Civilian Conservation Corps built the concrete swimming pool and cabins in the 1930s, the San Solomon Springs provided water for local wildlife and hunter gatherers, who are believed to have first made their appearance in the area around 11,000 years ago. During the 1800s, cattle ranchers and railroad workers often used the springs. Now, the pool is most commonly frequented by Texans looking to escape the oppressive summer heat in an appealing desert landscape. Visitors can swim, snorkel, and scuba dive at the pool, which hosts two endangered species of fish: the Pecos gambusia and the Comanche Springs pupfish. Though Balmorhea State Park is a bit out of the way from any major city (the nearest one—Odessa, Texas—is 116 miles away), getting to take a dip in the turquoise gem of the west Texas desert is an experience not to be missed.

>>Next: Tree Houses, Tubing, and Tacos: The Ultimate Texas Hill Country Road Trip

21 of the Best Texas State Parks to Put On Your Bucket List

If you want to explore the great outdoors in Texas, you’ll find no shortage of parks. Although Texas is home to two National Parks and various regional, city, and county parks, the outdoor spaces managed by Texas Parks and Wildlife are some of the state’s most beautiful and historic spots.

Texas has 89 state parks, historic sites, and natural areas to explore. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or planning a week-long camping adventure, Texas State Parks are one of the most budget-friendly options for exploring the state.

Check the individual park’s website for entry fees and reservation information while planning your visit. Some of the more popular spaces will reach capacity during peak times.

Here are 21 of the best Texas State Parks to put on your bucket list.

1. Bastrop State Park

The city of Bastrop and Bastrop State Park is located 35 miles from downtown Austin. It is the site of the famous “Lost Pines,” an isolated region of Loblolly pines and hardwoods. Forest fires and floods have ravaged the park recently, but nature bounces back.

What to Do at Bastrop State Park

Hike, bike, or fish in Lake Mina. The park has seven miles of trails and a swimming pool that is open seasonally. Explore Park Road 1C between Bastrop and Buescher state parks to enjoy the park’s scenery. The hilly 12-mile road takes you through recovering and forested areas of the Lost Pines.

If you’re interested in exploring more of the outdoor areas near Austin, check out the town of Driftwood or go for a hike at Hamilton Pool Preserve .

Camping at Bastrop State Park

The park has many tent sites , but if roughing it isn’t your thing, Bastrop State Park has several cabins to rent that sleep anywhere from two to eight people. There are indoor cooking facilities, a window A/C unit in the living area, and ceiling fans in the bedroom. The cabins are a step up from sleeping in a tent but still quite rustic.

Related: Bastrop Opera House: 10 Fun Facts About This Central Texas Historical Venue

2. Guadalupe River State Park

A short, easy drive from San Antonio and Austin, Guadalupe River State Park is a popular swimming spot for south and central Texas residents. With four miles of river frontage, the Guadalupe River is the star of the show, but there are other things to do, too.

What to Do at Guadalupe River State Park

Swimming and picnicking in the day-use area along the river banks are the most popular pastimes at this Texas state park. Arrive early to stake out your spot, especially on summer weekends.

The park also has 13 miles of hike and bike trails. Grab a map and recommendations from the park rangers.

Camping at the Park

If you’d like to overnight camp, the park has 85 water and electric campsites and nine walk-in tent sites. Texas Park Outfitters provides equipment rental and setup if you don’t have camping equipment. For more information and to book their service, visit the Texas Park Outfitters website .

3. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Located near Amarillo, Palo Duron Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the United States. Texas Parks and Wildlife manage half of the canyon, and the other half is private land.

What to Do at Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Hiking and horseback riding are two of the most popular pastimes at Palo Duro Canyon State Park. It’s the best way to take in the park’s stunning scenery and rock formations. You can join a guided ride if you don’t have a horse.

Explore the private side of the canyon by booking a tour with Palo Duro Creek Ranch .

If you want to camp in Palo Duro Canyon State Park, you have options galore, with full campsites with electricity and water for RVs, equestrian sites, tent sites, and backcountry camping areas. The park has three cabins on the canyon’s rim and four cabins on the canyon floor, all very rustic.

Palo Duro Glamping might be for you if you’re more of a glamper than a camper. Each site is fully furnished and has amenities like bikes and board games . There’s also no shortage of private cabin rentals in hotels in the nearby town of Canyon.

4. Caprock Canyon State Park & Trailway

The bison roaming free throughout the park makes this lesser-known Texas State Park really special. Check with the ranger station and read the posted signs for wildlife safety tips.

The red rock terrain of the park is similar to Palo Duro Canyon State Park, but Caprock Canyons is decidedly less lively.

Campsites range from drive-up sites with electricity to hike-in primitive sites. Equestrian campsites with corrals are also available. Make sure you’re an experienced rider before you try it.

What to Do at Caprock Canyon State Park & Trailway

Caprock Canyon State Park has over 90 miles of trails to explore. Mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding are all popular things to do.

5. San Angelo State Park

San Angelo State Park is located just outside San Angelo, Texas. The park converges on the banks of O.C. Fisher Reservoir and the Concho River, which runs through the nearby city.

What to Do at San Angelo State Park

Explore Angelo State Park, which has over 50 miles of multi-use trails for hiking and exploring. Check out bison and real Texas Longhorn cattle, hike, camp, fish, and geocache. Fish, boat, and swim in the reservoir and river. San Angelo State Park also offers a Junior Ranger program and fishing equipment loans.

If you want to enjoy camping, San Angelo State Park offers a variety of options, from rustic cabins to primitive hike-in sites.

6. Pedernales Falls State Park

Pedernales Falls State Park is located along the Pedernales River, nine miles east of Johnson City. It’s a popular camping spot for San Antonio and Austin.

What to Do at Pedernales Falls State Park

Explore over 20 hiking trails of varying lengths, elevation gains, and difficulties. The swimming area can be accessed after a quarter-mile strenuous hike. There’s a steep stone staircase with no railings to navigate to the water.

Pedernales Falls State Park has two campsites options. One has electricity and water with 69 available campsites allowing eight people at each site. The other is a primitive location that takes a 2-mile hike to get to and allows four people at each campsite.

7. Blanco State Park

This small park is a summertime favorite of South and Central Texans as well as Texas Hill Country residents. This small park hugs a one-mile stretch of the Blanco River.

What to Do at Blanco State Park

Swim, paddle, picnic, or go fishing. Fishing equipment may be available at the park’s visitor center.

Various camping options allow travelers to choose from full hookup sites or check out a screened shelter overlooking the river.

8. Mustang Island State Park

Mustang Island State Park is located near Port Aransas and has five miles of Texas Gulf Coast running through the park. Visitors who want to combine a trip to the beach with the amenities of a state park will want to put Mustang Island State Park at the top of their list.

What to Do at Mustang Island State Park

What you typically enjoy at the beach can be done at Mustang Island State Park. Surf, swim, build sandcastles, or just laze on the beach. There’s also a paddling trail.

Mustang Island State Park has 48 campsites with electricity and 50 primitive campsites. There are plenty of lodging options in the area for day-use visitors.

9. Garner State Park

Garner State Park is one of the most popular state parks in Texas. Located 90 miles west of San Antonio near the city of Concan, the park has nearly three miles of Frio River access.

What to Do at Garner State Park

Some of Garner State Park’s most popular warm-weather activities are swimming, canoeing, and tubing in the Frio River. There are 16 miles of trails to explore, including the popular Old Baldy Summit, a short but steep hike that rewards hikers with incredible views.

The park has nightly dances during the summer season, starting Memorial Day weekend. Dancing at Garner State Park has been a Texas tradition since the 1940s.

There are campsites, screened shelters, and cabins, but visitors must make reservations as far in advance as possible. The campsites and cabins book up quickly, and the park can reach capacity for day-use visitors.

10. Davis Mountains State Park

Located in the mountains of West Texas, Davis Mountains State Park offers views of remote, rugged landscapes, miles of trails, and opportunities to view the night sky. If you’re exploring Marfa or Alpine, you’re right in the neighborhood, so make sure to carve out some time to explore the park.

What to Do at Davis Mountains State Park

Watch birds at the “best little bird blind in Texas.” It has an enclosed viewing station, a shielded outdoor patio, food, and water stations.

Hike or mountain bike; the 4.5-mile Skyline Drive Trail meanders up and down mountain ridges and valleys. Davis Mountains State Park is also a great place to explore by car. There are plenty of places to stop and admire the view and see the work of the Civilian Conservation Corps.

There’s a 1.75-mile trail that connects the park to Fort Davis National Historic Site , which is also worth exploring.

If you want to camp, Davis Mountains State Park offers 90+ campsites. Primitive/backcountry camping is also permitted. If you want a bit more luxury, the historic 39-room Indian Lodge has a restaurant and a pool.

11. Caddo Lake State Park

The 26,000-acre Caddo Lake is located on the border of Texas and Louisiana. Caddo Lake is the largest natural lake in Texas, and the unique East Texas bayou landscape is popular with visitors.

What to Do at Caddo Lake State Park

Fishing is one of the most popular activities in the park. There are over 70 species of fish in Caddo Lake. Paddling, hiking, and wildlife watching are among other things visitors can do. Alligators live in the park, so read and heed the alligator safety rules.

It offers a variety of campsites, screened shelters, and cabins.

12. Brazos Bend State Park

Brazos Bend State Park is located 45 miles from downtown Houston. It is a great place for city dwellers, or anyone else, to visit and get up close and personal with nature. Although the park is a day trip from Houston, visitors can overnight here, too.

What to Do at Brazos Bend State Park

The park has 37 miles of trails, some of which are stroller and wheelchair friendly. There’s a boardwalk for wildlife viewing. Both shore and pier fishing are available. Alligators live in the Brazos Bend State Park, so beware of the alligator safety rules.

There are 73 campsites with electricity and 15 primitive walk-in campsites. The park also has 13 screened shelters and one cabin. None of the structures have bathrooms.

13. Balmorhea State Park

Balmorhea State Park is a cool oasis in the high desert of West Texas that is most popular for its spring-fed swimming pool. There are 33 campsites with electricity there. The San Solomon Motor Court, which is motel-style lodging built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, is currently closed for renovation.

What to Do at Balmorhea State Park

The world’s largest spring-fed pool is the biggest draw for Balmorhea State Park. The pool is open year-round, and entrance to the pool is included in the park admission fee. There is an additional fee for scuba diving. No lifeguard is on duty, and the pool closes at 7:30 p.m. or at sunset.

14. Lockhart State Park

Located between San Antonio and Austin, this small park is a scenic place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

What to Do at Lockhart State Park

Lockhart State Park has both a golf course and a swimming pool. Advance reservations are available and recommended for both. There are separate charges to golf or swim, on top of park entrance fees.

Other popular activities include picnicking, fishing in Clear Fork Creek, and exploring the park’s nature and hiking trails.

Lockhart State Park offers ten full hookup campsites and ten sites with electricity.

15. Palmetto State Park

Palmetto State Park offers a little taste of the tropics in Central Texas. Named for the dwarf Palmetto trees that prominently grow throughout the park, this quiet park is within an hour’s drive of San Antonio and Austin.

What to Do at Palmetto State Park

Palmetto State Park has two water sources, the San Marcos River and Oxbow Lake. Canoeing, paddling, tubing, and fishing are all popular activities. The park is partnered with a rental company that offers kayaks and paddleboards. There are also easy hiking trails that wind through the park.

The park has 17 sites with electricity and 19 sites with water. There’s one air-conditioned cabin available to rent.

16. Big Bend Ranch State Park

This remote park stretches along the Rio Grande in far west Texas, on the U.S.-Mexico border.

What to Do at Big Bend Ranch State Park

Float or fish in the river or explore the park’s 238 miles of trails. Big Bend Ranch State Park is designated as an International Dark Skies Park, so this is a great place to see stars sans light pollution.

Carefully check the park’s website for weather warnings and vehicle requirements. As the park is self-named “The Other Side of Nowhere,” help or services are not around the corner if something goes wrong, so ensure you’re prepared.

Guests who want to spend the night must be prepared to rough it at one of several drive-in or hike-in primitive campsites. If you need a roof over your head, you can rent a bed in the Saucedo Bunkhouse, which sleeps 30, for $35 per night. Bring your own linens and firewood.

17. McKinney Falls State Park

Stunning views await at this beautiful park featuring water from Onion Creek that rushes over the limestone. It is just 13 miles from downtown Austin, so it’s an easy day trip for a more urban vacation.

What to Do at McKinney Falls State Park

McKinney Falls State Park is popular with day hikers. Fish or swim in Onion Creek, go bouldering or have a picnic.

Ninety campsites with electricity and water are available if you want to stay overnight.

18. Inks Lake State Park

Inks Lake State Park is very popular and frequently appears at the top of the best Texas State Parks lists. It is located in the Texas Hill Country and is a popular warm-weather spot for water activities.

What to Do at Inks Lake State Park

The water level in Inks Lake stays constant year-round, which makes it an ideal spot for swimming, boating, and fishing. There’s a designated no-wake area for paddlers. You can rent paddleboards and canoes and purchase food supplies inside Inks Lake State Park.

There are nine miles of hiking trails if you want to explore on land. Take a short hike to swim in Devil’s Waterhole or enjoy scenic waterfalls upstream from the lake if Valley Spring Creek is running.

There are 170 campsites with varying amenities. All but a handful of hike-in primitive sites have water. There are 22 cabins that sleep four people, but none have restrooms.

19. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Located just outside of Fredericksburg, this massive pink granite dome is a favorite hiking and recreation spot for South and Central Texans.

What to Do at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Hike to the summit for beautiful views. There are 8.4 total miles of trails. Rock climbing, birding, and stargazing are popular activities.

If you’re interested in dark sky viewing, night hikes, or star parties, this is your place. Check the schedule for ranger-led programs.

There are 35 walk-in campsites with water and 20 hike-in primitive sites.

20. Lost Maples State Natural Area

While Texas is hardly known for being a top-rated spot for leaf peeping, you can enjoy plenty of brilliant fall foliage at Los Maples State Natural Area. Located in the Texas Hill Country on the banks of the Sabinal River, this is where Texans go to soak in the fall scenery. It is an easy drive from San Antonio or Austin.

Locals come here for day hikes, but you can camp at Lost Maples, too.

What to Do at Lost Maples State Natural Area

The glorious fall colors draw the most visitors. But spring brings wildflowers and the river are beautiful all year. Birding, fishing, and stargazing are other popular things to enjoy here.

There are 28 sites with electricity and 50 hike-in sites.

21. Government Canyon State Natural Area

Government Canyon State Natural Area is located in northwest San Antonio. The biggest draw is the hike to 110 million-year-old dinosaur tracks. This moderately easy, five-mile trail is very popular with families who come with dinosaur-loving kids.

What to Do at Government Canyon State Natural Area

The dinosaur tracks can be found at the Joe Johnston Route. In addition, there are other trails to explore. Shop at the area’s onsite gift shop selling books about Texas and other souvenirs.

There are 23 walk-in campsites with water if you want to stay overnight.

Plan Your Own Adventure at One of These Best Texas State Parks

Whether you’re looking for something packed with amenities or solitude to soak in the beauty of the outdoors, a park in Texas is waiting for you. Contact Texas Parks and Wildlife for more information. 

This article originally appeared on Wealth of Geeks and was syndicated by Our Woven Journey.

Jill Robbins

ill Robbins is a San Antonio-based writer and the voice behind Ripped Jeans and Bifocals. What began as an adoption journal to chronicle two back-to-back adoption trips to China is now a robust family lifestyle and travel site, featuring destination guides, travel tips, and ideas for outdoor fun and exploration. Her writing has been featured in Business Insider, The Washington Post, Yahoo Life, Tripsavvy, Matador Network, and various other digital and print publications. Jill is also the travel editor at Wealth of Geeks.

10 Best State Parks in Texas

Texas is a large state with a wide variety of geographical features, ecosystems, and wildlife. Texas is also home to one of the nation's best state park systems, which offers wonderful public access to these natural resources.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Located just north of Fredericksburg in the Texas Hill Country, Enchanted Rock is one of the largest natural rock formations in the United States, with a dome that rises 425 feet above the ground (1,825 feet above sea level). Designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1970, Enchanted Rock is also part of the Texas State Parks System and attracts thousands of visitors annually.

Lost Maples State Natural Area

Most people relate fall foliage and the changing of the leaves to the eastern portion of the United States. However, portions of Texas actually see dramatic changes in foliage coloration as fall draws near. Lost Maples State Natural Area in the Texas Hill Country has the most vivid fall leaf coloration in the state.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Known as the "Grand Canyon of Texas," Palo Duro Canyon is 120 miles long, 20 miles wide, and 800 feet deep. Palo Duro is one of the most popular mountain biking destinations in the country. Horseback riding, mountain climbing, camping, and hiking are also popular activities.

Garner State Park

Located on the Frio River in Concan, Garner State Park is one of Texas' most popular summer getaways. Whether it's swimming, fishing, paddling, or tubing, most visitors to Garner find a way to get on or in the water. However, there are also "dry" activities such as miniature golf, birding, nature trails, hiking, and more.

Mustang Island State Park

Mustang Island State Park includes five miles of beachfront and offers visitors fishing, camping, beachcombing, swimming, surfing, birding, and other outdoor recreation options. Mustang Island State Park is also located just a short drive from the city of Corpus Christi.

Longhorn Caverns State Park

Longhorn Caverns are a Hill Country wonder that housed Comanche Indians, Confederate Soldiers and, perhaps, and outlaw or two. Today​ the site is a state park, offering a number of tours and educational programs. Visiting this underground attraction is a great way to beat the heat during the summer months in Texas .

Guadalupe River State Park

Adam Baker / Getty Images

Located in Comal County in the Texas Hill Country, Guadalupe River State Park encompasses a nine-mile stretch of the Guadalupe River, offering park visitors plenty of swimming and tubing opportunities.

Hueco Tanks State Historic Site

Buyenlarge  / Contributor / Getty Images

Hueco Tanks offers a variety of outdoor activities, most notably camping and rock climbing. However, one of the biggest draws to this historic site are the prehistoric pictographs that dot the cave walls there. The other major draw is rock climbing, as Hueco Tanks is widely recognized as one of the top rock climbing sites in Texas.

Devil's River State Natural Area

Oldrich Jindra / EyeEm / Getty Images

Located just north of Del Rio on Texas' famed Devil's River, the Devil's River State Natural Area offers a variety of outdoor activities in a remote setting. Canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, fishing, and swimming are just a few of the many activities available.

Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site

Washington-on-the-Brazos is the location where the Convention of 1836 signed Texas' Declaration of Independence from Mexico. The site also served as the Texas Capitol off and on through the early years of the Republic of Texas. Washinton-on-the-Brazos is a great place to visit in order to get a true feel for how Texas began.

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20 Best State Parks In Texas (For Camping, Hiking, & Fishing)

Explore the 20 best state parks in Texas for an unforgettable experience in camping, hiking, and fishing. Perfect guide for outdoor enthusiasts!

Texas is a mix of myth, legend, and attitude. This goes for the geography, the people, and the state’s history. Native Texans like to boast about their state and have plenty to boast about in many respects.

The State Park System in Texas is an example. Few states in the US can match the number, diversity, and richness of the Texas State Park System.

Texas State Parks are managed by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. The TPWD oversees 640,000 acres of parks, historic sites, and natural areas. Part of this land is the Texas State Park system and the 89 parks within the system. From seashores to alpine mountain areas, you can find Texas State Parks to match your destination dreams.

Picking 20 parks from the 89 official Texas State Parks list is no easy task. Every one of the Texas State Parks has a unique flavor. Most were chosen to protect something very special, making the parks some of the best in the world.

In my travels around Texas, I have visited more than a few Texas State Parks, and these are my picks as the ones you don’t want to miss.

1. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Credit: Shutterstock

Texans like to claim that everything in Texas is big. While not the biggest canyon in the United States, Palo Duro comes in a close second. Situated just a few miles south and east of Amarillo, Palo Duro Canyon State Park is easy to access from Interstate 27.

You can tour the park easily by paved road to get a feel for the canyon system. However, some of the most intriguing features, such as Lighthouse rock, require hiking to get an up-close look.

If camping is your thing, you will find a fully developed park. Amenities range from full RV hookups to back-country primitive camping. You can even rent a fully furnished rock cabin for your overnight visit.

One attraction to be sure to make is the seasonal performance of the outdoor musical “Texas” performed in the outdoor amphitheater. You can enjoy a BBQ dinner and the show in season. Other activities include horseback riding, birdwatching, and a zip line outside the park entrance.

For more information about Palo Duro Canyon State Park,  follow this link . Campground reservations are available by  clicking here . For more information about the outdoor musical “Texas,” check out the webpage  here .

2. Davis Mountains State Park

From a deep and majestic canyon, we go high into the mountains of southwest Texas to visit Davis Mountains State Park. Many people think of Texas as being a flat desert country. Nothing could be further from the truth.

The Davis Mountain region contains peaks as high as 8,000 feet, with pine forests, hardwood forests, and alpine areas to delight anyone. Drive up the mountain to view the incredible vistas over the surrounding area.

Davis Mountains State Park boasts one of the most beautiful developed campgrounds in the system. Full RV hookups are available, or you can find primitive camps in the surrounding area. Restrooms and bathhouses are available.

If camping is not your thing, put Indian Lodge on your bucket list visit. This comfortable and elegant facility was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and has been continually upgraded and improved. Make your reservations early if you plan to visit Indian Lodge by  clicking here .

A highlight of a visit to Davis Mountains State Park is a visit to the McDonald Observatory, just a few miles away. You can take tours of the massive telescopes, learn more about astronomy at the Visitor Center, or make reservations to attend a Star Party in the evening for some stargazing. For reservations,  click here .

To learn more about Davis Mountains State Park, visit their website  here . To make reservations at the campground,  follow this link .

3. Mustang Island State Park

One of my favorite places to visit is the Texas Gulf Coast, and no beach is more inviting than Mustang Island State Park. This state park is located on one of the barrier islands between the Gulf of Mexico and the inland waterway known as Laguna Madre. Mustang Island State Park and the beach are popular attractions even in the winter.

Mustang Island State Park has an RV campground with electric and water hookups. A dump station is provided as well. Shower facilities and bathrooms are close to your RV space. Primitive camping is available at 50 drive-up campsites scattered throughout the park.

The beach is only a short walk over the dunes from your campsite. You can also enjoy kayaking, boating, swimming, and fishing at the park.

Mustang Island enjoys one of the few established kayaking trails. The Mustang Island State Park Paddling Trail will lead you along the western shoreline in Corpus Christi Bay.

Reservations at the RV park and for primitive campsites can be made at  this link.  Reservations are encouraged, especially during the summer months.

4. Palmetto State Park

Texas has it all. Deserts, alpine regions, beaches. Is there anything else? Of course, there is. How about a tropical paradise in the heart of Texas?

Palmetto State Park is an hour south of San Antonio. Here you will find a tropical oasis that includes several water sources that contribute to the lush tropical vegetation in this park.

You can swim or tube in the San Marcos River or fish and canoe to your heart’s content. Kayaks are for rent in the park. Water features heavily in this park, where you can visit Oxbow Lake and an artesian well.

Watch for wildlife around the swamps that make up part of the park area. Of course, hiking, biking, and birdwatching are huge attractions at Palmetto State Park.

If you want to stay in the park, reserve one of the 19 tent campsites or 19 RV campsites. If camping isn’t your style, rent the park’s air-conditioned cabin that can accommodate up to six people. Make your reservations  at this link .

You can even access the park by Kayak using the Luling Zedler Mill Paddling Trail. Get on the water at the Luling City Park and paddle the six to seven-hour trip to the park on the San Marcos River. This is the best way to see this amazing part of Texas.

5. Goliad State Park and Historic Site

Texas has a rich historical past with traditions from many cultures. Six flags have flown over Texas in the past, including the Lone Star Flag of the Republic of Texas. Much of the historic flavor of Texas can be experienced at Goliad State Park and Historic Site.

Goliad State Park pays homage to the Spanish influences that helped shape Texas. One of the battles that eventually led to the establishment of the Republic of Texas occurred in Goliad. You can learn more about these historical events at the Visitor Center in the park.

There are enough activities to keep you involved for several days, so plan to spend a few nights at the park’s campsites or RV sites. You can choose tent camping with water only or bring your RV and reserve a campsite with full hookups. Screen shelters are also available to rent.  Click this link  to make reservations.

Apart from the chance to immerse yourself in Texas history, you can fish, swim, or paddle to your heart’s content in the San Antonio River. There are ruins of Spanish missions to explore and miles of hiking and biking trails for your enjoyment. Birdwatching in Goliad State Park attracts birders from around the world.

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6. Kickapoo Cavern State Park

Credit:  Kickapoo Cavern State Park - Texas Parks & Wildlife / Facebook

While you are in the San Antonio area, plan a trip to Kickapoo Cavern State Park. The park has more than 20 known caves, and the largest is Kickapoo.

Texas has as much to offer underground as it does above ground. One thing to remember, the cave tours are only offered on Saturdays, so plan accordingly.

Entry to the caves is strictly controlled to protect park visitors and the bats that inhabit the caves. You must make reservations for a tour  at this link  well in advance of your visit. You will see the fabulous cave formations formed by water millions of years ago.

If caving doesn’t excite you, there are miles of hiking and biking trails throughout the park to enjoy. Over 140 species of migrant and native birds can be seen in the park during the year, making this a birdwatcher’s haven. You can borrow binoculars at the Park Headquarters if you don’t bring your own.

An overnight stay at Kickapoo Cavern State Park is a treat allowing you to watch the bats fly from the caves at sunset. The park has ten campsites with water and a small RV park with full hookups.

T&T Tip:  Make your reservations early by  clicking this link  to ensure your space is available.

7. Balmorhea State Park

Few people think of swimming or scuba diving when someone mentions the arid desert region of West Texas. A visit to Balmorhea State Park is a treat, especially in the summer when temperatures can soar above the 100-degree mark.

Balmorhea State Park is home to the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pool. The natural spring flows more than 15 million gallons of water through the pool every day. In places, the pool is 25 feet deep and covers 1.3 acres. Be prepared. The water temperature is a chilly 72 to 76 degrees.

The park and pool are surrounded by large trees that shade the picnic areas. If you want to play volleyball or other outdoor sports, there are areas just for those activities.

Birdwatching is huge in Balmorhea State Park, so bring your binoculars. The wetlands are fed by a part of the spring and are home to numerous endangered species that can be viewed if you are lucky.

Camping is available at the park at one of the 34 campsites. The San Solomon Springs Courts offer motel-style accommodations for the less hardy. This facility was built in 1930 by the Civilian Conservation Corps and offered a retro-style experience. To make reservations  click this link.

8. Big Bend Ranch State Park

If you are looking for solitude instead of the usual tourist fare, then Big Bend State Park is a perfect choice. This park is in the remote southwest region of Texas in the high desert country.

With over 300,000 acres in the park to explore, camp, hike and 4-wheel drive, you can be assured of finding a place where you won’t be disturbed.

This park lies alongside the Rio Grande River and offers the opportunity to float and fish even though it is a desert area. The park has more than 238 miles of multi-use trails that can accommodate hikers or horseback riders. If 4-wheeling is a passion, 70 miles of rough, unmaintained roads beckon those with high clearance vehicles.

Camping is mostly drive-up or hike-in style. This park can find some of the most amazing Texas vistas. Imagine waking up to a sunrise over vast mountains, deep canyons, and the Rio Grande River.

If you like things a little less primitive, make reservations at the Saucedo Bunkhouse. You will need to bring your linens and is true bunkhouse-style accommodations.

Separate areas are provided for men and women, and there is a kitchen but no food service. You are on your own with your fellow bunkhouse residents. For reservations for camping or the bunkhouse,  click here.

9. Galveston Island State Park

Galveston Island State Park straddles Galveston Island offering gulf side beaches and bayside access. With access to both sides of the island, this park offers a wide array of activities to keep you occupied. Galveston Island has a grand and rich historical tradition to explore and discover.

For beach lovers, the Gulf side of the island offers pristine beaches, warm gulf waters, and ample space to enjoy the sun and surf. Long sunset strolls on the beach are a favorite pastime.

On the bay side, you can enjoy some of the best fishing on the gulf coast or catch a glimpse of the many species of birds.

Don’t forget to visit Galveston. You can explore the railroad museum, the historic seaport, or one of the many fine art galleries scattered around the historic downtown area. A unique offshore oil drilling rig can be toured, and no one should miss the Moody Gardens.

Camping at the park is available year-round. Sites are limited, and reservations are a must. This is an RV or travel trailer-only park. No tent camping is allowed. Each site has full hookups, and a 50-amp service is available.  Click here  to make your reservations early.

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10. Lake Casa Blanca International State Park

Credit:  Lake Casa Blanca International State Park - Texas Parks and Wildlife / Facebook

Lake Casa Blanca International State Park is a bucket list destination of one of the great Texas State Parks near the border with Mexico. Located in Laredo, Texas, on the shores of Lake Casa Blanca, this is a premier state park in the Texas system.

The border with Mexico is minutes away from the park. Across the border lies Nuevo Laredo, which offers an international flavor to explore. However, you won’t have to make that trip to find lots to keep you occupied. Lake Casa Blanca is a mecca for boaters, water skiers, and fishermen.

You can hike and bike around the trails, swim at the beach on the lake or visit the Webb County golf course nearby. The park also features playgrounds, a baseball field, volleyball, and basketball courts. Geocaching in the park has become popular for young and old alike.

Lake Casa Blanca International State Park offers a full-service campground with water and electricity at all campsites. Sewer connections are available at selected campsites as well. If your group is larger, one of the picnic pavilions or a group hall might be a better fit. Make your reservations ahead of time for this popular park by  clicking here .

11. Lockhart State Park

Credit:  Texas Parks and Wildlife

If you are in the Austin or San Antonio area and are looking for a peaceful and restful place to spend some time, Lockhart State Park should fill the bill nicely. This quiet park with many trees, fishing in Clear Fork Creek, or swimming at the park swimming pool is a great getaway.

Lockhart State Park is one of only a handful of Texas State Parks with its golf course. The nine-hole course was built by the Works Progress Administration and the Civilian Conservation Corps more than 80 years ago.

Of course, you can hike the many trails in the park or ride your mountain bike. Fishing in Clear Fork Creek can yield abundant sunfish, catfish, and bass. The calm and tranquil setting is never better than a visit to the waterfall flowing over the CCC-built dam or a drive to the top of the hill for a panoramic view of the park.

The park campsite has everything from primitive tent sites to full hookups for your RV or travel trailer. Make your reservations early because this is a popular retreat in the center of Texas.  Click here  to make your reservations.

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12. Longhorn Cavern State Park

People visited Longhorn Cavern long before it became part of the Texas State Park system. Archeological evidence puts prehistoric tribes in the cave thousands of years ago.

Some legends say that outlaw Sam Bass hid a fortune in the cave. We know that the cave was used during the Confederate war to manufacture gunpowder.

In the 1930’s the Civilian Conservation Corps removed tons of debris and mud from the cavern, making it accessible to the public. At the same time, many facilities still in use in the park were built.

However, it isn’t the legends or the history that draws many people to the cavern. The spectacular geological features keep people coming back.

Entrance to the caverns is by guided tour only. You can reserve your place on a tour by  clicking this link.  You can take a walking tour of the cavern or get more adventurous by going on the wild cave tour. Expect to get a little muddy, dirty, and to see things that will leave you breathless.

There is a park headquarters at Longhorn Cavern State Park but no camping or lodging facilities. However, Nearby Inks Lake State Park offers camping.

Nearby cities and towns also have lodging, restaurants, and RV parks. For more information about Inks Lake State Park and Longhorn Caverns, you can get the interpretive guide  using this link .

13. Inks Lake State Park

If you are in the Texas Hill Country and need a refreshing and comfortable place to spend a few days, check out Inks Lake State Park. This park is a wonder with opportunities for adventure on water, land, and underground. Near Austin, Inks Lake is easily accessible from the I-35.

There is no lack of things to keep you busy at Inks Lake State Park. Inks Lake is a constant-level lake making it accessible for water sports year-round. Fishing is excellent, as is the boating, kayaking, and canoeing. Swimming and scuba diving are popular with many people who visit this park.

On land, you can hike, bike, and geocache through the wooded park. The park store rents paddle boats, fishing gear, and bait. Remember, in Texas, you don’t need a fishing license to fish from the pier or the bank if you are in a state park. The park store also sells supplies, groceries, and souvenirs.

Inks Lake State Park has one of the largest campgrounds in the Texas park system. More than 200 campsites and fully equipped cabins can be rented. Most campsites have potable water and electric hookups for your RV or travel trailer.  Click here  to make your reservations at Inks Lake State Park.

14. Lake Corpus Christi State Park

If you want sun and fun in a single location, Corpus Christi State Park is a perfect destination. Situated on the 18,256-acre Lake Corpus Christi, this park is a fisherman’s paradise. There is birdwatching, hiking, biking, and nature trails to enjoy for everyone else.

Lake Corpus Christi is known for its largemouth bass and white bass. You can also catch crappie as well as an assortment of catfish. Two lighted fishing piers are available and are wheelchair accessible. No fishing license is needed in Texas when you fish at a Texas State Park.

More than 200 native and migrating species of birds inhabit the park. Many neotropical migrating birds stop over during the spring and fall months.

Hiking and biking trails are abundant and let you enjoy the varied habitats around the park. Caution is advised as alligators do inhabit the park and the lake.

Anything from primitive tent campsites to cabins are available to rent if you want to stay in the park. Many of the campsites are RV-friendly and have water and electricity hookups. A few have sewer hookups as well. Plan ahead and make your reservations early by  clicking here.

15. Mission Tejas State Park

Credit:  National Park Service

Among all the diverse climates, habitats and ecologies boasted by Texas, none is more unique than the Piney woods of East Texas. This park is situated where pine savannas, upland forests, and hardwood bottomlands merge. In the park, you can see the last of the old-growth pine forests that once covered much of the eastern portions of the state.

This area has a rich history. Native American tribes once roamed these forests. The Spanish El Camino Real Road wound through the area. More than eight miles of trails lead you to these locations within the park. You can visit a log cabin built by early pioneers trying to settle this country.

If you have never tried geocaching, borrow a GPS at the park headquarters and set out on an adventure. More information is available from the staff at the visitor center.

If fishing is on your schedule, the small park lake is amply stocked, and you can borrow gear at the visitor’s center. The San Pedro Creek also offers fishing.’

Bring your tent or RV and stay a few days in one of the 15 campsites within the park that have electricity and water. Two sites only have water. Well-maintained shower and restroom facilities are located close to the campsites. Campsites are limited, so  click here  to make your reservations early.

16. Monahans Sandhills State Park

For a completely different state park experience, Monahans Sandhills State Park is at the top of the list. At this state park, an ocean of sand creates a mystical landscape that can change overnight. You can experience towering dunes that shift and move with the West Texas Wind.

The 3,840 acres of dunes in West Texas have been home to Apache and Comanche tribes for more than 12,000 years. The early Spanish explorers chronicled their discovery of the sandhills more than 400 years ago. You can hike to your heart’s content but beware of the summer sun.

The Dunagan Visitors Center has exhibits and displays about the area’s history, ecology, and geology. You can also rent sand disks to go surfing in the sand. No water is needed to have the thrill of your life. The park also has an 800-acre equestrian area if you are a horse lover.

The park can host your camping adventure on one of its 26 campsites. Each campsite has water and electricity and a shade shelter. In some cases, the wind moves the dunes into the camping areas. You may find yourself with a huge dune as a neighbor.  Click here  to reserve your camping site.

17. Caprock Canyons State Park and Trailway

The Caprock is a magnificent result of eons of water and wind working to sculpt deep canyons and impressive amphitheaters that stretch from the northern parts of the Texas Panhandle to the center of the rolling plains near Post, Texas. Caprock Canyons State Park includes some of the most spectacular parts of the Caprock.

The 15,136 acres in Caprock Canyons State Park was once one of the largest working cattle ranches in the State of Texas. Texas bought the ranch in 1975 and opened the park to the public in 1982. The park is home to a herd of wild bison, what we call buffalo, which roams the park unhindered.

Hiking, biking, horseback riding, and even fishing are on the list of things to do at Caprock Canyon State Park. You shouldn’t pass up the opportunity to hike at least a portion of the Caprock Canyons Trailway. This track follows the abandoned railroad right of way, including 46 bridges and the Clarity Tunnel.

You can make your way to one of the walk-in primitive backcountry campsites or park your RV in one of the spots with electricity and water. A dump station is located near the campgrounds as well.

Take a dip in Lake Theo or drop in a line to hook a catfish or bass. In the winter months, Texas Parks and Wildlife usually stocks the small lake with rainbow trout for the winter fishermen. Reservations are recommended.  Click here  to visit the reservation website.

18. Dinosaur Valley State Park

It’s time to go way back in history. Texas was once home to dinosaurs, and the proof is found at Dinosaur Valley State Park. Here you can see the evidence for yourself.

Dinosaur footprints are preserved in the rock along the Paluxy riverbed for you to discover. Put your foot in a dinosaur footprint and go back in time.

You can use your GPS or smartphone to map the footprint locations. Walk along the river and discover how history has been preserved in the rocks. There are over 20 miles of walking trails in the park to explore. The geology is fascinating, and the wildlife is abundant, so keep your eyes open.

Fishing, mountain biking, and a float in the river should also be on your schedule. The Visitors Center has interpretive displays and historical information about the region. The small store can provide camping supplies, fishing equipment, and souvenirs.

Camping at Dinosaur Valley offers sites for primitive hike-in sites and RV sites with electricity and water. No sewer hookups are available, but a dump station is located near the campsites. Showers and bathrooms are well equipped, clean, and friendly.

T&T Tip:  Make reservations early by  clicking here , as this is a popular stop for families

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19. Fort Boggy State Park

Credit:  Fort Boggy State Park - Texas Parks and Wildlife / Facebook

In the heart of East Texas is a state park that offers tranquility amid woods, fields, and lakes. Fort Boggy State Park is not the largest state park in Texas, but it must be one of the most beautiful.

This part of Texas doesn’t suffer from a lack of rain, and this park’s lush vegetation is a testament to that. The park includes the 15-acre Sullivan Lake, where you can fish, swim, or put in your kayak or canoe to explore the banks.

If you didn’t bring a boat, rent a kayak at the kiosk near the boat ramp on the lake. Fishing is always good and includes catches of bass, catfish, sunfish, and rainbow trout in season.

If birds are your interest, Fort Boggy State Park offers some of the best opportunities in the state. You can combine your birdwatching with hiking on the 3.5 miles of trails.

The park is home to many geocaches. Bring your GPS or smartphone to participate in this rapidly growing activity.

Camping at Fort Boggy is limited. There are a few cabins scattered throughout the woods. The rest of the park has primitive campsites requiring you to hike.

No water or electricity is available at the campsites, so plan on carrying everything you need for your stay. If you bring it in, be sure to take it out as well. Reservations are encouraged. You can  click here  to see what is available.

20. Lake Mineral Wells State Park and Trailway

Lake Mineral Wells State Park and Trailway are 49 miles almost due East of Fort Worth, Texas. The park and Trailway offer a look into the history and scenery of North Texas and a chance to learn more about one of the most interesting periods of history in this part of Texas.

Mineral Wells is named for the mineral springs that bubble up from the ground in this area. These springs led to the development of several large health resorts in Mineral Wells. At one time, Mineral Wells was a chosen destination by the rich and famous from across the United States.

The Trailway portion of the park runs along 20 miles of the old Weatherford, Mineral Wells, and Northwestern railroad right of way. This rail line was built to serve the huge number of passengers who came to Mineral Wells for the “healing waters” of the springs.

You can hike along the trail, which crosses 16 bridges. The trail is improved and open to walking and biking. No motorized vehicles are allowed.

At Lake Mineral Wells State Park, you can enjoy the 640-acre lake that allows swimming, fishing, and no-wake boating on the lake. Rentals are available at the park store.

Fishing for catfish, crappy, bass, and sunfish is a popular pastime. You can also hike the 12.8 miles of trails that surround the lake to get a 360-degree view of the park. Rock climbing is allowed in certain park areas for the more adventurous.

Camping is available year-round at one of the many improved campsites. Full hookup campsites are available as well as electricity only. Tents sites with water feature picnic shelters and ample parking.  Click here  to reserve your campsite.

Texas – A Land that is Big, Beautiful, and Diverse

Texas has something for everyone. You can visit state parks near the heart of the largest urban areas imaginable. You can venture into wilderness areas that are vast enough to boggle your imagination.

The diversity of ecology, geography, and geology is breathtaking. These are just a few of the state park opportunities in Texas. Don’t miss any of them.

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When you're planning your next trip, safety is probably at the top of your mind. And if you're considering flying with American Airlines, you're likely wondering just how safe it really is. It's a valid concern—after all, you're cruising at 35,000 feet!

Is Biman Bangladesh Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth for Anxious Flyers

When you're planning a trip, especially one that takes you across borders, the safety of your chosen airline is a top priority. You've probably come across Biman Bangladesh Airlines in your search for flights, and it's natural to wonder about its safety record. After all, you're entrusting them with your most precious cargo: you and your loved ones.

Is Arkia Israeli Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth That Every Traveler Must Know

When planning a trip, you're likely to ponder over which airline to choose, especially when it comes to safety. If you've got your eyes set on Israel, Arkia Israeli Airlines might have popped up in your search. It's Israel's second-largest airline, but how does it stack up in terms of safety?

Is Air Albania Safe? Unveiling the Truth About Your Next Flight's Security

When planning your next trip, you might wonder about the safety of your chosen airline. It's a valid concern, especially if you're considering flying with a relatively new player like Air Albania. Founded in 2018, it's the flag carrier of Albania, but how does it stack up in terms of safety?

Is Jeju Air Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight Fears

When planning a trip, especially by air, safety is always at the top of your mind. You've probably come across Jeju Air, a popular low-cost carrier in South Korea, and wondered, "Is Jeju Air safe?" It's a valid question, considering the budget-friendly tickets and the airline's growing network across Asia.

Is Air Tahiti Nui Safe? Unveiling What Every Traveler Needs to Know

When planning a trip to the enchanting islands of Tahiti, you're likely considering Air Tahiti Nui for your journey. It's the flagship carrier that promises an exotic travel experience, whisking you away to paradise. But amidst the excitement, a crucial question pops up: Is Air Tahiti Nui safe?

Is Avelo Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth for Anxious Flyers

When you're planning your next trip, safety is always at the top of your mind, right? You're probably wondering if Avelo Airlines, the new kid on the block in the aviation world, ticks all the boxes for a safe journey. It's a valid question, especially with so many options out there.

Is PenAir Safe? Unveiling the Truth for Nervous and Aspiring Travelers

When you're planning your next flight, safety is probably at the top of your list. You've likely come across PenAir in your search for regional flights, but you're wondering: is PenAir safe? It's a valid question, especially when flying to some of the more remote locations PenAir serves.

Is Ravn Alaska Safe? Unveiling Truths Behind Your Flight's Reliability

When planning a trip to the Last Frontier, you might wonder about the best way to hop between its vast landscapes. Ravn Alaska pops up as a popular option, but there's a big question on your mind: Is Ravn Alaska safe? Let's dive into what makes an airline tick in terms of safety and see how Ravn stacks up.

Is Breeze Airways Safe? Unveiling the Truth for Anxious & Aspiring Travelers

When you're eyeing those tempting deals from Breeze Airways for your next trip, it's only natural to wonder about their safety record. After all, who doesn't want a smooth and secure journey to their dream destination? Breeze Airways, a newcomer in the sky, has sparked curiosity among travelers seeking both value and peace of mind.

Is Cape Air Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Pilot Training and Fleet Safety

When planning your next adventure or business trip, you're likely to ponder over the safety of your chosen airline. If Cape Air's on your radar, you're probably asking, "Is Cape Air safe?" It's a valid question that deserves a closer look, especially when your comfort and peace of mind are at stake.

Is Silver Airways Safe? Unveiling the Truth for Anxious Flyers

When planning your next trip, you're likely juggling a lot of decisions. Where to stay, what to pack, and, crucially, which airline to trust with your safety in the skies. If you're considering Silver Airways for your journey, you might be wondering just how safe it is. After all, flying can be nerve-wracking enough without worrying about the reliability of your chosen airline.

Is GoJet Airlines Safe? The Truth Behind Passenger Reviews and Safety Concerns

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with GoJet Airlines, one question might pop into your mind: "Is GoJet Airlines safe?" It's a valid concern, especially in today's world where safety is paramount. Let's dive into what makes an airline safe and see how GoJet stacks up.

Is Endeavor Air Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Secure Journey

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Endeavor Air, it's natural to wonder about safety. After all, you want your journey to be as smooth and worry-free as possible. Safety is a top priority for any airline, but how does Endeavor Air stack up?

Is Trans States Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Pilot Training & Safety

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Trans States Airlines, it's natural to wonder about their safety record. After all, ensuring a safe journey is at the top of everyone's list. You're not alone in your curiosity, and the good news is, we've got the scoop for you.

Is Air Wisconsin Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight's Safety

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Air Wisconsin, safety is likely one of your top concerns. It's a big deal choosing an airline, especially with the myriad of options and opinions floating around.

Is Envoy Air Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Next Flight

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Envoy Air, it's natural to wonder about the airline's safety record. After all, your safety is paramount, and you want to ensure you're making the best choice for your travel.

Is Mesa Airlines Safe? Discover What Passengers Aren't Telling You

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Mesa Airlines, safety is likely at the top of your mind. It's a big world out there, and knowing you're in good hands while jetting off to your next adventure can make all the difference.

Is Compass Airlines Safe? Uncovering What Every Traveler Must Know

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Compass Airlines, it's natural to wonder about their safety record. After all, ensuring a safe journey is at the top of everyone's list. But diving into the world of airline safety can feel like navigating through a maze. Don't worry; we've got you covered.

Is Republic Airways Safe? Insights That Every Nervous Flyer Must Read

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Republic Airways, it's natural to wonder about their safety record. After all, ensuring you're in good hands while thousands of feet up in the air is pretty crucial. You're not alone in your concerns; it's a question on the minds of many travelers.

Is SkyWest Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth That Every Traveler Must Know

When planning your next trip, you might be wondering about the best airline options out there. Safety, no doubt, tops your list of concerns. You've probably heard of SkyWest Airlines, a major player in the regional airline sector. But the burning question remains: Is SkyWest Airlines safe?

Is Icelandair Safe? Discover Why Flyers Trust Their Journey With Us

When you're planning a trip that involves flying, safety naturally tops your list of concerns. And if Iceland's stunning landscapes are calling your name, you're probably considering Icelandair for your journey. But how safe is this airline, really?

Is Luxair Safe? Unveiling What Really Matters to Nervous Flyers

When planning your next trip, you're likely scrolling through countless options, wondering which airline will get you there safely and comfortably. Luxair, Luxembourg's flag carrier, often pops up as a top choice for European destinations. But in the sea of airlines, you might ask yourself, "Is Luxair safe?"

Is SpiceJet Safe? Uncovering the Truth Behind Passenger Reviews

When you're planning your next trip, safety is always at the top of your mind. And if you're considering flying with SpiceJet, you might be wondering just how safe it is. After all, flying can be daunting, and choosing the right airline is crucial for a worry-free journey.

Is El Al Safe? Debunking Myths & Unveiling the Truth for Nervous Flyers

When you're planning a trip, especially an international one, safety is likely at the top of your list. And if your travels are taking you to or from Israel, you've probably heard of El Al. It's Israel's national airline and has a reputation that precedes it. But what's behind the buzz? Is El Al really as safe as they say?

Is China Eastern Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight Fears

When you're planning a trip, especially one that spans continents, safety is likely at the top of your list. You've probably come across China Eastern Airlines in your search for flights, and it's natural to wonder about their safety record. After all, you're entrusting them with your most precious cargo - yourself and your loved ones.

Is China Southern Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight Concerns

When it comes to air travel, safety is always at the forefront of everyone's mind. You might be planning your next trip and wondering, "Is China Southern safe?" It's a valid question, especially when venturing far from home.

Is Malaysia Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth for Anxious Travelers

When you're planning your next adventure or business trip, the airline you choose is a big deal. You want comfort, good service, and most importantly, safety. Malaysia Airlines often pops up as a tempting option with its attractive routes and competitive prices. But there's that nagging question in the back of your mind: Is Malaysia Airlines safe?

Is Japan Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth for Anxious Flyers

When planning your next trip, safety is likely at the top of your list, especially when it comes to choosing an airline. You might be wondering, "Is Japan Airlines safe?" Well, you're in the right place to find out. Japan Airlines, known for its impeccable service, also prides itself on its safety record.

Is ANA Safe? Discover How They Ensure Your Peace of Mind in the Skies

When you're planning a trip, especially one that involves flying, safety is likely at the top of your mind. You might be wondering about All Nippon Airways, commonly known as ANA, and its safety record. Is it a reliable choice for your next journey?

Is Singapore Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Secrets Behind Their Flawless Safety Record

When you're jetting off to exotic locales or crucial business meetings, the last thing you want to worry about is your safety in the sky. That's where Singapore Airlines comes into play. Known for its impeccable service, it's natural to wonder about its safety record too.

Is Emirates Safe? Unveiling What Happy Travelers Really Think

When you're planning your next journey, safety is likely at the top of your list. You've probably heard a lot about Emirates, known for its luxurious experience, but how does it stack up in terms of safety? Let's dive into what makes an airline safe and see where Emirates lands.

Is LOT Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight's Safety

When you're planning a trip, the safety of the airline you choose is a top priority. You might've heard about LOT Polish Airlines and wondered, "Is LOT safe?" Well, you're not alone in asking. Safety concerns are valid, especially when it's about flying thousands of feet above the ground.

Is Aeromexico Safe? Unveiling What Every Traveler Needs to Know

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Aeromexico, safety might be at the top of your mind. It's natural to wonder about the safety records of airlines these days, especially with the amount of travel we all do. Aeromexico, as one of the leading carriers in Latin America, often comes under scrutiny.

Is Norwegian Safe? Discover Why Travelers Trust Its Skies

When you're planning your next adventure, safety is always at the top of your list. And if Norway's on your radar, you're probably wondering, "Is Norwegian safe?" Let's dive into what makes this Nordic country a destination worth considering from a safety perspective.

Is Allegiant Air Safe? Unveiling the Truth About Your Flight's Safety

When you're planning a trip, the safety of the airline you choose is a top priority. You've probably heard mixed reviews about budget airlines, and Allegiant Air often comes up in those conversations. It's natural to wonder, "Is Allegiant Air safe?"

Is Hawaiian Airlines Safe? Discover Why Flyers Trust This Paradise Airline

When you're planning a tropical getaway, the last thing you want to stress over is whether your flight will be a smooth sail or a turbulent ride. Enter Hawaiian Airlines, a name that's almost synonymous with the aloha spirit and island hopping. But beyond the lei greetings and in-flight POG juice, you're probably wondering, "Is Hawaiian Airlines safe?"

Is Frontier Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight Fears

When you're planning your next adventure or business trip, the airline you choose can make all the difference. You've probably heard about Frontier Airlines, known for its budget-friendly fares, but you might be wondering, "Is Frontier Airlines safe?" It's a valid question that deserves a closer look, especially in today's travel climate.

Is Spirit Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight Fears

When you're planning a trip and looking for budget-friendly options, Spirit Airlines often pops up as a tempting choice. But amidst the excitement of snagging a great deal, you might pause and wonder, "Is Spirit Airlines safe?" It's a valid question, especially when you're about to trust them with your most precious cargo—yourself!

Is JetBlue Safe? Uncovering the Truth Behind Their Safety Measures

When you're planning your next trip, the airline you choose is as crucial as your destination. You've probably heard a lot about JetBlue, known for its comfy seats and ample legroom, but how does it stack up in terms of safety? It's a question worth asking, especially in today's travel climate.

Is Alaska Airlines Safe? Discover Why Flyers Trust Their Journey With Them

When you're planning your next trip, safety is likely at the top of your list. You're not just looking for a smooth flight; you want peace of mind from takeoff to touchdown. That's where Alaska Airlines comes into play. It's a name you've probably heard tossed around when talking about reliable air travel, but how safe is it really?

Is Southwest Airlines Safe? Uncovering What Every Traveler Needs to Know

When you're planning your next trip, safety is always at the top of your mind. And if you're considering flying with Southwest Airlines, you might be wondering just how safe your journey will be. It's a valid concern, especially in today's world where travel safety has become more important than ever.

Is United Airlines Safe? Real Passengers Share Their Experiences

When you're planning your next trip, safety is probably at the top of your list, especially when it comes to choosing an airline. You've likely come across United Airlines, a major player in the aviation industry, and wondered, "Is United Airlines safe?" It's a valid question that deserves a closer look.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Hawaii for Every Lifestyle

Dreaming of living in paradise? Hawaii's got you covered, with its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and Aloha spirit. But with so many amazing spots, deciding where to plant your roots can be tough.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Florida for Everyone - Beaches, Festivals & More

Thinking about moving to Florida? You're not alone! The Sunshine State is famous for its gorgeous beaches, vibrant cities, and laid-back lifestyle. But with so many great places to choose from, deciding where to plant your roots can be tough.

Ultimate Guide: Top Family-Friendly Spots in NC - From Asheville to Outer Banks

Looking for the perfect spot in North Carolina to plant your family roots? You're in luck! This state's got a little something for everyone, from bustling cities to quiet, leafy suburbs.

Top Places to Thrive in Your 20s: A Guide to Affordability, Adventure, & Opportunities

Ah, your 20s! A time to explore, grow, and maybe even settle down in a new spot that feels just right. It's all about finding that perfect blend of fun, opportunity, and affordability.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Houston for Everyone - From Retirees to Families

Houston's a big city, with even bigger opportunities for finding the perfect spot to call home. Whether you're all about the hustle and bustle of city life or looking for a quiet corner to settle down, there's something here for everyone.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Missouri for Everyone - From Retirees to Young Adults

Thinking about moving to Missouri or just curious about the best spots to call home in the Show-Me State? You're in luck. Missouri's got a little something for everyone, from bustling city vibes to quiet, leafy suburbs.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Connecticut for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about making a move to Connecticut? You're in for a treat! This state's got a little bit of everything – from cozy small towns to bustling cities. It's all about finding the spot that feels just right for you.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Indiana for Everyone - Schools, Costs & Lifestyle

Thinking about calling Indiana home? You're in for a treat! The Hoosier State is packed with charming towns, bustling cities, and everything in between. Whether you're after the quiet of the countryside or the buzz of city life, Indiana's got you covered.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Illinois for Everyone - Families to Retirees

Thinking about making a move to Illinois? You're in for a treat! The Prairie State is not just about deep-dish pizza and the Windy City. There's a lot more to discover, from cozy small towns to bustling suburbs that offer the best of both worlds.

Ultimate Guide: Top East Coast Havens for Every Lifestyle & Age

Dreaming of waking up to the sound of waves or perhaps craving the vibrant city vibes only the East Coast can offer? You're in luck because we're diving into the best spots that just might make you want to pack your bags today. From quaint towns with rich history to bustling cities with endless opportunities, the East Coast has something for everyone.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live Near Nashville for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about moving close to the heart of country music? Nashville's got more than just tunes to offer. It's surrounded by some pretty sweet spots that give you the best of both worlds: serene living and easy access to the city vibes.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in New Mexico for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about making a move to New Mexico? You're in for a treat! With its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and sunny weather, it's no wonder you're considering it. But with so many awesome places to choose from, where should you start?

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in New Hampshire for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about making a move to New Hampshire? You're in for a treat! From the stunning White Mountains to the serene lakes, there's a spot for everyone in this charming New England state. Whether you're after the hustle and bustle of city life or the peacefulness of the countryside, New Hampshire offers a unique blend of both.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Delaware for Everyone [2024]

Thinking about making Delaware your new home? You're in luck! This little gem of a state might be small, but it's packed with some of the best places to live on the East Coast. From cozy beach towns to bustling city life, Delaware's got a spot for everyone.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Massachusetts for Everyone

Thinking about making a move to Massachusetts? You're in for a treat. This state's got a little bit of everything, from bustling cities to quiet, quaint towns. Whether you're after top-notch schools, vibrant cultural scenes, or just some stunning nature, Massachusetts delivers.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Minnesota for All Lifestyles

Thinking about making a move to Minnesota, or just curious about the best spots to call home in the Land of 10,000 Lakes? Well, you're in luck. Minnesota's not just about the cold and snow; it's packed with cities that boast great jobs, vibrant communities, and plenty of outdoor fun.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Alaska for Everyone - From Retirees to Families

Thinking about making the big move to Alaska? You're in for a treat! It's not just about snow and sled dogs; Alaska's got some of the most stunning landscapes and tight-knit communities you'll find anywhere.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in West Virginia for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about calling West Virginia home? You're in for a treat. This place isn't just about stunning mountains and rivers; it's got some hidden gems where life feels just right. Whether you're after that small-town charm, vibrant city vibes, or a quiet spot surrounded by nature, West Virginia's got a spot for you.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places in Florida for Families - Live Happily Ever After

Thinking about moving your family to Florida? You're not alone! The Sunshine State is famous for its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and family-friendly communities. But with so many options, deciding where to plant your roots can be a bit overwhelming.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places in North Carolina for Retirees & More

North Carolina's got a charm that's hard to beat, especially if you're looking to enjoy your retirement to the fullest. From the cozy mountains to the sunny beaches, there's a spot for every retiree to call home.

Ultimate Guide: Best Affordable NJ Spots Near NYC for Every Lifestyle

Living close to NYC is a dream for many, but let's be real, it can get pricey. Good news, though! New Jersey offers some gems that won't break the bank and still keep you close to the Big Apple. Whether you're after the bustling streets or a quiet corner, there's a spot for you.

Ultimate Guide: Top Vermont Havens for Everyone - From Retirees to Young Families

Thinking about making a move to Vermont? You're not alone. This charming state, known for its stunning landscapes and cozy small towns, is a magnet for those seeking a quieter, more scenic life. With its mix of vibrant communities and peaceful countryside, Vermont offers the best of both worlds.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Arkansas for Everyone (2024)

Thinking about making a move to the Natural State? You're in for a treat! Arkansas is known for its stunning natural beauty, friendly folks, and a cost of living that's hard to beat. Whether you're drawn to the hustle and bustle of city life or the peace and quiet of the countryside, Arkansas has got something for everyone.

Idaho's Top Living Spots: The Ultimate Guide for Everyone - From Retirees to Families

Thinking about moving to Idaho? You're not alone. With its stunning landscapes and friendly communities, it's no wonder more and more people are calling it home. But with so many great spots, it can be tough to decide where to plant your roots.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Wyoming for Everyone

Thinking about making a move to Wyoming? You're in for a treat! This state's known for its wide-open spaces, stunning scenery, and a lifestyle that's both laid-back and adventurous. Whether you're drawn by the call of the wild or the promise of a peaceful, community-focused life, Wyoming's got a spot for you.

Ultimate Guide: Top Spots in South Carolina for Young Adults - Live, Work & Play

South Carolina's charm isn't just in its sweet tea and beaches. For young adults looking for a fresh start or a new scene, it's got some hidden gems that might just be your next home sweet home. From bustling cities to cozy coastal towns, there's a spot for every vibe and ambition.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Washington State for Everyone

Thinking about making a move to the Evergreen State? You're in for a treat! Washington's got a bit of everything, from bustling city life to quiet, cozy towns. Whether you're after the techy vibes of Seattle or the serene landscapes of the Olympic Peninsula, there's a spot just for you.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Montana for Everyone – From Retirees to Families

Thinking about calling Montana home? You're not alone. With its breathtaking landscapes and wide-open spaces, it's a place that calls to the heart of adventurers and peace-seekers alike. But with so many amazing spots, picking the best place to plant roots can feel overwhelming.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Virginia for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about making a move to Virginia? You're in for a treat! This state's got everything from bustling cities to quiet, cozy towns. Whether you're after top-notch schools, job opportunities, or just a beautiful place to call home, Virginia's got you covered.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in North Carolina for Happiness, Weather & More

Thinking about making a move to North Carolina? You're in for a treat! From the bustling streets of Charlotte to the serene beaches of the Outer Banks, North Carolina's got a little something for everyone. Whether you're after the hustle and bustle of city life or the quiet charm of small-town living, you'll find your perfect spot here.

Ultimate Guide: The Best Places to Live in Georgia for Everyone—from Retirees to Families

Thinking about making a move to Georgia? You're not alone. With its warm climate, rich culture, and booming job market, it's no wonder people are flocking to the Peach State. But with so many great places to choose from, where do you even start?

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Florida for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about moving to Florida? You're not alone! The Sunshine State is a magnet for folks seeking sunshine, beaches, and that laid-back lifestyle. But with so many awesome spots, picking the best place to plant your roots can feel overwhelming.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Indianapolis for Everyone

Thinking about moving to Indianapolis? Great choice! Indy's got a lot to offer, from vibrant neighborhoods to bustling city life. But with so many spots to choose from, finding the perfect place to call home can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Orlando for Families & More

Orlando's not just about theme parks and tourist spots; it's a fantastic place to plant roots, especially if you've got a family in tow. With its sunny weather, great schools, and endless activities, it's no wonder families flock here. But with so many neighborhoods, choosing where to live can feel like finding a needle in a haystack.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places in Oregon for Young Adults - Live, Play, Thrive

Oregon's got a vibe that's hard to beat, especially if you're a young adult looking for the perfect spot to plant your roots. With its mix of bustling cities, laid-back towns, and everything in between, there's a place for every taste and lifestyle.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Columbus Ohio for Every Lifestyle

Looking for the perfect spot to call home in Columbus, Ohio? You're in luck! Columbus is a city brimming with charm, diverse communities, and endless opportunities. Whether you're all about the nightlife, a fan of quiet suburbs, or somewhere in between, there's a place just for you.

Ultimate Guide: Top Affordable Places in North Carolina for Everyone

Thinking about moving to North Carolina but worried about the cost? You're in luck! North Carolina's got some hidden gems where you can enjoy the good life without breaking the bank. From cozy mountain towns to vibrant cities, there's a spot for everyone.

Ultimate Guide: Top East Coast Havens for Everyone - From Retirees to Partygoers

Thinking about making a move to the East Coast? You're in for a treat! From bustling cities to quiet seaside towns, there's a spot for everyone. Whether you're dreaming of fresh seafood by the ocean or a fast-paced city vibe, we've got you covered.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Brooklyn for Every Demographic

Brooklyn's got a vibe like nowhere else. It's where the cool kids hang and the artists create. But with so many neighborhoods, picking where to call home can feel like finding a needle in a haystack.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in San Antonio for All Lifestyles

San Antonio's got a vibe that's hard to beat, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and killer food scene. If you're thinking about making the move or just curious, you're in the right spot. Finding the perfect neighborhood in this sprawling city can be a bit like searching for a needle in a haystack—but a whole lot more fun.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Kentucky for Everyone

Thinking about calling Kentucky home? You're onto something special. Known for its rolling hills, horse farms, and friendly communities, the Bluegrass State offers a unique blend of natural beauty and welcoming neighborhoods.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Maryland for Everyone's Wish List

Thinking about moving to Maryland? You're in for a treat! This state's got a mix of everything - from bustling city vibes in Baltimore to the laid-back, scenic beauty of its coastal towns.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Portland for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about making Portland your new home? You're in for a treat! This city's got a vibe like no other, with its quirky culture, amazing food, and stunning nature spots. But with so many cool neighborhoods, picking the perfect spot can be a bit of a head-scratcher.

Ultimate Guide: Top Austin Neighborhoods for Every Lifestyle & Budget

Thinking about making a move to Austin? You're not alone. This vibrant city has been pulling folks in with its unique charm, incredible music scene, and mouth-watering BBQ. But with so many cool neighborhoods, picking the right spot can feel like finding a needle in a haystack.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live on East Coast for Everyone – From Retirees to Families

Dreaming about moving to the East Coast? You're not alone. With its charming towns, bustling cities, and stunning beaches, the East Coast offers a little something for everyone. Whether you're after the vibrant city life or a quiet seaside retreat, you'll find your perfect spot here.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Washington DC for Every Lifestyle

So, you're thinking about moving to Washington, DC? Great choice! The city's not just about politics and monuments. It's got neighborhoods that'll make you wanna stay forever. From trendy spots buzzing with cafes and galleries to quiet, leafy streets perfect for Sunday strolls, DC's got a bit of everything.

Ultimate Guide: Best Affordable Places to Live in North Carolina for Every Lifestyle

Looking for a spot in North Carolina that's easy on your wallet but still ticks all the boxes for a great place to live? You're in luck. North Carolina's got a bunch of hidden gems that offer a fantastic quality of life without breaking the bank.

Ultimate Guide: Top Family-Friendly California Locales for Every Lifestyle

California's got it all for families looking for their next home sweet home. From the sunny beaches to the scenic mountains and bustling cities, there's a spot for every family's taste and budget.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in the Midwest for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about calling the Midwest home? You're in for a treat! This heartland is chock-full of hidden gems, each offering its unique blend of charm, community, and comfort. From bustling cities with all the modern amenities to quiet towns where everyone knows your name, there's a perfect spot for everyone.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Georgia for Every Lifestyle

Looking for the perfect spot in Georgia to call home? You're in luck! Georgia's got a little bit of everything, from bustling city vibes in Atlanta to the laid-back coastal charm of Savannah. It's a place where you can find your niche, whether you're after top-notch schools, thriving job markets, or just a great community feel.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live Near Orlando for Every Lifestyle

Looking to move close to Orlando but not sure where to start? You're in luck! Orlando's surrounding areas offer a mix of vibrant communities, each with its own unique charm. Whether you're after the buzz of city life or the tranquility of suburbia, there's a spot near Orlando that's perfect for you.

Ultimate Long Island Living Guide: Top Spots for Everyone's Lifestyle

Dreaming of a spot with sandy beaches, cozy neighborhoods, and endless bagels? Long Island's got you covered. It's not just about the stunning coastline; this place is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and communities. Whether you're a city escapee, a nature lover, or somewhere in between, there's a perfect corner here for you.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Arizona for Young Adults - Explore, Thrive, & Enjoy

Thinking about making a move to Arizona? You're not alone. With its stunning landscapes, booming job market, and vibrant culture, it's no wonder young adults are flocking to the Grand Canyon State. But with so many cool spots to choose from, where should you set up camp?

Ultimate Guide: Best Affordable Places in Washington State for Everyone

Looking for a spot in Washington State that won't break the bank? You're in luck! We've got the scoop on the best affordable places that still offer that amazing Pacific Northwest vibe. Whether you're dreaming of cozy mountain towns or vibrant city life, Washington's got a little something for everyone.

Ultimate Guide to Arizona: Top Spots for Young Adults – Live, Play, Thrive

Looking for the perfect spot in Arizona to plant your roots as a young adult? You're in luck! The Grand Canyon State isn't just about breathtaking landscapes and sunsets that'll blow your mind. It's also home to some pretty awesome places that cater specifically to the younger crowd.

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11 Best Texas State Parks for Escaping into Nature

Posted by Cindy Brzostowski October 17, 2022 Updated May 10, 2023

Experience the wild, wide-ranging beauty of Texas through its best state parks.

Despite prevailing stereotypes of Texas as some giant piece of empty, flat, lonely desert, the state actually has a lot going for it in the nature department. Yeah, you can find stretches of desert that are frankly quite beautiful, but you can also find large swatches of dense forest, strips of white sandy beaches, lush hill country, mythical-looking swamps, and even rugged mountain ranges.

One way to experience this wonderful breadth of Texan landscapes is to visit its beautiful state parks. There are more than 80 of them in total — no two are alike, except for the fact that each offers tons of fun adventures for those whose happy place is the outdoors. In no particular order, here are some of the best state parks in Texas to add to your travel bucket list.

1. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Why you should go: See the second largest canyon in the U.S. for yourself.

• Nearest town: Canyon
• Camping: Yes, 121 sites

We all know that Arizona has the Grand Canyon, but not everyone knows that Texas has Palo Duro Canyon. This is the second-largest canyon in America at 120 miles long, 20 miles wide, and reaching up to 800 feet in depth. At Palo Duro Canyon State Park , you can experience the natural wonder from down low and up high along the over 30 miles of trails, taking you through rock formations striped in rich shades of orange, red, and brown.

When you need a rest from all that hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, you can catch a showing of the family-friendly TEXAS Outdoor Musical , which takes place at the park’s Pioneer Amphitheater and has been running for over 50 seasons.

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2. Pedernales Falls State Park

Why you should go: The impressive geology here is truly a sight to behold.

• Nearest town: Johnson City
• Camping: Yes, 69 sites

Many people come to Pedernales Falls State Park for one particular thing: the falls the park is named after. Rather than the towering types of waterfalls you might be imagining, the falls here are a long, wide stretch in the Pedernales River where water flows over large limestone slabs, giving off some real “Land Before Time,” dinosaur-age vibes.

Viewing and hiking around the falls are far from the only thing to occupy your time at this state park though. There are other trails to explore, including a 10-mile one perfect for mountain bikers, spots for tubing, canoeing, and kayaking, and rugged stretches for horseback riding.

Related Read : 12 Beautiful Places in Texas Perfect for an Outdoor Adventure

3. Garner State Park

Why you should go: Floating the river and top-notch leaf peeping are just two of the great outdoor activities here.

• Nearest town: Concan
• Camping: Yes, 347 sites

Garner State Park is nestled right into a bend in the Frio River, meaning you’re free to go swimming, tubing, and paddleboating. Back on land, you have 16 miles of trails to wander with one of the favorites being the short but challenging Old Baldy Trail, which gives you an excellent view of the river canyon.

One of the prime times to visit Garner State Park is in the autumn, particularly early November, when you can see the area’s famous, colorful display of foliage. If you want to plan a trip then, just be sure to book your campsite far in advance since it’s likely to get packed.

Related Read:   The 7 Best State Parks Near San Antonio, Texas

4. Caddo Lake State Park

Why you should go: You can leave land behind to paddle your way through a picturesque swamp.

• Nearest town: Karnack
• Camping: Yes, 46 sites

Caddo Lake State Park challenges many peoples’ idea of what a state park looks like with its swampy landscape that visitors can navigate by canoe or kayak. Anyone who doubts how beautiful a swamp can be will quickly change their mind as they paddle through these bayous with bald cypress trees shrouded in Spanish moss.

All that water also means lots of space to go fishing, so bring your gear if you want to fish for the over 70 different species in Caddo Lake. And don’t worry if you’d like to get some regular hiking in since there are a handful of trails through woods, ranging from easy to moderate in difficulty level.

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5. Brazos Bend State Park

Why you should go: There’s so much wonderful wildlife to appreciate at this state park with an observatory.

• Nearest town: Needville
• Camping: Yes, 91 sites

Brazos Bend State Park might just be an hour’s drive outside of Houston, but it feels far more removed from the busy metropolis thanks to its 5,000 acres of varied terrain. There are prairies, woodlands, and wetlands, and living among that are a diverse array of species, including river otters, alligators, and hundreds of different birds.

Another unique feature of this park is that it has an observatory within its boundaries: George Observatory , a facility of the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Time your trip to the state park to include a Saturday so you can participate in some stargazing complete with a lazer tour from experts.

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6. Davis Mountains State Park

Why you should go: It’s a peaceful, remote retreat where you’ll be treated to a stunning display of stars at night.

• Nearest town: Fort Davis
• Camping: Yes, 93 sites

Out in West Texas, Davis Mountains State Park is the kind of place to go when you want to get away from loud city life, slow down, and appreciate a scenic combination of mountains and desert. There’s hiking and biking across mountain ridges and valleys, there’s lots of birding to be done, and there are starry night skies like you wouldn’t believe.

Along with the campsites, you can stay at the Indian Lodge , which is a white-adobe motel built in the 1930s with its own pool within the park. While you’re at Davis Mountains State Park, you’re also in close vicinity to two other great attractions: Fort Davis National Historic Site and McDonald Observatory .

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7. Monahans Sandhills State Park

Why you should go: It’s smooth, sand dunes as far as the eye can see at this unique state park.

• Nearest town: Monahans
• Camping: Yes 26 sites

Another state park you shouldn’t miss in West Texas is Monahans Sandhills State Park . A sea of sand dunes stretching until the horizon with no water in sight is definitely not a common landscape in the States, but it’s exactly what you’ll get here. The state park has over 3,800 acres of sand dunes.

Rent a sand disk from the visitor center and send yourself flying down the sandhills. There are no specific trails to follow so it’s a big free-for-all, which adds to the fun and adventure of the place. Word of warning: If you’re coming during the summertime, bring lots of water and have foot protection since those sand dunes can get hot, hot hot.

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8. Colorado Bend State Park

Why you should go: It’s hiker heaven at this spot with a famous trail to a pretty waterfall.

• Nearest town: Bend
• Camping: Yes, 43 sites

At Colorado Bend State Park , you can while away your time pleasantly by exploring the 35 miles of trails. In fact, one of the best reasons to visit this state park is to hike the Gorman Falls Trail, which you’ll find on many people’s lists as one of the best hikes in Texas . The falls in question are a 70-foot-tall waterfall tucked amid lush greenery, making for a pretty enchanting spot.

Aside from that highlight, the trails will take you through an array of scenes from spring-fed pools to prairie grasslands to rolling hills to rocky canyons. There’s even a cave that’s inhabited by cave myotis bats and is accessible on a tour.

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9. Inks Lake State Park

Why you should go: It’s a Hill Country paradise at this state park next to a lake.

• Nearest town: Burnet
• Camping: Yes, 187 sites

At Inks Lake State Park , you can see why people love the Hill Country so much. The landscape is characterized by the inviting Colorado River, rock outcrops, shady trees, a diversity of cacti, and seasonal, shallow pools.

Come during the spring and you’ll be treated to a gorgeous display of wildflowers. Stop by in the summer, and you can go for a swim at Devil’s Waterhole (one of the state’s best swimming holes ). Fall and winter are fun too since it’s a nice time to hike the nine miles of trails. And that’s just scratching the surface seeing as you can scuba dive, kayak, fish, and more here.

Related Read:   The 9 Best State Parks Near Austin, Texas

10. Caprock Canyons State Park

Why you should go: You’ll get the opportunity to see some big ol’ bison in the wild.

• Nearest town: Quitaque
• Camping: Yes, 124 sites

Just an hour and a half away from Palo Duro Canyon State Park, there’s Caprock Canyons State Park , a worthwhile destination in its own right for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in that red rock landscape. There are an impressive 90 miles of trails to tackle, so hikers and bikers will have plenty to do.

While the canyons are cool and all, what’s really awesome to see here is the bison. This state park is where the Texas State Bison Herd lives, and if you’ve never seen one of these mighty animals in the wild before, it’s pretty special — just make sure to keep a safe distance away.

11. Mustang Island State Park

Why you should go: It’s sand, sea, and sun at this state park in the Gulf of Mexico.

• Nearest town: Corpus Christi
• Camping: Yes, 98 sites

Part of the state’s long chain of barrier islands, Mustang Island State Park is an ideal destination for those who love to be by the sea. There are over five miles of coastline for you to post up on so you can sunbathe, swim, and surf to your heart’s content.

Love to kayak? Then checking out the Mustang Island State Park Paddling Trail is a must. Interested in birding? You’ll be in a great spot since migrant birds pass through here. There’s also the chance to see two kinds of sea turtles, which nest and swim in the park.

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Seen in: Texas

Posted by Cindy Brzostowski

Cindy Brzostowski is a freelance writer focusing on travel and other lifestyle content. Originally from Texas, she is currently based in Berlin. Her work has been featured in Travel & Leisure, Thrillist, TripSavvy, Food & Wine, The Infatuation, and more.

When not writing, reading, or eating, you can probably find her making an itinerary for her next adventure or dreaming about pizza.

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As the saying goes, everything is bigger in Texas —and that includes the massive range of scenery. The Lone Star State has vast plains, deserts, rolling sand dunes, golden beaches and waterfalls. And the best places to soak in all this natural beauty are without question the (count 'em) 80 state parks.

Get ready to trade your cowboy boots for hiking boots because we’ve rounded up 15 of the top outdoor areas in Texas.

THERE ARE 9 NATIONAL PARKS IN CALIFORNIA—HERE’S WHAT’S SPECIAL ABOUT EACH ONE

1. Lake Livingston State Park

Best for: Families with kids, hikers, cyclists, kayakers, fans of fishing, campers

300 State Park Road 65, Livingston, Texas 77351

A lakeside retreat in the southern portion of the Piney Woods region, Lake Livingston State Park lures families with the promise of fresh air, waterfront activities and tech-free time. Treasured memories are made while hiking, perch fishing and pitching a tent. Mountain biking and kayaking will make even the most social-media-obsessed teens put down their phones.

When to go: The weather in the summer and early fall is perfect for enjoying all the waterfront fun at Lake Livingston State Park.

Where to stay:

• Marina View House (6 guests) : $116/night
• Cozy Cabin in the Woods (6 guests) : $165/night
• Lake Livingston Townhome (8 guests) : $239/night

2. Franklin Mountains State Park

Best for: Hikers, cyclists, joggers, climbers

Tom Mays Park Access Road, El Paso, Texas 79930

Franklin Mountains State Park holds the title of westernmost point in Texas. With over 100 miles of trails for biking, hiking and jogging, deciding which rugged route to conquer first will probably be your toughest choice. Rock climbers can attempt to scale McKelligon Canyon. After working up an appetite, refuel with a picnic overlooking the dazzling desert terrain.

When to go: We wouldn’t recommend trying to hike or rock climb during the scorching summer months. By contrast, winters at Franklin Mountains State Park are mild, dry and ideal for desert adventures.

• Lavish El Paso Home (6 guests) : $141/night
• Santa Teresa House (6 guests) : $171/night
• Modern Desert Oasis (8 guests) : $230/night

3. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Best for: Hikers, road trippers, boaters

11450 State Highway Park Road 5, Canyon, Texas 79015

Not far from Amarillo, Palo Duro Canyon State Park boasts the second largest canyon in the United State. Not surprisingly, it’s a dynamite destination for hiking. Hit your daily steps? Consider doing the driving route. There are tons of lovely places to pull off the road and marvel at the grandeur of the escarpments.

When to go: While Palo Duro Canyon State Park welcomes visitors year-round, it’s best to avoid peak summer as it gets extremely hot. Instead, we’d suggest early spring and late fall for more moderate temperatures.

• The Roadrunner Tiny Cabin (4 guests) : $85/night
• Doves Rest Cabin - Laredo (7 guests) : $299/night
• Renovated Home (9 guests) : $810/night

4. Longhorn Cavern State Park

Best for: Spelunkers, history buffs, families with kids

6211 Park Road 4 S, Burnet, Texas 78611

Longhorn Cavern State Park is famed for its ancient cavern, which dates back to prehistoric times. The best way to learn about the interesting history and geology of this subterranean standout? A guided tour. Equally as compelling as the wall carvings and sinkholes are tales of the cave’s use as a gunpowder manufacturing facility during the Civil War and later a 1920s speakeasy.

When to go: Longhorn Cavern State Park remains open 364 days a year (it's closed on Christmas Day). Since the bulk of your time will be spent underground, the weather doesn't really play a factor in deciding when to visit. Crowds, on the other hand, can be a real drag. So skip school holidays.

• Shady Oaks Country Cabin (4 guests) : $125/night
• A "Willie" Nice House (6 guests) : $200/night
• Newly Renovated House (10 guests) : $575/night

5. Colorado Bend State Park

Best for: Hikers, waterfall chasers, birdwatchers , campers

2236 Park Hill Drive, Bend, Texas 76824

A stunning example of the karst topography associated with the Texas Hill Country region, Colorado Bend State Park is known for its sinkholes, limestone cliffs, caves and spring-fed creeks. Another impressive feature? The eye-popping 70-foot cascade called Gorman Falls. More than 155 bird species call Colorado Bend State Park home. Don’t be surprised if you glimpse a black-capped vireo flying above.

When to go: Most people prefer the picture-perfect conditions in spring and fall. Winter is great for hiking, however, you’ll need to wear layers and buy special cold-weather camping gear .

• Tiny Home (2 guests) : $110/night
• Lakeview Cottage (4 guests) : $125/night
• Waters Edge Bunkhouse Cabin (6 guests) : $190/night

6. Dinosaur Valley State Park

Best for: Budding paleontologists, history buffs, birdwatchers, campers, geocachers

1629 Park Road 59, Glen Rose, Texas 76043

Dinosaur Valley State Park invites visitors to step back in time. Some 113 million years ago herbivorous sauropods and meat-eating theropods roamed the land. Today, travelers can walk alongside actual Acrocanthosaurus footprints in the bed of the Paluxy River as golden-cheeked warblers soar through the skies. That’s not all, Dinosaur Valley State Park is also a tricera- top spot (sorry, couldn’t resist) for camping and geocaching.

When to go: Summers tend to be dry and water levels are low. This makes it the best time to view dino tracks.

• Country Cottage (4 guests) : $125/night
• The Turquoise Cactus (6 guests) : $135/night
• Secluded Rustic Cabin (6 guests) : $180/night

7. Mustang Island State Park

Best for: Beach lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, kayakers, campers

9394 TX-361, Corpus Christi, Texas 78418

Situated along the Gulf of Mexico, Mustang Island State Park spans 3,954 acres of fascinating flora and fauna. It’s home to everything from algae-covered tidal flats to endangered sea turtles. You’ll also find 20 miles of kayaking trails, plus plenty of opportunities for fishing, surfing and beach walks. Not ready to leave? Hunker down at one of the many campsites.

When to go: Given the abundance of warm-weather activities, Mustang Island State Park is best enjoyed during the spring and summer. If possible, time your trip to sea turtle nesting season, which runs from April to July.

• Cozy Condo First Floor (4 guests) : $130/night
• Newly Remodeled Condo (4 guests) : $145/night
• Ocean Views in Port Aransas (10 guests) : $800/night

8. Lost Maples State Natural Area

Best for: Hikers, leaf peepers, wildflower lovers, stargazers

37221 RM 187, Vanderpool, Texas 78885

Located two hours northwest of San Antonio , Lost Maples State Natural Area has a magical mix of hills, canyons, leafy trees and wildflowers that will make you do a double-take. The scenic Sabinal River runs through it all giving travelers the chance to fish and swim. And it’s impossible to resist the allure of stargazing sans light pollution.

When to go: While Lost Maples State Natural Area is lovely year-round, it's particularly impressive when the maples erupt into an autumnal palette of red, orange and yellow. Don’t sleep on the spring wildflowers either.

• Four Sisters Ranch Cabin (4 guests) : $155/night
• Hilltop River Hideaway (8 guests) : $275/night
• Cottage on the Frio River (10 guests) : $364/night

9. Monahans Sandhills State Park

Best for: Dune surfers, horseback riders

Exit 86, 2500 I-20, Monahans, Texas 79756

Windswept sand dunes might not be the first thing you associate with Texas, but Monahans Sandhills State Park will certainly change that. Adrenaline junkies can rent discs and “surf” the dunes, some of which reach as high as 70 feet! If horseback riding is more your thing, be sure to check out the 800-acre equestrian area.

When to go: Eschew the scorching summer months (the average high is 96°F) in lieu of more pleasant temperatures in the spring and fall.

• Central Odessa Home (6 guests) : $116/night
• Odessa Hideout (8 guests) : $131/night
• Large Ranch House (12 guests) : $300/night

10. Huntsville State Park

Best for: Families with kids, hikers, bird watchers, campers

565 Park Road 40 West, Huntsville, Texas 77340

With 21 miles of trails, playgrounds, fragrant pine trees and a lake for canoeing, Huntsville State Park is the sort of place your kids will be clambering to spend the day. Thank goodness for campsites because the family certainly won’t want to leave at night. Let croaking frogs lull you to sleep and rise with the chirping birds.

When to go: Conditions in the spring are unparalleled. Expect clear skies, favorable temps and little rain.

• Renovated Lake Conroe Condo (6 guests) : $155/night
• Country Modern Home (6 guests) : $241/night
• Upper Lake Conroe Waterfront Home (8 guests) : $235/night

11. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Best for: Hikers, rock climbers, campers

16710 Ranch Road 965, Fredericksburg, Texas 78624

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area will literally take your breath away. Its primary attraction is an eye-popping 425-foot pink granite monolith—and pretty much everything centers around that. Expect epic hiking, climbing and mountain biking. A designated International Dark Sky Sanctuary, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area also provides unparalleled stargazing. The campsites are pretty out of this world, too.

When to go: Summer is the most popular time to visit Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. For us, the benefits of a springtime trip—fewer crowds, cooler temps and wildflowers—give it the edge.

• Charming Cottage (2 guests) : $108/night
• Mountain View Cabin (4 guests) : $175/night
• College St. Retreat (4 guests) : $186/night

12. Inks Lake State Park

Best for: Hikers, swimmers, boaters, cliff jumpers

3630 Park Rd 4 W, Burnet, Texas 78611

Aquatic activities rank among the drawcards for Inks Lake State Park in Burnet. Take advantage of boating and swimming in Devil’s Waterhole. Craving a rush? Try cliff jumping. Back on land, explore the rocky hiking paths and admire the prickly pear cacti. Bonus: all this awesomeness exists just 50 miles northwest of Austin.

When to go: You can hike throughout the year. Just don’t bank on taking a dip in the winter.

• Modern Rustic House (8 guests) : $327/night
• Waterfront Tree House (10 guests) : $289/night
• Charming Waterfront Home (10 guests) : $442/night

13. Pedernales Falls State Park

Best for: Hikers, leaf peepers, families with children, birdwatchers

2585 Park Road 6026, Johnson City, Texas 78636

Pedernales Falls State Park makes for an unforgettable day trip. There are easy-to-navigate trails, rock formations, a meandering river as bird blinds for peeping white-winged doves, golden-fronted woodpeckers and turkey vultures (just to name a few winged inhabitants). Whether you're going to hike or just stop to snap some photos from Pedernales Falls Overlook, it's well worth the detour.

When to go: Pedernales Falls State Park shines brightest in the autumn when the leaves change color.

• The Cottage by the Creek (4 guests) : $198/night
• Driftwood Getaway (6 guests) : $161/night
• Creekside Cabin (4 guests) : $250/night

14. Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway

Best for: Hikers, fans of fishing, boaters, horseback riders

100 Park Road 71, Mineral Wells, Texas 76067

Like hiking through narrow passes and slot canyons? Like horseback riding? What’s your interest level in fishing for largemouth bass, crappie and catfish? Keen to take a flat-bottom boat, kayak or paddleboard out for a spin on a 640-acre lake? With so many selling points, it’s near impossible to come up with reasons not to visit Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway.

When to go: There’s no wrong time to experience the magic of Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway. Some trails close during wet weather. But that’s really all you have to worry about.

• Garden Cottage (2 guests) : $77/night
• Renovated Barn (2 guests) : $175/night
• Lakefront Luxury Home (8 guests) : $285/night

15. Big Bend Ranch State Park

Best for: Hikers, cyclists, joggers, horseback riders, wildlife enthusiasts

1900 South Saucedo, Presidio, Texas 79845

A true Texas-size nature area, Big Bend Ranch State Park sprawls more than 300,000 acres and has 238 miles of multi-use trails. Such a ginormous footprint means ample space for hiking, jogging, biking and horseback riding. You’re likely to see jackrabbits, lizards and bighorn sheep while exploring the picturesque landscape. Add to that fishing and rafting on the Rio Grande. Basically, how the day unfolds really depends on your desired activity.

When to go: Spring and fall are your best bets weather-wise. Just keep in mind that Big Bend Ranch State Park tends to be flooded with spring breakers come March.

• Ultra-Modern Container Home (2 guests) : $212/night
• Renovated 27' Airstream Safari (2 guests) : $221/night
• Condo in Lajitas Resort (4 guests) : $385/night

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14 Best Texas Hill Country State Parks to Explore Now

The Texas Hill Country is home to some of the most beautiful state parks in the country.

With rolling hills, scenic rivers and streams, and abundant wildlife, these parks provide visitors with an opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors.

In addition to amazing Central Texas hiking trails and camp sites, many of these parks offer amenities such as fishing, biking, horseback riding, and picnicking.

Some of the best attractions in the Hill Country including Devils Waterhole, Gorman Falls, Frio River, and even dinosaur tracks are located in these state parks.

Best State Parks in the Texas Hill Country

The Texas Hill Country State Parks are must-visit destinations for any nature lover.

The parks boast a variety of scenic landscapes, from towering cliffs and rugged canyons to meandering rivers and lush forests.

Visitors can hike, bike, or even ride horses through the parks, and there are plenty of opportunities for camping, picnicking, and birdwatching.

The parks are also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including deer, bison, coyotes, and even bobcats.

Here are our favorite Central Texas parks to visit now.

Guadalupe River State Park

Located midway between San Antonio  and Austin, Guadalupe River State Park is a hidden gem.

The Guadalupe River State Park is situated along a 12-mile stretch of the river and offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.

The river itself is popular for fishing, tubing, swimming, paddling, and canoeing.

The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, armadillos, and coyotes.

Inks Lake State Park

Inks Lake State Park , located in Burnet, is our favorite Texas state park near Austin .

The park is a nature lover’s paradise.

Situated in the Texas Hill Country near Burnet , the Park is famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs, scenic hiking trails, and crystal-clear waters.

Inks Lake is excellent for all kinds of water activities including swimming, canoeing, and fishing.

The rocky hills and streams are great for mountain biking while the Devils Waterhole has incredible cliff jumping and swimming.

Colorado Bend State Park

Colorado Bend State Park is a scenic wilderness area located in the heart of Texas.

It is known for its sprawling natural landscapes of the Colorado River and myriad outdoor recreational opportunities.

The park is a popular destination for hikers, campers, and nature lovers alike, offering miles of interconnected trails crisscrossing scenic woodlands and meadows.

The most popular hiking trails here include the Gorman Falls trail, Spicewood Springs Trail, and Spicewood Canyon Trail.

The 3-mile-long Gorman Falls Loop Trail will lead you to the breathtakingly beautiful Gorman Falls waterfall.

This is the tallest waterfall in Texas and a must for outdoor lovers.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

The Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is famous for its massive pillar of pink granite.

The rock is over a billion years old and stands at an impressive height of over 425 feet.

The Summit Trail leads you to the top of the monolith and also offers stunning views of the surrounding Hill Country.

The Enchanted Rock State Natural Area also includes a variety of other geological features, including caves, crevices, and a small waterfall.

The area is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life, and it is a popular destination for birdwatchers.

Visitors to this Texas hill country state park can also enjoy hiking, camping under the dark skies, rock climbing, and picnicking.

With its unique geology and abundant wildlife, the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is one of the best places to visit in Texas .

Garner State Park

Garner State Park is one of the most popular state parks in Texas .

It is located in the Uvalde County of the Hill Country of Texas, about an hour west of San Antonio.

The park is known for its scenic views, hiking trails, and clear waters of the Frio River.

It is also a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, hiking, biking, fishing, canoeing, and camping.

Looking for adventure? Hike to the top of Mt ‘Ol Baldy and enjoy the spectacular views!

Or take the Crystal Cave Trail and have an underground spelunking adventure!

The Bridges Trail is another great option.

There are also several historical sites to explore in the park, including the historic dance pavilion which hosts annual dances on summer evenings.

The park store has rentals available for kayaks, tubes, life jackets, and even bbq pits!

Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site

Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site is a popular destination for nature lovers as well as history buffs.

The park is home to several historical sites, including the LBJ Ranch, which is the boyhood home of President Lyndon B. Johnson, and the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm.

At the LBJ Ranch, you can explore the birth home, family cemetery, Texas White House, and other sites that played an important role in President Johnson’s life.

The Sauer-Beckmann farmstead includes authentic 20th-century buildings and re-enactors who wear period costumes as they demonstrate historic farming techniques.

The park also features a variety of hiking trails, scenic vistas, longhorn and bison sightings, and picnic areas.

Hill Country State Natural Area

Hill Country State Natural Area is famous for its rugged terrain and diverse wildlife.

It is located near Bandera, the cowboy capital of Texas.

With beautiful rocky escarpments, magnificent canyons, flowing creeks, and abundant forests, this vast natural area is very popular with outdoor enthusiasts.

The wide expanse is best explored by horseback riding: bring your own or book a guided horseback tour!

Pedernales Falls State Park

Pedernales Falls State Park is one of the most popular state parks in Texas.

Situated in the Hill Country, about an hour west of Austin , the park is known for its dramatic views, hiking trails, waterfalls, and swimming holes.

The highlight of the park is Pedernales Falls, a beautiful waterfall that cascades into a series of crystal clear pools.

Other activities include rock climbing, fishing, picnicking, and camping.

Visitors can also enjoy stargazing under the dark skies in this remote wilderness area on the Pedernales River.

McKinney Falls State Park

Located just outside of Austin, McKinney Falls State Park is an urban delight.

The park is home to beautiful waterfalls, which are amazing to see in person.

The Lower Falls cascade over limestone rocks, creating a series of pools that are perfect for cooling off on a hot day.

Visitors can appreciate the beauty of the falls by taking a short hike from the parking lot.

The Upper Falls are located further upstream, and they can be reached by a longer hike.

However, the effort is well worth it, as the Upper Falls offers a truly stunning view from the overhanging limestone ledges.

Both the falls are fed by Onion Creek, which flows through the park.

There is also much more to explore: take the Homestead Trail to see the remains of an old McKinney homestead,

….or hike the Rock Shelter Trail to see the 500 year old majestic bald cypress tree!

In addition to the waterfalls, McKinney Falls State Park is also known for its hiking and biking trails, fishing spots, and bird watching opportunities.

Blanco State Park

Blanco State Park is situated on the banks of the Blanco River in central Texas.

The small park is known for its picturesque scenery, which includes towering cypress trees, limestone bluffs, and clear blue waters.

The river is popular for swimming, tubing, kayaking, and also fishing.

Or take a hike through the sun-dappled woods.

The park also has a playground, picnic tables, and grills for visitors to enjoy.

Longhorn Cavern State Park

Longhorn Cavern State Park is a true wonder of nature.

The cavern, which was formed from limestone deposits over millions of years, has amazing rock formations and also a myriad of interesting legends.

Visitors can explore the Longhorn Cavern on a guided tour.

For an easy day, book the 1.5 hrs long walking tour – good for all abilities.

Or opt for the more thrilling Wild Cave tour that goes deeper into the cave system and lasts for 3 hours.

While you are here, check out the historic buildings built by the CCC, admire the observation tower vistas, and hike the trails.

Old Tunnel State Park

Old Tunnel State Park is a unique park located in the Texas Hill Country.

The park gets its name from an abandoned railroad tunnel that was built in 1910 to transport goods and people through the area.

Today, the tunnel is home to a large colony of Mexican free-tailed bats.

Each year from May to October, visitors can watch the bats emerge from the tunnel at sunset in a spectacular show.

Lost Maples State Natural Area

Lost Maples State Natural Area is one of the most popular fall destinations in Texas .

The park is famous for its bigtooth maple trees, which turn bright red each autumn, creating a spectacular display of colors on the banks of the Sabinal River.

The best time to see the leaves change color is from mid-October to early November.

Take the East Trail loop for a relaxed hike along the river banks or the longer West Trail loop which features creek crossings and switchbacks.

This is definitely one of the best Texas hill country state parks for fall road trips and hikes.

South Llano River State Park

South Llano River State Park is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The park also includes over 20 miles of hiking trails that traverse rolling hills and scenic river bluffs.

The South Llano River is the highlight here.

The park has 2 miles of river frontage and visitors can take to the water with kayaks, canoes, as well as stand-up paddleboards.

River tubing and fishing are also popular here.

The Texas Hill Country is one of the most beautiful and also diverse regions in the state.

With its rolling hills, winding rivers, and fields of wildflowers, it’s no wonder that this area is home to some of the best state parks in Texas.

Which are your favorite Central Texas state parks? Let us know below!

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Texas Travel 365

15 Best State Parks In Texas You Should Explore

December 28, 2021 //  by  Texas Travel 365 //   2 Comments

Searching for amazing state parks in Texas to explore? Then, you have come to the right place! In this article, we will be discussing the Texas state parks and what do they offer to visitors.

Texas is a large state where you can find mountains, sandy beaches, rivers, and more. The Lone Star State is full of amazing cities and stunning natural areas. Home to over 100 state parks, you can enjoy all kinds of activities here including hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, and more.

Confused about what are the best state parks in Texas for you? Don’t worry! We have you covered. From Big Bend Ranch State Park to Garner State Park, we have included a wide range of state parks for you to explore.

So, if you are planning an outdoor adventure soon, check out this list of the 15 best state parks in Texas!

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Palo Duro Canyon State Park is one of the best Texas state parks that is also popularly known as the ‘Grand Canyon of Texas’. This is because this state park is home beautiful red rock formations and offers several biking and hiking trails to adventure enthusiasts.

Palo Duro Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the country and also has many campgrounds where you can spend the night. You can also attend the amazing TEXAS Outdoor Musical that is held at the Pioneer Amphitheater here. Here, you can enjoy singing and dancing performances and admire the fireworks dedicated for the Texas pioneers.

Honestly, there is a lot to do here. You can photograph the stunning canyons, enjoy the beautiful views, hike, and do so much more. So, if you are looking for amazing state parks in Texas, this is definitely on the top.

Monahans Sandhills State Park

Have you always wanted to visit Sahara desert? If yes, then you should visit Monahans Sandhills State Park, one of the top state parks in west Texas.

This state park offers miles of sand dunes where you can roll and slide down just how you do on a ski trip. The sand dunes shift every day and reach up to a height of 50 meters so, there is no maintained trail here. Visitors have the opportunity to explore their own paths.

One of the most fun activities to do here is surfing down the dunes on a sand disk that you can rent out at the park. There are 26 campsites available here with electricity to spend the night too.

So, if you are looking for the best parks in texas, this is a good choice. Just make sure to pack plenty of water and sunscreen while visiting.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is one of the top places to visit in Texas that sees thousands of tourists every year.

This is one of the best state parks in Texas which offers a short yet steep trek that will reward you with stunning views. The main attraction of this park is the pink-colored granite mound that is visible from miles away.

There is a lot of things to do in this park such as climbing to the top, stargazing, camping, hiking, and more. Since this is a popular park in Texas, do plan your trip in advance and make prior bookings for visiting this state park.

Galveston Island State Park

One of the best parks in Texas, Galveston Island State Park offers plenty of fun trails for hiking , camping sites, bird watching trails, fishing sites, and more.

The best thing about this park is the island and the history surrounding it. There are lots of historical places to visit, especially the Strand area. But if that’s not what you are interested in, then you can always go on a hiking or kayaking adventure here.

It is one of the top state parks near Houston and offers beaches where you can relax for a while. You can also take a swim in the water or indulge in fun water activities. Overall, this is a great state park to visit in Texas.

Dinosaur Valley State Park

Are you looking for unique state parks in North Texas? Well, then check out Dinosaur Valley State Park that is made up of sandstones and limestones dating back to 113 million years ago.

If that wasn’t enough, twin sets of dinosaur footprints were discovered here in 1908. This is why it has been named Dinosaur Valley State Park and listed as a National Natural Landmark too.

One of the best parks to visit in Texas, there are a lot of activities to indulge in here. You can go hiking, biking, swimming, etc. around here. There are also campsites available to spend the night inside this park but do call to check the availability of the camps.

This is undoubtedly one of the most fun and unique state parks in Texas that you cannot miss out on.

Garner State Park

Garner State Park is one of the most popular and beautiful parks in Texas to visit, especially for camping. However, summer is quite popular time to visit so there are chances that all the campsites are booked out so, enquire in advance.

There are several hiking trails, natural sights, Frio river, and a lot of activities to enjoy here that make this park fun for all ages. You can enjoy a hike along the Old baddy to enjoy the gorgeous views around here. This is one of the top state parks in Texas to visit during fall season as well due to the gorgeous colors that you can witness here.

So, if you want to enjoy some quiet time beside the river, then this is a great park to visit.

Inks Lake State Park

Inks Lake State Park is one of the top state parks in Texas which covers an area of 1,201 acres. The state park comprises mainly gneiss rock and lush vegetation and looks straight out of heaven.

With over 200 campsites and cabin, it is also one of the best state parks in Texas for camping. So, if you are planning a camping trip in Texas , then this is a great choice.

Apart from camping, you can also swim in the famous Devil’s Waterhole or enjoy a dip in the Inks Lake. Relax on the rocky shores of these lakes and make the most of the vivid landscape of this state park.

Caprock Canyons State Park

Another canyon park that offers stunning views, Caprock Canyons State Park is one of the cool parks in Texas to visit.

Located south of Palo Duro Canyon Parks, this park features red sandstone cliffs that are known as Caprock Escarpment. That’s not all though. This state park is also home to many unique animals such as Texas State Bison Herd, North American camels, and more.

Visitors can enjoy many activities here such as horse riding, biking, and hiking. There are over 90 miles hiking trails accessible that you can explore while admiring the gorgeous Staked Plains topography.

Caddo Lake State Park

Located in East Texas, Caddo Lake State Park is one of the best parks to visit in Texas. This family-friendly park comprises an area of 26,810 acres and is the home to the largest natural lake in Texas.

It features a network of bayous and swamps and is one of the best state parks in East Texas for boating and fishing. This state park is perfect for family visits as there are several playgrounds around the park where kids will enjoy.

Furthermore, you can spend a night in the park and can visit from nearby towns of Texas for a weekend trip. If you are planning a family vacation, then this is one of the best state parks in Texas.

Big Bend Ranch State Park

Big Bend Ranch State Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Texas that offers a lot of fun activities for visitors. With an area of 300,000 acres, it is the largest state park in Texas.

From hiking to mountain biking, to horse riding, there is a lot to do here. One of the best things about this state park is that it is also the International Dark Sky Park in the state. You can enjoy stargazing here after watching beautiful sunsets.

Since Rio Grande traverses through this park, boating and fishing are popular activities to do here too. If you are looking for best state parks in Texas, then Big Bend Ranch State Park is the perfect place to visit. This is home to some of the best mountains in Texas!

Goose Island State Park

Looking for amazing state parks in South Texas? Then, visit Goose Island State Park near Rockport in Texas. This state park is perfect for those who love to spend time on beaches and enjoy water activities.

Perfect for families, this state park is also home to the ‘Big Tree’ which is a 1000-years old Southern live oak. While the park is on a shore, you cannot swim here. However, you can enjoy other activities such as fishing, boating, birding, and more.

There are over 100 campsites available here for camping in this park.

Pedernales Falls State Park

Located 10 miles from Johnson City, Pedernales Falls State Park is one of the best state parks near Austin that you should explore. It is an hour’s drive from Austin, making it the perfect day trip from the city .

This state park features the Pedernales River that makes way through a series of limestone steps to create the namesake Pedernales Falls. Although you cannot swim in the falls, you can do rock hopping to enjoy the views of the falls.

There are many other spots where you can enjoy swimming. Moreover, you can camp here for the night and explore the numerous hiking trails available here. It is one of the best state parks in Texas for water-related activities that you cannot miss out on.

Lost Maples State Natural Area

If you wish to go camping in Texas, then one of the best state parks in Texas for camping is Lost Maples State Natural Area. Although you can visit this park year-round, the best time to visit is during the autumn season when the fall colors surround you.

There are several hiking trails here that will give you the best view of the fall foliage. You can also hike to the top of a cliff via stairs and enjoy the surrounding views. One can even spend a night in one of the 30 electric campsites that are available here.

You can indulge in many activities here such as stargazing, fishing, photography, and more. One of the main attractions is the bigtooth maple which is unique to Texas. Overall, this is a great park to explore in Texas.

Longhorn Cavern State Park

One of the top Texas Hill Country state parks to visit, Longhorn Cavern State Park is home to one of the best caverns in Texas . Declared in 1930, Longhorn Cavern is the main attraction in this park and has a rich history associated to it.

Visitors can go to this underground cavern on guided tours and learn its geological and historical significance.

In this park, you will come across many stunning structures from the original time such as the stone steps leading down to the cave. There are also nature-inspired structures such as the stone Observation Tower. From the top of this tower, you can enjoy gorgeous views of Texas Hill Country.

One important thing to keep in mind is that this is only a day park. There are no campsites here to spend the night. However, overall, this is one of the unique state parks in Texas that you must visit.

Colorado Bend State Park

Colorado Bend State Park is located two hours from Austin and is one of the best state parks near Austin to explore. Plan a trip to this state park and indulge in fun and adventurous activities.

From camping to hiking, to kayaking, there are a lot of activities to enjoy here. You can also take a guided tour of the caves in this park or hike to the Gorman falls, one of the best waterfalls in Austin . The 3-mile-long hike to the falls can be a little challenging but it is well-worth the view.

Spend a night camping here under the starry sky and immerse yourself in your natural surroundings. Trust me, there is no shortage of things to enjoy here, which is why it one of the best state parks in central Texas for outdoor enthusiasts.

Reader Interactions

January 9, 2022 at 10:49 pm

We went to palo duro last summer enjoyed it very much

January 29, 2022 at 5:25 pm

Been through Caprock Canyons several times in past treats. Beautiful scenery.

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Your Ultimate Guide To State Parks In Texas

E ver wondered how many state parks in Texas you’d have to visit to experience them all? The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department currently operates 89 state parks, natural areas, and historic sites across the Lone Star State. In 2023, the state’s park system celebrated its 100th anniversary and won the National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management.

While it certainly would take some time to visit every one of them, we can’t imagine a better way to see its many natural wonders and settings that are as dramatically beautiful as they are diverse. To help get you started, we have put together a collection of the best state parks in Texas – at least in terms of popularity and the recognition they have as favorites among hikers, campers, RVers, and hidden-gem hunters.

• Most Popular State Parks In Texas

If you can imagine a type of terrain or environment, you’ll find it in at least one Texas state park. There are beaches, piney woods, rolling hills, vast lakes, towering dunes, arid deserts, subtropical zones, and even mountains. Short of snow skiing, you’ll find just about every type of seasonal activity in Texas, too. There are best spots for all times of the year, from the most refreshing places to cool off in the summer to the best Texas state parks in the fall leaf peeping. It’s no wonder many of the best state parks are popular for entirely different reasons. For the sake of this roundup, we went with reported visitor totals for most of this list starting with the top four.

Best State Parks In Texas To Camp

Best state parks in texas to rv, best state parks in texas for hiking, little-known state parks in texas, 1. ray roberts lake state park.

• Location: Pilot Point, TX
• Wow Factor: Sunset views, especially high above the water at the Lone Star Lodge
• Need To Know: This park has nine units across three counties, each with varying amenities and features, including a couple of marinas, a lodge, boat ramps, and more.

More than 870,000 people annually visit this expansive park just an hour's drive north of Dallas-Fort Worth. Boating, fishing, and swimming in the waters of the 29,000-acre lake tops the list of things to do in Ray Roberts Lake State Park . The Sanger Unit of the park has the full-service Lake Ray Roberts Marina, while a smaller one, Lone Star Lodge & Marina, is across the lake in the Jordan Unit. The park has several campgrounds, including eight equestrian campsites in the Isle du Bois Unit. In the fall, you can hike, bike, or ride horses on the 20-mile Greenbelt Corridor.

2. Garner State Park

• Location: Concan, TX
• Wow Factor: Huge Jukebox Dances at the concession stand every night of the summer starting Memorial Day weekend
• Need To Know: Be mindful of the park's feral hogs that will sneak into your coolers and other food storage if left unattended.

In the summer, this park is famous for its nightly Jukebox Dances, when parking lots often reach capacity. Of course, there are many other things to do in Garner State Park , starting with paddling or floating the 2.9 miles of the beautiful Frio River that runs through the park. You can rent tubes and kayaks there. On land, this Texas Hill Country destination has over 16 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging. Trail features include overlooks of hills and the Frio Canyon, a rock fence, huge live oak, and the 30-foot-deep Crystal Cave. The park has several campsites, screened shelters, and 17 cabins for overnight stays.

3. Cedar Hill State Park

• Location: Cedar Hill, TX
• Wow Factor: Seeing what farm life was like in the 1800s touring historic and reconstructed buildings on what was the Penn Farm, settled in 1854
• Need To Know: Cedar Hill was named a Texas Bird City in 2023, and you can expect to see any of the documented 200 species of birds at this state park.

People in the Dallas-Fort Worth area are within easy proximity to this park 18 miles southwest of Dallas, making it a popular getaway from the bustle of urban life. While the gravel beach of the 7,500-acre Joe Pool Lake is a popular spot in the summer, the many things to do in Cedar Hill State Park year-round make it one of the best state parks in Texas in winter, too. You can tour the historic Penn Farm, hike or ride miles of excellent mountain biking trails, and fish for bass, crappie, and catfish. The park has 350 campsites across its campgrounds, with 150 of them having full hookups.

4. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

• Location: Canyon, TX
• Wow Factor: The second-largest canyon in the US
• Need To Know: While the park offers several cabin and campsite options, you can also book luxury canyon floor glamping sites separately through Palo Duro Glamping.

Things to do in Palo Duro Canyon State Park – besides taking in the glorious views, of course – include hiking, biking, and horseback riding on the park's 30-plus miles of trails. An all-terrain wheelchair is available to reserve. Tuesday through Sunday in the summer, you can see the TEXAS Outdoor Musical at the Pioneer Pavilion. The park has 97 campsites with electricity, including three certified ADA-accessible sites. There are an additional 19 tent-only campsites with water; 10 equestrian sites; four primitive, hike-in sites; and two group-camp areas. If you prefer a cabin, there are three on the cabin rim and four cow camp cabins on the canyon floor.

There may be no better way to connect with the land of this beautiful state than by staying in the heart of nature’s sights and sounds. Some of the best camping in Texas can be found within the state parks. We’ve rounded up several places that offer sites that appeal to lovers of land and water and range from rugged to remarkably educational.

5. Guadalupe River State Park

• Location: Spring Branch, TX
• Wow Factor: Guided-tour access to the beautiful Honey Creek State Natural Area adjacent to the park.
• Need To Know: You can borrow fishing gear if you get the urge to drop a line in the water.

Things to do in Guadalupe River State Park center on river activities, since there are about four miles of it weaving through the park. You can fish, float in a tube, swim, kayak, and canoe at the natural paradise 38 miles north of San Antonio. On land, there are over 13 miles of trails for hiking and biking. This park has 85 campsites with electricity in two different areas – Turkey Sink and Cedar Sage, plus nine walk-in campsites with water only.

6. Colorado Bend State Park

• Location: Bend, TX
• Wow Factor: The 70-foot, spring-fed Gorman Falls
• Need To Know: You can book a cave tour separately through Nichols Outdoor Adventures.

People who prefer tent camping extra close to nature love this natural getaway that is just a two-hour drive north of Austin. All of its campsites are primitive, with 15 that are drive-up, close to the Colorado River, and even allow self-contained RVs that are 30 feet long or smaller. There are an additional 28 walk-in sites, which are on the river bank. Campers also can choose among eight backcountry hike-in sites or three group camps. Besides enjoying the views after setting up camp, the top things to do in Colorado Bend State Park include hiking or biking over 35 miles of trails, including a three-mile rocky round-trip to the beautiful Gorman Falls and a short hike to the popular Hill Country swimming hole, Spicewood Springs.

7. Dinosaur Valley State Park

• Location: Glen Rose, TX
• Wow Factor: Dinosaur tracks
• Need To Know: Sometimes you can't see the dinosaur tracks, depending on weather conditions and trail closures. Be sure to check ahead of time.

This park is located about 60 miles southwest of Fort Worth and, as you may have guessed by its name, a dinosaur discovery experience is its claim to fame – dinosaur tracks, that is. Set up camp and head straight to the Paluxy River to see the fossilized footprints in the riverbed where dinos once roamed. There are 44 campsites with electricity (no trailers over 35 feet), eight walk-in primitive campsites, and seven hike-in primitive sites. The hike-in sites require you to wade the river, so be sure to check typical water levels in advance before landing on that plan. The park also has two group camps that accommodate 20 or 40 people when reserved ahead of time. Besides scoping out the dino tracks, other things to do in Dinosaur Valley State Park include hiking and mountain biking, geocaching, swimming, paddling, fishing, and horseback riding.

While Texas has many excellent destinations for setting up campsites and getting close to the land, some are especially suited to those living the RV lifestyle. Here are a handful of the best state parks in Texas to RV for campgrounds that create a positive buzz as destinations themselves to parks that offer such unusual experiences they merit a stop along a longer journey. Need to borrow a vehicle? Check out the impressive selection from RVShare.com !

8. Brazos Bend State Park

• Location: Needville, TX
• Wow Factor: Nature watching for alligators, birds, and many other creatures in the park's three ecosystems
• Need To Know: Brush up on alligator safety before visiting and always stay on the trails.

Experience the unique natural setting of this park that's just 45 minutes southwest of Houston and about an hour north of the Texas Gulf Coast. Things to do in Brazos Bend State Park focus on exploring nature along 35 miles of trails meandering through moss-cloaked bottomland forests, marshes, prairies, several lakes, and, of course, the Brazos River. Most trails are moderate or easy, like the half-mile, fully paved Creekfield Lake ADA Trail, which has interpretive stations that include touchable bronzes of different native animals. The park has 73 campsites with electricity, 40 of which are premium with 50-amp hookups. All have a picnic table, fire ring, upright grill, and nearby restroom and shower facilities.

9. Inks Lake State Park

• Location: Burnet, TX
• Wow Factor: Blue water and wildflowers galore
• Need To Know: Don't miss taking a dip in Devil's Waterhole, a scenic swimming spot surrounded by rock ledges

This park is just an hour's drive northwest of Austin and a hot destination for year-round fun on land and water. Things to do in Inks Lake State Park include boating of all types, including a no-wake zone for paddle sports. The park rents most types of paddle boats, plus life jackets and paddles. People can also swim, waterski, and scuba dive. Nine miles of hiking trails beckon folks who like to explore on land, and for those who do, get ready for some stunning wildflower views. The park has 117 campsites with electricity and water, nine of which are wheelchair accessible. There are 47 more with water only that allow one RV per site (up to 26 feet long), and four of those spots are wheelchair accessible. There are four additional tent-only sites with electricity and water.

10. Caprock Canyons State Park & Trailway

• Location: Quitaque, TX
• Wow Factor: The Texas State Bison Herd
• Need To Know: You can borrow a fishing pole at the park's headquarters if you'd like to fish.

Settle in comfortably at one of the park's 35 campsites with electricity, 10 with 50 amps, and the remainder with 30 amps. Then set out to explore more than 90 miles of hiking and biking trails and take in the natural beauty of these vibrant canyonlands in the Texas Panhandle. Besides seeing the state bison herd, another of the most popular things to do in Caprock Canyons State Park & Trailway include hiking to Clarity Tunnel, an abandoned railroad tunnel where as many as half a million Mexican free-tailed bats make their home each summer. Head to the 120-acre Lake Theo for cooling off with a paddle, a swim, or relaxing for a few hours while fishing.

11. McKinney Falls State Park

• Location: Austin, TX
• Wow Factor: Views of the upper and lower falls
• Need To Know: This park is located about 13 miles from the state capitol building, making it a favorite spot for campers to enjoy nature with proximity to the urban amenities of the city.

Things to do in McKinney Falls State Park include fishing or taking a dip in Onion and Williamson creeks and just enjoying a natural enclave in one of the state's largest cities. Campers can choose among 81 sites with electricity and water. Favorite sights along the nine miles of hiking trails include the falls, of course, as well as an ancient rock shelter, a massive cypress tree that is over 500 years old, remnants of the McKinney homestead, and numerous outcroppings and rock faces. Road bikes and strollers take well to the 2.8-mile Onion Creek Hike and Bike Trail, which has a flat, hard surface. An all-terrain wheelchair is available for reservation if needed.

Ready to lace up your hikers, fill up your water bottle, and hit the trails? We’ve corralled some of the best state parks for hiking in Texas , from the magical scenes of Enchanted Rock to unexpected blazes of fall color to getting lost in the tall pines (just for a while).

12. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

• Location: Fredericksburg, TX
• Wow Factor: Stunning views from above and below a massive, pink granite dome
• Need To Know: All trails except the Loop Trail close a half hour before sunset.

Tackle over 11 miles of Hill Country hikes at this natural area beloved by many. While hiking and enjoying nature top the list of the best things to do in Enchanted Rock State Natural Area , there are many formations for rock climbers to tackle, stars to be gazed upon, and animals and birds to see. If you want to camp, there are 35 campsites with water, 20 primitive hike-in campsites, and a big, 50-person hike-in group camp called Buzzards Roost.

13. Lost Maples State Natural Area

• Location: Vanderpool, TX
• Wow Factor: A stand of Uvalde bigtooth maples, which are unusual for this part of the state
• Need To Know: All trails are open to biking and hiking for the first mile, after which they become hiking-only.

This beautiful natural area is one of the best state parks in Texas in the fall for its extraordinary foliage. These kinds of colors are unexpected for a region about two miles northwest of San Antonio. Things to do in Lost Maples State Natural Area extend beyond seeing the vibrant hues of its unique stand of Uvalde bigtooth maples. You can fish in the Sabinal River or Can Creek, look for endangered birds like the golden-cheeked warbler, or set up camp at one of the 28 sites that have electricity and water. Backpackers can choose among 50 hike-in primitive sites. The park's five trails cover 10 miles and range from easy to challenging.

14. Davis Mountains State Park

• Location: Fort Davis, TX
• Wow Factor: A restored frontier fort originally constructed in 1854 on orders from then-US Secretary of War Jefferson Davis, for whom the fort and mountains are named
• Need To Know: The historic Indian Lodge closed for renovations until a targeted 2024 reopening and features a restaurant, pool, and meeting spaces

Explore the ridges and valleys of the Davis Mountains by day and spectacular starry night skies as you wind down at a campsite at this historic, West Texas natural retreat. The park has many miles of trails, several constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the early 1930s. One favorite is the five-mile out-and-back Skyline Drive Trail, which leads to a dramatic overlook with a CCC-built structure. Several trails are multi-use for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. Other things to do in Davis Mountains State Park include birdwatching, stargazing, geocaching, and camping. The park has 26 full hookup sites, 67 sites with water, and 34 of those also with electricity. There are also several primitive, hike-in sites.

15. Tyler State Park

• Location: Tyler, TX
• Wow Factor: Hiking and nature-watching among towering, 100-foot-tall pines
• Need To Know: You can rent paddle boats and johnboats if you want to explore the lake. While the park allows motors, it has a 5 mph speed limit.

Things to do in Tyler State Park range from fishing from the 64-acre, spring-fed lake to exploring over 13 miles of trails. The star of the trail system is the one-mile Whispering Pines Nature Trail with remnants of a wading pool and a small waterfall, all of which the Civilian Conservation Corps built over 70 years ago. If you want to set up camp and stay a while at this Northeast Texas gem, the park has 57 campsites with full hookups and 42 with water, 12 of which also have electricity. The park also has 29 screened shelters and six cabins.

Are you the type who likes a bit more solitude and room to roam when exploring the outdoors? Or perhaps you just like that feeling of discovering and sharing about places other folks haven’t yet explored. You’ll find some of the most magical and unusual experiences at these little-known state parks in Texas.

16. Hueco Tanks State Park

• Location: El Paso, TX
• Wow Factor: Pictographs and petroglyph images created by people over 1,500 years ago
• Need To Know: Only 70 people at a time are allowed into the self-guided exploration area, with the busiest times being November through March, plus weekends and holidays. To ensure access, consider booking a guided tour by calling the park in advance.

This park in the West Texas town of El Paso is named for the natural basins formed in rocks there, or huecos – pronounced "whey coes," as instructed by the parks service. The tanks in the name is because the basins collect rainwater, which drew people to this arid Chihuahuan Desert site for many thousands of years. Hiking the rocks to see the petroglyphs and pictographs left by some of these early explorers is one of the most popular things to do in Hueco Tanks State Park . The park also offers excellent opportunities for rock climbing, and several guide services offer climbing packages. Campers can choose among 50 campsites, some with electricity and all with water.

17. Big Bend Ranch State Park

• Location: Terlingua, TX
• Wow Factor: The largest state park in Texas at over 300,000 acres
• Need To Know: During warm weather months, temperatures reach 130 degrees. Plan your visit and activities accordingly.

This International Dark Sky Park in far West Texas calls itself "the other side of nowhere" and offers what many say is the best stargazing in the state. Things to do in Big Bend Ranch State Park range from scenic drives, exploring rugged trails in 4x4 vehicles, horseback riding, backpacking, and mountain biking on land. Birding is a draw, too, with over 300 species documented in the park's Chihuahuan Desert diverse habitats. As for water activities, you can raft, paddle, and fish along the Rio Grande/Rio Bravo. The nearby Balmorhea State Park has the largest spring-fed swimming pool in the world.

18. Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park

• Location: Mission, TX
• Wow Factor: Naturalists have recorded more than 360 species of birds here
• Need To Know: No cars are allowed in this park to protect the sensitive natural environment. Exploration is done on foot, bike, and tram tours.

Birdwatching is hands-down the top activity among the many things to do in Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park , which is situated along the beautiful Rio Grande along the US and Mexico border. At this park, you'll see flashy, bold colors of green jays, great kiskadees, and Altimira orioles, as well as thousands of migrating hawks during spring and fall migrations. Bring your binoculars or rent them at the park's store, where you can also rent a bike. The park has seven miles of trails for hiking, and biking is allowed on all but the 1.8-mile, wheelchair-accessible, 1.8-mile Rio Grande Trail.

19. San Angelo State Park

• Location: San Angelo, TX
• Wow Factor: One of four herds of longhorn cattle which came from a single herd donated to the state in 1941 through a conservation program to preserve the breed
• Need To Know: Visitors can reserve an all-terrain wheelchair if needed to explore some of the park's many natural areas and some trails.

Spectacular stargazing, water recreation, and herds of bison and longhorns all converge for a truly Texan experience at this park in the Concho Valley of West Texas. The top things to do in San Angelo State Park include seeing tracks of animals that predate dinosaurs (albeit named the Dinosaur Trail); over 50 miles of trails in total; and fishing, swimming, and boating on the O.C. Fisher Reservoir and Concho River. There are 81 campsites with electricity, 10 of which are for equestrians. The park also has 33 primitive campsites, a log cabin, and a group bunkhouse that may be reserved.

Do you agree these are the best state parks in Texas? It’s tough to narrow 89 to just 19, so let us know if you have other favorites you’d include. If you’re looking for a starting point for a Texas state parks bucket list, this collection should set you on your way, at least. Plan your routes and gear up to get the most out of your experiences exploring the great Lone Star State.

The post Your Ultimate Guide To State Parks In Texas appeared first on Only In Your State ® .

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Best places to visit in texas.

They say everything is bigger in Texas. And if you take into account all that the state has to offer, it's easy to see why the Lone Star State packs such a potent punch with travelers. Texas is filled to the brim with breathtaking countrysides, significant historical attractions, diverse museums, pristine city parks, suburban shopping meccas, mouthwatering barbecue and more. U.S. News took into account traveler sentiment and expert analysis to come up with the best places to visit in Texas. Want to share your opinion? Make sure to vote below to help determine next year's list. 

Big Bend National Park

Fredericksburg, tx, san antonio, guadalupe mountains national park, port aransas, south padre island, mustang island, corpus christi, san josé island.

This sprawling metropolis promises a jam-packed itinerary for every type of traveler, whether you're traveling with the family or on a romantic getaway . Explore the many museums, parks and historical sites the city has to offer, including the infamous Dealey Plaza, where JFK was assassinated, or get to know Dallas' vibrant, artsy neighborhoods like Trinity Groves and the Design District. And if you're visiting during football season, catch a Dallas Cowboys game to see state pride at its best. However you spend your time, you'll be surrounded by top-notch restaurants and a surplus of shopping options.

Every year, more than 500,000 people visit this national park along the U.S.-Mexico border to spend some time outdoors. Big Bend National Park features hundreds of miles of paved and dirt roads for scenic drives, as well as 150-plus miles of hiking trails. While exploring the park's sections of the Chihuahuan Desert, the Chisos Mountains and the Rio Grande, keep your eyes peeled for more than 450 bird species, including several kinds of woodpeckers, thrashers and sparrows. At night, camp (or glamp) under the moonlight to see why Big Bend is one of the best dark sky parks in the country.

For a different kind of Texas vacation, skip the state's main cities and beach towns in favor of a visit to Fredericksburg. This Texas Hill Country locale is known for its superb shops, rich German roots and tasty wines. When you're not enjoying some retail therapy on Main Street, learn about the town's connection to Germany at the Pioneer Museum. Don't forget to sample some of Fredericksburg's delectable vino before you leave; you'll have your pick of more than 50 wineries and tasting rooms in and around Fredericksburg.

Historical relics like The Alamo are no doubt San Antonio's biggest draw. However, you don't need to be a history buff to enjoy all the city has to offer. The River Walk makes for a soothing stroll along the San Antonio River, while the expansive Brackenridge Park offers a variety of attractions and amenities. Active travelers can practice their swing at the park's golf course and ball fields, nature lovers can pass the time in its stunning Japanese Tea Garden and families can get an up-close look at the on-site San Antonio Zoo's animals. Before you leave, sample a San Antonio staple – the puffy taco.

If hiking is one of your favorite pastimes, then you'll want to venture to Guadalupe Mountains National Park. This national park by the southern Texas-New Mexico border houses eight of the state's 10 highest peaks, including the iconic El Capitan, and features 80-plus miles of hiking paths, such as traveler-approved routes like Devil's Hall and the Guadalupe Peak Trail. Although the scenery is stunning year-round, for extra-memorable vistas, visit in fall when the park's tree leaves turn vivid shades of red, orange and yellow.

This small town on Mustang Island (about 40 miles northeast of Corpus Christi) provides ample opportunities for fun in the sun. When you're not sunbathing, parasailing or splashing around at the beach, put your angling skills to the test in the "Fishing Capital of Texas" or sign up for a dolphin-watching cruise. You'll also want to keep an eye out for the endangered whooping crane and other birds in this bird-watching paradise. If you love festivals, time your visit to coincide with one of Port Aransas' events, which focus on everything from art to music to food.

Texas is home to some prime Gulf Coast shorelines , and South Padre Island is considered one of the best. South Padre offers 34 miles of relaxing beaches along the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. While the island has a reputation for being a prime party spot for spring breakers, the rest of the year it's favored by families thanks to its affordability and bevy of kid-friendly attractions. Head to Sea Turtle, Inc. to learn about local sea turtle rehabilitation efforts, or visit Beach Park Waterpark to cool off on a hot day.

The capital city's colorful character takes Texas to an entirely new level. Austin offers loads in the way of culture, cuisine and natural scenery. While here, enjoy unique outdoor areas like Zilker Metropolitan Park (where you'll find the natural Barton Springs Pool), various museums and plenty of delectable Tex-Mex joints. The best way to soak up Austin's contagious energy is to visit Sixth Street. This music hub is packed with bars, restaurants and live music venues that have helped Austin earn its "Live Music Capital of the World" moniker. For a souvenir, head to SoCo to pick up a pair of authentic cowboy boots.

Originally inhabited by wild horses, the aptly named Mustang Island is now known for its miles of beaches and outdoor activities. On this 18-mile-long barrier island, which sits about 30 miles southeast of Corpus Christi, visitors will find Mustang Island State Park, a popular place to go mountain biking, kayaking and swimming. The park is also home to endangered sea turtles and more than 400 bird species, making it an excellent destination to spot wildlife, and boasts 5 miles of beaches. For more outdoor recreation outside the park, travelers can visit North Packery Beach to enjoy water sports like kiteboarding, wakeboarding and surfing.

Once a lesser-known, low-key getaway, this small town just north of Mexico now attracts space enthusiasts thanks to its SpaceX launch site. Beachgoers will still find plenty of allure with Boca Chica's 8-mile-long stretch of sand, but remember to bring your own equipment since water sports rentals like surfboards and kiteboards are not available on-site. You'll also want to plan ahead, as the beach is closed near rocket launch dates. While here, save time for wildlife watching, as the area is a haven for various bird and sea turtle species, particularly in spring and fall.

Renowned as one of America's top barbecue destinations, Houston offers travelers a finger-licking good time. But did you know Houston is also a culture hub? Within the urban sprawl, visitors can check out museums galore, from NASA's impressive Johnson Space Center to the quirky Art Car Museum. Many of the city's restaurants and shops are also covered in Instagram-worthy murals. Plus, with the world-class Houston Zoo , verdant Buffalo Bayou Park and a children's museum, Houston is an ideal (and affordable) vacation spot for families. Consider purchasing a CityPASS to save even more coin.

Corpus Christi features several scenic shorelines and can't-miss attractions to keep you entertained for days. Popular stretches of sand in this Gulf Coast city include McGee Beach and North Beach, which is also home to two of Corpus Christi's most visited sights, the Texas State Aquarium and the USS Lexington. Additional museums and entertainment venues can be found in SEA, the city's Sports, Entertainment and Arts District. Meanwhile, music fans can visit several sites dedicated to the emblematic Tejano singer Selena, including the Selena Museum and the Mirador de la Flor memorial.

Sitting in between Fort Worth and Dallas (roughly 23 miles from both), Grapevine delights all travelers, whether they're outdoorsy types, historians or wine lovers. Lake Grapevine is a popular boating and fishing spot, while its surrounding trails attract hikers and bikers. Meanwhile, history buffs can engage in 19th-century heritage events at Nash Farm or ride into the past on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad. As its name suggests, Grapevine is also home to several tasting rooms along Texas' Urban Wine Trail. What's more, with some of the best water parks in Texas , an aquarium and a LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Grapevine is incredibly kid-friendly.

Located about 50 miles southeast of Houston, Galveston attracts Texans looking for a convenient place to spend some time at the beach. The island features family-friendly spots like Stewart Beach (with amenities like lifeguards, volleyball courts and a playground) and Pleasure Pier (which features an array of games and rides). Meanwhile, Schlitterbahn Waterpark offers yet another place to play. Away from the sand, visitors can explore the shop-, restaurant- and nightclub-filled Strand District, named a National Historic Landmark for its well-preserved Victorian architecture. Travelers will also want to check out other historical sights, such as Bishop's Palace and Moody Mansion.

Easy to reach by ferry from Port Aransas, this former ranch is now a prime beach destination. Because San José Island is privately owned, the island's only publicly accessible land is its 21-mile stretch of unspoiled sand situated below the vegetation line. But visitors will find plenty to do on the beach. The island's more than 600 kinds of fish and roughly 300 bird species make it a terrific place to go fishing and birding. Other popular pastimes here include shelling and surfing.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

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10 Enchanting East Texas State Parks to Visit

Often overlooked for the deserts of West Texas or the rolling hills of Central Texas, the beautiful East Texas state parks boast towering pines, reflective waters, and often amazing wildlife.

While Houston, Austin, and Dallas are often the first places in Texas people think to visit, don’t discount the beauty that the Pineywoods and other gorgeous landscapes available in state parks in East Texas offer.

East Texas is different from many areas in the state because of the unique landscape it provides.

As you drive through East Texas, you are greeted by dogwoods, oaks, pines, and more that create a beautiful backdrop for any adventure.

While some places in Texas don’t offer a ton of fall color, East Texas is typically painted with reds, oranges, and yellows as fall arrives.

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The best way to enjoy the great outdoors that this beautiful region offers is by heading to one of the magnificent state parks in East Texas.

Each of these TX state parks has its own unique qualities that make spending an entire day outdoors easy.

Also, before you go: remember that no matter where you explore in Texas, always bring water as temperatures change frequently and some days have extremely hot temperatures!

That being said, here are the best East Texas state parks to visit this year.

Caddo Lake State Park

Right outside the delightful town of Jefferson lies a park that has a strong reputation for being a favorite of many.

As you drive down the large hill of the park, you quickly become welcomed by cypress trees that are positively coated in dripping Spanish moss.

Grab your kayak and pull it into the waters of Caddo Lake to truly immerse yourself into the world of Caddo Lake State Park .

As you paddle through miles of water, you can look up to be greeted by Spanish moss that trails from the highest points of the trees all the way down to the water.

Kayaking in Caddo Lake transports you into an entirely new world and reminds you just how magical nature truly is.

While kayaking and water sports are a huge draw of Caddo Lake, you can also take to the trails in search of the wildlife that calls this East Texas state park home.

Grab a comfy cabin to have a weekend in nature or sleep under the stars while nestled by a warm campfire.

No matter how you choose to experience Caddo Lake, you are sure to leave with memories that have you coming back for more.

Tyler State Park

Right in the heart of East Texas lies Tyler State Park.

Tyler State Park draws you in from the very beginning as you drive down the windy roads through the towering pines on either side.

As you drive, around nearly every turn you are greeted by more and more natural beauty.

The gem of the park is the 64-acre spring-fed lake that welcomes you with its crystal waters and unwavering beauty.

This lake allows you to take to the water to experience Tyler State Park from an entirely new vantage point.

Paddleboats, kayaks, and more are the perfect way to get onto the water and be truly engulfed in the nature that surrounds you.

If getting on the water is not quite your thing you can always try your hand at trying to catch one of the fish that populate this beautiful lake.

A day relaxing with a fishing pole in hand is the perfect way to spend a day in East Texas.

With over 13 miles of trails, you can hike part of your day and get a workout in and then dip in the cool waters that the lake provides.

Spend a whole weekend at Tyler State Park by packing your tent or renting a relaxing cabin or screened shelter.

Cooper Lake State Park

Cooper Lake has plenty of room to enjoy the great outdoors with your friends and family.

Because of the size of the park, you can have plenty of space to enjoy yourself without feeling crowded with people.

Cooper Lake offers you plenty of things to do to spend your day outside, soaking up nature.

Take to the waters to fish and swim or go on a hike to explore nature.

Try and catch a glimpse of the wildlife that calls Cooper Lake home while you are exploring the miles of trails.

If you love horseback riding and you have a horse, there are plenty of equestrian trails for you to enjoy.

Besides trails, there are equestrian and standard campsites that will allow you to turn your Cooper Lake State Park adventure into an entire weekend of fun.

Daingerfield State Park

Daingerfield State Park is another East Texas state park that has plenty to do and allows you a variety of options to soak up the outdoors.

As you enter the park, you will find yourself surrounded by towering trees that seem to whistle as the wind blows through them, providing a beautiful backdrop for a day outdoors.

Pines, dogwoods, and oaks surround you all day long as you hike, fish, and swim in the 80-acre lake of Daingerfield State Park.

During the months of March through November, you can even try your hand at dancing on the outdoor pavilion.

Every Saturday night during these months, karaoke and live music will bellow through the night air.

Purtis Creek State Park

Purtis Creek State Park is a fisherman’s paradise, and for good reason.

This 355-acre lake boasts bass, catfish, and crappie and has fishermen coming from miles around to see just what they can catch.

The park lends rods and fishing gear and provides you plenty of spots to fish from the bank, out on the water, and from their multiple fishing piers.

As with any state park in Texas, you don’t need a fishing license to fish here, but you will need a pass to fish overnight if you want to try your hand at fishing in the dark.

Purtis Creek State Park will allow 50 boats on the water and offers you a few trails to choose from to hike.

Huntsville State Park

With over 20 miles of hiking trails winding through the Pineywoods and plenty of fishing and camping options, Huntsville State Park is a beautiful and classic state park in East Texas to visit.

Boating on Lake Raven, camping on the shores of the lake, and hiking trails built by the CCC are among the best things to do in Huntsville State Park.

Peaceful and quiet, this is a fantastic place to feel like you’re getting away from it all while actually only traveling just off of I-45 in Huntsville.

Martin Creek State Park

Martin Creek State Park is an excellent choice for year-round swimming as the nearby power plant keeps the waters warm throughout the year.

This state park is a hidden gem with a lake full of crappie, yellow catfish, sunfish, tilapia, and more.

With a variety of fish you can catch, the possibilities are endless for the fun you can have at Martin Creek State Park.

During your trip to Martin Creek State Park, you may catch a fishing tournament where contestants bring in fish of all types and sizes.

After you spend your day on the water, you can take to the four miles of trails for a view of nature and a great end-of-day workout.

Lake Bob Sandlin State Park

Lake Bob Sandlin State Park is home to a massive 9,000-acre lake that fishermen flock to from all over Texas to try their hand at catching a gem.

In addition, you can catch some oranges and yellows paint the forest of Lake Bob Sandlin State Park during fall foliage season in Texas .

While you are visiting this state park in East TX, you can spend your day fishing for bass or catfish or sit back and admire the plants and wildlife.

Lake Bob Sandling is a combination of a variety of ecosystems, providing you with plenty to see.

Make your trip into an entire weekend by reserving a comfortable cabin or screened shelter or relaxing under the stars with a tent site with electricity and water.

Mission Tejas State Park

Mission Tejas State Park is a park that is laden with history, allowing you to experience nature and learn something new at the same time.

In this park, you will see aspects that show the attempts of Spaniards trying to claim this area from Native Americans, as well as a log cabin that was built with tremendous efforts.

Decide to soak up the crisp cool air on the eight miles of trails where you can hike and see various species of plants and animals.

Y ou can also decide to set up camp for the night by renting a site with electricity and water.

Dogwood trees bloom in the spring, painting the area with beautiful colors.

Bring your fishing pole to fish at the nearby pond and where you can sit back and relax on a day surrounded by nature.

Mission Tejas State Park is one of the best East Texas state parks for those that love both history and nature, allowing them to combine two great loves.

Atlanta State Park

In the far east corner of Texas lies Atlanta State Park.

Atlanta State Park has a reservoir that is over 33,000 acres and is home to some giant catfish, making it a popular place to go fishing in East Texas.

Many people travel here to catch the large fish that call the reservoir home or escape from the hustle and bustle of life.

Besides fishing, you can hike over four miles of trails and then end the day gathered around a campfire at one of the 58 campsites that the park offers.

Atlanta State Park is a perfect way to spend the day and provides plenty of spaces to enjoy a picnic outdoors.

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Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

7 Beautiful Texas Parks Where Fall Colors Paint The Landscape

• Activities and Interests
• Destinations
• Fall Travel
• Seasonal Travel
• State Parks
• United States

There is just something about autumn that renews my spirit. I’m not sure if it’s the crisp breeze of the morning air or the delicious pumpkin products that seem to be everywhere I turn, but I do truly love fall. Of course, one of the highlights of fall is the beautiful changing leaves. I just love seeing the greens turn to incredible shades of gold, orange, and red!

While many people head to the northern states to see the fall colors, I love to see the fall colors paint the Texas landscape, especially at the Texas state parks . Granted, this change happens a little later in the season than in other parts of the country, but trust me when I tell you, it is well worth the wait. 

Plan a visit to Texas from late September through mid-November (depending on the location) to witness the Texas countryside come alive with the gorgeous shades of fall. The diverse landscape found throughout the state is covered with a variety of trees, each producing glorious fall colors when the temperatures begin to drop.

Whether you are in the east , west , north, or south , these Texas state parks will not disappoint when it comes to delivering on incredible fall foliage.

1. Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Salt flats, texas.

Located in the remote parts of far Western Texas, Guadalupe Mountains National Park offers visitors not only an incredibly scenic drive, but some of the best desert hiking in the Lone Star State. Now, I know what you might be thinking, how can a park that is mostly desert provide the appropriate landscape for fall colors? 

Guadalupe Mountains National Park provides a varying environment and the perfect amount of elevation change for maple and deciduous trees to survive in what is otherwise a desert environment. Time your visit just right (generally the last week of October to the first week of November), and you will be rewarded with a breathtaking display of fall colors.

To properly see the changing of the tree during your visit, you will have to hit the hiking trails of Guadalupe Mountains National Park. One of the most popular hikes during the fall is McKittrick Canyon. This hike offers visitors the opportunity to see the bright reds, yellows, and oranges produced by the Bigtooth maple, walnut, and ash trees that are prevalent in this area. For a short-distance hike, follow the trail to Pratt cabin. Just keep in mind that you are hiking on natural terrain, so wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.

Pro Tip: This park gets extremely busy in the fall, so I recommend visiting on a weekday during the day if possible.

2. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Canyon, texas.

Head into the Texas Panhandle to find the second-largest canyon in the United States, Palo Duro Canyon State Park. The park, which is located about 25 miles south of Amarillo , feels like you have escaped to another universe when you visit. 

Nicknamed “The Grand Canyon of Texas” thanks to its enormous size and unique geological features, Palo Duro Canyon State Park is perfect for a fun weekend getaway. With over 30 miles of hiking and biking trails, there is plenty of land to explore in this state park.

Yellow is the color of the season in Palo Duro Canyon State Park thanks to the multitude of cottonwood trees found in the area. The bright yellow is a stunning contrast to the rust-colored soil that covers the canyon walls and floors, making this area a treat for the eyes during the fall season. In addition to the cottonwood trees, there are also juniper, hackberry, willow, and mesquite trees in the park, all of which change color as the cooler temperatures settle into the panhandle.

Pro Tip: This park sometimes undergoes closures for events. Please visit the state park’s website for the most up-to-date trail conditions and to make park reservations.

3. Lost Maples State Natural Area

Vanderpool, texas.

Lost Maples State Natural Area is the ultimate state park to experience the beautiful fall colors in Texas! The park comes alive with vibrant reds, oranges, and golds thanks to the copious amounts of Bigtooth maple trees found here. The colorful leaves make for the perfect surroundings for visitors to enjoy time hiking or camping in this glorious state park. 

The leaves generally begin changing colors here during the last week of October and continue through the second week in November, although this can vary according to the weather. You will find two main hiking trails inside Lost Maples State Natural Area, both of which share the western part of the East Trail. This portion of the trail, where the two trails merge, is my favorite area for some fabulous pictures in the fall foliage. The hike itself is about a mile and is relatively flat, but you will be walking on uneven, natural terrain.

Pro Tip: Lost Maples fills up fast during the fall season, so be sure to get your day pass well in advance to ensure that you get into the park. Visit their website for more information.

4. McKinney Falls State Park

Austin, texas.

McKinney Falls State Park is a 641-acre state park and is one of my favorite state parks in Texas thanks to the gorgeous waterfalls and fabulous swimming holes found here. While I wouldn’t recommend swimming in the fall, I would recommend visiting McKinney Falls to take in the fabulous fall foliage.

Head just 13 miles outside of Austin and find yourself surrounded by towering red oak and cypress trees. Red and gold are the colors of the season at McKinney Falls State Park. During your time here, don’t miss the opportunity to visit “Old Baldy,” one of the oldest bald cypress trees on public land in the Lone Star State. 

If you want to make a weekend trip out of your visit to McKinney Falls, then be sure to reserve one of the 80 campsites housed here. There are also over nine miles of hiking trails and the beautiful Onion Creek to enjoy. For more information, visit the park’s website .

5. Daingerfield State Park

Daingerfield, texas.

The Pineywoods of East Texas are one of my go-to places for fall foliage. There is just something about the towering pine, oak, and dogwood trees that makes me feel at ease. Of course, this is especially true in autumn as the trees begin to fade from green to shades of yellow and orange. 

A visit to Daingerfield State Park rewards visitors with miles of hiking trails all centered around the park’s focal point, an 80-acre lake. Seeing the fall colors reflect off of the water of the lake is such a magnificent sight, and makes Daingerfield State Park well worth a visit!

Hike along the Rustling Leaves Trail to enjoy a 2.4-mile, easy hike around the lake. If you are looking for a bit more of a challenge, then take the 1.2-mile Mountain View Trail that takes you to the peak of the highest hill in the park. This is the perfect vantage point to take in all of the lovely fall foliage in this Texas state park!

6. Garner State Park

Concan, texas.

Garner State Park is a beautiful state park to visit any time of year, but it is especially glorious during the fall season. The trees in Garner State Park come alive with color in October and November, creating a sea of red, orange, and yellow leaves. 

The 16 miles of scenic trails here will have you wandering through mesquite, persimmon, oak, and cypress trees while they transform from lush green to their showy fall colors. The park, which covers over 1,700 acres, is the perfect weekend getaway to enjoy some time out in nature.

Pro Tip: Garner State Park is truly breathtaking this time of year. If you are up for it, consider doing a kayak float down the river to take in all of the majestic scenery of the area. Be sure to visit the park’s website for complete information.

7. Guadalupe River State Park

Spring branch, texas.

As the cooler temperatures make their way into Texas, the trees in Guadalupe River State Park begin to show their fall colors. While a visit to Guadalupe River State Park usually entails a rowdy float down the river, the fall season brings a sense of calm and tranquility to the park.

For a short and easy hike during your visit, consider taking the Bald Cypress Trail. This 0.6-mile trail provides great views of the river. For an extra special treat during the fall season, the 0.3-mile River Overlook Trail leads you to a cliff overlooking the river and the gorgeous valley below. Just keep in mind that the trails at Guadalupe River State Park are natural terrain trails, so the ground is often uneven and susceptible to ongoing changes in weather conditions.  Pro Tip: Paddling the river is an amazing experience during the fall season. The park is the starting point of the 5-mile Guadalupe River State Park Paddling Trail if you are up for this experience. Please visit the park’s website for more information.

For more information on traveling to Texas, check out these articles:

• 9 Amazing Experiences In The Rodeo Capital Of Texas
• 10 Perfect Port Aransas Vacation Homes Near The Beach
• My 10 Favorite Kid-Friendly RV-Camping Spots In Texas

This love of travel has allowed her to visit numerous countries and to fall in love with Italy. Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through her informative writing style on her blogs, That Texas Couple and Totally Texas Travel. Her practical tips and suggestions help make travel dreams a reality while immersing her readers in the history, culture, and food of a region. She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.

The 13 best resorts in Texas for a Lone Star State getaway

As a native Texan, I can tell you firsthand that the old phrase "everything is bigger in Texas" is true. The skies are vast and blue, the mouthwatering barbecue is limitless and the best resorts in Texas span from the Gulf of Mexico, across the Hill Country and beyond.

Whether you're a Texan like me looking for a great in-state vacation or you're from elsewhere heading down to experience Tex-Mex and two-stepping, the resorts in Texas have something for everyone. Options include everything from luxurious, high-end properties to working ranches where you can get your hands dirty with the whole family.

In the Texas Hill Country, you can fly into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) and experience a taste of Texas cool. Or, you can head to San Antonio International Airport (SAT) for the Mexican- and Spanish-infused spirit that permeates the culture before heading off to a spa resort. Both the Houston and Dallas areas have multiple airports, making it pretty easy to get to two world-class cities and the regions beyond.

The majority of the best resorts in Texas are classic (think: wide open spaces, pools and activities). Others emphasize spa services or offer a respite from the hustle and bustle of a major city like San Antonio .

Either way, you can't go wrong with any of these fabulous Texas resorts.

Austin may be an oasis for music, technology and tacos, but it also offers plenty of places to get outside in nature and relax, including the all-inclusive Lake Austin Spa Resort , found 30 minutes from downtown by car or via water taxi.

Forty rooms with private porches, tall ceilings and soaking tubs await guests looking for a tranquil escape; all of your meals are included in the rate, plus snacks, juices and smoothies.

Outside of the airy rooms, activities abound. Take advantage of the included lake equipment like stand-up paddleboards, kick it in a hammock by the water with a book or splash around the resort's two pools.

Related: The best hotels in Austin, Texas

But the real star of the show here is the 25,000-square-foot spa that includes treatments (for an additional cost) like signature facials or deep-tissue massages, plus saunas, whirlpools and steam rooms. Sure, it's on the pricey side, but after a full day of hiking, a few hours in the spa and an order of room service will be worth it.

Rates at Lake Austin Spa Resort start at $1,100 per night, based on double occupancy.

There are many reasons to love Lost Pines , a TPG favorite resort and one that offers something for the whole family — seriously. You can spend your days lounging along on the 1,000-foot lazy river , learn the art of archery, go horseback riding or play a round of golf on the resort's 18-hole course. Parents can rest easy knowing there's a kids club (open for ages 3 to 12) where you can drop off the little ones and then spend a few leisurely hours at the on-site spa.

It's just 20 minutes from the Austin airport, and the food is as diverse as the Texas capital. Start the day with a classic buffet breakfast (biscuits are a must), grab a wood-fired pizza and a patio seat for lunch; then, look forward to a range of dinner options, including a Texas-style roadhouse with chicken fried steaks (also a must), an upscale steakhouse and a 10-seat sushi restaurant.

Rooms are airy and modern with a just touch of Texas twang (think: western posters on clean white walls and the occasional sliding barn door). For larger groups, consider booking a family suite or even the 2,600 Littleton House, which has a living room, kitchen and two bedrooms.

Rates at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa start around $349 per night or 21,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

San Antonio is one of Texas' most vibrant cities, and it's full of good food, great attractions and an impressive resort called La Cantera. The resort puts you close enough to all the action, yet it has so much to offer that you might not want to ever step foot off the property.

At La Cantera, rooms have an elegant but rustic feel with highback leather armchairs, huge leather headboards and a muted sensibility that makes relaxing easy. While the resort is totally family-friendly, it also happens to offer an exclusive adults-only floor and experience called "Seven" that offers a private check-in area and lounge.

While at the resort, activities abound. Kids can enjoy activities at the kids club while the adults hit up the spa. Guests can also lounge by the pool in a cabana, roast s'mores as a family around a fire pit, play a round of golf on the 18-hole course or take the free shuttle to Six Flags Fiesta Texas for some scream-worthy thrill rides.

Just don't forget to eat: Food options range from casual Tex-Mex to a high-end restaurant for dinner and everything in between.

Rates at La Cantera Resort & Spa start around $280 per night.

For a wellness-centered retreat, there's nowhere in Texas better than Miraval Austin . It's an adults-only resort — and TPG favorite — that offers an all-inclusive-like experience with all meals and many activities included in the nightly rate. Even better, the resort is mostly "unplugged," meaning that you can feel good about disconnecting for a bit while you're there.

During the day, hit the Life in Balance Spa for healing spa treatments, take wellness classes like Rise and Shine Yoga or Cardio Drumming, then spend the afternoon conquering the challenge course or taking a cooking class. Or, simply relax by the pool and bask in the warm Texas sun. (Just note that spa treatments and some activities are an additional fee.)

At the resort, guests are invited to enjoy three daily health-conscious meals at The Hilltop Crossings Kitchen; they can also learn about their gut health or healthy eating habits through sessions with nutritionists or classes.

Rates at Miraval Austin Resort and Spa start around $1,200 per night or 65,000 points, based on double occupancy.

Luxury knows no bounds with Auberge, and that's exemplified at the Commodore Perry Estate — a resort spread over 10 acres in Austin that'll have you wondering if you're in Texas or actually somewhere in Europe.

At Commodore Perry, rooms are grand and chic and can be found in the resort's historic mansion or the Inn. In either location, expect beautiful spaces full of art, four-poster beds and a cheeky in-room shopping experience called "The Estate Sell."

Days at this Auberge can be as relaxed as you want. Soak up the sun by the pool and then learn the ins and outs of tequila during a tasting. Or, opt for an experience that'll keep your mind and body active (think: yoga, hiking or joining a HIIT class). For something extra special, you can even set up an experience where you shop for custom boots with a glass of Champagne in hand.

Fresh meals full of ingredients from local farmers and Texas ranchers are on offer at Lutie's Garden Restaurant — a Ken Fulk-designed space that pays tribute to the woman originally behind the former estate.

Rates at Commodore Perry, Auberge Resorts Collection start around $520 per night.

A member of Preferred Hotels and its I Prefer program , the Houstonian is a classy and classic city resort. It's near all the fabulous shopping of Houston's Galleria area, lush parks full of hiking trails and the arts, culture and diversity of America's fourth-largest city .

Set on 27 acres and decked out in a swanky Texas style, the property actually used to be home to former president George H.W. Bush. Now, the resort has 284 rooms and suites; a Trellis spa with a new outdoor soaking pool and a garden; tennis courts; and three different climate-controlled pools, including one with a waterslide and one perfect for swimming laps. In fact, the resort actually doubles as a sports club, so don't be shocked if you see high-performance athletes training.

Houston has no shortage of incredible dining, and the Houstonian is absolutely part of the scene. It offers a handful of restaurants, including an upscale option serving up flavors of Texas, Louisiana and Mexico; a patio bar and grill; a poolside dining area; and a coffee and juice shop.

Rates at the Houstonian start around $469 per night. Or, members of I Prefer can book with points or cash and receive elitelike perks, including potential room upgrades, early check-in or late checkout and more.

Slightly west of Austin in the rolling hills, Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa is an oasis of relaxation and fun that serves up a side of gorgeous Texas sunsets. Here, you'll wake up in a room with huge windows that provide natural light and views of the surrounding hills; then, you can set off for all the adventures the resort has in store.

For starters, head to the Mokara Spa for a rejuvenating treatment then relax on your favorite level of a tiered pool deck. (It offers three different pools, including an adults-only option for people without kids.) The rest of the day is whatever you decide to make of it: Play a round at one of four golf courses, join in on one of 30 weekly fitness classes or take a private tennis lesson. You can also see what the seasonal activities schedule offers; it normally includes things like bounce houses for kids, arts and crafts and miniature golf.

Eight restaurants, bars and dining experiences — including a true Texas-style steakhouse, a Latin restaurant, an in-room dining option and poolside bites — round out the resort.

Rates at the Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa start around $343 per night.

North of sprawling Houston, Hilton Honors fanatics can book a vacation with points at The Woodlands Resort, a Curio Collection property that makes for a great trip, whether you want to stay for a weekend or an entire week.

There, 402 rooms and suites offer comfort for all. Some rooms open right up to a patio or balcony, and club-level rooms offer access to the Canopy Lounge. For even more fun, book a room that opens up directly to the pool.

Other on-site activities include golfing on 36 holes; a water park with a 30-foot waterslide and lazy river stretching over 1,000 feet; biking and jogging pathways; and even access to water sports equipment like pedal boats, kayaks and standup paddleboards. Feeling sore after all that activity? Book an in-room massage.

Food options include the Back Table Kitchen & Bar overlooking the golf course, a poolside grill, breakfast and lunch at Harrison's, and a lobby bar serving Texas classics until midnight.

Rates at The Woodlands Resort start around $230 per night or 60,000 Hilton Honors points.

Down in Galveston on the Gulf of Mexico, there's no hotel more iconic than the pink-hued Grand Galvez, aptly called "the Queen of the Gulf." Dating back to 1911, this resort has seen it all: It has hosted presidents, served as a wartime command center for the U.S. Coast Guard and managed a handful of brands before landing as a Marriott Autograph Collection property in 2023.

Now, it has been restored to its century-old splendor, featuring stunning and stately public spaces. Founders Bar has massive red chandeliers and a specialty cocktail called the Ghost Bride, named after a ghost that allegedly still calls the resort home. (If you're curious about the otherworldly, sign up for a ghost tour around the property.)

Guests can enjoy a luxurious spa, a popular Sunday brunch, an Instagram-worthy pink cabana at the pool and even soon-to-open private beach access. There's also an on-site boutique with stylish resort wear, an espresso bar and a restaurant serving seafood and steak.

Rates at The Grand Galvez Resort, Autograph Collection start around $184 per night or 40,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.

Marfa, Texas, is a haven for art lovers and a great entry point into rugged West Texas. About 30 miles away, Cibolo Creek Ranch offers a homey way to experience life in the west — Texas style — on a 30,000-acre ranch that dates back to the late 1800s.

At Cibolo Creek, guests get an immersive experience that starts in accommodations. Options range from poolside rooms to haciendas and forts full of rustic furniture, many rooms with fireplaces and included breakfast. Plus, guests to the ranch can enjoy an outdoor pool, pickleball courts, dining on Mexican food inside an adobe fort and more.

While at the ranch, newbie cowboys and cowgirls can enjoy activities like horseback riding, ATV tours, birding, mountain-view yoga, spa treatments, shooting sport clays or learning about the area's history.

Rates at Cibolo Creek Ranch start around $408 per night.

In San Antonio, you definitely won't forget to "remember the Alamo," and you're sure to enjoy a rush of excitement at Six Flags Fiesta Texas or SeaWorld. After days packed with activity, if you're looking for a relaxing resort that packs a powerful punch, don't pass up a stay at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country. It has more than enough to keep your crew entertained.

At the 600-acre resort, you don't even have to leave for a full-on water park experience thanks to the resort's on-property water park, River Bluff Water Experience. It features 9 acres of fun, multiple pools (including one strictly for adults), a 1,100-foot lazy river, waterslides and cabanas you can rent.

For a more relaxing day, a spa offers a wide menu of treatments, or guests can enjoy an 18-hole championship golf course. Afterward, retreat to the upscale steakhouse 18 Oaks for a true Texas-style dinner or indulge in Mexican food at Cibolo Moon. When it's time for bed, rest easy in one of more than 1,000 rooms and suites designed to fit any traveler's need.

Rates at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country start around $280 per night or 41,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

As it turns out, big resorts in Texas love to have an on-property water park, and the Hyatt Regency Hill Country is no different. It features a 5-acre park with a 950-foot lazy river, an activity pool, a zero-entry beach, a baby pool and a waterslide.

Come for the water park but stay for everything else, including some great dining ranging from casual bar snacks to upscale lodge food. Other amenities include a 27-hole championship golf course, a spa and a calendar full of activities to keep the young and young-at-heart busy.

As for the rooms, expect fresh and modern design with a little Texas flair tossed in (think: dark wood and rich leather combined with framed art depicting cowboys and ranch life); there are also large suites so that families in need of more space can spread out.

Rates at the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa start around $230 per night or 17,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

While some resorts in Texas are sprawling, Loews' latest major project in the Lone Star State is a massive convention hotel that might as well be a resort. It is smack in the middle of Six Flags Over Texas, Hurricane Harbor, Globe Life Field and AT&T Stadium, making it the perfect place to stay for concerts and sporting events.

At the 800-plus room property, guests can take in stadium views from floor-to-ceiling windows or spread out in a large suite loaded with amenities like bathrobes, smart TVs, coffee makers and more.

While there's plenty to experience outside Lowes Arlington, be sure to block off plenty of time to take advantage of the hotel's pool complex, which features two decks. One deck is heated and open year-round, and one is seasonal; plus, there are cabana rentals and a bar to grab a drink.

No good resort is complete without a spa: The Spa at Loews Arlington has six treatment rooms and a 24-hour fitness center.

Food comes in many shapes and sizes here, from pan-Asian cuisine at the chic Soy Cowboy restaurant to Farena, an Italian restaurant with service three times daily. If you're still hungry, grab poolside cocktails and Mexican snacks at Tomar El Sol or order room service for a meal in bed.

Rates at the Lowes Arlington Hotel start around $229 per night.