If you’re looking for a getaway, the 10 Best State Parks in Texas should be on your list. These locations range in size from a few acres to hundreds of thousands of acres, and offer everything from a scenic lake to historical tours. If you’re planning a family vacation to the Lone Star State, consider these locations: Big Bend Ranch State Park is a great place to go horseback riding. It also has plenty of hiking trails and is home to over three hundred species of birds.
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San Solomon Springs
San Solomon Springs is a natural spring that allows visitors to swim and cool off in. This oasis in the Chihuahuan Desert is a perfect getaway for families. It’s more than just a swimming hole, as it’s home to several museums and art galleries. In fact, this state park is one of the healthiest in the entire state. Located near El Paso, this park has over 200 paintings of masks and prehistoric pictographs.
Caddo Lake State Park
Caddo Lake State Park is an ideal spot for canoeing and kayaking. It also contains the famous Fate Bell Shelter, one of the earliest cave dwellings on the continent. Seminole Canyon State Park is a gem for fossilized dinosaur bones. You can spend hours at this state park. It’s easy to make a day out of exploring the Lone Star State. There are dozens of outdoor activities to enjoy in this stunning landscape.
The Franklin Mountains
The Franklin Mountains are a spectacular place to hike. The Davis Mountains are the largest sustained mountain range in Texas, and there are two trails to take. It’s a perfect place to take a day trip or overnight stay. The park’s cliffs are great for cliff jumping! The surrounding limestone slab system makes for an avian paradise. You can also try fishing or bird-watching in the area.
Longhorn Caverns State Park
The ice age animals at Longhorn Caverns State Park in Austin are the most popular attraction in the state. This is one of the best hiking spots in Texas, but it can get crowded on weekends. Fortunately, the park offers parking for campers, but you should note that the reservation system fills up months in advance. Those visiting at the peak of fall foliage should reserve a spot in advance.
Whether you love the outdoors or prefer to explore the state’s historical monuments, Texas is a great place to spend the day. No matter what your passion, the 10 Best State Parks in Texas will provide you with the perfect getaway. Just be sure to plan ahead of time, and don’t forget your camera! Many attractions in Texas are free to visit, and most are accessible for hikers. While it is important to check the hours before you leave, you’ll be glad you did.
Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon in Texas is the second largest canyon in the world. It has several hiking trails and a hiking trail, but there are no maintained trails to explore the natural beauty of the canyon. The park’s wildflowers and wildlife are a must-see when visiting West Texas. And the sandhills in Monahans Sandhills State Park are filled with shifting sand dunes.
Pedernales Falls State Park
Located about an hour north of Houston, Pedernales Falls State Park is a gorgeous park for nature lovers. The park is 84,800 acres and has a hiking trail along the lake’s shore. Aside from the waterfall, visitors can also enjoy the water-sports on Lake Livingston. And the crater is a photographer’s dream. A perfect backdrop for a wedding or anniversary, Lake Livingston State Park is the perfect destination for a romantic evening or a family outing.
Lost Maples and the Sabinal river
Among the best state parks in Texas are the Lost Maples and the Sabinal river. For families with small children, this park is a wonderful place to hike and see fall colors. The Discovery Center at the park is a great place to visit if you have young children. Whether you’re an outdoor lover or a history buff, the Lost Maples State Natural Area is a beautiful spot to explore.
