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 several regional, city and state parks, the open spaces managed by Texas Parks and Wildlife are some of the most beautiful and historic places in the state.
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 website for entrance fees and reservation information when planning your visit. Some of the more popular venues will be at 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 are 35 miles from downtown Austin. It is the location of the famous "Lost Pines", a secluded area of Loblolly pines and hardwoods. Forest fires and floods have ravaged the park recently, but nature is recovering.
What to do in Bastrop State Park
Hike, bike or fish in Lake Mina. The park has seven miles of trails and a pool that is open seasonally. Explore Park Road 1C between Bastrop and Buescher State Parks to enjoy the park's scenery. The 12-mile hilly road takes you through recovery areas and forested areas of the Lost Pines.
If you're interested in exploring more of the great outdoors near Austin, check out the cityDriftwoodor go hiking inHamilton pool cream.
Camping at Bastrop State Park
The park has a lotstage areas, but if that's not convenient for you, Bastrop State Park has several cabins for rent that can sleep two to eight people. There are indoor cooking facilities, a window A/C unit in the lounge and ceiling fans in the bedroom. Cabins are a step up from sleeping in a tent, but still pretty rustic.
2. Guadalupe River State Park
A short drive from San Antonio and Austin, Guadalupe River State Park is a popular swimming spot for South and Central Texans. With four miles of river frontage, the Guadalupe River is the star of the show, but there are other things to do.
What to do in Guadalupe River State Park
Swimming and picnicking in the day area along the river banks are the most popular pastimes at this Texas state park. Arrive early to secure your spot, especially on summer weekends.
The park also features 13 miles of hiking and biking trails. Get a map and recommendations from park rangers.
Camping in the Park
If you want to camp overnight, the park has 85 campsites with water and electricity and nine tent sites. Texas Park Outfitters provides gear rental and setup if you don't have camping gear. For more information and to book their service, visitTexas Park Outfitters website.
3. Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Near Amarillo, Palo Duron Canyon is the second largest canyon in the United States. Texas Parks and Wildlife manages half of the canyon and the other half is private land.
What to do in Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Hiking and horseback riding are two of the most popular activities at Palo Duro Canyon State Park. It's the best way to enjoy the amazing scenery and rock formations of the park. You can join oneguided walkif you don't have a horse.
Explore the private side of the canyon by booking a tour withPalo Duro Creek Ranch.
Camping in the Park
If you want to camp in Palo Duro Canyon State Park, you have many options, with full campsites with electricity and water for RVs, equestrian sites, tents and backcountry camping areas. The park has three cabins on the rim of the canyon and four cabins on the canyon floor, all very rustic.
Palo Duro Glampingit might be for you if you're more of a glam person than a camper. Each site is fully furnished and features amenities such as bicycles and board games. There's also no shortage of private hotel cabin rentals in the nearby town of Canyon.
4. Caprock Canyon State Park & Trailway
The bison that roam free throughout the park make this lesser known Texas State Park truly special. Check with the ranger station and read posted signs for wildlife safety tips.
The park's red rock terrain is similar to Palo Duro Canyon State Park, but Caprock Canyons is decidedly less vibrant.
Campsites range from parking lots with electricity to primitive hiking sites. Equestrian campsites with stables are also available. Make sure you are an experienced rider before trying this.
What to do at Caprock Canyon State Park & Trailway
Caprock Canyon State Park has more than 90 miles of trails to explore. Mountain biking, hiking and horse riding are all popular things to do.
Camping in the Park
5. San Angelo State Park
San Angelo State Park is located just outside of San Angelo, Texas. The park converges on the banks of the O.C. Fisher Reservoir and the Concho River, which runs through the nearby town.
What to do in San Angelo State Park
Explore Angelo State Park, which has over 50 miles of multi-use trails for hiking and exploring. See 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.
Camping in the Park
If you want to enjoy camping, San Angelo State Park offers a variety of options, from rustic cabins to primitive hiking sites.
6. Pedernales Falls State Park
Pedernales Falls State Park is located along the Pedernales River, nine miles east of Johnson City. It is 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 is reached after a strenuous quarter-mile hike. There is a steep stone staircase without railings to navigate the water.
Camping in the Park
Pedernales Falls State Park has two camping options. One has electricity and water with 69 available campsites allowing eight people at each site. The other is a primitive site that requires a 2-mile hike to reach 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 Country residents. This small park hugs a one-mile stretch of the Blanco River.
What to do in Blanco State Park
Swim, paddle, picnic or go fishing. Fishing equipment may be available at the park visitor center.
Camping in the Park
Various camping options allow travelers to choose from full hookup sites or check out a sheltered lodge overlooking the river.
8. State Park Island Mustang
Mustang Island State Park is located near Port Aransas and has five miles of Texas Gulf Coast running through the park. Visitors looking to combine a beach trip 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 usually enjoy at the beach you can do at Mustang Island State Park. Surf, swim, build sandcastles or just laze on the beach. There is also a paddling path.
Camping in the Park
Mustang Island State Park has 48 powered campsites and 50 primitive campsites. There are many accommodation options in the area for day 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 town of Concan, the park has nearly three miles of access to the Frio River.
What to do in Garner State Park
Some of Garner State Park's most popular warm-weather activities are swimming, canoeing, and tubing on 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 on Memorial Day weekend. The dance at Garner State Park has been a Texas tradition since the 1940s.
Camping in the Park
There are campsites, shelters and cabins, but visitors should make reservations as far in advance as possible. Campgrounds 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 be sure to take some time to explore the park.
What to do in Davis Mountains State Park
Watch birds at the "best small bird blind in Texas". It has an indoor viewing station, screened outdoor patio, food and water stations.
Hiking or mountain biking? 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 many places to stop and admire the view and see the work of the Civilian Conservation Corps.
There is a 1.75-mile trail that connects the park to the Fort Davis National Historic Site, which is also worth exploring.
Camping in the Park
If you want to camp, Davis Mountains State Park offers 90+ campsites. Primitive/primitive camping is also allowed. If you want a little more luxury, the historic 39-room Indian Lodge has a restaurant and swimming 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 its unique East Texas bayou scenery 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. Kayaking, hiking and wildlife watching are among other things that visitors can do. Alligators live in the park, so please read and observe the alligator safety rules.
Camping in the Park
It offers a variety of campsites, 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 experience nature up close. Although the park is a day trip from Houston, visitors can stay overnight here as well.
What to do in Brazos Bend State Park
The park has 37 miles of trails, some of which are stroller and wheelchair friendly. There is a boardwalk for wildlife viewing. Both shore and pier fishing available. Alligators live in Brazos Bend State Park, so be aware of alligator safety rules.
Camping in the Park
There are 73 campsites with electricity and 15 primitive campsites. The park also has 13 protected lodges 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 pool. There are 33 campsites with electricity there. The San Solomon Motor Court, which is a motel-style facility built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, is currently closed for renovations.
What to do in 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 entry to the pool is included in the park admission price. There is an additional charge for diving. No lifeguards are on duty and the pool closes at 7:30pm. or at sunset.
14. Lockhart State Park
This small park is located between San Antonio and Austin and is a scenic place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
What to do in Lockhart State Park
Lockhart State Park has both aGolf Courseand a swimming pool. Advance reservations are available and recommended for both. There are separate fees for golf or swimming in addition to park tickets.
Other popular activities include picnicking, fishing in Clear Fork Creek, and exploring the park's nature and hiking trails.
Camping in the Park
Lockhart State Park offers ten full hookup campsites and ten sites with electricity.
15. Palmetto State Park
Palmetto State Park offers a small taste of the tropics in central Texas. Named for the Dwarf Palmettos that grow heavily throughout the park, this peaceful park is an hour's drive from San Antonio and Austin.
What to do in Palmetto State Park
Palmetto State Park has two water sources, the San Marcos River and Oxbow Lake. Canoeing, rowing, tubing and fishing are all popular activities. The park works with a rental company that offerskayakand paddle boards. There are also easy hiking trails that cross the park.
Camping in the Park
The park has 17 sites with electricity and 19 sites with water. There is an air-conditioned cabin available for rent.
16. Big Bend Ranch State Park
This remote park stretches along the Rio Grande in west Texas, on the US-Mexico border.
What to do at Big Bend Ranch State Park
Float or fish 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 without light pollution.
Check the park website carefully for weather warnings and vehicle requirements. As the park is called "The Other Side of Nowhere", help or services are not around the corner if something goes wrong, so make sure you are prepared.
Camping in the Park
Visitors who want to spend the night should be prepared to see her at one of the many primitive campsites by car or hike. If you need a roof over your head, you can rent a bed in the Saucedo Bunkhouse, which sleeps 30, for $35 a night. Bring your own bedding and firewood.
17. McKinney Falls State Park
Stunning views await at this beautiful park with water from Onion Creek rushing over the limestone. It's only 13 miles from downtown Austin, so it's an easy day trip for a more urban vacation.
What to do in 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.
Camping in the Park
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 often appears at the top of the best Texas State Parks lists. Located in the Texas Hill Country, it is a popular warm-weather spot for water activities.
What to do at Inks Lake State Park
The water level in Inks Lake remains constant throughout the year, making it an ideal spot for swimming, boating and fishing. There is a designated no wake area for paddlers. You can rent paddle boats and canoes and buy 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 at Devil's Waterhole or enjoy scenic waterfalls upstream from the lake if Valley Spring Creek runs.
Camping in the Park
There are 170 campsites with various amenities. All but a handful of primitive hiking sites have water. There are 22 cabins that sleep four people, but none have toilets.
19. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
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 top for a beautiful view. There are a total of 8.4 miles of trails. Rock climbing, bird watching and stargazing are popular activities.
If you are interested in dark sky views, night hikes or star parties, this is your place. Check the schedule for ranger-led programs.
Camping in the Park
There are 35 water camping walks and 20 primitive hiking sites.
20. Lost Maples State Natural Area
While Texas is little known for being a top spot for leaf peeping, you can enjoy plenty of fall foliage at Los Maples State Natural Area. Located in Texas Country on the banks of the Sabinal River, this is where Texans go to enjoy the fall scenery. It's an easy drive from San Antonio or Austin.
Locals come here for day hikes, but you can also camp at Lost Maples.
What to do at Lost Maples State Natural Area
The glorious fall colors attract most visitors. But spring brings wildflowers and the river is beautiful all year round. Bird watching, fishing and stargazing are other popular things to enjoy here.
Camping in the Park
There are 28 sites with electricity and 50 hiking sites.
21. Canyon Canyon State Natural Area
Government Canyon State Natural Area is located in northwest San Antonio. The biggest attraction is hiking on 110 million year old dinosaur tracks. This moderately easy five-mile trail is very popular with families who come with kids who love dinosaurs.
What to do in Canyon State Natural Area
Dinosaur tracks can be found on the Joe Johnston Route. In addition, there are other paths to explore. Shop the area gift shop for Texas books and other memorabilia.
Camping in the Park
There are 23 waterside campsites if you want to stay overnight.
Plan your own adventure at one of these best Texas parks
Whether you're looking for something full of amenities or solitude to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors, a Texas park awaits.Contact Texas Parks and Wildlife for more information.
This article was created byWealth of Geeks.
Jill Robbins
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Jill is a Wealth of Geeks travel editor and expert writer who focuses on family and adventure travel as well as practical tips to help travelers get the most out of their vacation experiences. In addition to Wealth of Geeks, Jill has written for Business Insider, MSN, Tripsavvy, Matador Network, Canadian Traveler, and Travel Awaits. She lives in San Antonio with her husband and sons, but is usually somewhere else.