19 Best State Parks In Texas – Activities & Attractions

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Palo Duro Canyon State Park is located in the Texas panhandle and this is the second-largest Grand Canyon in the United States and one of the best state parks in Texas.

If you love visiting canyons then this park is for you, with so many hiking trails, picnic spots, and camping areas this place is one of the best state parks in Texas. This park is ideal for every kind of traveler.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park gets too hot quickly during the summer months. If you’re visiting during this time, go early in the morning and have a fantastic time. Spring is perfect for visiting this park.

RV camping And Lodging is available in this park but you have to book a reservation as early as possible. Try to visit the lighthouse which is 2.8 miles from the parking lot.

Big Bend Ranch State Park

Big Bend Ranch State Park is located on the Rio Grande in Brewster and Presidio counties, Texas. and it is the largest state park in Texas. 

This beautiful and rugged canyon offers so many activities including hiking, biking, camping, horse riding, and canyoning in the Grand Rio river.

If you love to travel with your RV bring it, or camp at the riverside. don’t miss the wildlife and stargaze at night.

Davis Mountains State Park, Fort Davis

Davis Mountains State Park is a 2,709-acre state park located near Fort Davis in Jeff Davis County, Texas. The park’s elevation is between 5,000 and 6,000 ft above sea level. 

This park is very popular for camping and RV camping. I recommend you pack enough resources with you and head to the hiking trails or Mcdonald Observatory then stop somewhere and have a picnic.

There are many things you can explore outside the park, also gas stations and restaurants are a very short drive from this park.

Colorado Bend State Park

Colorado Bend State Park is located in the Texas Hill Country region. In 1984 Texas state purchased this beautiful park and in 1987 opened it to the public.

There are so many things to do and see in this state park including camping, hiking, biking, exploring waterfalls, and many more. Try to get the Gormon Falls trails you will love it. 

If you love challenging hikes then you can have it in this park, but be prepared and take all the resources with you including water, snacks, and a pair of hiking boots.

In the summer months, it gets very hot during the day. Some of the trails are shaded but some are exposed and rocky. 

Franklin Mountains State Park

Franklin Mountains State Park is located in El Paso, Texas. The park covers a total of 24,247.56 acres and is the largest urban park in the state.

This park is very popular for hiking and climbing, you can choose easy trails to very challenging trails. Although some of the trails are challenging you won’t get lost but be careful with the rocks.

From the visitor center, you can have a map, and a $1 visitor fee is required.

If you are a beginner hiker then take the Aztec cave trail, these cave trails are a little intense but you will love it. This is one of my favorite places to hike. Be sure to check out the birding hut on the nature loop.

Brazos Bend State Park

Brazos Bend State Park is an eco-friendly park situated on around 4,897 acres along the Brazos River in unincorporated Fort Bend County, Texas. This beautiful state park is run by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. 

Brazos Bend State Park is home to one of the largest freshwater marshes in Texas and is also known for its bird-watching opportunities.

Known for its hiking trails and beautiful lakes, this is one of the best state parks in Texas. 

Whether camp, Tent camp, or rent a small cabin and explore this amazing park. There is so much wildlife you can see in this park.

If you take the Elm Lake trail you may see some Aligator basking in the sun. the trails can be challenging and equally, you will love it. 

Garner State Park

Garner State Park is located in Uvalde County, Texas in the United States. Overnight camping is the most popular activity at Garner State Park in the Texas Hill Country. It often fills by noon in peak parts of the season.

This is a very popular state park so make your reservation in advance. Its lush greenery and ancient bald cypress trees along the waterway make it a magnificent place to visit.

There are so many hiking trails, falls, and rivers that will keep you busy the whole day. The river is safe from alligators so you can have fun with your kids in the river but keep an eye on them because some areas are pretty deep. 

There are not many amenities available in this park, so bring your resources and enough water when you are visiting Garner State Park. There is a store at the park where a case of water is worth $8.

McKinney Falls State Park

Located in Austin, Texas, McKinney Falls State Park is a serene escape where nature and history blend beautifully. Known for its stunning limestone waterfalls along Onion Creek, the park offers a peaceful retreat just minutes from the city. Visitors can hike scenic trails, fish or swim in the creek, and marvel at the park’s namesake falls. 

History enthusiasts will enjoy exploring remnants of Thomas McKinney’s 19th-century homestead. Whether camping overnight or visiting for a day, McKinney Falls provides a perfect setting for outdoor fun, relaxation, and a glimpse into Texas’ natural and cultural heritage.

Inks Lake State Park

Inks Lake State Park is located near Inks Lake Colorado River in Burnet County, Texas. This amazing state park is known for its great hiking trails and beautiful lakes. When you are hiking the lake trails try to experience the view of the lake from different angles.

There are so many camping sites available in this park so choose yours accordingly. You can bring your pets with you to this park but keep them on a leash.  

When you are hiking the trails keep in mind that some of the hiking trails are rocky and very challenging. I suggest you bring your hiking boots. Besides hiking, you can go swimming, fishing, or kayaking to enjoy your time in this park.

Dinosaur Valley State Park 

Dinosaur Valley State Park is located near Glen Rose, Texas. There are many trails with scenic views and they’re generally easy to navigate. Everything is well-kept. You can experience the rivers, plains/prairies, and forested areas in the same area.

There are clean restrooms and showers nearby in the camping areas with electric and water outlets. There is also primitive camping near the river and horse trails. You can choose from easy to moderate trails, and some areas have dinosaur tracks. 

This area is absolutely beautiful to walk through and look at – nature photographers would absolutely love the natural views and lookout points. My favorite time of year to visit is during the autumn and winter months. 

If you are going to try and camp near the holidays, make your reservations as early as possible since the park tends to fill up quickly during the holiday season.

Pedernales Falls State Park

Located in Blanco County in Texas, Pedernales Falls State Park is a 5,212-acre state park on the banks of the Pedernales River. 

As a first-timer, I had a great time. I hiked the Wolf Mountain trail for about 2 miles before having to turn around. The heat I fed was over 100°. You should bring a lot of water and sunscreen since there are not many trees and shade.  Must Visit Pedernales Falls and hike other trails in the state park. 

Stunning waterfall, large enough for walking or biking. There are many trails to explore, you will need several days to see them all. It was a great time, the river was shallow and calm for most of the trip. 

There’s also plenty of wildlife to enjoy! It is home to many different types of colorful birds and fish, including raccoons, armadillos, and deer.

Caddo Lake State Park

Caddo Lake State Park is located in the Piney Woods ecoregion of eastern Texas. There are only a handful of natural lakes in Texas, and Caddo Lake is one of them.

The rangers at the front station were nice and informative. I rent a canoe for three hours for $20. I paddled around the swamps and bayous and saw some beautiful sights. 

The trails are nice to explore. One of my favorites was the one that led up to the CCC pavilion. I will visit this place pretty soon.

Balmorhea State Park

Balmorhea State Park is located in Reeves County, Texas, on the San Solomon Springs, very close to Balmorhea city. The park is open year-round, and visitation is capped at 900 people per day. This beautiful park was opened in 1968 and is managed by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. 

The park gets super hot! It is West Texas! Camping is closed, but there are accommodations in the town of Balmorhea. Very nice Park Rangers pleased to answer questions. Fort Davis State Park is close by as well. A must-visit if you make it to Balmorhea State Park! Also a great day spot for Big Bend travelers!

Also Read: 15 Best Things To Do At Orcas Island, San Juan County, WA

There is a natural spring swimming pool with a depth ranging from 3′ to 25′ and multiple diving boards. From here you can enjoy a beautiful view of the mountains. You may see lots of people in the swimming pool, if you are in the mood for swimming then go there as early as possible. The facility is clean and has nice restrooms and a changing area.

Beautiful natural bottom pool. Snorkeling was amazing! Diving boards, and plenty of picnic tables. Outside area for pets, for they are not allowed in the swimming area. So bring plenty of water for pets.

Lost Maples State Natural Area

There is a 2,906-acre Lost Maples State Natural Area in the Edwards Plateau Region of Texas. It covers hills and canyons on the upper Sabinal River. The property is designated as a Natural Area rather than as a State Park, which means that its primary function is to maintain and protect its natural environment.

This park has several beautiful trails lost maples trail is one of them. Try to hike and get a closer look at the Sabinal River. Kayaking or canyoning is one of the popular activities in this area.

I’ve personally hiked every trail they have. The hike is approximately 13 miles, so be sure to pack plenty of water and wear nice footwear. 

Unless you are an experienced hiker, do not hike East End Trail alone. This trail is very confusing and may require you to hike it repeatedly before you are able to locate where you entered it.

Caprock Canyons State Park & Trailway

Caprock Canyons State Park And Trailway is located approximately 100 miles southeast of Amarillo at the eastern edge of the Llano Estacado in Briscoe County, Texas. this is the third-largest state park in Texas, with 15,314 acres. According to its official website, it opened in 1982.

Wonderfully maintained park with amazing canyon views. Very underrated. Quiet, and was a wonderful place to unplug. Do not disregard the instructions for plenty of water, you WILL need as much as is recommended if not more. 

I’ve Visited this park twice so far and have loved it both times. The good news for Rv’ers is The RV sites are large and private. There are also cute prairie dogs near the campground.  My absolute favorite part of all is the trails though….they are spectacular!

Longhorn Cavern State Park, Burnet

Longhorn Cavern State Park is located in Burnet County, Texas. I enjoyed the leisurely stroll through the cavern and learned quite a bit about the cave’s history, and the guide was very knowledgeable and insightful…spending the money and exploring the cave was well worth it.

Also, follow and understand all the instructions before you make reservations. Have fun!!

Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site

Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site is a hidden treasure in the arid expanse of West Texas, approximately 32 miles northeast of El Paso. Revered for its distinctive rock formations, ancient history, and diverse recreational activities, the park is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and nature lovers alike.

This unique destination derives its name from the “huecos,” or natural rock basins, which collect and store rainwater, creating an oasis in the desert. Over thousands of years, these basins have sustained wildlife, vegetation, and human settlements, making the park a natural and historical landmark.

Seminole Canyon State Park & Historic Site

Seminole Canyon State Park & Historic Site, located near Comstock, Texas, is a breathtaking destination Combining stunning landscapes and a deep history. Known for its vast canyon vistas and ancient rock art, this park is a must-visit for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and adventurers alike.

The highlight of the park is its ancient rock art, some of the oldest in North America, created by Indigenous peoples over 4,000 years ago. Guided tours to Fate Bell Shelter provide an up-close look at these well-preserved pictographs, depicting animals, human figures, and enigmatic symbols. The tours also offer fascinating insights into the lives and beliefs of the canyon’s early inhabitants.

Hiking is another popular activity. Trails like the Canyon Rim Trail provide breathtaking views of the rugged terrain and the Rio Grande, while the Windmill Trail offers glimpses of desert flora and wildlife. For campers, the park features serene sites ideal for stargazing in the remote Texas skies.

The visitor center enriches the experience with exhibits on the region’s geology, archaeology, and history.

Lake Mineral Wells State Park

Lake Mineral Wells State Park, nestled in North Texas, is a haven for outdoor lovers seeking tranquility and adventure. The park’s centerpiece, the serene Lake Mineral Wells, offers fishing, kayaking, and swimming, surrounded by scenic beauty. Nature trails wind through lush forests and rugged terrain, perfect for hiking, biking, or horseback riding. 

For climbers, Penitentiary Hollow’s striking sandstone cliffs provide an exhilarating challenge. Families can enjoy picnics, wildlife spotting, or camping under starry skies. Whether you’re there to unwind by the water or embark on thrilling adventures, this park delivers an unforgettable escape into nature’s embrace.

Conclusion:

You can explore one of these state parks at any time and never get bored. The trails are amazing, the facilities are convenient, and the beauty is breathtaking.

These parks have everything you need to spend a great day out in nature without even leaving Texas!

For More Queries, You Can Check Out Texas State Parks’ Official Website.