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Official Texas State Parks Guide. Published by Texas Parks & Wildlife.
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Contents
4
6
8
10
Activities and Programs
Parks Near You
Places to Stay
Recreational
Vehicles
12 Tips for Time
in Nature
Eisenhower
14 Visitor Fees
and Passes
Directory
18 Big Bend Country
Fort Davis
28 Gulf Coast
34 Hill Country
48 Panhandle Plains
56 Pineywoods
64 Prairies and Lakes
80 South Texas Plains
86 Facilities and Activities
TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT
Carter P. Smith Executive Director
Rodney Franklin State Parks Director
Mischelle Diaz Communications Director
TPW COMMISSION
Arch “Beaver” Aplin, III, Chairman
Lake Jackson
Dick Scott, Vice-Chairman Wimberley
James E. Abell Kilgore
Oliver J. Bell Cleveland
Paul L. Foster El Paso
Anna B. Galo Laredo
Jeffery D. Hildebrand Houston
Robert L. “Bobby” Patton, Jr. Fort Worth
Travis B. “Blake” Rowling Dallas
T. Dan Friedkin, Chairman-Emeritus Houston
Lee Marshall Bass, Chairman-Emeritus Fort Worth
Index
44 State Parks Map
Special thanks to Toyota and advertisers, whose
generous support made this guide possible.
Texas State Parks is a division of the Texas Parks
and Wildlife Department.
Cover photo: Tyler State Park, Chase Fountain
Texas State Parks Official Guide, Eighteenth Edition © TPWD PWD BK P4000-000A (3/22)
TPWD receives funds from the USFWS. TPWD prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, and gender, pursuant to state and federal law. To request an accommodation or obtain information in an alternative format, please contact TPWD on a Text Telephone
(TTY) at (512) 389-8915 or by Relay Texas at 7-1-1 or (800) 735-2989 or by email at accessibility@tpwd.texas.gov. If you believe you have been discriminated against by TPWD, please contact TPWD, 4200 Smith School Road, Austin, TX 78744, or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office for Diversity and
Workforce Management, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041.
In accordance with Texas State Depository Law, this publication is available at the Texas State Publications Clearinghouse and/or Texas
Depository Libraries.
WELCOME
from Rodney Franklin, State Parks Director
It’s an exciting time in Texas State Parks. The challenges
of the last few years have led many people to explore
the outdoors in new and adventurous ways. Many Texans
discovered their state parks for the first time, while longtime users have discovered new parks to visit. The variety
of Texas’ lands is unmatched; from the mountains of west
Texas to the gulf shores, the Texas State Park system
celebrates and preserves the natural and cultural treasures that make Texas such a
special place. You might say that the 630,000-plus acres that make up the state park
system is nearly as diverse as the people of Texas.
Since 1923 our mission has been to help connect our visitors with the outdoors. Every
day we look for new and better ways to live that mission and make sure state parks
are welcoming to every Texan, regardless of their background or experience with
being outside. I hope you’ll visit soon and often, while
bringing your friends and family along. I’m glad you’re
here and we’re looking forward to celebrating the 100year anniversary of state parks with you very soon.
What’s new in state parks?
>> New facilities to welcome visitors at Ray Roberts Lake – Johnson Branch,
Franklin Mountains, and Galveston Island State Parks
>> R
epairs completed at Stephen F. Austin’s group facilities, McKinney Falls’ visitor
center, Goose Island’s fishing pier and bayfront campsites and Lake Livingston’s
fishing pier and marina
>> Improvements and major repairs are planned
for Tyler, South Llano River, Cedar Hill and several
other state parks
>> B
almorhea State Park reopened their
pool and day use area following repair and
reconstruction. Over 600 acres of land was also
added to the park.
>> Construction has begun at Palo Pinto
Mountains State Park.
texasstateparks.org/whatsnew
ACTIVITIES & PROGRAMS
What is there to do
in state parks?
Enjoy a family picnic, tour a hallowed historic site or choose
from some of these visitor favorites:
Bike
Pedal across parks at
any speed, in any style,
with any group. Choose
the routes, surfaces and
distances that fit your
comfort zone.
Walk
Start with a shorter loop,
tackle tougher terrain or join
a guided tour.
Fish
Fish without a license in as
many as 70 state parks.
Many offer tackle loaner
programs and special learnto-fish events.
Boat or Paddle
Rent canoes and kayaks,
explore a Texas Paddling
Trail or launch a boat.
View Wildlife
Discover the birds, mammals
and plants that live in Texas.
Many parks have signage
and checklists to help you
learn more about the wildlife
around you.
4
Camp
Find a site that meets your
needs. Test out new recipes,
share your favorite stories
and enjoy the stars.
More information & reservations: texasstateparks.org
Swim
Beat the heat at creeks,
rivers, lakes, springs, pools
and ocean beaches.
(512) 389-8900
Many state parks offer special guided and self-guided
programs. Below are a few examples. Ask at your park
or visit its events page to find out what’s planned!
Kids 12
and under
get FREE
ADMISSION!
Dark Skies
Escape the city lights and gaze up
at views you won’t find anywhere
else. Come to a star party or take
a self-guided constellation tour.
Visit one of our Dark Sky Parks or
Sanctuaries: Big Bend Ranch, Copper
Breaks, Devils River, Enchanted Rock
or South Llano River.
Junior Ranger
Pick up a free Junior Ranger activity journal
or check out
free packs from
participating parks.
Use the binoculars,
magnifying glass,
sketchbooks and
guidebooks to
explore the park.
Texas Outdoor Family
Choose a workshop and make your own
adventure. Set up a tent, cook outdoors, build
a campfire and play outside! We provide all
the equipment. No experience necessary.
Texas Buffalo Soldiers
Bring history to life with
stories, costumes and
tools. Track an animal,
fish with a cane pole,
cook over a campfire,
visit frontier forts and
more. Step into the
life stories of those
who bravely served in
America’s first AfricanAmerican regular Army
regiments.
Civilian Conservation Corps
Tour any of 29 parks to marvel at architectural
treasures like shelters, bridges, cabins, refectories and more. See how these diverse work
crews (including young adults as well as war
veterans) weathered the Great Depression and
built the first state parks in Texas. Their legacy
stands today for future generations.
Find events near you:
TexasStateParks.org/calendar
texasstateparks.org/
activities
#TxStateParks
5
PARKS NEAR YOU
Where do you
want to go?
You’ll find many
state parks nearby.
Dallas/Fort Worth Area >>
Play in the
waters at
Possum
Kingdom.
<< Houston Area
Take a break
from city life
at Stephen F.
Austin.
6
More information & reservations: texasstateparks.org
(512) 389-8900
San Antonio Area >>
Venture
out at Choke
Canyon.
<< Austin Area
Get down
low in
Longhorn
Cavern.
Discover
new wildlife
at Lake Casa
Blanca.
<< South Texas
Area
El Paso Area >>
Enjoy a
guided hike
at Franklin
Mountains.
#TxStateParks
7
PLACES TO STAY
Enjoy the softer
side of camping.
Outdoor
recreation by day.
Indoor comforts
at night.
Indian Lodge - Davis Mountains
Choose from a variety of overnight accommodations:
Cabins without
bathrooms
Screened
shelter
at Lake
Livingston
Enjoy amenities such as air
conditioning, microwaves and bunk
beds, with group restrooms and
showers nearby.
Cabin at
Palmetto
Screened shelters
These protected, enclosed shelters are
available in dozens of parks and include
amenities such as outdoor fire rings,
picnic tables and grills.
State parks with screened shelters:
Abilene, Blanco, Brazos Bend, Buescher, Caddo
Lake, Cleburne, Cooper Lake, Eisenhower,
Falcon, Fort Parker, Garner, Goliad, Huntsville,
Lake Bob Sandlin, Lake Brownwood, Lake Corpus
Christi, Lake Livingston, Lake Mineral Wells, Lake
Whitney, Martin Dies, Jr., Martin Creek Lake,
Meridian, Stephen F. Austin, Tyler
8
State parks with these cabins:
Brazos Bend, Buescher, Caddo Lake, Choke
Canyon, Cleburne, Cooper Lake, Eisenhower,
Falcon, Fort Boggy, Fort Parker, Fort Richardson,
Huntsville, Inks Lake, Lake Bob Sandlin, Lake
Colorado City, Lake Corpus Christi, Martin Creek
Lake, Martin Dies, Jr., McKinney Falls, Meridian,
Palmetto, Palo Duro Canyon, San Angelo, Stephen
F. Austin, Tyler
More information & reservations: texasstateparks.org
(512) 389-8900
Lodging
CCC-built
cabins at
Palo Duro
Canyon
Lone Star Lodge at Ray Roberts Lake
north of Dallas features stunning lake
views as well as a marina.
Lone Star
Lodge at Ray
Roberts Lake
Cabins with bathrooms
One of the most popular attractions in
state parks, these cabins feature
amenities such as air conditioning, heat,
bedrooms, kitchens, microwaves and
restrooms.
State parks with full cabins:
Bastrop, Caddo Lake, Cooper Lake, Daingerfield,
Galveston, Garner, Lake Brownwood, Martin
Creek Lake, Mother Neff, Palo Duro Canyon,
Possum Kingdom, Sea Rim, Village Creek
Group
bunkhouse at
Cleburne
Group bunkhouses
and halls
Choose from a range of styles and sizes,
perfect for family reunions or other large
group gatherings. Most include
amenities such as air conditioning,
restrooms and beds.
State parks with group bunkhouse or halls:
Abilene, Bastrop, Big Bend Ranch, Bonham,
Brazos Bend, Buescher, Cleburne, Daingerfield,
Devils River SNA, Eisenhower, Estero Llano
Grande, Fort Parker, Garner, Hill Country SNA,
Lake Brownwood, Lake Somerville, Lake Whitney,
Lockhart, San Angelo, Stephen F. Austin
Indian Lodge in Davis Mountains is a
full-service hotel that includes a restaurant, swimming pool and meeting room.
San Solomon Springs Courts in
Balmorhea feature motel-style lodging
next to the world’s largest natural
swimming pool. Renovations are
underway. Check website for updates.
Yurt at
Abilene,
floating tent
site at
Sea Rim.
Unique lodging
Try something different, such as staying
in a yurt or camping on water.
Is your favorite space already
booked? Consider a weekday visit,
or try a state park nearby! Choose
from a full range of options:
texasstateparks.org/
reservations
#TxStateParks
9
RECREATIONAL VEHICLES
Whether you travel in a Class A motor home or with
a cozy pop-up, stay the night or spend a few weeks in
the perfect places for your home away from home.
How long can I stay?
• Some parks offer seasonal discounts
for weekly or monthly stays.
• We warmly welcome “Winter Texans.”
How do I get my site?
• texasstateparks.org/reservations
• (512) 389-8900
• Visiting longer than one month?
Consider applying to become a park
host! Hosts serve about 25 hours
per week assisting visitors and
performing litter collection and light
maintenance.
• Know your vehicle length.
• Consider the amenities you want, such
as hookups for water, electricity or
sewage.
• Ask ahead about group facilities.
More info: texasstateparks.org/RV
For same-day reservations, or site-specific facility questions, please contact
the park directly.
10
More information & reservations: texasstateparks.org
(512) 389-8900
rth
Whole Ea
PROVIS
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Texas-Sized
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STORE LOCATIONS
Austin • Dallas • Houston • San Antonio
Shop online at WholeEarthProvision.com
TIPS FOR TIME IN NATURE
Wild about safety
Your health and safety are important to us. If you have an
emergency during your visit, please contact a park police
officer, or ask for help from a park host or ranger in uniform.
Watch the water
Hack the heat
Natural water bodies are different
from swimming pools. Conditions can
change rapidly. To ensure a wonderful
swimming, boating or paddling
experience:
• Learn to swim.
• Supervise kids closely.
• Wear a life jacket.
• Take a boater education course.
Heat-related ailments are top safety
concerns. Fortunately, they are almost
always preventable! Protect yourself
and your loved ones:
• Carry water (and drink it!)
• Wear a hat and other sun protection.
•S
tart all strenuous activity early,
before peak heat.
Protect nature
Health and safety are also important to
the many plants and animals that make
up the habitats you may visit. Just as you
take steps to avoid mosquito bites and
cactus pokes, local wildlife takes steps to
avoid being hurt or bothered by you!
• Maintain a safe, respectful distance.
• Stay on marked trails.
• Keep pets on leashes.
12
More information & reservations: texasstateparks.org
(512) 389-8900
What are State
Natural Areas?
These sensitive ecosystems are
some of the most valuable native
habitats you can visit on public
lands in Texas, and they need
your help to stay healthy. Please
expect more nature, fewer
developed facilities and different
hours of operation.
Walk this way
According to many visitor surveys, walking
and hiking are the most popular activities in
Texas State Parks! They often require the least
amount of specialized gear and planning. To
make sure you and your group have a safe and
enjoyable experience:
• Carry a map. Phones can lose signal or
battery power. Paper maps are free at park
entrances.
• Protect your feet. From sandals to heavy
hiking boots, choose the right shoe for the
right walk.
Honey Creek SNA
• Prepare for the distance and degree of
difficulty. Are you ready for both?
• Use caution on uneven ground. Watch out
for rocks and roots!
• Tell someone else where you’re going and
when you expect to be back.
Accessing your state parks
Hill Country SNA
State parks staff are working to improve
access for all Texans. Ask your local park
about:
• Wheelchair-friendly events
• Accessible facilities
• Deaf and hard of hearing services
Email accessibility@tpwd.texas.gov for
information or to request accommodations.
Devil’s Sinkhole SNA
texasstateparks.org/access
#TxStateParks
13
VISITOR FEES & PASSES
Thank you for keeping parks open and maintained! Your
visits help fund critical upkeep, valuable programs for adults
and children, and improvements. About 50% of the budget to
operate state parks comes directly from visitor fees.
Entrance Fee – to visit a park. Includes a variety of activities and visitor
programs. This fee allows entrance to multiple state parks in the same business day.
Admission to Texas State Parks is FREE for kids 12 and under.
Facility Fee – to stay overnight at a campsite, cabin or guest room, or to rent a
group facility, meeting room or pavilion.
Activity Fee – to participate in a special park activity, tour a historic site or ride
a ferry or tram.
Get Day Passes and
make overnight
camping and lodging
reservations.
14
Make your
reservation:
texasstateparks.org/
reservations
More information & reservations: texasstateparks.org
(512) 389-8900
TEXAS STATE PARKS PASS
Get unlimited visits, all year,
to every state park for you
Good
and a carload of guests!
for 12
months!
Get unlimited free
entry to every state
park for you and a
carload of guests
(good for 12 months).
Plus, receive discounts
on camping, park
store merchandise
and more.
Youth Groups
•
•
•
Available to nonprofits serving ages 13–17.
Valid for one year, for up to 50 teens, plus adult chaperones.
Please apply at least six weeks before first visit and present pass at park
office on arrival.
Parklands Passport
•
•
•
Qualifying seniors, veterans with disabilities, and other visitors with
disabilities can apply.
Includes discounted or free entry to state parks.
Present proof of qualifying benefit at any park office.
Note: Texas cannot honor National Park Service passes or passes issued in other states.
Buy and
redeem
gift
cards
online!
Learn more about park passes
and purchase or renew your
State Parks Pass online:
texasstateparks.org/
passes
#TxStateParks
15
STATE PARKS DIRECTORY
Big Bend Country
Gulf Coast
Hill Country
Panhandle Plains
Pineywoods
Prairies and Lakes
South Texas Plains
Facilities & Activities Index
Tyler State Park
18
28
34
48
56
64
80
86
Facilities & Amenities
Use this legend as a reference for each park listed in the following pages.
ACTIVITIES
AMENITIES
Fishing
Some Accessible Features
Paddling
Beach
Rock Climbing
Boat Ramp
Swimming
Civilian Conservation Corps
Water Skiing
Day Use Only
TRAILS
Day Use - Group
Bicycle
Dump Station
Mountain Biking
Exhibits/Interpretive Center/Museum
Hiking
Fish Cleaning Shelters
Horse
Fishing Pier
Nature / Interpretive
Fishing Tackle Loaner Program
Texas Paddling Trail
Food Service
CAMPSITES / LODGING
Cabins - w/ Bathroom
Cabins - w/out Bathroom
Group Overnight Lodge
Group Camp
Campsites - Primitive
Campsites - Water
Campsites - Water and Electric
Campsites - Full Hookup
Motel / Lodge / Room
Historic Site
Horse Facilities
Park Store
Picnic Tables
Playground
Restrooms
Showers
Swimming Pool
Watercraft Rental
Wi-Fi available
texasstateparks.org/wifi
Screened Shelter
Barracks / Bunkhouse Bed
Check texasstateparks.org or (512) 389-8900 before your trip.
#TxStateParks
17
S T A T E
P A R K S
D I R E C T O R Y
BIG BEND COUNTRY
Special thanks to Toyota, whose generous
support made this guide possible.
B I G
B E N D
C O U N T R Y
Balmorhea State Park
9207 TX-17, Toyahvale 79786 ( (432) 375-2370
GPS
Latitude 30.944829 | Longitude -103.785147
Dive into the cool waters of the
world’s largest spring-fed
swimming pool, which covers 1.3
acres and stays at 72–76 degrees
year-round. Scuba divers love the
clarity even at a 25-foot depth. In
addition to swimming and
camping, the park offers lodging at
the San Solomon Springs Courts, a
retro-style motel built by the CCC
in the early 1940s with an adobe
look. Canals along the Courts lead
to a restored ciénega (wetland),
which provides vital fish and bird
habitat. Renovations are underway. Closures are possible. Check website for updates.
#TxStateParks
19
B I G
B E N D
C O U N T R Y
Big Bend Ranch State Park
1900 Sauceda RR, Marfa 79843 ( (432) 358-4444
GPS
Latitude 29.470458 | Longitude -103.957922
Big Bend Ranch State
Park lies deep in the high
desert wilderness. The
300,000-plus-acre park
features spectacular
scenery. Drive to a
primitive campsite in the
interior or along the Rio
Grande. Take a hike:
Choose from over 140
miles of multiuse trails.
You can also mountain
bike, ride horses, camp in
remote backcountry, or
explore in your 4x4.
Enter the park from the east (Barton Warnock Visitor Center) or west (Fort
Leaton State Historic Site). Visit the park’s interior via a 27-mile unpaved road
through rugged terrain that ends at the former owner’s ranch headquarters
and the Sauceda Ranger Station. Groups can stay at the casual bunkhouse, with
separate sleeping areas for men and women.
Fort Leaton
This historic trading post is the
western visitor center for Big
Bend Ranch State Park. Today
this 1848 adobe fortress and
trading post is an active museum
offering programs, tours, and
colorful events.
20
More information & reservations: texasstateparks.org
(512) 389-8900
B I G
B E N D
C O U N T R Y
Davis Mountains State Park
Texas Hwy. 118 N., Park Rd. 3, Fort Davis 79734 ( (432) 426-3337
GPS
Latitude 30.599926 | Longitude -103.925934
Find the coolest place in a hot state
when you camp in mountains one mile
high at this CCC-built park. The park is
in the Davis Mountains, the most
extensive mountain range fully
contained in Texas. Motor into a full
hookup site, backpack to a high
overlook, make camp under the trees,
check out the two beautiful wildlife
viewing areas, or stop by Indian Lodge,
located in the park. While you’re here, visit Fort Davis National Historic Site or
attend a star party at the McDonald Observatory.
Devils River State Natural Area
21715 Dolan Creek Rd., Del Rio 78840 ( (830) 395-2133
GPS
Latitude 29.939694 | Longitude -100.970206
Fed by clear springs flowing
from seeps and streams, the
Devils River is one of the most
pristine rivers in Texas. The
state natural area is large,
remote and has been named
an International Dark Sky
Sanctuary. Visit for day hiking,
mountain biking, camping
and paddling. All camping and
facility stays are by reservation
only. Make reservations at least
one day in advance.
A permit is required for all paddling trips on the Devils River which access TPWDmanaged lands. For more information, visit the park’s webpage.
#TxStateParks
21
B I G
B E N D
C O U N T R Y
Franklin Mountains State Park
2900 Tom Mays Access Road, El Paso 79911 ( (915) 444-9100
Latitude 31.910507 | Longitude -106.518290
GPS
At the westernmost tip of Texas,
where mountains meet sky and
cities hug the Rio Grande, lies the
largest state park in an urban
setting. Franklin Mountains State
Park encompasses 26,627 acres
in the city of El Paso. Hike rugged
terrain in 40 square miles of
Chihuahuan Desert wilderness,
scrub vegetation and open space.
Over 100 miles of multiuse trails
are popular with hikers and
mountain bikers. Camp and picnic, too. Ground fires must be in designated fire
rings. You can build charcoal fires in grills at picnic sites.
Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site
6900 Hueco Tanks Rd. No. 1, El Paso 79938 ( (915) 857-1135
GPS
Latitude 31.926453 | Longitude -106.042437
Natural rock basins in granite
outcroppings give Hueco Tanks its
name. These basins capture
rainwater, a precious resource in
the Chihuahuan Desert. For
millennia, people have come for
water, as well as for the diverse
plants and animals here. These
people left important cultural
symbols on the rocks. This site
preserves over 2,000 historic
pictographs.
We limit visitors to protect the site. We recommend reservations for day use,
camping and tours. Pictograph, hiking and bouldering tours in the guided area
are available by advance request Wednesday through Sunday.
22
More information & reservations: texasstateparks.org
(512) 389-8900
B I G
B E N D
C O U N T R Y
Indian Lodge State Park
16453 Park Rd. 3, Fort Davis 79734 ( (432) 426-3254
GPS
Latitude 30.592877 | Longitude -103.943596
Indian Lodge is nestled in the
Davis Mountains, within Davis
Mountains State Park. This
southwestern, pueblo-style
adobe lodge will charm you. Its
original handcrafted interiors
and furnishings date from its
1930s construction by the CCC.
Guest rooms have cable TV,
telephones and private baths.
The lodge also has a fullservice restaurant, group meeting room, swimming pool, and access to trails
from the parking lot. This is truly a unique destination.
Monahans Sandhills State Park
Park Rd. 41, Monahans 79756 ( (432) 557-3479
GPS
Latitude 31.618795 | Longitude -102.812112
Fun-loving travelers surf sand dunes
that rise as high as 50 feet in this
geologic wonderland. These sand
dunes are a small part of a larger
200-square-mile dune field
stretching into New Mexico. Rent
sand disks at headquarters. The
Dunagan Visitor Center features
hands-on exhibits on dune dynamics
and desert wildlife.
Picnicking and camping are also popular. The park has an 800-acre equestrian
area and three equestrian campsites, as well. The park is at exit 86 off I-20 west
of Odessa, just east of Monahans.
#TxStateParks
23
B I G
B E N D
C O U N T R Y
Seminole Canyon
State Park & Historic Site
Hwy. 90 W., Park Rd. 67, Comstock 78837 ( (432) 292-4464
GPS
Latitude 29.7001 | Longitude -101.313058
Ancient pictographs, rugged limestone
terrain and spectacular canyons lure
visitors to this park. People of antiquity
once lived in natural rock shelters carved
into canyon walls. They painted distinctive
ancient symbols that tell us of their
passing. The park’s rock art is more than
4,000 years old. Learn more at the park’s
museum.
Hike the rugged landscape or camp in a
tent or RV. Take a guided rock art tour
Wednesdays through Sundays at 10 a.m.
and 3 p.m. (times vary in summer). Contact
the park for more information.
Two Ways to Show Your Love
for Texas State Parks
For only $30/year, outfit your vehicle, motorcycle, trailer or RV with
a Texas Conservation License Plate. Best of all, $22 of the $30
directly benefits Texas State Parks.
ConservationPlate.org/StateParks
24
More information & reservations: texasstateparks.org
(512) 389-8900
Play, Explore,
and Connect
with Nature
Near You
Find activities, events, parks,
zoos, and nature centers for
the whole family to enjoy at
NatureRocksTexas.org
Visit
HISTORIC
TEXAS
Experience the stories and cultures
that impacted the history of the
Lone Star State by visiting the
Texas Historical Commission’s
State Historic Sites.
VisitHistoricTexas.com
SAN FELIPE DE AUSTIN
STATE HISTORIC SITE
GULF COAST
Special thanks to Toyota, whose generous
support made this guide possible.
G U L F
C O A S T
Brazos Bend State Park
21901 FM 762, Needville 77461 ( (979) 553-5101
GPS
Latitude 29.371447 | Longitude -95.632443
Brazos Bend has over 5,000
acres of lakes, prairies and
forests. Live oak trees draped in
Spanish moss shade the park’s
picnic areas. Explore more than
30 miles of multiuse trails, where
you’ll see alligators, white-tailed
deer and over 300 bird species.
Choose from seven small lakes
and a winding, tree-lined creek
for fishing. Touch a hatchling
alligator at the park’s nature center, which is open daily. Nature programs offered
every weekend and most holidays.
George Observatory leads star parties on Saturday nights. Call (281) 242-3055 for
information.
Galveston Island State Park
14901 FM 3005, Galveston 77554 ( (409) 737-1222
GPS
Latitude 29.198755 | Longitude -94.956212
Galveston Island State Park is an
excellent example of Texas Gulf
ecology, with 2,000 acres that
spans from the beach to the bay.
Access is open to the bayside of
the park, where coastal prairie,
freshwater ponds, and salt marsh
yield ample hiking, fishing,
kayaking, and wildlife viewing
opportunities. Historic houses, tent
and multiuse campsites with
restrooms and showers nearby are available on this side of the park.
The beachside area is closed as it undergoes renovations. Please check website for
closure updates.
#TxStateParks
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G U L F
C O A S T
Goose Island State Park
202 S. Palmetto St., Rockport 78382 ( (361) 729-2858
GPS
Latitude 28.128064 | Longitude -96.98838
Brown pelicans, rare whooping
cranes and fishing in the bountiful
waters of Aransas, Copano and St.
Charles bays draw visitors here.
The CCC built Goose Island, Texas’
first coastal state park. It sits on
the southern tip of the Lamar
Peninsula. Dramatic wind-sculpted
trees dominate the park. The “Big
Tree,” a massive coastal live oak
estimated to be centuries old, is
one of the natural wonders of Texas.
Lake Corpus Christi State Park
23194 Park Rd. 25, Mathis 78368 ( (361) 547-2635
GPS
Latitude 28.063249 | Longitude -97.873889
Swimming, boating, waterskiing and
sailboarding fill summer hours on this
large placid lake. Angling for black
bass, striped bass, crappie and catfish
are year-round pleasures. The CCC
built an impressive caliche crete
open-air refectory here. It has arched
walls and a tower with excellent views
over the lake. Many campsites have a
view of the lake, as well.
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More information & reservations: texasstateparks.org
(512) 389-8900
G U L F
C O A S T
Mustang Island State Park
9394 State Highway 361, Corpus Christi 78418 ( (361) 749-5246
GPS
Latitude 27.672162 | Longitude -97.175309
Seaside beaches stretch for
five miles along the open Gulf
of Mexico, inviting a perfect
summer-at-the-shore
experience. This is truly one of
the best places to see coastal
marine life, from green sea
turtles to blue herons.
Resaca de la Palma State Park
1000 New Carmen Ave., Brownsville 78521 ( (956) 350-2920
GPS
Latitude 25.987 | Longitude -97.564
Resaca de la Palma, in the Rio
Grande delta, is a semitropical
habitat minutes from
Brownsville. The 1,200-acre
park is home to a vast array of
wildlife.
Watch great kiskadees,
Altamira orioles and green
jays from the bird blinds and
observation decks, or relax on
a tram tour. Look for dazzling
blue metalmark and Mexican
bluewing butterflies in the butterfly gardens. Enjoy hiking and biking trails,
multiple geocaches and picnic tables.
The park store, “Sabal,” sells field guides, souvenirs and educational items. You
can also rent bikes and binoculars.
#TxStateParks
31
G U L F
C O A S T
Sea Rim State Park
19335 S. Gulfway Dr., Sabine Pass 77655 ( (409) 971-2559
GPS
Latitude 29.675634 | Longitude -94.043222
“Sea Rim” is where marsh grass
and wetlands meet the sea. Silt
deposits from the Sabine River
delta formed the sea rim here in
southeast Texas. Enjoy fishing,
crabbing, birding, nature study
and swimming on more than
4,000 acres and five miles of
Gulf of Mexico beach.
Visit for the day or stay
overnight at water and electric or primitive beach campsites, floating tent raft, or
cabin. The west dune boardwalk has rinse-off showers. Explore the marsh paddling
trails or Gambusia Nature Trail Boardwalk, or ride your horse along the beach.
Sheldon Lake State Park &
Environmental Learning Center
14140 Garrett Rd., Houston 77044 ( (281) 456-2800
GPS
Latitude 29.857461 | Longitude -95.160029
Come to Sheldon Lake for its wildlife
viewing, paddling, boating and fishing.
The park features a fish hatchery “gone
wild” and wheelchair-accessible trails.
LEED-certified facilities demonstrate
“green architecture” and alternative
energy. We offer programs for schools,
groups and individuals by reservation.
This day-use park is only 15 miles from
downtown Houston.
Enjoy free catch-and-release fishing at two stocked ponds. Keep your catch
when you fish in the shallow 1,200-acre Sheldon Lake. Stroll the 3,000-foot
Prairie/Wetland Boardwalk. Ascend the John Jacob Observation Tower for a
bird’s-eye view.
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More information & reservations: texasstateparks.org
(512) 389-8900
Fishing that leaves
other destinations
in its wake.
Off the beach, in the bays or far offshore, South Padre Island offers
anglers the fishing trip of a lifetime. Here, you can catch a trophy or
reel in your supper and have it cooked as soon as you step ashore.
And when you don’t have a rod in your hand, countless other
diversions await. Learn more at sopadre.com/fishing.
sopadre.com
#TxStateParks
33
S T A T E
P A R K S
D I R E C T O R Y
HILL COUNTRY
Special thanks to Toyota, whose generous
support made this guide possible.
H I L L
C O U N T R Y
Blanco State Park
101 Park Rd. 23, Blanco 78606 ( (830) 833-4333
GPS
Latitude 30.096782 | Longitude -98.43459
Located four blocks from Blanco’s
charming, historic town square, the
park borders the spring-fed Blanco
River. Folks from nearby Austin and
San Antonio come here to relax in
the sun, swim, tube, paddle, fish
and camp. Picnic under the trees
and watch stars at night. Be sure to
check out the historic CCC-built
features scattered throughout the
park. Screened shelters, campsites
and proximity to Blanco make the
park popular with both tent campers and RVers. Bring your family to this small,
peaceful park for an afternoon or a weekend!
Colorado Bend State Park
1201 Colorado Park Road, Bend 76824 ( (325) 628-3240
GPS
Latitude 31.022965 | Longitude -98.442401
Experience the beautiful wilderness of
Colorado Bend. You’ll discover 35
miles of hike and bike trails, spring-fed
creeks and swimming holes, limestone
bluffs and canyons, and wildlife. Visit
for the fishing, kayaking, birding,
serious mountain biking, backpacking,
geocaching, primitive tent camping,
and swimming. Hike on your own to
Gorman Falls, a breathtaking 70-foot
travertine waterfall, or take a guided
tour. Reserve a spot on a cave tour to
explore the underground passages
beneath this unique piece of the Texas
Hill Country.
#TxStateParks
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H I L L
C O U N