Texas State Parks

Since the forties, families have been jiving to the sound of jukeboxes at Garner State Park. Cool off from the dancing and the Texan sunshine with a dip in the crystal clear waters of the Frio River. Almost 2,000 acres of Hill Country landscapes are threaded by this glimmering river, which you can float blissfully along on a tube, paddle down in a canoe, or fish in. Trails ribbon the park, and picnic areas are plentiful.

Kids are enthralled by the historic attractions at Fort Richardson. Visit a powder magazine which was used to store gun powder, an antique bakery, and an officer's quarters. After your visit, go horseback riding or fish for catfish, bass, and trout. The Lost Creek Trailway runs for ten 10 mi. of leafy splendor, forming a haven for cyclists, horse riders, and hikers alike. Military re-enactments and barbecue cook-offs are common in the park during the summer months.

Walk in the gargantuan footsteps of dinosaurs at one of Texas' most exciting state parks for children. Sure, you can horse ride, swim in the river, and enjoy watching the wildlife on more than a hundred acres in this parkland. But the greatest attraction is the dinosaur prints in the bed of the Paluxy River.

Historic structures throughout the park create idyllic settings for picnics and resting breaks during your hikes through the leafy wilderness along the banks of Tyler Park's 64-acre lake. On these deeply peaceful trails, tall trees roar in the breeze overhead, and playful spots of light dance over the lake and across the beloved Whispering Pines Nature Trail. A total of 13 mi. of trails ribbon through the park.

Just two hours from Austin, Colorado Bend is known for its diverse trail system, which extends for 35 mi. Varied terrain makes for interesting hiking and biking. Take the Spicewood Springs Trail to visit waterfalls, canyons, and creeks. Or clamber over to Gorman Falls. River Trail is the easiest hike and features several tree-lined swimming holes.

30 mi. of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails roll through this spectacular state park. Come and see the second largest canyon in America right here in Palo Duro. Geocaches, hidden curiosities that can be found through GPS tracking are plentiful in the park, and there's even an outdoor musical in the summertime. Join in the Ranger Program to learn about Longhorn cattle and other animal life, or book one of the popular guided walks offered by the rangers.

The fun potential of Possum Kingdom is huge. Snorkel, scuba dive, swim, or go boating and fishing on the water. Geocache on land using your smartphone or GPS device to unearth hidden secrets hidden in the landscape. Close by the park, you can spot local wildlife on the Palo Pinto Loop.

This park offers superb swimming, as well as stunning scenery that makes for fantastic hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Explore the full 13 mi. on Painted Bunting and Barred Owl Trails. Go fishing, or grab a tube and glide down the river effortlessly, spotting bird and plant life as you go.

More than 5 mi. of coastline form the perfect playground for adventure sports enthusiasts. Fish in the bay, swim in the water, or go kayaking. Ranger programs feature birding, stargazing and adventure fishing.