Unique Texas State Parks

Stef Zisovska

The Lone Star state, Texas, sounds like a place where you can only find deserts, tumbleweeds, and cowboys. If you investigate a little bit more, then you’ll see that Texas is an outdoor paradise. There are plenty of beautiful things to visit and to satisfy everyone’s needs. The coast lovers can start their trip in the east, then visit the lake in the south, the sand dunes in the west, and the canyons in the north.

There are many state parks where you can have the camping trip of your dreams and discover the real potential of Texas. So, next time before you judge something, you should go and visit the place to realize what you’ve been missing.

Mustang Island State Park

The beach at Mustang Island State Park – Author: Travis Witt – CC BY-SA 3.0
The beach at Mustang Island State Park – Author: Travis Witt – CC BY-SA 3.0

Mustang Island State Park is a state park south of Port Aransas on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. It has 5 miles of beach front, and the whole park covers 3954 acres. This lonely beach is maybe the best you will see in your life, and it’s perfect for pitching your tent. As not too many people visit the island, it’s easy to find a place just to yourself and play in the waves with your boogie board.

If you are one of those lonely campers that enjoy solitude, this is the place for you. Another good thing is that you can drive your car right onto the sand.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Terrain of Palo Duro – Author: Leaflet – CC BY-SA 3.0
Terrain of Palo Duro – Author: Leaflet – CC BY-SA 3.0

Palo Duro Canyon is the second biggest canyon in the country, right after Arizona’s Grand Canyon. This geological wonder is a must-see for all hiking and biking lovers. Mountain bikers easily spend more than a week exploring the terrain. The best time to visit Palo Duro is during the cooler months as there is no shade and no place to swim. If you like dry climate hikes, then come to Palo Duro and spend a few days of canyon exploration.

Inks Lake State Park

Devil’s Waterhole at Inks Lake State Park – Author: Benjaminb~commonswiki – CC BY-SA 2.5
Devil’s Waterhole at Inks Lake State Park – Author: Benjaminb~commonswiki – CC BY-SA 2.5

Everyone who ever visited Texas knows that the summers can be extremely hot, especially in July and August. Fortunately, there are various swimming bodies close to all the major cities. One of the best places to chill down in Texas is Inks Lake State Park, just an hour far from Austin.

At Inks Lake, you can swim, rent a kayak or fish. For even more fun, you can take a leap from the 40 feet tall rock into the Devil’s Waterhole. If this is is too high for you, don’t worry, there are plenty of other cliffs. Or you can just sit back and relax while watching other people going wild.

Monahans Sandhills State Park

Sand dunes at sunrise. Taken at Monahans Sandhills State Park, Monahans, Texas, USA – Author: Wing-Chi Poon – CC BY-SA 3.0
Sand dunes at sunrise. Taken at Monahans Sandhills State Park, Monahans, Texas, USA – Author: Wing-Chi Poon – CC BY-SA 3.0

Monahans Sandhills State Park is a giant sand box for kids and adults. Rent a sled from the ranger’s station and try sliding down the hill. You can even organize a speed contest and challenge your kids for more fun. Spending a night here is a unique experience because of the endless star-filled sky that you don’t get to see back home. Listening to the howls of distant coyotes will add a special thrill to your desert night. Monahans Sandhills State Park is far from any big city. Monahans town is the closest civilization you can reach in case of emergency.

These unique Texas state parks are places that every camper should visit. Exploring new terrain that you have never visited before can be amusing for the whole family. Even if you decide to travel alone, you will find a lot of enjoyment and relaxation. Decide which one you like the most and start packing your bags. Be sure not to miss the opportunity to see the other side of Texas. Good luck!

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stef-zisovska

stef-zisovska is one of the authors writing for Outdoor Revival