Texas State Parks
Check out new trails and places as I visit every Texas State Park. My husband and I are trail runners (or hikers when we don’t feel particularly athletic) who enjoy the outdoors. Beginning in 2024, I will document our journey to see the weird and wild wonders protected by our state.
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Lake Somerville State Park and Trailway
Lake Somerville State Park includes the Nails Creek Unit and Birch Creek Unit for BOGO parks! The trailway that connects the two units is currently impassable, but the trails are wide and easy. There is also boating, swimming, camping, and equestrian access to the trails!
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Buescher State Park
Buescher State Park is the sister park to Bastrop SP and they are connected by Park Road 1C. Visit this park for hiking, mountain biking, camping, and lake activities. Or drive Park Road 1C for a scenic road trip.
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Palmetto State Park
Palmetto State Park is home to a cluster of spiky dwarf palmettos. Come for the trails, the fishing, and geology that allows the plants to flourish.
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Goliad State Park
Goliad State Park, located outside the town of Goliad, has few trails, but a ton of history. Come here to visit a recreated Spanish mission, a museum, a presidio, and a historic house.
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Choke Canyon State Park
Choke Canyon State Park features a large lake, camping, and several hiking trails. We hike the trails in this boat-happy park, and encounter some wildlife.
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Resaca de la Palma State Park
Located in the Rio Grande Valley in Texas, Resaca de la Palma is one of three World Birding Parks. This is worth the visit for the bird-watching alone, but the hiking is worth it. Make sure you come early in the day!
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Bentsen-Rio Grande State Park
Bentsen-Rio Grande State Park sits along the Texas-Mexico border and is the World Birding Headquarters. Visit to see the birds, the javelinas, and the hawk tower.
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Estero Llano Grande State Park
A surprisingly lush state park in the Texas Rio Grande Valley. It’s part of the World Birding Headquarters. Visit to see the various bird species and an alligator.
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Bastrop State Park
To kick off my challenge to visit every state park in Texas, my partner and I visit an old favorite, Bastrop State Park. The park features pockets of sandy soil and loose rocks, loblolly pine trees, and hilly terrain.