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.

  • Goose Island State Park

    Goose Island State Park

    Goose Island sits on the balmy bay next to Rockport, TX, complete with beaches, bays, and bugs. Come here to camp, fish, and hike short trails.

  • Guadalupe River State Park

    Guadalupe River State Park

    Guadalupe State Park sits along the Guadalupe River, with several trails to explore and a picnic area along the riverbank. Make sure to visit the new Bauer unit for extensive hiking opportunities.

  • Stephen F. Austin State Park

    Stephen F. Austin State Park

    Located near Houston, Stephen F. Austin State Park offers gentle, dog-friendly trails and a chance to wander among the plants and terrain that surround the Brazos River.

  • Lake Somerville State Park and Trailway

    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!

  • Buescher State Park

    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.

  • Palmetto State Park

    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.

  • Goliad State Park

    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.

  • Choke Canyon State Park

    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.

  • Resaca de la Palma State Park

    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!

  • Bentsen-Rio Grande State Park

    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.