Texas, the second largest state in the US, has something unique to offer explorers in its four corners. In the northern part called the Panhandle, there is evidence of the country’s first inhabitants who found ways to fend off large predators.
Moving towards the west, you’ll come across national areas and preserves filled with cacti, where the stars shine brightly in the night sky and inspire endless hope. In other national parks of Texas, you can wander through swampy bayous with tea-colored water that glistens under the hot Texan sun.
Additionally, there are areas where the mighty Rio Grande River carves its way through vast rocks, creating stunning craggy mountains.
10. Guadalupe Mountains National Park
The Texas plains are getting drier, but it’s hard to imagine that these same areas used to be covered by a turquoise sea. Guadalupe Mountains National Park in West Texas was once part of a huge coral reef about 265 million years ago.
Today, the park is famous for its well-preserved fossilized reefs, which are considered some of the best in the world. In addition to the fascinating fossils, the park offers the highest view in Texas.
Hikers can take a 4.2-mile trail from Pine Springs to reach the summit of Guadalupe Peak, which stands at 8,750 feet – the tallest peak in the state. The park also includes the remains of an old stagecoach station, adding to its historical significance.
9. San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
The Alamo is a very popular attraction in San Antonio, but it’s important not to overlook the rest of the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. Make sure to go early so you have enough time to explore the park, which is home to four frontier missions from the 18th century.
This park is special because it contains more than 300 years of history and culture and is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas. If you want to see the whole park, you can take the Hike and Bike Trail, which stretches for 2.5 miles along the beautiful San Antonio River.
Some top spots to visit are Mission San Jose, which is the largest mission, and Mission Concepcion, which is the oldest stone church in the US that has not been restored.
8. Padre Island National Seashore
In Texas, many parts of the Gulf Coast have been taken over by resorts and waterfront homes. However, there are still some areas that remain untouched. Padre Island National Seashore is a great example of this. It is home to the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world.
The park protects a stretch of 70 miles with tidal flats and sand dunes. Within this area, there is a vibrant ecosystem untouched by human activity. If you walk softly, you may encounter the beautiful Kemp’s ridley sea turtles.
These turtles travel across the Atlantic Ocean and choose only two beaches to lay their eggs, and luckily, one of those beaches is on Padre Island. In addition to turtles, bird watchers can enjoy observing almost 400 different species that use this area as a stop along their migratory route, known as the Central Flyway.
7. Lake Meredith National Recreation Area
Lake Meredith National Recreation Area in northern Texas is a popular destination for boating. The lake stands out in the dry plains as a hidden paradise and offers stunning scenery in a barren landscape. It is surrounded by towering cliffs, making it perfect for various water activities like water skiing, wakeboarding, and fishing.
If you don’t have your own boat, you can rent one at the park. Additionally, there are hiking trails available for visitors to explore, leading to beautiful viewpoints and several campgrounds for overnight stays.
6. Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park
The Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park was created as a tribute to the 36th President of the United States, offering visitors a special glimpse into Johnson’s early life. When you visit the park, your first stop will be the Johnson Settlement, where Johnson’s grandparents established their home in Texas in the 1860s.
Afterward, you can explore Lyndon B. Johnson’s childhood home, a charming country-style house that includes a visitor center. You can even have a unique experience by touring the property using the old family cars. Don’t forget to also visit the Texas White House, which can be explored through a guided tour. Finally, your visit concludes at the Johnson family cemetery.
5. Amistad National Recreation Area
Amistad National Recreation Area is a park situated on the US-Mexico border, next to the Rio Grande. It is a popular destination for both photographers and outdoor enthusiasts. Despite being located in the southern part of the state, the park maintains warm temperatures throughout the winter months.
The Rio Grande flows into the Amistad Reservoir, making it an ideal place for boating and fishing. The park’s sandy walls provide a perfect habitat for various types of fish such as bass, catfish, and alligator gar. Additionally, visitors can explore the park’s historical section, which houses well-preserved petroglyphs. The park also offers scenic nature trails that lead to campgrounds and the vast wilderness.
4. Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park in Texas is known as the state’s main attraction and it lives up to its reputation. The park is even bigger than Rhode Island and showcases the famous 90-degree curve of the Rio Grande. It is not only the largest state or national park in Texas but also offers more than 200 miles of hiking trails for visitors to explore.
These trails cater to different preferences, whether you prefer short and easy walks or longer, multi-day hikes off the usual path. Each trail exposes you to unique and beautiful ecosystems ranging from arid deserts and towering rocky peaks to lush valleys shaped by the renowned river.
Moreover, the park provides options for both front and backcountry camping as well as luxurious mountain lodges for travelers seeking a comfortable stay.
3. Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument
Thirteen thousand years ago, a group of hunters arrived at what we now call the Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument. Their main objective was to craft tools that would aid them in hunting the woolly mammoths. This marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey, blending together history and nature.
If you wish to fully experience this monument, which is situated in a secluded area of the Texas Panhandle, you will need to participate in a tour led by a park ranger. These tours are available during the summer months and involve a one-mile hike.
During the tour, you will have the opportunity to closely examine the renowned Alibates flint and explore a fascinating world of petroglyphs.
2. Fort Davis National Historic Site
If you enjoy parks with a bit of history, then you’ll love Fort Davis National Historic Site. This place used to be a military post that played a big role in the expansion of the western part of the United States. As you walk on the trails, you’ll be able to see many old buildings like the commissary and hospital, as well as the worn-out barracks.
The park is also surrounded by rocky cliffs. If you’re up for a challenge, you can climb to the top using a steep trail and get a great view of the historic site. Kids who are under 14 can join ranger programs to learn even more about Fort Davis. These tours usually last about two hours.
1. Big Thicket National Preserve
The Big Thicket National Preserve in Southeast Texas is a special place because it is home to four different carnivorous plants. It has been recognized by UNESCO as a Biosphere Preserve because of its incredible biodiversity. The park has nine different types of environments including bayous and beautiful pine forests.
There are 40 miles of hiking trails that allow visitors to explore all nine sections of the park. The shortest trail is only 0.3 miles long, perfect for a quick adventure, while the longest trail is almost 20 miles and can be a fun full-day hike. Some parts of the park, like the bayous and swamps, cannot be reached on foot.
But don’t worry, you can still explore these areas by using a kayak to navigate the many rivers and creeks that wind through the preserve.
