Looking for the perfect camping spot in Texas? Our guide highlights the top state parks, including Palo Duro Canyon, Garner, and Big Bend Ranch. From hiking to bison viewing, there’s something for everyone.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Palo Duro Canyon State Park is a stunning natural area located in the Texas Panhandle. It is the second-largest canyon in the United States, stretching over 120 miles long and up to 20 miles wide. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including bison, pronghorns, mule deer, and coyotes. It is also rich in history and culture, with evidence of human habitation dating back over 12,000 years.
Camping Sites
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Palo Duro Canyon State Park is by . The park offers four campgrounds with a total of 265 campsites. The most popular campground is the Juniper Campground, which offers 97 campsites with water and electric hookups. The other campgrounds are Mesquite Campground, Sagebrush Campground, and Hackberry Campground. All campgrounds have restrooms with showers and are open year-round.
Hiking Trails
Palo Duro Canyon State Park has over 30 miles of hiking trails that wind through canyons, over cliffs, and along the canyon floor. The Lighthouse Trail is the most popular trail in the park, offering stunning views of the iconic rock formation known as the Lighthouse. The trail is 6 miles roundtrip and is considered moderate in difficulty. Other popular hikes in the park include the Capitol Peak Trail, the Sunflower Trail, and the Rojo Grande Trail.
History and Culture
Palo Duro Canyon State Park has a rich history and culture that dates back thousands of years. The canyon was home to various Native American tribes, including the Apache, Comanche, and Kiowa. In 1874, the Battle of Palo Duro Canyon took place, which resulted in the defeat of the Comanche and the opening of the Texas Panhandle to settlement. The park also has a rich arts and culture scene, with the outdoor musical drama “Texas” performed in the park’s amphitheater every summer.
Garner State Park
Located in the Texas Hill Country, Garner State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers a wide range of activities to enjoy, from to swimming to dancing under the stars.
Camping Sites
Garner State Park has over 300 sites available for visitors. Whether you prefer tent or RV camping, there is a spot for you. The park has both water and electric hookups, as well as primitive sites for those who want a more rustic experience.
Frio River Activities
One of the main attractions of Garner State Park is the Frio River. The river is a popular spot for swimming, tubing, and kayaking. Renting a tube and floating down the river is a must-do activity for visitors. The water is crystal clear and the scenery is breathtaking.
Dancing at the Park
Another unique activity that Garner State Park offers is dancing at the park. Every evening during the summer, a jukebox is set up in the park’s pavilion and visitors can dance the night away under the stars. This tradition has been going on for over 70 years and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
If you’re looking for a fun and memorable outdoor experience, Garner State Park is the place to be. With its beautiful scenery, wide range of activities, and friendly atmosphere, it’s no wonder why it’s one of the most popular state parks in Texas.
*For more information on reservations and park activities, visit the official Garner State Park website.
Big Bend Ranch State Park
Big Bend Ranch State Park is a hidden gem in the heart of West Texas. This park spans over 300,000 acres and offers visitors an unforgettable experience with its rugged terrain, vast wilderness, and spectacular views. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a novice camper, there’s something for everyone at Big Bend Ranch State Park.
Primitive Camping
One of the biggest draws of Big Bend Ranch State Park is its primitive sites. These sites are perfect for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in nature. The park offers a variety of primitive options, including backcountry sites, roadside campsites, and group sites. All of these sites are equipped with fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets. It’s important to note that there are no showers or running water at these sites, so visitors should come prepared with plenty of water and supplies.
Hiking Trails
Big Bend Ranch State Park is home to some of the most spectacular hiking trails in Texas. With over 238 miles of trails, visitors can explore the park’s rugged terrain and witness breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The trails range in difficulty from easy to strenuous, so there’s something for hikers of all skill levels. Some of the most popular trails include the Madera Canyon Trail, the Dome Trail, and the Fresno Divide Trail. Visitors can also take guided hikes with park rangers to learn more about the park’s flora and fauna.
Wildlife Watching
Big Bend Ranch State Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is home to over 70 species of mammals, including mountain lions, black bears, and javelinas. Visitors can also spot a variety of bird species, such as golden eagles, roadrunners, and painted buntings. The best time to observe wildlife is in the early morning or late evening when animals are most active. Visitors should also be aware of the park’s safety guidelines and keep a safe distance from any wildlife they encounter.
Pedernales Falls State Park
Nestled in the heart of Texas Hill Country, Pedernales Falls State Park is a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts. With its beautiful scenery, numerous camping sites, and a variety of recreational activities, this park has something for everyone.
Camping Sites
Whether you’re looking for a primitive experience or prefer the comforts of an RV, Pedernales Falls State Park has you covered. The park offers over 60 campsites, including 20 walk-in sites and 19 sites with water and electricity hookups. All campers have access to restrooms, showers, and picnic tables.
For those who prefer a more secluded experience, the walk-in campsites are perfect. Located away from the main campground, these sites are only accessible by foot, offering a more peaceful and private experience.
Swimming and Water Activities
One of the main attractions of Pedernales Falls State Park is the beautiful Pedernales River. Visitors can swim, fish, and kayak in the clear, cool waters of the river. The park also has several hiking trails that lead to scenic overlooks of the river.
For those looking for a more adventurous water experience, the park offers guided canoe and kayak tours. During these tours, visitors can explore the river and its many hidden coves and waterfalls.
Hiking and Biking Trails
Pedernales Falls State Park boasts over 30 miles of hiking and biking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. The trails wind through the park’s rugged terrain, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
One of the most popular trails is the Wolf Mountain Trail, which leads hikers to the top of Wolf Mountain and offers panoramic views of the park and its surroundings. The park also has several guided hikes, including a bird watching hike and a nature hike.
*Note: The following table provides a breakdown of the camping sites available at Pedernales Falls State Park:
| Type of Campsite | Number of Sites | Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Walk-in | 20 | Picnic table, fire ring, access to restrooms and showers |
| Water and Electricity | 19 | Water and electrical hookups, picnic table, fire ring, access to restrooms and showers |
| Primitive | N/A | No amenities provided |
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Located in the heart of Texas Hill Country, this park is known for its spectacular pink granite dome, which stands 425 feet tall and covers an area of over 640 acres.
Camping Sites
Camping at Enchanted Rock is a unique experience that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty. The park offers a variety of options, including primitive walk-in campsites, developed campsites with water and electricity, and group campsites for larger gatherings. The campsites are spread out across the park and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Hiking Trails
Enchanted Rock offers over 11 miles of hiking trails that range from easy to challenging. The most popular trail is the Summit Trail, which takes visitors to the top of the granite dome. The trail is steep and rocky, but the panoramic views from the top are well worth the effort. Other popular trails include the Loop Trail, which offers a scenic walk around the base of the dome, and the Echo Canyon Trail, which takes hikers through a narrow canyon and past a seasonal waterfall.
Rock Climbing Opportunities
Enchanted Rock is also a popular destination for rock climbers. The granite dome offers a variety of routes for climbers of all skill levels. Climbers must obtain a free permit from the park headquarters before climbing, and all climbers must adhere to strict safety guidelines.
In addition to , hiking, and rock climbing, Enchanted Rock offers a variety of other activities, including bird watching, stargazing, and wildlife viewing. The park is home to a variety of animals, including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and several species of birds.
Overall, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors. Whether you’re looking to camp, hike, or climb, this park offers something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your hiking boots, and get ready to experience the beauty of Enchanted Rock.
Recommended Activities:
- Camping at the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
- Hiking the Summit Trail to the top of the granite dome
- Rock Climbing on the various routes offered
- Bird Watching and Wildlife Viewing
- Stargazing at the park’s observatory
- Exploring other trails such as the Loop Trail and Echo Canyon Trail
Davis Mountains State Park
Davis Mountains State Park is a breathtaking destination that offers visitors an array of activities and experiences, from camping sites to scenic drives and observatory tours. This park is located in the heart of the Davis Mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the area.
Camping Sites
The sites at Davis Mountains State Park are among the best in the state of Texas. There are 94 campsites available, each with water and electricity hookups, as well as picnic tables and fire rings. The campsites are located in two areas of the park, Limpia Canyon and Skyline Drive, both of which offer spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
The Limpia Canyon area is located near the park’s headquarters and includes both RV and tent sites. The sites are situated amidst a forest of ponderosa pines, providing a cool and shady environment during the hot summer months. The Skyline Drive area is situated at a higher elevation, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The sites in this area are more secluded and offer a greater degree of privacy.
Scenic Drives
One of the most popular activities at Davis Mountains State Park is taking a scenic drive through the park. The park offers two scenic drives, both of which offer stunning views of the mountains and surrounding landscape.
The first scenic drive is the 75-mile-long Davis Mountains Scenic Loop. This drive takes visitors through the heart of the Davis Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the mountains and the surrounding desert landscape. Along the way, visitors will pass by historic sites, including the Fort Davis National Historic Site and the McDonald Observatory.
The second scenic drive is the Skyline Drive. This drive takes visitors to the highest point in the park, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The drive is only 3.5 miles long but offers some of the best views in the park.
Observatory Tours
The McDonald Observatory is one of the premier astronomical observatories in the world and is located just a few miles from Davis Mountains State Park. The observatory offers visitors the opportunity to take guided tours of the facilities and learn about the cutting-edge research being conducted there.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the Hobby-Eberly Telescope, which is one of the largest telescopes in the world. They can also attend a star party, where they can look through the observatory’s telescopes and view the night sky in all its glory.
Caprock Canyons State Park
Caprock Canyons State Park is one of the most beautiful and picturesque parks in Texas, offering a range of activities for visitors of all ages. The park is located in the Panhandle region of Texas and covers an area of more than 15,000 acres. It is home to the Texas State Bison Herd, which is the largest population of free-roaming bison in the country. Visitors can camp, hike, and observe the bison herd in their natural habitat.
Camping Sites
Caprock Canyons State Park offers sites for both tents and RVs. The park has four campgrounds with a total of 90 campsites. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. The park also has a group area that can accommodate up to 100 people. Reservations for can be made online or by phone up to five months in advance.
Bison Herd Viewing
The bison herd is one of the main attractions of Caprock Canyons State Park. Visitors can observe the bison from the comfort of their car or on foot. The park has a 2.3-mile paved road that takes visitors through the heart of the bison range. The park also has several hiking trails that provide visitors with an up-close and personal view of the bison. Visitors are advised to keep a safe distance from the bison and not to approach them.
Hiking Trails
Caprock Canyons State Park has over 90 miles of hiking trails that offer visitors the chance to explore the park’s rugged terrain and diverse wildlife. The trails range in difficulty from easy to strenuous, and include everything from short nature walks to multi-day backpacking trips. The park’s most popular trail is the Upper Canyon Trail, which is a 5-mile loop that takes visitors through the park’s scenic canyons and along the banks of the Little Red River. Other popular trails include the Haynes Ridge Trail, the Eagle Point Trail, and the Canyon Rim Trail.
In conclusion, Caprock Canyons State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Texas. From and hiking to bison watching, the park has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and head to Caprock Canyons State Park for an unforgettable adventure in the great outdoors.
- Camping sites available for tents and RVs
- Four campgrounds with a total of 90 campsites
- Group area available for up to 100 people
- Bison herd viewing from car or on foot
- 2.3-mile paved road through bison range
- Over 90 miles of hiking trails of varying difficulty
- Upper Canyon Trail, Haynes Ridge Trail, Eagle Point Trail, and Canyon Rim Trail are popular hiking trails.
