Not because it has the most observatories or the highest mountains, but because parts of the state, especially in the west, still offer something modern life has nearly erased: true darkness.

In much of the United States, darkness no longer fully exists. Cities glow for miles beyond their limits, highways remain illuminated through the night, and even suburban skies carry the haze of artificial light. Many children have no idea that the sky is full of stars, not just the “Big Dipper” or the other few that they may see casually.

People often do not realize how much of the night sky has disappeared until they stand somewhere truly dark again. They take it in and are often so emotionally moved that they begin to understand, at the deepest level, what disconnecting really means.

That emotional tug has helped fuel growing interest in dark-sky travel and slower outdoor experiences.

And they find that they can have this encounter in a pure way in West Texas.

The stars do not simply appear brighter in this part of the state. The entire landscape changes after sunset. The sky becomes enormous. Silence deepens. This is not a scenic stop but a mesmerizing one.

As you stare upward intently, the Milky Way stretches overhead, time itself seems to melt away into meaninglessness.

For some time, people have become increasingly interested in slower, more natural escapes from the technology, and the lights, of modern everyday living. Camping, RV travel, desert road trips, and unplugged evenings outdoors in the backyard have been growing in popularity.

Geography is the reason Far West Texas has become one of the country’s premier dark-sky regions. The area especially offers vast open land, low population density, dry desert air, and dramatically lower levels of light pollution than most of the country. 

Protecting the Texas Night Sky

The efforts to protect this astral wilderness began nearly a century ago with a posthumous financial gift from Texan William J. McDonald whose name still graces the observatory. Another citizen, Violet Locke McIvor, generously donated land from her cattle ranch and the local mountain was shortly renamed Mount Locke.

In 1975, the State Legislature of Texas passed House Bill 75, regulating outdoor lighting within a 75-mile radius of the McDonald Observatory. The region continues refining lighting protection guidelines today.

These actions marked the beginning of what is now known as The Greater Big Bend International Dark Sky Reserve, a designation made just in 2022. This area spans more than 15,000 square miles across Texas and Mexico. It is now recognized as the largest certified dark-sky region in the world. 

Big Bend National Park

Many visitors seeking a dark sky experience combine it with a trip to Big Bend National Park.

Like other National Parks, travelers can enjoy camping, hiking, and scenic drives during the day. At night, another story is told.

Many first-time visitors are surprised by the density of the sky itself — not just a scattering of stars, but thousands visible at once. The silence also becomes part of the story.

Campers pull folding chairs into the open desert and stay outside long after temperatures begin to drop. Conversations pause repeatedly as new stars emerge overhead, voices drop, almost reverently. The only sounds you may hear are wind moving through the desert and the occasional bird or coyote call. Other than that, you almost feel like you are floating.

Different parts of the park can offer somewhat different experiences. The most atmospheric locations include the Chisos Basin, Santa Elena Canyon, and Rio Grande Village.

In the Chisos Basin, mountains frame the sky and create an almost intimate feeling of the stars being surrounded. Near Santa Elena Canyon, the darkness feels vast and remote, with canyon walls disappearing almost completely after sunset. Rio Grande Village offers broad, open sky views where the Milky Way often becomes visible without any equipment at all.

But after dark, in any area of the park, the lack of city noise or artificial light, allows Big Bend visitors to almost feel physically still; stargazing becomes more than scenery.

And it may be trendy to say it, but people often leave changed. The darkness reshapes their sense of space and scale. Many visitors leave with a new awareness of how much modern life has disconnected people from experiences like this.

McDonald Observatory

Not every memorable stargazing experience in Texas requires total wilderness isolation.

The McDonald Observatory, located in the Davis Mountains near Fort Davis, makes dark sky viewing more guided and accessible while still maintaining the atmosphere of remote West Texas.

The observatory also broadens the article beyond camping culture and rugged desert travel. It creates an entry point for travelers who may prefer small-town lodging, scenic drives, and more structured experiences.

With its public evening programs and star parties, the observatory makes the dark sky personal and approachable for the more casual traveler. Visitors gather after sunset for constellation tours, telescope viewing, and guided discussions led by observatory staff.

But the impact remains the same. Imagine seeing Saturn’s rings or Jupiter’s moons! “Wows” and shouts are common as well as “come here, you have to see this!”

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area and Beyond

As iconic and renowned as Big Bend is for stargazing, the Texas Hill Country should not be overlooked.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, located near Fredericksburg, combines hiking, open landscape, and night-sky viewing in a way that works especially well for weekend travelers from Austin and San Antonio.

For sure, the vibe here feels different from Big Bend. Less remote. Less overwhelming. But still deeply atmospheric.

Fredericksburg enables travelers to pair stargazing with cabins, wineries, restaurants, and slower Hill Country weekends. American history fans can even visit the nearby Lyndon Johnson Historical Park.

This rich menu of options is especially attractive for couples and casual road-trippers who are dark-sky curious but may not feel ready for a full-on wilderness expedition.

Other Texas parks help support awareness of the Texas dark sky movement.

For example, Copper Breaks State Park offers structured monthly star programs, while Devils River State Natural Area represents one of the most pristine night-sky environments in the state with exceptionally low light pollution.

Together, these locations remind us that Texas stargazing is not confined to one famous national park. The state contains an increasingly diverse map of dark-sky experiences for travelers across Texas looking for different kinds of dark-sky experiences.

Stargazing as Slow Travel

Regardless of where you choose to travel to see the Texan sky, astronomy groups recommend red-light flashlights to help preserve night vision, much better than traditional white light. In fact, some parks ban white light flashlights – check before you go.

When it comes to planning, check the moon phase, not just the weather, for the days of your trip. As magnificent as a full moon is, it can actually hurt your dark sky visibility.

And as for your phones, please try leaving them in the car! Chances are you will have limited service anyway but at a minimum screens should be dimmed.

Perhaps that is part of what makes Texas stargazing feel so meaningful right now.

In a world filled with constant alerts, artificial light, and endless distractions, true darkness has become surprisingly rare. In West Texas especially, the night sky still has the power to slow people down completely. Conversations soften. Phones disappear. Travelers stay outside far longer than they intended, staring upward as the Milky Way stretches across the sky.

In the best parts of West Texas, the night sky still has the power to slow people down completely. And in a world filled with constant light and noise, that power may be rarer than people realize. It is about silence, scale, and rediscovering what night used to feel like before artificial light drowned most of it out.

With so many action and site-filled travel options, it is somewhat unusual to decide on a vacation to simply look and feel. Yet, a visit to this beautiful part of the state will reward you on levels you won’t expect. And provide unique experiences and memories not gained from your usual vacation destinations.

As the song goes “The stars are big and bright deep in the heart of Texas.” Let them change you.

Let’s clear parking off your to-do list before you set out for the beach.

It shouldn’t turn into a heated discussion in the car while everyone’s already in their swimsuits. Parking decisions don’t have to be made at the last minute.

Instead, block off a few minutes while you’re sipping your steaming coffee, prepping the kids’ lunches for the beach, or folding laundry in anticipation of a day out on the sand.

This time is for you. A little research, a little planning, a little less stress in your day.

Here are 6 beaches where knowing the parking layout ahead of time is the difference between a perfect day and turning around.

1. Galveston Beach

Pay for parking along Seawall Boulevard in Galveston.

Call 1-866-234-7275 to pay for your parking space. Be sure to use the code 5004 to indicate your location at the Seawall.

Use the PayByPhone app or pay directly at paybyphone.com.

How does it work? All parking transactions are made in real-time, so your parking status will be active for any patrol cars or parking ambassadors checking cars along the Seawall.

Because you can pay by phone or the app, there’s no need to stick a paper receipt on your car’s dashboard or to get a sticker or hang-tag for your car. All of your parking payments are linked to one license plate and are non-transferrable.

You’re able to add more time remotely via the phone or app. You’ll get a payment receipt online for your records. Sign up for text alerts to get reminders about how much time you have left and so on.

If you get an annual pass, you’re able to opt in to text or email reminders when your pass is one week away from expiring.

The fee is $2 an hour with a two-hour minimum. It maxes out at $16 per day. Annual passes are available, if you think you’ll visit frequently.

The Seawall’s paid parking hours are from 10 a.m. through 6 p.m. every day.

Free parking is available on the north side of the Seawall between 12th and 19th streets, 33rd and 39th streets, 53rd and 61st streets, and 85th and 91st streets.

Where: Galveston, Texas

2. Whitecap Beach

You can get to Whitecap Beach in Corpus Christi off Whitecap Boulevard or Access Road 4 from South Padre Island Drive.

Parking permits are required to park at Whitecap Beach.

Stickers are $12 and are available year-round. Stop by the Corpus Christi Visitor Information Center, or any Stripes stores (on Padre Island, Flour Bluff, or central Corpus Christi).

Circle K stores on Padre Island and Flour Bluff also have these parking stickers for sale. Or you can drop by H-E-B in Aransas Pass, Corpus Christi, Calallen, Portland, or Rockport for snacks and a parking sticker.

How does the sticker work? Paste it on your car’s windshield, and you’re good to go.

This sticker gives you access to miles of beaches. It’s valid from January 1 through December 31 of the year you buy the sticker.

The sticker works for all city and county beaches, and you have unlimited access during that year.

Something cool about this sticker is that beach permit fees go toward maintaining the beaches. That includes beach maintenance, lifeguard salaries, and projects that keep our beaches clean and safe.

Where: Corpus Christi, Texas

3. Matagorda Beach

At Matagorda Beach, vehicles are allowed to drive over the beach.

You’ll need a beach vehicle permit, but these permits are good for all beaches in the county.

They’re valid through December 31 of the year you buy it.

These fees help fund law enforcement patrols, parking, trash services, and public restrooms at the beach.

Note that you’ll be issued a fine between $50 and $200 if you drive on the beach without a permit.

Purchase a vehicle permit at one of their local shops, such as Stanley’s Market, Wayne’s Bait Camp at River Bend Boat Ramp, or Buddy’s Seafood and Bait.

Other options are Rawling’s Bait Camp or the LCRA Matagorda Bay Nature Park.

With a permit in hand, you can head straight onto the sand without a second thought.

Matagorda Beach has soft sugar sand, so don’t be surprised if it’s tougher than you thought to steer over the sand.

When driving conditions are favorable, you’ll be able to drive miles down the beach. On days when the sand is especially soft, you may not get more than a few feet past the paved entrance.

These vehicle permits cost $10 for a year.

The county does grade the beach entrance during the summer, so that’ll make it easier to get out onto the beach’s sand.

This beach is considered a state highway, which means all usual driving regulations and rules apply.

The speed limit is 15 mph on the beach.

There’s a trail you can follow in your vehicle, but watch for mud and native grasses.

Where: Matagorda, Texas

4. Rockport Beach

The fee to enter Rockport Beach counts as your parking pass.

The daily fee is $10, and the annual fee is $50.

Parking permits are available to buy at Rockport Beach Booth A. This office is open weekdays from 8 a.m. through 5 p.m. Their phone number is 361-729-6661.

If you get the annual pass, be sure to ask for a receipt. This receipt is your proof of payment for your annual pass. If you lose the receipt, you’ll have to buy another annual pass.

No vehicles can go driving on the beach.

Veterans with a disability can get a free annual pass with the relevant documents. You can pick up your pass at Booth A.

The beach is divided into two sections: one side is paid parking, the other is free. Both fill up fast, so arrive early if you can.

One side of the beach is paid parking; the other side is free parking. There’s a small public area that’s open to pets.

The paid parking area gives you access to a longer beach area (more miles). It also has picnic tables and canopies. It gets busy, so choose your day/time wisely.

Where: Rockport, Texas

5. Surfside Beach

Good news! Vehicles can venture out onto Surfside Beach.

Anyone who’s parking or driving at this beach needs a hang-tag to stick on their rearview mirror. It’s a daily pass that’ll let you park or drive on the beach.

If you get an annual pass, it’ll come as a sticker. Paste it on the left-hand side of your windshield.

Daily passes are $15; annual passes are $30.

The beach speed limit is 15 mph. Two-way parking is permitted at the water’s edge and at the dunes.

When it’s a holiday, a weekend, or at high tide, there’s a possibility it’ll change to one-way traffic or even a temporary beach closure.

ATVs aren’t allowed on the beach. Only vehicles that you can ride on a street are allowed on the beach.

Golf carts are allowed, but you have to have insurance and a driver’s license.

The sand dunes aren’t a good place to park your car. They’re off limits because of snakes that live in the dunes.

The pedestrian beach that’s west of Starfish is closed to all vehicles.

And on select weekends throughout the year, and all summer, horses are allowed on the beach. Watch for them as you drive and park!

Where: Surfside Beach, Texas

6. Mustang Island State Park

The entrance fee is $7 daily for adults. Kids 12 years old and younger are free.

It’s open every day from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Note that it fills up fast, so make reservations for daytime use. Spring and summer are their busy seasons.

To arrange a school-sponsored group visit, call the park at 361-749-5246.

Their annual pass is a Texas State Parks Pass. You and your guests can go on unlimited visits to more than 80 state parks without paying entrance fees. Now, that’s a good deal!

It costs $70 per year. You’ll also get discounts on camping, state park gift shops, and equipment rentals.

There’s a free Texas Parklands Passport, too.

The passport lets you get 50% off the entry fee if you’re a Texas resident who is 65 years old or older. There’s a 50% off discount on the fee for people with disabilities.

The entrance fee is waived if you’re an active-duty military member or veteran, or if you’re born before September 1, 1930.

Where: Corpus Christi, Texas

The Best Spots Don’t Wait

Have your shoulders relaxed? Those worry lines vanished?

A beach day is meant to be relaxing. And the smart way to start that day right is to prevent a tense car discussion before it even kicks up.

Parking isn’t an unknown. Before you lock your door, as you leave the house, have a plan in mind for where you’re going to park, where you’re going to get a parking permit or pass, and the path you’ll take to get over to the sand, waves, and sunshine.

Get a great spot on the beach before they fill up this summer. Not too far from the water. Away from any trash or sea plants. Close to amenities, restrooms, and more.

Planners aren’t always celebrated as the “fun” member of the group.

But a peaceful car ride to the beach? That’s thanks enough.

And PS – no joke about that sunscreen. Gulf breezes are famously cooling but that sun is deceptively brutal. Reapply sunscreen after a dip in the water and a few hours on land.

Ok, let’s dive in! Each of the following beaches will offer you a nice family feel but each with its own distinct appeal. And each of them is easy to reach from major highways and metro areas, making them ideal for day-trippers.

Try them all to find your family’s personal favorite: Stewart Beach, Rockport Beach, and Surfside Beach.

1. Stewart Beach

Only 50 miles from Houston, this beach is so rich with amenities that it is an easy decision to go – no heavy packing required. Of all these great beach stops, Stewart Beach is perhaps the ultimate “add water and stir” beach.

There are plenty of clean restrooms and amenities. The beach is staffed with lifeguards in season, which is not always common on other beaches. And the beach is dog-friendly in most areas, as long as they are on a leash and accompanied by a person, no free running.

The gentle surf and no alcohol policy add to a calm, family atmosphere.

After a major hurricane in the early 1900s, the coastline at Stewart Beach was totally reimagined and reengineered. The sand is constantly groomed, making it a bit on the firm side. Plopping down a rented beach chair and umbrella is quick and easy.

In fact, one local beach chair and umbrella service, John’s Beach Service, has been helping families get settled at Galveston Beach for 85 years. 

Talk about stress-free, beach-going.

After a few hours, your bellies may start to rumble. You certainly can pack a cooler but plenty of lunch and snack options are nearby too for the ultimate convenience. 

By afternoon, if you need a break from all that sun and surf, gather everyone up and head over to the nearby Moody Gardens Aquarium. It is found in the distinctive glass pyramid-shaped buildings right near the surf’s edge.

Every year, Moody’s holds a lighthearted annual tradition of having resident sea life predict the winning team of the NFL’s Super Bowl Game. In the past, octopus, seals, otters, even a Komodo Dragon have weighed in with a guess for the victor of the Big Game.

To be fair, no one is touting their track record of success.

However, you can enjoy the “winning” atmosphere of Moody’s Garden Aquarium as a welcome beach break.

Make sure to leave time for a final walk on the adjacent historic seawall and then a short ride home.

If you choose to spend a day at the very popular Stewart Beach, do as the locals suggest to avoid crowds. Try to arrive before 10 a.m. (beaches open at 9 a.m.). Going a bit further east gives you a bit more room to spread out.

Oh, and speaking of crowds…

If you are looking to make your getaway sometime in March, it might be wise to check local university calendars. Texas A&M is just a hop, skip and a jump away from Stewart Beach.

Plan smart: avoid mid-March. This way you won’t be sharing the beach with thousands of Aggies with a bit of spring fever.

2. Rockport Beach

Just a quick shot up TX-35 from Corpus Christi lies this little gem of a town and its bayfront beach.

Rockport Beach has been called the safest, and calmest beach in Texas. Locals say it is just like a giant outdoor saltwater pool.

Rockport Beach offers parents all the things to love about a beach — sun, water, nature — with very few of the risks: cars, rough water, boisterous crowds.

This is the perfect beach to introduce toddlers and young kids to beach life.

A very long shallow water entry and nearly no waves make playing in the water calming and much less risky than a pounding surf. Great for your littlest ones splashing around with their bucket and shovel toys.

Clean restrooms, handicap accessibility, and even playgrounds make family visits practical and easy.

Rockport Beach has even made certain that a beach’s most coveted asset, shade, is plentiful.

Scattered across the beach are little palapas, umbrella-like shelters that look a bit like a man-made palm tree. It is a nice way to catch a little shade closer to the water without dragging umbrellas around.

Emphasis here is on wading, napping, building sandcastles or catching up on your favorite beach read.

Spending a day on Rockport Beach doesn’t feel like just visiting a beach. It feels more like stepping back into another time. One with a slower, more intentional rhythm.

And one big reason? There are no cars allowed on the beach, which keeps everything quieter, calmer, and far more peaceful.

After eating a picnic lunch under a tree, consider getting out on the water.

There are boat tours to see the local wildlife, including whooping cranes and dolphins. And if the kids are old enough, other more active water sports like jet skiing are available locally as well.

After lunch, it might be nice to visit some of Rockport Beach’s feathered residents.

The west side of the beach is a designated bird sanctuary designed to help nesting birds and to give local birds a safe place of their own.

The local Rotary Club installed 2 telescopes on a platform near the nesting grounds to give an up close look at birdlife.

If the kids haven’t seen a heron or egret, they are in for a treat!

In fact, Rockport Beach is the first beach in Texas to be named a “Blue Wave” beach for its focus on protecting the ecosystem. There are only 3 other beaches with this designation on the Texas Gulf Coast.

Because of emphasis on local wildlife, Rockport Beach does not allow dogs on the beach. So, for this trip, Fido and friends stay home.

But before you leave, make sure you get a photo op of the gang under The Big Blue Crab, on Laurel Street, right near the entrance/exit.

This huge, whimsical 25×27 foot fiberglass and steel structure may just be Rockport’s unofficial mascot.

A nod to the local crabbing industry, the original structure was much smaller — until a hurricane took it out. But in true Texas style, The Big Blue Crab was brought back bigger and better than before.

Rockport Beach shares its name with the charming surrounding town. On the way home, you can stop in one of its beachy shops or a fun casual restaurant.

Or just go straight for the good stuff and end your day with a delicious ice cream cone.

3. Surfside Beach

If you are looking for a beach with more variety in activities, including more traditional wave power, then the ‘surf’ at Surfside Beach won’t disappoint.

It offers a very different water feel than Galveston or Rockport, giving Houstonians a genuinely different beach experience.

You are welcome to bring up to three furry friends (even cats by permission!) but they must be leashed at all times. And while there are permanent restrooms near the entrance areas, portable toilets are scattered beachside.

Surfside’s four miles of sand offers your family lots of options to entertain themselves here for a day. This makes Surfside a great choice for kids of various ages or those interested in more physical activities than sun worshipping.

Yes, surfing is available at Surfside Beach!

If you have a parking permit, you can drive your vehicle up on the beach, unload your gear, and pick up a daily fishing license over at the Surfside Mart.

Want to cast from the jetty, fish from a kayak, or keep it simple from the shoreline? Or maybe you’ll choose to lower some crab traps instead.

Some tough choices, but you’ll have lots of fun making them.

And while there isn’t a designated sanctuary area like there is at Rockport Beach, Surfside holds a “Bird City” status from The Audubon Society and Texas Park and Wildlife.

Pick up a free bird locator brochure for a self-guided tour or head to the designated Bird & Butterfly Trail where the kids might spot anything from a hummingbird to a bird of prey.

If you are at Surfside during March or October, you will be treated to an amazing display of Monarch butterflies that choose to rest here during their annual migration.

Get your smartphone cameras ready!

Watching thousands of orange and black wings fluttering through the air—and seeing your kids’ faces light up—is something you won’t forget.

The most spectacular display happens very early in the morning.

It is a once-in-a-lifetime moment worthy of an early breakfast.

Before you leave, be sure to stop at Fort Velasco.

Not many beaches can claim a little piece of military history. But this location, now occupied by City Hall, should hold a special place in the heart of every Texan. It was where the first battle of the Texan revolution was fought and subsequent treaties signed.

Texas independence from Mexico was established right here, four years before The Alamo.

As your family drives home, ask yourself: is that glow from a sense of Lone Star pride, or just another picture-perfect Texas Gulf Coast sunset?

This all started when a good friend and fellow native Texan proposed a one-night backpacking loop in central Texas. I’d never backpacked before, and I certainly didn’t know about any backpacking destinations in Texas at the time. 

But when I checked out the Goodwater Loop on the San Gabriel River Trail, my interest was piqued. My friend and I started putting together the details and logistics for what would be my very first backpacking trip. We’d have to drive a few hours south from our hometown near Fort Worth, and park at the trailhead by Lake Georgetown, just north of Austin. 

The Goodwater Loop is close enough to civilization, and as I’d later find out, there are actually plenty of other incredible backpacking spots in Texas. But for my first backpacking trip, this charming and moderately challenging loop would turn out to be quite the adventure.

Why the Goodwater Loop?

I’d been camping in North Texas plenty of times before. Just a night or two, plus some day hikes here and there, nothing more. But going for an overnight backpacking trip, having to pack all of our gear, food, water filters, tents, etc., was a completely new challenge for me. 

Luckily, my friend was experienced with backpacking, and he’d even gone to other multi-day trails in Texas. As he explained, the Goodwater Loop is great for beginner backpackers because it’s relatively short (about 26 miles), near water (Lake Georgetown), and not too far of a drive from the Fort Worth area.

The Goodwater Loop is a straightforward trail. It circles the lake, and there are a couple of places to camp along the trail. There’s potential to spot Texas wildlife, like white-tailed deer, armadillos, raccoons, foxes, herons, hawks, and even vultures.

As a beginner, this loop was accessible to me but still posed an exciting endeavor. The 26 miles that wrap around the lake would be quite the distance, which we’d split into two days of about six hours of hiking per day. Plus, the terrain is fairly easy, with some rolling hills and little up-and-downs along the way. 

It didn’t feel too intimidating to me because of how close we’d be to major cities in case of emergencies, and we’d have cell service most of the time. Austin and Georgetown are quite close to the Goodwater Loop, and we could call emergency services if needed. Maybe it was overkill to consider all these precautions, but as a first-timer in this hobby, my mind was reeling at all the things that could go horribly wrong in the Texas wilderness.

Tackling the Goodwater Loop as a Beginner

I didn’t have a tent, hiking poles, technical clothing, water filters, or any other backpacking gear to succeed on my own on this trail. Fortunately, my friend had extras of everything. And since we were going in the springtime, the weather was mild, so we didn’t need heavy winter clothes. 

On the other hand, we also wouldn’t be roasting alive under a hot summer Texas sun. Backpacking in Texas can be brutal if you go in the summer. Venturing out in March was a convenient, safe time to go in terms of weather. 

I packed everything I could think of to be well-prepared for this two-day backpacking loop. Band-aids, creams, sunscreen, nail clippers, a lighter, a pocket knife, extra socks, light gloves, and a beanie.

While I packed, I couldn’t help but picture us out there in the middle of the trail with nothing but whatever we brought in our packs. I tried to balance my desire to have all the “just in case” items with the need to keep my backpack a reasonable weight.

Starting Out on the Trail & First Impressions

After a three-hour drive south from DFW on Interstate 35, nearly all the way to Austin, we arrived at the trailhead and stepped out of the car into a noticeably different climate. Clouds covered the morning sky, and the air felt crisper and cooler than it had in Fort Worth.

We put on our fleece jackets for the cold air and pulled out our packs from the car. Adjusting our hiking poles, we looked around and noticed there were already a couple of other cars at the trailhead. I felt comforted by this sight, given that it meant we’d have at least some company on this giant loop around Lake Georgetown. 

The start of the Goodwater Loop was innocent enough. Overcast by the gray clouds hanging low in the sky, dark green bushes and trees seemed to swallow the dirt trail that started after a very clear sign that read “San Gabriel River Trail / Goodwater Loop.”

The ground felt soft, and the dirt trail was simple enough, but the vegetation that surrounded us made me feel completely immersed in nature. Low shrubs and hardy oak and juniper trees that are signature features in the Central Texas ecosystem hugged the trail as we made our way along.

Over the next few hours, we traveled step by step with our heavy backpacks full of water and food and tents and supplies through juniper forests mixed with prairie grasslands. The beauty of this Texas wilderness gave me such a sense of peace. Here and there, through the thick of the trees, we could see pretty views of Lake Georgetown.

What surprised me about the terrain was that it turned out to be more varied than I expected, the farther along we went. Up until that point, I’d only experienced certain parts of the terrain and landscape in Texas, so seeing all that nature up close was exciting.

Over the course of hours of walking along the meandering path, we started to notice the colors of different rocks and limestone. We noticed how some areas were greener than others, and sometimes we’d hear critters scurrying through the bushes. 

Despite the Goodwater Loop’s proximity to Austin, it felt increasingly remote when we got a few miles into the trail. We didn’t see a single person for hours. It was just an endless rhythm of walking with our packs and poles around this little lake in the middle of our humongous state.

A lot of people think of Texas as vast, empty, flat land, but this trail gave us a different feel. We were totally immersed in a rich ecosystem that deserves exploration.

Camping on the Goodwater Loop & Campfire with Fellow Backpackers

After a relatively tranquil 14 miles of walking under the cloudy Texas sky, we finally reached the Sawyer campsite on the opposite side of the lake. We saw a few other tents already set up there, and placed our tents at a respectful distance, zipper doors facing the lake. 

The temperature dropped considerably as the sun went down, and we were left to bundle up as we put together our meager backpacking-style dinners. My friend brought his tiny backpacking stove, while I had non-cookable food: tortillas with packaged tuna. 

After the sun had completely gone down and darkness swept over the camp, we saw our neighbors lighting up a campfire in the middle of the campsite. They invited us over, generous enough to share the fire and even some snacks. Enjoying the camaraderie of this night with these kind strangers was a huge part of what made the Goodwater Loop backpacking trip unforgettable. 

Exiting the Goodwater Loop

The next day, we woke up to a frigid morning and a fresh coat of dew covering the campsite. After eating a light breakfast, we packed away all of our things along with our tents and started hiking once again. The trail curved left and right, following the rugged shoreline of Lake Georgetown.

We were both a bit sore from carrying our backpacks for several hours the day before, but the fresh weather and the thought of getting a hot meal after finishing our trip kept us motivated. On the way out, I was happy to have worn long hiking pants to protect me from some prickly brush we had to squeeze through in one section. Meanwhile, the clouds stayed consistent, threatening rain but thankfully never dropping any.

The final two miles stretched on longer than expected, especially given that we’d run out of snacks. We were almost done with our mini adventure in the Texas wilderness.

And as we finally made it back to the trailhead and threw our dirty packs in the trunk, we decided it was time for a meal—a classic fast-food choice in Texas: Whataburger. It was the perfect reward after those long 26 miles.

Do I Recommend the Goodwater Loop to First-Time Backpackers?

I’m beyond happy to have experienced Texas backpacking for the first time on the Goodwater Loop. Just one overnight on this enchanting looped trail is an excellent way to start a backpacking hobby (or addiction, as mine turned out to be). 

The Goodwater Loop is centrally located in Texas, close to major cities, and well-established, which made it a great option for me. But I have to say, for beginners, you’ve got to respect the mileage. It was important that my friend and I were prepared for the rain and chilly weather, and that we planned ahead and informed friends and family of our whereabouts.

It’s sure not easy. But backpacking is never entirely easy; there’s always planning and physical/mental effort required. Not to mention you’ve got to be aware of the sometimes incredibly spontaneous Texas weather. Storms and weather changes can be unpredictable, and it’s best to prepare for whatever may come.

Whether you’re just visiting Texas or you’ve been here for a while but want to try backpacking for the first time, I really recommend the Goodwater Loop as an accessible and enjoyable starting point. It’s a real introduction to the world of backpacking and a memorable way to experience some of the natural beauty in our great state of Texas.

In present-day Hueco Tanks, you can hike, rock climb, camp, bird watch, study nature, history, and even picnic or stargaze. The outdoor recreation activities are endless at this park, as well as the rich history.

Hueco Tanks originally earned its name from the holes that appear to have been scooped out of the rocks. These holes were exposed due to continuous erosion. These scoops became known as “huecos” which is the Spanish word for “hollows”.

The huecos have always played a vital role in the historic significance of this site, as they collect rainwater. Thus they provide a desert oasis, time and time again.

This site has always been a crucial stop for travelers, hunters, and gatherers in the arid Chihuahuan Desert.

To the present day, Hueco remains an essential and ceremonial site to many modern tribes, including the Kiowa, Mescalero Apache, and Tigua.

Due to its prosperous history, access to the public is strictly regulated. Most areas require guided tours to protect the fragility of the land.

Present-day descendants still actively perform religious ceremonies on the site. This continues to honor thousands of years of uninterrupted tradition.

One of the major ancestral beliefs remaining strong to this day is the vitality of the huecos. They are viewed as a miraculous gift and meant to be honored.

The rain itself is also meant to be honored, as it is in most places that are so barren. Themed offerings are often given to the land as gratitude..

Even the most typical rock-climbing van-dwellers, who the site attracts, are asked to adhere to this level of respect, no matter how casual the visit.

Like all climbing areas made of sandstone, it’s considered unethical to climb on the rock until 24 hours after any rain event. Locals are very strict about this so use your judgment wisely.

It is the site in the general area, where prehistoric and historic records exist simultaneously.

Additionally, it’s a major destination for modern adventure-seekers and rock enthusiasts.

The massive huecos provide a more dynamic climbing style and three-dimensional movement. This attracts a surprisingly athletic and youthful crowd to the ancient site. This is impactful, as the history of Hueco Tanks is continuing to be developed, to our present day.

Between 1000 and 1300 AD, many groups lived among the rock hills. This time period is referred to as the Doña Ana phase. Fresh soil was targeted for vegetation and a trail was clearly created in ancient times, leading towards water and salt access. The area was used by Spanish explorers and travelers on the Butterfield Overland Mail route.

That trail continued to remain in use through the Gold Rush era, the cattle driving era, and has always been utilized by military officials.

The turn off to Hueco is only about 25 miles east of El Paso. There are only two ways to get there from the city, so be careful not to miss it.

There is a minimum of $150/guide a day required to explore the park. Once reservations are made, it’s heavily advised to obtain a TSSP, Texas State Parks Pass. One pass can cover a whole group entering in one vehicle.

The park is very heavily trafficked nowadays, as it has become quite famous. The park permits 10 visitors each morning to come in without a reservation. So if you fancy camping out early to get that worm and avoid the 100$ reservation fees, this could be an option for you.

The Hueco Rock Ranch is an amazing option as far as accommodation goes, as long as you don’t have any dogs accompanying you. The ranch has a middle-of-the-desert feel to it, as it’s off the main road.

*Note: This base camp has been recently bought by the American Alpine Club. The new contact email for them is: hueco@americanalpineclub.org

Dogs are very tricky to bring along to Hueco. They’re prohibited in most areas and it’s often too hot to leave your dogs for a day, especially if traveling by van.

They are allowed in the park. However, it isn’t easy. Pets may be left unattended in an approved crate in the back of a truck, but “may not be exposed to excessive heat or cold (the rangers will make a subjective judgment regarding this).”

The other option is to leave them in a motorhome/ trailer/ van at a designated campsite.

Though, do note that leaving them in a tent is not a permitted option.

As far as rock climbers go, they are most of the remaining demographic, after the archaeological use of the area. It is, as you can assume, now one of the more regulated places to climb.

But it’s deeper than that. Hueco is a contender for the birthplace of modern bouldering. This kicked off in 1980, building to a climax in the early 2000’s, before the more recent restrictions slowed things down.

Before arrival, you must apply for a disorientation card. To obtain a card, you will have to watch the disorientation video. You will then be able to travel unescorted anywhere in the North Mountain zone.

Keep in mind that reservations are needed up to 3 months in advance for North Mountain, as it’s the biggest and most developed climbing area.

Zoned Access: The park is divided into self-guided and guided areas. Here’s a basic outline to help you differentiate where you’d like to go.

• North Mountain (Self-Guided): Open to 70 people daily. It is highly recommended to reserve permits up to 90 days in advance by calling (512) 389-8911.
• East Mountain, West Mountain, and East Spur (Guided Only): Access requires a guide. Tours must be booked at least one week in advance by calling (915) 857-1135

As most climbers live their lives according to freedom of will, these regulations often spike frustration and controversy.

This however, can be forgiven by learning about the area’s bountiful history.

There is a bouldering tour offered for climbers, which will be led by a member of the park staff.

If you’re not a climber or a major history buff and you just appreciate being in a beautiful place for a few days, there are some lovely trails for you. This is especially enchanting while the desert is in bloom.

Laguna Prieta and Ponds trail are well known for spectating this.

You can even hike the Laguna Prieta trail to the Kiva cave. It’s a simple hike, about 1km in length. However temperatures can spike quite high during the day, so it’s always recommended in the desert to start early and bring plenty of water.

You can get a unique glimpse into the BaseCamp of Cerro del Indio.

Cerro del Indio in Juarez Mexico, served as a crucial observation point for Apache warriors to survey nearby Rio Grande settlements, such as El Paso del Norte, to plan raids. The site features a natural spring, so Apache fighters could build a base camp to monitor their cattle and water their horses, and their people could continue the raid.

Hueco is very unique for the wide spectrum of visitors that flock to the site and their individual purpose for visiting the land.

You can capture a similar feeling when you explore the almost prehistoric, cypress-shaded sloughs where two large rivers meet at the edge of the heavily forested Big Thicket. This is Martin Dies, Jr. State Park.

Where The Park Is Located

There’s So Much to Explore

Martin Dies, Jr. State Park consists of 705 acres of water, swamps, and forested land. It’s rich in wildlife and outdoor activities.

But before you start exploring, let’s review some park vocabulary. The park consists of three “units.” Each unit is an area of land with unique amenities. 

The Hen House Ridge Unit to the south and the Walnut Ridge Unit to the north are separated by the B.A. Steinhagen Reservoir. Hen House Ridge has cabins, campsites, a designated swimming area, and a nature center.

Walnut Ridge Unit also has cabins as well as camping loops. The units are conveniently connected by Park Road 2.

The Cherokee Unit is sometimes considered part of the Walnut Ridge Unit. Also known as the Cherokee Day Use Area, it features boat ramps and paddling trails.

You’ll also see the term “slough” all over the park. Pronounced “sloo,” it refers to a muddy or swampy area. Sloughs are great for paddling, and campsites near sloughs offer direct, if muddy, access to the water.

Paddling Martin Dies Jr. State Park

Travel influencers have called the park a “boater’s paradise” because of the readily available canoe and kayak rentals and dedicated paddling trails in the Cherokee Day Use area.

Three marked routes total nearly fourteen miles kayak trails. On the Walnut Slough Trail, you’ll glide through 4.3 miles of towering bald cypress forests, winking between open water and shaded passages.

Sandy Creek contains 4.9 miles of slow-moving water. This route is perfect for beginners, as it does not require shuttle or portage—that is, you don’t have to leave a vehicle at the end to drive back to the beginning, nor do you have to carry your kayak over land. The area is also rich in wildlife.

For a more adventurous day on the water, check out the Neches Paddling Trail. Buoys will guide you through the faster currents of the Neches River. You can choose to paddle as little as 3.2 miles or as much as 16 miles.

The Neches is the park’s most challenging as well as most rewarding paddling experience. Depending on conditions and how much you explore, expect the longer journey to take two to eight hours, and pack accordingly.

Fishing in the Park

In addition to kayaking, you can explore the waterways by paddleboard. If you bring along the right gear, the fishing can’t be beat. You might bring home a haul of largemouth bass, six other bass species, blue catfish, channel catfish, crappie, and various species of perch, including sunfish.

The deeper waters of the B.A. Steinhagen Reservoir have produced especially large blue catfish up to 41 inches in length. 

There are boat ramps on the Neches and Angelina rivers, but you don’t need a boat or a board to fish from. The park contains fishing piers in the Hen House Ridge Unit, and bank fishing is also popular. Lighted piers allow convenient use even after dark.

Fishing licenses are not required within the park when fishing from the banks or piers.

And, if you’d like to clean and cook your catch, you can. Barbecue grills are available near the park headquarters and Forest Trailhead.

Other Activities to Enjoy

We drew you in with promises of a kayaker’s paradise, but there’s plenty for land lubbers to enjoy as well. 

The park contains more than seven miles of hiking trails. If you just want to look at the water without getting out on it, the Island trail offers stunning lake views.

The 2.2-mile Slough Trail crosses sixteen bridges, providing an on-the-water experience without a kayak. If the forest is more your speed, check out the Forest, Whitetail, and Wildlife Trails.

In the heat of summer, the calm waters are inviting to swimmers. The Hen House Ridge Unit has a designated swimming area. Enjoy your swim, but exercise due caution: no lifeguards are present, but alligators may be.

Speaking of wildlife, many species can be observed in the park, often from the comfort of your kayak. You might see white-tailed deer, raccoons, opossums, foxes, bobcats, or armadillos.

Birders can keep an eye and ear peeled for pileated woodpeckers, anhingas, herons, and egrets. There are also alligators and previously mentioned, and snakes including timber rattlers and coral snakes.

Ecologically, the park is truly unique. It has been called a “legendary biological crossroads where eastern forests, Gulf Coast prairies, and southwestern deserts blend into something found nowhere else on Earth.”

Finally, as your day draws to a close, don’t forget to look up. The park’s distance from big cities provides a dark sky environment that is ideal for stargazing. 

Check the park’s calendar for stargazing events. Rangers host events where you may learn to identify constellations or experience a rare sight invisible in urban areas.

Staying Overnight in the Park

Martin Dies Jr. State Park provides ample opportunities for exciting day trips, but it can also be an overnight destination—especially if you crave more paddling or fishing than a single day can hold.

You can choose your own adventure and your level of amenities: basic tent sites, electric and water hookups for campers, and screened shelters and cabins are available.

More than 200 campsites are available. Many have lake access.

Guided Tours

If you’d prefer a knowledgeable guide on your adventures, the park hosts a number of ranger programs. You can check the Events page of the Texas Parks and Wildlife official website for day hikes, night hikes, paddling tours, star parties, geocaching, and more. 

The Nature Center in the Hen House Ridge Unit hosts frequent activities for all ages. Kids can pick up a free Junior Ranger Activity Journal at the park headquarters and complete tasks to earn a badge. 

They can also borrow a Junior Rangers Explorer Pack loaded with binoculars, a magnifying glass, an animal tracking key, a pencil, crayons, watercolors, a journal, a sketchbook, and guides to wildflowers, trees, birds, butterflies, and rocks.

If they love the Explorer Pack, your little adventurer can take home a Mini Explorer Pack from the park store. This will allow them to keep exploring nature in their own backyard and beyond.

Why Such a Morbid Name?

When I first laid eyes on the “Martin Dies” sign, it was startling. It almost seemed like a threat to anyone named Martin! I knew there must be a story behind it, and I was determined to track it down.

The park got its start in 1964, when the state leased parkland from the United States Army Corps of Engineers. In 1965, it opened under the name Dam B State Park. 

Later that same year, the park was renamed in honor of State Senator Martin Dies, Jr. He had been serving in the Texas Senate since 1959. Before that, he and his father had served in law and politics.

So, no one died to give this park its name. In fact, its namesake lived on until 2001.

How to Get There

Martin Dies, Jr. State Park is located along U.S. Route 190 in Jasper and Tyler counties. You can use the map below to navigate to the Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Headquarters. You’ll find easy access to the Forest Trailhead from Park HQ.

Image: https://txheadlines.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/image-9.jpg

Where: 634 State Hwy 48 Park Rd South, Jasper, Texas 75951

On the far eastern edge of Texas, it is an easy drive from Louisiana or the Gulf Coast. It’s a few hours’ drive from Houston and roughly 55 miles north of Beaumont, between Jasper and Woodville.

The park is open daily from 6 am to 10 pm. Kayak and canoe rentals are available from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm at the park headquarters or an automated kiosk in the Hen House Ridge Unit. Rentals include life jackets and paddles.

A day or a weekend at Martin Dies State Park is like stepping into another world—a world where wildlife reigns and you can’t help but be in awe of the beauty of nature. 

Don’t let your adventures stop there. The region is home to much natural beauty. Check out the nearby Angelina National Forest and Big Thicket National Preserve.

For more information about visiting Martin Dies, Jr. State Park, check the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s official website for current hours, fees, trail conditions, and event schedules.

Use the map to plan your route to this East Texas paddling paradise, and consider exploring nearby attractions like the Big Thicket National Preserve and Angelina National Forest—every stop deepens the adventure.

Where: 634 Park Road 48 South, Jasper, TX 75951

But Athens Scuba Park in Athens, Texas, has turned that old quarry into an underwater playground with sunken jets, boats, and even a country music legend’s tour bus resting on the bottom—all ripe for exploring via scuba diving. 

The spring-fed water offers visibility that can reach up to 70 feet, making it, surprisingly, one of the clearest places to dive in Texas.

What’s more, Athens Scuba Park is an all‑in‑one setup. It combines a full dive shop, classroom, training pool, and open‑water lake on one property. 

This makes it one of the largest training facilities in the Southwest, where divers can go from complete beginners to certified without leaving the site.

Where is the Athens Scuba Park Located?

Athens Scuba Park sits at 500 N Murchison Street in Athens, Texas, just half a mile from the charming town square.

The park lies approximately 75 miles southeast of Dallas, making it an easy day trip or weekend escape for the metroplex’s millions of residents.

Cedar Creek Reservoir rests about 24 miles to the west, adding another outdoor recreation option for visitors exploring the region.

The Underwater Attractions

With more than two dozen wrecks to explore plus 10 to 12 diving docks and platforms positioned around the lake, divers can spend multiple visits exploring without seeing everything twice.

The star attraction is the Lockheed C-140 Jetstar, a 75-foot military transport jet that dominates the underwater landscape. Dive through the jet and see where the cockpit, passenger seating, and the engine were. 

There’s also a 60-foot Hawker 600 Jet that rests nearby, along with three sunken sailboats ranging from 30 to 45 feet, three cabin cruisers, sixteen speed boats, fourteen small fishing boats, and nine motorcycles scattered across the bottom. Don’t forget to drift by the DART bus from Dallas Area Rapid Transit that sits submerged alongside a golf cart, a space capsule replica, and even an Iron Man suit added in recent years.

The wrecks also include remarkable pieces of pop culture history. Country music star and native Texan Ray Price’s broken-down tour bus found its final resting place here, as did the triple-decker party barge used by Clint Eastwood’s film crew.

For those seeking overhead diving practice, a five-foot culvert called the “Black Hole” simulates an underwater cave, stretching 40 feet before emerging into a deeper pond.

The Diving Experience

Athens Scuba Park offers remarkable clarity, with visibility averaging 35 feet and sometimes reaching 70.

The clay’s pH keeps algae growth low, so the water stays clean, though marine life is limited mostly to crawfish.

Depths range from 20 to 35 feet across the 8‑acre lake, giving beginners shallow platforms to practice and advanced divers wrecks, night dives, and navigation challenges.

The relatively shallow depth also allows longer bottom times without decompression concerns.

Beyond Diving

Non-divers and snorkelers can find plenty to enjoy. The shallow areas allow snorkelers and free divers to reach many wrecks with ease, and 35-foot visibility means you can see attractions from the surface on clear days.

Free kayak rentals come included with admission, and floating with a cold drink on a sunny Texas afternoon requires no certification.

The park offers tent camping and RV sites with electrical hookups for extended stays. Volleyball courts provide land-based recreation, and select weekends feature live music.

Planning Your Visit

Athens Scuba Park operates Wednesday through Sunday, with the dive shop open Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and the park and lake accessible Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Night diving and camping are available on Friday and Saturday nights with advance reservations.

Entry fees run approximately $30 per person, with certified divers bringing their own gear paying around $20.

Camping costs roughly $10 per person, while RV sites range from $40 to $50 per night. Training courses span $125 to $300 based on certification level.

The dive shop rents everything from tanks and regulators to wetsuits and fins, and air fills are available on-site.

For more information about visiting Athens Scuba Park, check their official website or call ahead to confirm schedules and reserve courses.

Use the map to plan your route to Athens and consider exploring nearby attractions like the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center.

Where: 500 N Murchison St, Athens, TX 75751

But entry fees at some botanical gardens can keep visitors away, as spending upwards of $20 or $30 on admission can feel a bit much for a simple garden stroll. 

But at Mercer Botanic Gardens near Houston, which offers hundreds of acres of stunning landscapes—from manicured flower beds to wild woodland trails— it does not cost a dime.

The gardens are open daily from sunrise to dusk, welcoming anyone who wants to wander.

Mercer Botanic Gardens’ Location

Mercer Botanic Gardens occupies almost 400 acres along Cypress Creek in northern Harris County, roughly twenty miles north of downtown Houston and just over a mile northwest of George Bush Intercontinental Airport.

This garden began in the late 1940s when Thelma and Charles Mercer cultivated 14.5 acres along Cypress Creek into a blend of native woodland and exotic plants.

In 1974, when it was time for the Mercers to retire, Harris County purchased the land to preserve it as a public garden, and today it has expanded to hundreds of acres—still free to visit year‑round.

The Garden Experience

On the east side of Aldine Westfield Road, Mercer Botanic Gardens spreads across more than sixty acres of cultivated collections designed for the Gulf Coast climate.

Visitors can wander through bamboo groves, fern gardens, herb plots, tropical displays, and an endangered species garden that supports conservation.

Donor collections of irises and maples add depth and pops of seasonal color, while Storey Lake anchors the back section with a cypress pond, waterfall, and Japanese‑inspired tea house.

Camellias—41 plants across 36 cultivars—still bloom each winter, a living link to Thelma Mercer’s original vision, joined by azaleas that create dazzling spring displays for photographers and families.

There’s also a lengthy walking trail system on the east side, plus a Remembrance Walk for memorials, a visitors’ center, multiple ponds, and a courtyard. 

Hurricane Harvey devastated the gardens in 2017, submerging them under ten feet of floodwater and destroying decades of horticultural work. Yet staff and volunteers rebuilt with determination.

The visitor center reopened in 2023 after a six‑year renovation, and the plant collection has grown back to between 7,000 and 8,000 species.

Mercer’s recovery now stands as part of its identity—a testament to resilience that mirrors the perseverance of the couple who first planted these grounds.

Nature and Conservation

Beyond the cultivated beds, Mercer Botanic Gardens preserves natural ecosystems that predate the Mercers themselves.

On the west side of Aldine Westfield Road, the arboretum offers several miles of trails through East Texas Piney Woods, with boardwalks crossing a hickory bog and cypress swamp.

The 1.2‑mile Mercer Arboretum Loop follows Cypress Creek, guiding visitors through diverse habitats with bridges and interpretive signage.

The Mercer Botanical Center serves as the gardens’ research hub, housing a herbarium, library, and illustration collections.

It supports conservation through seed banking and plant propagation, and its careful planning kept collections safe during Hurricane Harvey.

Wildlife thrives here, too—birders flock to eBird hotspots to spot herons, warblers, chickadees, and cardinals.

At the same time, butterflies swarm the pollinator gardens, drawn to native blooms that keep the grounds alive with color.

A team of horticulturists, botanists, and gardeners are employed by Mercer, so if you see a staff member, feel free to ask questions about the gardens and wildlife and they’ll assist you however they can. They can also give you tips for your at-home garden.

Planning Your Visit

Mercer Botanic Gardens opens daily year-round with free admission. From March through October, gates open at 8 a.m. and remain accessible until dusk.

During the shorter days from November through February, hours run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The gardens close on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, and Thanksgiving.

Parking is available on both sides of Aldine Westfield Road, with the east side parking lot serving the cultivated gardens and visitor center.

The west side arboretum offers family-friendly amenities, including two playgrounds, fifty-eight picnic tables, and two barbecue pavilions nestled in woodland settings.

This makes Mercer an ideal destination for families planning full-day outings—children can play and picnic on the west side, then adults can explore the formal gardens across the road.

Leashed dogs are welcome in the west side arboretum, but require prior permission from the director for the east side gardens.

For more information about visiting Mercer Botanic Gardens, check Harris County Precinct 3’s website at pct3.com/MBG or call (713) 274-4160 for current hours and programming.

Use the map to plan your route to Humble and explore nearby attractions like Jesse H. Jones Park and Nature Center, and Lake Houston.

Where: 22306 Aldine Westfield Rd, Humble, TX 77338

Every park seems crowded, every lakefront spot comes with a wait, and sometimes you just want to spread out a blanket and enjoy the scenery without elbowing strangers.

But on a tucked-away stretch of Lake Austin, Emma Long Metropolitan Park is the exception. Here, you’ll find shaded picnic areas, stone structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, and views that feel like a million-dollar escape.The best part? You don’t have to leave the city for a slice of solitude.

Where Emma Long Metropolitan Park Is Located

Emma Long Metropolitan Park sprawls across more than 1,100 acres of wooded Hill Country terrain northwest of downtown Austin, with a full mile of shoreline along Lake Austin.

The address reads 1600 City Park Road, but getting there involves a scenic drive that feels increasingly remote as City Park Road winds down through juniper and oak forest toward the water.

By the time you reach the entrance booth, the city seems to have vanished entirely.

The Picnic Experience

Emma Long’s picnic areas range from casual tables scattered near the water to larger, reservable sites suitable for family reunions, barbecues, and birthday parties.

The most coveted spots, however, sit beneath a canopy of oak trees with direct views of Lake Austin, where boats glide past, and the opposite shore rises in forested bluffs.

Unlike many city parks where picnic tables feel exposed and afterthought-ish, Emma Long’s settings actually invite you to linger—to spend an entire afternoon watching shadows lengthen across the water.

The park charges a modest entry fee: five dollars per vehicle on weekdays, ten on weekends and holidays.

During peak season from March through September, weekend visitors must pre-purchase day passes online, as the park reaches capacity regularly on nice days.

Reservable picnic sites start at sixty dollars per day and include tables and grills, making them perfect for larger gatherings.

For those who prefer spontaneity, unreserved tables throughout the park operate on a first-come basis—arrive early on weekends to claim the best spots.

Every picnic area comes equipped with grills, making it easy for your group to grill steaks or casual burgers.

Alcohol is permitted at rented campsites and confirmed picnic reservations, though glass containers are prohibited throughout the park.

Trails and Natural Beauty

Beyond the picnic grounds, Emma Long offers some of Austin’s most rewarding hiking, so bring your sneakers to hit the trail. 

The Turkey Creek Trail covers 2.5 miles through heavily wooded terrain, crossing its namesake creek multiple times as it winds beneath towering trees.

This trail sits before the park entrance booth, meaning hikers can access it without paying admission—a local secret that keeps the trailhead parking lot full on weekend mornings.

Dogs are welcome off-leash here, adding to the trail’s popularity with the Austin crowd.

The Emma Long Cliff Loop provides more dramatic scenery, following the limestone bluffs above Lake Austin with views across the water and into the surrounding forest.

These cliffs—the same ones visible from the best picnic spots—take on a different character when you’re standing on top of them, watching the lake stretch below. Visit during the fall for pops of red and orange coming from the changing foliage. 

This trail sees less traffic than Turkey Creek, rewarding those willing to explore with genuine solitude.

More Than Picnics

Emma Long remains the only Austin city park to offer camping, with both primitive tent sites and developed RV sites available by reservation.

The camping areas sit near the lake, meaning campers wake to water views and can swim before breakfast.

Rates run around $10 to $25 per night plus the entry fee, making this one of the most affordable ways to spend a night beside Lake Austin.

The park opens at 7 a.m. and closes at 10 p.m. daily, year-round. Morning visits offer cooler temperatures, active wildlife, and the best chance at snagging a prime picnic spot without a reservation.

For more information about visiting Emma Long Metropolitan Park, check Austin’s parks department website for current hours, pass requirements, and reservation details.

Use the map to plan your route northwest of downtown and explore nearby attractions like Mount Bonnell and Lake Austin—every stop adds to the Hill Country experience.

Where: 1600 City Park Rd, Austin, TX 78730

Beach camping has always seemed like the ultimate escape to me—no walls, no distractions, just sand and sea and sky.

The challenge is finding a beach where you can actually do it without crowds, without breaking the bank, and without sacrificing the wild, untouched feeling that makes it worthwhile.

Mustang Island State Park on the Texas coast delivers all of that and more.

For anyone who has dreamed of falling asleep to the rhythm of the sea, this is where that dream becomes an affordable reality.

Set along Park Road 22 and reached via the JFK Causeway from Corpus Christi, the park feels far removed from city life once you’re nestled among the dunes.

Named for Padre Nicolas Ballí—the Catholic priest who owned most of Padre Island in the early 1800s and founded its first European settlement—the park carries a history as rich as its Gulf views.

The Camping Setup

Padre Balli Park offers about 100 paved campsites split between two areas.

The economy section, closest to the beach and Bob Hall Pier, provides 30‑amp water and electric hookups for around $25 per night ($150 weekly).

You’ll hear the ocean from your tent or RV, though the setup is more parking‑lot style and won’t accommodate 50‑amp rigs.

The premium section delivers full hookups—20/30/50‑amp electric, water, and sewer—for about $50 nightly ($275 weekly), with concrete pads and more traditional RV layouts.

Longer bi‑weekly rates are available October through March.

Tent camping with water and electric runs about $20 per night, limited to six people, two vehicles, and two tents per site.

All camping fees include showers and WiFi, and most sites have fire rings and grills.

Check‑out is at noon, and reservations can be made through the Nueces County Coastal Park Office at (361) 949‑8121 or online.

Beach Access and Bonfires

The beach stretches for miles between Mile Markers 224 and 235, with maintenance keeping the sand clean and accessible.

Beyond Mile Marker 235, beach conditions become more rugged—a four-wheel-drive vehicle is necessary for venturing further south.

Beach camping and bonfires are allowed south of Access Road 6, but fires must stay under 3x3x3 feet, be fully extinguished with holes filled, and never use pallets or building materials due to nails and toxic coatings.

Day visitors can park on the beach for free with a valid City Beach Parking permit. The pedestrian beach running the length of the park provides a family-friendly zone away from vehicle traffic.

Camping on the beach is limited to three consecutive days and nights, with a maximum of six days per month.

Dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times on Padre Balli Beach.

Bob Hall Pier: Coming Back Bigger

Bob Hall Pier, the park’s most iconic landmark, is being rebuilt after Hurricane Hanna destroyed the original in 2020.

The $28.5 million project began in October 2024 and is expected to finish by late 2025 or early 2026.

The new pier will extend more than 1,200 feet into the Gulf, 20 feet wide, with both standard and ADA‑accessible ramps.

Plans include a shaded 50‑by‑50‑foot structure for anglers and another area reserved for future concessions, all engineered to withstand a 100‑year storm.

A restaurant is slated to follow in 2026, reviving the spirit of Mikel May’s, the beloved seafood and burger spot lost to the hurricane.

In the meantime, surf fishing along the shoreline remains popular, with anglers reporting strong catch rates near the construction zone.

Park Amenities

Beyond the campsites, Padre Balli Park offers practical facilities to make visits comfortable.

Campers have access to a bathhouse with showers, while non‑campers can use quarter‑operated stalls.

A washateria handles laundry, and fresh‑rinse showers on the beach serve the general public.

The park also provides a dump station for non‑registered campers ($10), a first aid station at the office, and complimentary beach wheelchairs.

Free trash bags are handed out to encourage visitors to keep the shoreline clean.

Open year‑round, the park is patrolled by mobile lifeguards during summer.

For current conditions and lifeguard schedules, visitors can contact the Corpus Christi Parks & Recreation Beach Operations Office at (361) 826‑3469.

A Coastal Escape Under the Stars

For more information about visiting Padre Balli Park, check Nueces County Parks’ official website or social media pages for current rates, camping availability, and pier updates.

Use the map to plan your route to the park and explore the beachfront campsites, Bob Hall Pier, and nearby Corpus Christi attractions—every stop adds to the ultimate coastal camping experience.

Where: 15820 Park Road 22, Corpus Christi, TX 78418

Padre Balli Park offers the rare chance to camp directly on the beach, combining Gulf views, affordable rates, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it one of Texas’s best-kept coastal secrets.