The Best State Parks in Texas

With more than 300,000 acres (121,000 hectares), Big Bend Ranch State Park is Texas’ largest state park. Located in far West Texas, along the U.S.-Mexico border, the park is a haven for adventure junkies. Visitors can hike, mountain-bike, and go horseback riding through the 238 miles (383 km) of multi-use trails; also Rio Grande river access means floating, fishing, and rafting. Forty-eight species of mammals have been found in the park, and more than 300 species of birds have been recorded as well. Keep an eye out for snakes, bats, mountain lions, mule deer, jackrabbits, lizards, native bighorn sheep, and more. All campsites (except backcountry sites) can be reached by vehicle, but be aware that some roads require four-wheel-drive or high clearance. A bunkhouse that accommodates up to 30 people is also available for lodging.

For those wanting to try out a new sport, Monahans Sandhills State Park is just the place. Located about 30 minutes west of Odessa, this park has 3,840 acres (1,553 hectares) of sand dunes, some reaching 70 feet (21 meters) high. The park is a small portion of a dune field that extends farther into Texas and New Mexico. Here, visitors can rent sand toboggans and disks for ripping down the dunes at park headquarters or strap on a snowboard and “surf” down the dunes. There’s also an 800-acre (323 hectare) equestrian area and a trailer parking area. Three campsites are available.

Stretching 18 miles (28 km) from Port Aransas to Corpus Christi, Mustang Island was named for the wild horses that once roamed the island. Today, the barrier island is home to Mustang Island State Park, where visitors can soak up the sun, catch a wave, mountain bike, fish, overnight at one of its 100 campsites, and more. Kayakers can head out on the Mustang Island State Park Paddling Trail, which offers 20 miles (32 km) of trails and birding opportunities. Two species of sea turtles, juvenile Atlantic green sea turtles and the Kemp’s ridley sea turtle, visit the island, so guests can watch for them – just don’t touch. The Kemp’s ridley is the most endangered and smallest sea turtle. Visitors should notify Texas Parks and Wildlife staff immediately if a sea turtle is spotted on the beach.