Happy 100th birthday, Texas State Parks! In 2023, they not only celebrated their centennial but also earned the National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management. Whether you’re hiking through rugged canyons, swimming in spring-fed rivers, or stargazing under some of the darkest skies in the country, Texas’ state parks showcase the landscapes and history that make the Lone Star State unique.
From Roadside Stops to Impressive Parks
The story of Texas State Parks began in 1923 with a simple idea—creating roadside stops for highway travelers to enjoy and protect the land. A decade later, President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) transformed these stops into a network of parks, shaping the trails, campsites, and stone structures that many still enjoy today.
Texans have fought to keep these parks accessible for everyone. During World War II, women stepped in to maintain the parks, ensuring their preservation. Before the Civil Rights Act, Black Texans fought for their right to enjoy these spaces, advocating for integration. By the 1980s, public demand for outdoor recreation led to expansions, securing more land for future generations.
More than Just a Walk in the Park
Today, 88 state parks span 630,000 acres, welcoming more than 9 million visitors annually. Beyond hiking and camping, these parks offer ranger-led programs, workshops, and the Junior Rangers program, which introduces children to Texas’ diverse wildlife and ecosystems.
The Top Ten
Want to explore Texas’ best state parks? Here’s a look at the top 10 most visited in 2023 — the parks’ centennial year — each offering something special that captures the heart of Texas. υ
10. Inks Lake
This “Hill Country gem” is a favorite for its clear, blue waters and scenic rock formations. Take a dip in Devil’s Waterhole, where visitors swim, cliff-jump, and explore the surrounding canyon. A short hike leads to Valley Spring Creek’s waterfalls, offering a peaceful retreat. Northwest of Austin, 3630 Park Rd 4 W, Burnet
9. Dinosaur Valley
Step back in time at Dinosaur Valley, where real dinosaur footprints are preserved in the Paluxy Riverbed. Visitors can walk in the tracks of prehistoric giants, explore miles of trails, and even take a horseback tour or a horse-drawn wagon ride through the park. Near Fort Worth, 1629 Park Rd 59, Glen Rose
8. Brazos Bend
Nicknamed a “nature lover’s paradise”, this park’s 5,000 acres of wetlands, forests, and prairies are home to alligators, deer, and countless bird species. Don’t miss the George Observatory, where you can gaze through one of the largest telescopes in the country and chat with astronomers about the wonders of the night sky. Southwest of Houston, 21901 FM Rd 762, Needville
7. Enchanted Rock
A massive pink granite dome rises above the Hill Country, creating one of Texas’ most mystical landscapes. This ancient rock has inspired legends for centuries. Visitors can hike to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views or take a guided rock-climbing tour. 16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg
6. McKinney Falls
This park offers a rugged escape minutes from downtown Austin. Trails wind through dense woodlands and rocky outcroppings, leading to the limestone ledges of Onion Creek, where water cascades into inviting swimming holes. Explore the historic ruins of an early Texas homestead and a rock shelter used by Native Americans. 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin
5. Ray Roberts Lake Isle de Bois Unit
Home to the Lone Star Lodge and Marina, this park offers a blend of modern amenities and natural beauty. Visitors can reserve an all-terrain wheelchair to explore the park’s trails, ensuring accessibility for all nature lovers. North of Dallas/Fort Worth, 100 P W 4137, Pilot Point
4. Cedar Hill
A true “urban oasis”, this park combines nature with history. The Penn Farm Agricultural History Center tells the story of Texas’ farming heritage, showcasing century-old structures where the Penn family lived and worked. Near Dallas/Fort Worth, 1570 FM 1382, Cedar Hill
3. Ray Roberts Lake Sanger Unit
On the opposite side of Ray Roberts Lake from Isle du Bois, this park
features a full-service marina, boat rentals, and an RV park—a perfect spot for water lovers looking to set sail or fish. North of Dallas/Fort Worth, 100 P W 4137, Pilot Point
2. Palo Duro Canyon
Nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” this breathtaking park spans three counties and is the second-largest canyon in the United States. With vivid red rock formations, dramatic cliffs, and endless trails, it’s a must-visit for anyone seeking Texas-sized adventure. Near Amarillo, 11450 Park Rd 5, Canyon
1. Garner State Park
With nearly 500,000 visitors in 2023, Garner State Park takes the top spot. Its crystal-clear Frio River, towering cypress trees, and scenic limestone bluffs make it a summer favorite. Since the 1940s, visitors have gathered for the Garner Summer Dance, a beloved tradition where families dance under the stars to a jukebox in the historic pavilion. North of Uvalde along the Frio River, 234 RR 1050, Concan
Know Before You Go
Since some parks have capacity limits, purchasing a day pass in advance is highly recommended. Day passes are sold up to 30 days before your visit and only guarantee entry into the park listed on the pass. Prices vary, so it is best to check the website. Texas residents who are 65 years or older qualify for a 50% discount.
Another option is a Texas State Park Pass, which waives park entry fees for you and your same-vehicle guests – with a cardholder present. The cost is $70 for an entire year.