Texas State Parks

One Year Later: Hurricane Harvey Recovery

Hurricane Harvey made landfall on the Texas Gulf Coast on Aug. 26, 2017. Many state parks sustained damage from the storm or its aftermath; some are still recovering.

Mustang Island State Park reopened for day use in time for spring break. Park staff hope to reopen camping areas this fall. Follow the park's Facebook page for updates.

Many areas of Goose Island State Park are open, including day use areas, boat ramp and wooded camping area. Repairs are in the design phase for the badly damaged fishing pier and bay front camping areas. Read the latest Facebook update for more details.

Village Creek flooded much of Village Creek State Park as the storm moved east. Some campsites, a restroom and the park office that were in the highest areas are open. Design work is underway to repair the rest of the park. Read the latest Facebook update.

Some facilities at Stephen F. Austin State Park remain closed, due to hurricane-caused flood damage.

Hike Pick: Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park

Jewels in the Valley

Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park is known for its birds, and they are spectacular. But a short, easy hike on the Rio Grande Trail to the Hawk Tower will showcase the other jewels in the park.

You'll see some of the hundreds of species of butterflies feeding on the nectar of the huisache or ebony trees. Their colors are astounding! Dragonflies abound here, too. They swoop past you in colorful blurs, hunting their prey.

This short .2-mile walk ends with a spectacular view of the Rio Grande Valley from the top of the tower.

Looking for more jewels? Continue along the Rio Grande Trail to explore the rest of the 1.4-mile loop.

Park Pick: San Angelo State Park

West Texas Crossroads

Looking for wide open spaces? Interesting natural sights? Living relics of history? Water fun? San Angelo State Park will keep the whole family engaged and excited.

The park sits on the banks of the O.C. Fisher Reservoir and the Concho River, so bring your fishing gear, swimsuits and maybe a boat.

On land, you can hike, mountain bike or ride your horse on 50 miles of trails. Explore the two-mile Dinosaur Trail, which passes fossilized trackways of pre-dinosaur creatures!

Be sure to swing by the bison and longhorn paddocks and imagine these creatures roaming the prairies in an earlier time.

Activities and Programs

Cool Escapes

Beat the heat with a swim, paddle, star party and more at Texas State Parks.

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