Texas State Parks

Harnessing the Sun's Energy

Three state parks embraced renewable energy this spring.

Solar panels shade a pavilion at Dinosaur Valley State Park (pictured here). Solar panels also grace the roof of an observation deck at Estero Llano Grande State Park. Look for Eisenhower State Park’s solar panels on the roof of headquarters.

In total, the new installations will provide 67 kilowatts of renewable energy.

These installations are the result of a partnership between TPWD and Green Mountain Energy. Sea Center Texas and Enchanted Rock State Natural Area also harvest energy from the sun due to this partnership.

info Learn more about this green energy partnership.

Hike Pick: Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site

Texas Hill Country Trails

See the Texas Hill Country come alive at Lyndon B. Johnson State Park. Experience a part of Texas that President Johnson explored as a boy more than 100 years ago.

Hike nature trails past seasonal wildflowers, the Pedernales River and a meandering creek. Look for our herds of Texas Longhorns and American bison, as well as many species of wildlife. Take a short trail from headquarters to the historic Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm. View historic cabins and farm animals and experience farm life as it was in the early 1900s.

All trails combined equal about 1.2 miles and are mostly flat to mildly sloping. Most visitors can negotiate them easily.

TPW Magazine: Park News

Balmorhea Pool Reopens

Balmorhea State Park’s iconic San Solomon Springs pool reopened this spring just in time for swim season. The pool closed last May after park staff discovered damage to the concrete apron under the diving board.

Cofferdams maintained water flow to the canals and wetlands during construction. No heavy equipment was used because of the cultural sensitivity of the site and the presence of endangered species.

Apache Corporation partnered with the Texas Parks & Wildlife Foundation to help fund the repairs. In addition to its initial $1 million match donation, Apache Corporation contributed a $1 million endowment to benefit the park in perpetuity.

This project is just one of the major developments at the park. Renovations to the San Solomon Springs Courts and to the campgrounds continue. Overnight stays at the park won’t be available until renovations are complete.

Read more in TPW Magazine.

Activities and Programs

Go Wild

Enjoy wildflowers, wildlife and wild fun at your Texas State Parks!

Dig into springtime fun!