Texas State Parks

First Day Hiking!

Start your new year with a walk in the park! Texas State Parks and parks across the nation will host First Day Hikes on Jan. 1.

We won't just be hosting hikes, however. You can also attend a star party or enjoy a campfire.

Life's better outside, especially on New Year's Day!

See a list of First Day Hikes.

list Find a First Day Hike near you.

Better Reservations Ahead

We are switching to a new reservation system in early 2019. You'll be able to:

• Pick Your Site – Reserve specific campsites, shelters and cabins in advance
• Reserve Day Use – Buy a “Save The Day” Pass in advance, ensuring your entry to busy parks
• Buy Your Parks Pass – Buy or renew your Texas State Parks Pass online.

Sign up today, and we'll email you when new features are available.

Hike Pick: Daingerfield State Park

Mountain View Trail

As I start up the mile-long trail leading away from the Mountain View restroom, I make sure I'm prepared. Water? Camera? Boots tied tight? Check.

It's a brisk morning at Daingerfield State Park, and I can almost see my breath. The incline is gradual; I can't tell if it's the slope or anticipation making my heart beat faster. A blue jay watches me, his squeaky-wheel call cheering me on.

Reaching the top, I discover a perfectly-positioned bench. Slightly out of breath, I'm grateful for the reprieve.

Down the left fork of the trail, tree roots act as nature's staircase. I choose the right fork, seeking a challenge. Short but steep, I trek downward.

I finish my hike with a stroll along the lake's edge.

Park Pick: Buescher State Park & Historic Site

Lost Pines Lakeview

People sometimes think of Buescher State Park as the little sister or brother to Bastrop State Park down the road, but Buescher has plenty of appeal on its own.

In addition to camping, fishing and hiking, the park offers mountain biking, birding, geocaching and canoeing. The 25-acre lake serves as the focal point of the 1,017-acre park. Pine trees cover the northern part of the park. In the main southern part, where the lake is, oaks and cedar elms dominate with a few scattered pines.

Buescher sits in the Lost Pines region of Texas, a loblolly pine woodland isolated from the main body of East Texas pines.

Read more in TPW Magazine

Activities and Programs

Happy Holidays

We wish you a joyous holiday season.

Holidays in the Parks