Upcoming Events
See all 100-Year Celebration Events
Pedal, Paddle and Trek
Pedal the State Trailway – Bike Tour
Paddle the Lake - Kayak Tour
Penitentiary Hollow Wild Walk
Pollinators and Parks!
Spring Fling - 100 Year Celebration
Pedal the State Trailway – Bike Tour
Paddle the Lake - Kayak Tour
Penitentiary Hollow Wild Walk
Night Hike
Texas State Parks is Turning 100!
History of Texas State Parks
In 1923, Governor Pat Neff persuaded the legislature to create the State Parks Board. He later regarded this action as his most important achievement as governor. In a 1925 speech, Neff notes that a parks system would afford a place where people “might go and forget the anxiety and strife and vexation of life's daily grind.”
Read the story of state parks in Texas
Watch the video of the first 100 years of Texas State Parks.
Promotions
Our 100 Years Celebration is a great time to explore our great parks with special events, catch-up on exciting future plans for parks and connect with the next generation of park visitors. Stay tuned for opportunities to celebrate the diversity of wildlife, activities and history of Texas State Parks.
Subscribe to Texas State Parks Email Updates and be first to know about 100 Years events.
Texas State Parks Guide Mobile App
Plan your trip to a state park and bring the guide along. Most content is available without an internet connection.
Texas State Parks Guide Booklet
This full-color, digest-sized, free publication provides maps, amenities, activities and visitor program information. Download the guide as a PDF or find at state park near you.