best parks - Wild Texas Forums: Parks, Travel & Recreation

01-13-2003, 12:18 PM

Our family of five (ages9-14) is relatively new to Texas and is looking for a state park to visit for spring break. We prefer to tent camp where we have relatively easy access to our vehicle, (50 yds or less), but don't need any amenities other than nearby water. We like hikes of any length except overnight, like to animal watch, swim if it's warm, and explore geology of the area. We are looking for a park not known for its wild spring break parties, where we can find some relaxation, but not necessarily complete solitude. We live in Houston and are looking at the Hill Country somewhere, but would drive up to 5 hours or so. I'm thinking of Pedernales Falls. Any other suggestions?
Thanks!

Shannon · 01-17-2003, 02:52 PM

As a general rule, every park sees higher than usual visitation over Spring Break and summer.

Pedernales Falls State Park is a probably a good choice, as is McKinney Falls State Park or Bastrop State Park, though both of theses are closer to a major city (Austin) and might get more crowded. Most of the lake parks get busy but they have a lot of campsites, so you might look into Choke Canyon State Park (but probably avoid Inks Lake State Park as it's the most visited park in the state -- very beautiful but guaranteed to be at/over capacity.) If you'd like a higher liklihood of relaxation, you could stay at one of the more 'primitive'/less developed parks like Colorado Bend State Park.

I don't traditionally camp during Spring Break, so I'm just basing these suggestions on relative visitation at the parks year-round. There are dozens of parks that would meet your criteria, it's just a matter of finding the one you'd like to explore this Spring Break.

Good luck!

01-19-2003, 06:10 PM

If you haven't already, check out Brazos Bend State Park. By far my favorite state park. Lots of wildlife and an excellent visitor center. They also have lots of presentations and ranger walks. If you stay overnight you can also check out the observatory.

Shannon · 01-19-2003, 06:15 PM

Agreed, Jeff! The only reason I didn't recommend Brazos Bend SP was because the original poster had mentioned swimming. With all the wonderful alligators out there (adults and young'uns), it's not the place to swim, but it sure it a terrific place for photography, hiking and wildlife watching!

01-19-2003, 07:35 PM

I've (original poster) been to Brazos Bend State Park a few times, although not overnight. It's also a great place to star gaze. One Saturday a month, volunteers set up at least a dozen huge telescopes for visitors to peer through. The volunteers are all pretty knowledgable and patient with kids. Very unique experience!

02-03-2003, 06:29 PM

you might also check into daingerfield state park

02-04-2003, 06:22 AM

your choice is an excellent one......however i am partial to Guadalupe River State Park......awesome scenery.....the river is great.....nice swimming area if weather permitting......
just my opinion..... i don't think you could go wrong with either......

however i haven't been there since the flood......so i am not sure what if any damage was done.....the bulk of the park is on high ground....just the walk to sites along the river.....

good luck and happy camping.......