10 Best National Parks in Texas

Big Bend National Park is the largest national park in Texas. Its whopping 800,000 acres encompass rivers, limestone canyons, deserts, and mountains. This spectacular landscape is home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna, such as mountain lions, cacti, coyotes, and pig-like creatures called javelina.

Visitors can choose from a plethora of outdoor activities. There are more than 200 miles of hiking trails, with the most popular located in the Chisos Mountain Basin in the heart of the park. Avid hikers can wander through slopes covered in Ponderosa pine, Aspen, and Douglas fir to reach Emory’s Peak, the highest point in Big Bend. For a more leisurely outing, try kayaking or fishing on the Rio Grande. The best time to visit is between November and April when the weather is mild.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is made up of over 86,000 acres of mountains, deserts, and canyons. This stunning park is home to the world’s largest Permian fossil reef, 4 of the state’s highest peaks, and the iconic El Capitan – a 3,000-foot granite cliff.

Hikers will rejoice as this area has more than 80 miles of trails that cater to various fitness levels. If you’re up for a challenge, venture up to Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas. Stay at one of the park’s designated campsites to do some stargazing. The fall foliage here is particularly stunning – you can view them on various trails from mid-October to mid-November.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site centers around 4 Spanish frontier missions – or church compounds – which were built in the 18th century. Mission Concepcion, the oldest stone church in the United States, is not to be missed. It features striking fresco paintings and stone architecture.

These historical buildings sit in a serene natural environment with a variety of wildlife. Explore it through the extensive network of hiking and biking trails that run along the park. Guided walks and talks conducted by rangers are available throughout the year. Admission to San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is free and the site sits close to downtown San Antonio.

Diverse natural environments, unique wildlife, and opportunities for adventure come together in the 113,000 acres of Big Thicket National Preserve. Its landscapes range from swamps, creeks, and pine forests to savannas and sandhills. You can spot all kinds of vegetation and creatures such as river otters, bobcats, roadrunners, and even 4 kinds of carnivorous plants.

There are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Explore the picturesque walking trails, paddle lazily along a bayou on a kayak or canoe, or wander the open plains on horseback. Birdwatching is a popular pastime here as it is inhabited by a variety of feathered creatures such as warblers, woodpeckers, and robins.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area gets its name from the massive pink granite dome that looms over the park. The rocky terrain is dotted with grasses and cacti such as prickly pear. You can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, rock climbing, cave exploration, and wildlife observation.

Nearly 11 miles of hiking trails run along this park. For unbeatable views, venture to the top of Enchanted Rock via the Summit Trail. On the way, look out for the pristine, shallow pools inhabited by the translucent fairy shrimp. The area is also great for birdwatching – keep your eyes peeled for species such as the canyon wren and black-throated sparrow. Park authorities encourage visitors to reserve a day pass in advance. Note that all trails except the Loop Trail close at sunset time.

Padre Island National Seashore is nearly 70 miles of wild coastline along the Gulf of Mexico. This untouched landscape is made up of dunes, tidal flats, grasslands, and beaches. It is incredibly biodiverse, providing shelter to wildlife such as the Kemp’s ridley sea turtle – the most critically endangered sea turtle species. Visitors can observe the hatchling releases, which take place in the early mornings from mid-June through August.

Other fun activities available on Padre Island include fishing, camping, and walking. Search for seashells of all shapes and sizes in Big Shell Beach or observe the local flora and fauna along the Grasslands Nature Trail. If you are lucky, you may be able to spot some creatures that inhabit the area, such as the kangaroo rat or ghost crab.

Franklin Mountains State Park is nearly 27,000 acres of high-desert mountains, open plains, scrub vegetation, and rugged trails. The environment is great for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing.

With more than 100 miles of trail, hikers are spoiled for choice. If you’re pressed for time, try the Aztec Cave Trail, which can be completed in under an hour. Seasoned hikers can take on the longer El Paso Tin Mine Trail for picturesque views of the Franklin Mountains. It’s best to reserve your visit in advance, even if you have a park pass.

Caddo Lake State Park is made up of the tranquil Caddo Lake and groves of moss-covered bald cypress trees that tower over a jumble of bayous and swamps. The lake serves as a hub for recreation and activities. It’s a fisher’s paradise as it contains over 70 species of fish, and you don’t need a license if you are fishing from the shore. The area also has more than 50 miles of paddling trails, which you can explore by renting a canoe from the park office.

Immerse yourself in the lush views by wandering along the Caddo Forest Trail. The area is a treat for birdwatchers as it hosts an array of birds throughout the year. Grab your binoculars to spot creatures such as the great blue heron, Carolina chickadee, tufted titmouse, and much more.

Garner State Park is a scenic blend of limestone cliffs and canyons, high mesas, and lush woodlands hemmed by the Frio River. The serene landscape makes it the ideal place for a camp trip – pitch a tent under the towering bald cypress and Texas madrone trees and relax as you listen to birdsong and babbling streams.

There’s plenty to do for active visitors. Take a refreshing dip in the Frio River or rent a paddle boat, kayak, or inner tube. You can explore the park’s trails or participate in a ranger-led hike. If you’re visiting in the spring or summer, join one of the nightly dance events. Be sure to arrive early as parking spaces fill up fast.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park is home to the second-largest canyon in the United States. The park covers 30,000 acres and the canyon itself is 800 feet deep. Its name means “hardwood” in Spanish, inspired by the mesquite and juniper trees that can be found throughout the park. There are many ways to enjoy the spectacular scenery – explore 30 miles of trails on foot, mountain bike, or horseback. Don’t miss the Lighthouse Trail, which takes you to a lighthouse-shaped red rock formation.

The area also offers a number of unique activities – there’s a zipline that takes you across the canyon and a fully-furnished glamping site. It hosts the Texas Outdoor Musical in summer, where you can enjoy music against a stunning backdrop.