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Dinosaur Valley State Park '' © Karyl K Holloway
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Dinosaur Valley State Park
© Karyl K Holloway
Balmorhea State Park
'Thousands of Fish'
© Allyson Ricketts
A typical Autumn day in Balmorhea State Park, Toyahvale Texas. The water is crystal clear and is ideal for snorkel activities and scuba.
Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge
'Aligator'
© Pat Butaud
Odd colored aligator. January 2010
Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge
'Javelina'
© Dennis Eccleston
The Javelina or Collared Peccary is a common sight under the bird feeders at least until the prickly pear cactus comes into spring flowering where they often fight over seed droppings while green jays often feed for these same seeds on their backs.
Dinosaur Valley State Park
© Karyl K Holloway
The Texas State Parks and Wildlife Department has preserved many of the most scenic areas in Central Texas as state parks. Take some time to explore the most beautiful landscapes in Central Texas with some of these...more
Texas's Parks
55 State Parks • 4 State Forests • 5 State Fish Hatcherys
2 State Airports • 2 National Parks • 4 National Forests
1 National Historical Park • 1 National Historic Site • 1 National Seashore
11 National Wildlife Refuges


State Parks
State Forests
State Fish Hatcherys
State Airports
National Parks
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National Historical Park
National Historic Site
National Seashore
National Wildlife Refuges


Texas Parks Visitor Reviews
4/7/2012 11:38:37 AM Fort Parker State Park by David Franey Sr.
nice people - I WAS VERY PLEASED WITH THE PARK AND THE PARK EMPLOYEES.I AM AN OLDER PERSON AND THEY WERE VERY KIND TO ME AND MY CARE TAKER.WE HAD SPOT #20 AND IT WAS A GREAT SPOT FOR OUR R.V.we will be going there again.
3/11/2012 7:20:29 PM Lake Whitney State Park by Genern
Deer Haven! - Took my nephews and daughter there to camp for Spring break. It was awesome. The lake is beautiful, and the campsites were nice and clean. Saw so many deer we lost count! Going back this year for some more fun!!
2/21/2012 Goose Island State Park by Bette & Rex Wagoner
A Very Beautiful State Park - My wife and I visited Goose Island State Park this past Saturday, Feb. 18, 2012, and we loved it. It is one of the better parks which we have visited.
2/20/2012 Huntsville State Park by Sonny
Always a pleasant experience - My mom and dad took us there in 1959, and I have visited at any good opportunity since. My son and I liked to go in the winter when it is quiet, and in the summer to wade the cool, clear shallow branches. A lot of good memories.
Looking Forward To Our Next Visit... - We took our three sons, who range in age from 6 to 21, to the park and we all had a blast! It is cheap family fun. A tip we learned from the helpful Park Ranger: come early because there is more moisture then and you can slide faster.
10/29/2011 Goose Island State Park by Nate
Wildlife everywhere - I grew up in Aransas Pass and Rockport,TX. Goose Island is THE place to fish and crab and oyster when it is permitted. The area should be protected for its ecologic environment suitable for our wild life to generate and grow.
10/22/2011 Huntsville State Park by Cristina
AWESOME PARK!! - My family and friends were there for the weekend of 4th of July, and I LOVED IT!! It was very peaceful and looking forward for another camping trip!!
- The main road leading to the Willows area and Shoveler Pond was under construction and not usable. The Skillern Tract area was okay, lots of Black-bellied whistling-ducks, Fulvous Whistling-ducks and a small flock of Greater White-fronted geese. Will try the park on another day when the road construction is done.
10/5/2011 Palo Duro State Park by Carol Hardee
We love Palo Duro - We have been there at least 12 Times. We can not go to Texas without going there.Our children love to hike all the trails.Will be back again and again.
A birding paradise.. - A great place to see migratory birds, usually during fall. If you go in the summer, you will be sure to see some gators. Great place to go to relax for hectic Houston
It is a good place to fish. - you can catch a lot of speckled trout and redfish and drum. It is amazing
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7/29/2011 Eisenhower State Park by Linda P
A Shangrila in the Wilderness - We went tent camping there on 07/23/2011 for our 5th year anniversary and brought our 2yr old grandson. It is absoulutley beautiful. We really had a wonderful time, and plan on going there alot more.
7/5/2011 Inks Lake State Park by amanda
BEST PARK IN TX!! - Our 1st visit was w/ a school camping club our 11 & 12 year olds wanted join, we were chaperones... Now we bring our grand-children!!
5/29/2011 Birch Creek State Park by LALALALA
ONE OF THE BEST STATE PARKS IN THE AREA! - THE WATER WAS SOOO NICE AND THE CAMP GROUNDS WERE NICE AND CLEAN.. THE BATHROOMS WERE GREAT TOO
5/29/2011 Daingerfield State Park by Logun H***
Good Place To Go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - it is a good place to swim. it was relly fun to be because it is fun for kids to play and run around and a great place to have a picnic alot of families visitevery dat. But they shut it doun. But it will open soon:-)
5/13/2011 Lake Whitney State Park by Route 66
Great park - We took the kids from church there last year, and they had a blast. It is a beautiful and well-maintained park. We are going back next week.
Nice - WE were visiting from Mexico and liked the parks a lot, swiming, walking the trails and just enjoying the area.
4/10/2011 Atlanta State Park by Jimmy Hicks
Home away from home - We love Atlanta State Park. The park is very nice. We like the campsites, the access to Wright Patman Lake, the nature trails and most of all we like all the staff. The staff are all very friendly and courteous and willing to help any way they can. Everything is always clean and well kept. We would recommend this park to anyone looking for peace and quiet and just enjoying nature.
- loved it, found my experience very relaxing!
An Amazing Place - Beautiful ancient pictographs and an interesting canyon as well. Such wide open spaces are rare.
Beautiful birds - Visiting family, excellent picnic area surrounded with Green Jays, Grackels, turkey Pheasants, cardinals, Orioles and many others. It was very cool!!
3/20/2011 Daingerfield State Park by keller family frm jefferson
best all around park by far - my parents took me to this park when i was very young, one of my favorite spots in tx to visit. now i take my own kids and we luv it just the same. it would be nice if they could post when they think it will be open again. we really miss going.
3/19/2011 Lockhart State Park by The Brooks
One of our favorite State Parks - It is a small state park with friendly staff, close to San Marcos and Austin. Good play area for kids and basketball court. A nice golf area ,small and quiet. A swimming pool for the summer. Have camped here for 25 years and keep coming back for more.
3/19/2011 Mission Tejas State Park by trish
Beautiful Park - Nice small park with a small number of campsites. Lots of easy hiking trails.
3/9/2011 Huntsville State Park by EDDIE CORONEL--HOUSTON TX
- EVERYTTIME WE GO THERE ITS THE BEST TIME WE HAVE, CLEAN, NICE EMPLOYEES,NICE TRAILS,ETC THE ONLY WAY TO KNOW WHAT I AM TALKING ABOUT IS FOR U TO GO AND SEE WHAT I MEAN..HOPE YOU ENJOY IT LIKE THE WAY ME AND MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS DO
3/6/2011 Lake Whitney State Park by Ol Grand Dad
Spring Weekend getaway from DFW - Great place to stay when you want to pull the travel trailer out and go for the weekend. Drive from DFW was great only 1.5 hours. Left at 5PM, Took the grandkids, hotdogs, and marshmellows and was camping by 7PM.
family traditions - It has been a family tradition to go to the state park for several years. now it is my families favorite get away to fish and enjoy quality time as a family making memories last for a life time.
2/3/2011 Daingerfield State Park by Stephanie
This is a wonderful place to go! - This park is a great place for young people and for families. I miss going!
1/18/2011 Meridian State Park by Mitch Bartley
Great clean park - We stayed at the park last year and was impressed with the condition of the park. The park was clean and a very beautiful place to relax and enjoy the scenery. My family and I plan to return in 2011.
1/17/2011 Fort Parker State Park by starksunite
Stark Family Reunion - Our Family Reunion is held there every year and we ALL have a great time! Cannot wait for this year!
12/20/2010 W G Jones State Forest by Bob in The Woodlands
Great Pace To Spend The Day! - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=50uyrqf_VfQ Above is a short video of the park-enjoy!
12/9/2010 Bastrop State Park by roflcopter
Amazindtastic - It rocks
12/2/2010 Garner State Park by windy tyznik
the best family camping park ever - my family has been going here seence way back when my mom was a kid and i been going seence i was 10months old it is so much fun i love to go swiming it is so much fun i love to take hikes and go to the dance every night also the paddle boating is fun i will never camp anywhere else well i took my kids almost three years ago and they loved it they want to go every summer well my hole family goes almost every sumer it is a great place to be so please go if you are thanking about it you will have fun and will not stop going every sumer
11/23/2010 Fort Griffin State Park by dolphinsaresopretty
pretty dolphins - DOLPHIN ATTACK!!!! OMG DOLPHINS!!! pretty dolphins...so pretty, pretty dolphins!
11/8/2010 Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge by T. Keefe
Anahuac sans mosquitos! - We went on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2010. What a peaceful juxtaposition to its big, dirty, neighbor, Houston. We saw several gators, a huge flock of geese and signs of bobcat. Worth the day trip. A full review here on our personal blog: http://innocentbystander.us/index.php?p=2_9
10/26/2010 Garner State Park by mrmac
A family tradition sine 1946 - My 1st trip to Garner was in 1946.Few people knew of its beauty then. The river was much different, so many things have changed since then.I started taking my kids in 1966,they now take theirs. So many wonderful memories since those days.I still visit now and then and will, I guess till im gone.
10/20/2010 Goliad State Park by consuelo
- enjoy the history and also help the kids to enjoy history better then just reading their texa history book
Beautiful trees - This park has a lovely picnic area with nice nature trails nearby, and two historic buildings. I have taken 7th graders there several times, and we have always enjoyed it.
Wonderful diversity of water birds - Cormorants, pelicans, herons, many kinds of ducks, and several kinds of shore birds; also a variety of hawks- quite an experience this past spring. Well worth many visits.
10/6/2010 Daingerfield State Park by Disappointed
Closed - Drove for hours to reach this destination. It is closed for renovations. Website did not mention this. I should have called first.
10/1/2010 Falcon State Park by Hector
loved it! -
9/27/2010 Tyler State Park by martinezk1916
love it - my family and i have gone to tyler for the past 6 years and we do not get bored of it...we go with many other people every year we invite new people to come along and they end up loving it as well
9/7/2010 Tyler State Park by Donna Miller
Great Park - Just came back from Tyler State Park. Our family has their annual family reunion campout and it was great. Wonderful staff, clean bathrooms and showers, great lake and just all around excellent park.
9/7/2010 Lake Whitney State Park by reldoc0
Horrible State Park one of the worst!! - My family and I got together and rented out 3 shelters, we had a big family with lots of children, the lady at the desk was excellent, but the Rangers were horrible, they kept harassing our family in front of our children, searched cars for no reasonable suspicion or probable cause, we had no alcohol no drugs or anything in that nature, when asked why this is happening quoted "this is my park and I can do anything I want!" our family went there to have a good time on labor day rented all these shelters and was treated in this manner. Will never ever go to this park again, we came there to relax not be harassed. Will file a formal complaint behind this.
9/4/2010 Huntsville State Park by maria
national state park - it so awesome i love swimming in the water walk around the forest take pic and go inside the cabins
8/31/2010 Balmorhea State Park by Kimberly D.
Worth Going Back to Over and Again - This park provides the perfect setting for time with your family and friends; swimming, picnics, hikes, diving; local areas to hunt and fish; as well as the wonderful staff at the park. It makes for year round fun!
Mountain Bike Trails - Good trails. I wish the trail were longer. You will see a lot of deer on the trails. I wish the park was bigger with more longer trails. Great trail for beginners and ride with your kids and family.
8/12/2010 Garner State Park by Laura Solis
A FAMILY TRADITION - My family has been going to Garner State Park for over 20 YEARS!!! We absolutely LOVE Garner! Every year we make it a family tradition to make it to Garner at least once a year, sometimes more if possible. And every year that we go, Garner gets even more beautiful! And... honestly, its even harder for us to return back home. It is a great place for family and friends to enjoy time away from home.
8/1/2010 Tyler State Park by Randy
Great Stay - We were booked for one night, and left 3 days later. The staff worked hard to keep us in one spot. This is one of the best parks we have stayed in during our travels.
7/1/2010 Atlanta State Park by Rebecca Maples
One of my favorite parks!!! - Absolutly beautiful! I was amazed. The park was quite and plenty of deer to be seen. I really enjoyed this camping trip and plan to visit again in the next month or two.
6/29/2010 Possum Kingdom State Park by Kathy
Great Place - My family goes there every year and will continue to go back
6/5/2010 Monahans Sand Hills State Park by Scoutman
Scoutman - Our Troop has visited Monahans many times on the way to Bufflio Trails Scout Camp it is the Greatest Sand Box in Texas the Scouts LOVE IT EVERY TIME WE VIST This we are Camping out there for the first time
Great but . . - We camped here and really enjoyed it. It is a nice and clean park. My only negative is that it is OVERRUN with Raccoons.
5/31/2010 Cleburne State Park by Rouss
LOVE IT~ - The only thing I would like to see is more areas to shore fish. I love staying in the screen shelters but there is not a lot of areas to fish off the shore. Especially since the growth has not been cut back. A couple of weeks ago, I noticed that there is some poison evy that is surfacing near the shore also
5/25/2010 W G Jones State Forest by equinenut
Good trailriding - conditioning - Nice footing, deep sand in spots and straight and wide trails for conditioning purposes. There are some real trails off of the main ones. Only draw back is that there is no running water for horses so you have to pack your own! Nice to ride by yourself or with a group. There is only enough parking for about 8 trailers or so.
5/25/2010 Balmorhea State Park by Tiffany
Fun in the Sun - I went to Balmorhea for the first time.. We camped and went swimming. We had a great time other than when I found a snake at the back of my tent..LOL.. Its a beautiful place and I will be telling all my friends about it. I have people coming here from all over to visit me this and I can't wait to see them and take them to Balmorhea.
5/18/2010 Bonham State Park by Dusty
Best Kept Secret - I had to post this - to keep a secret, but this is one of the best parks in the State! Nice, easy, relaxing, and not crowded. Close enough to town to get something if needed.
5/5/2010 Sam Houston National Forest by Cindy
Hiking - We love the trails it is quite and peaceful and the people you do see are very nice.
An unique, amazing park! - This is an amazing park, one of my favorite desert parks. Camping can be a bit windy due to the open flat spaces so make sure your tent is well staked down. Lots of beautiful hiking. Take a tour to see the pictographs!
5/2/2010 Inks Lake State Park by mary mcconkey
the only park - i came the first time in 1987....and i have come back almost every year since...best park ever
4/26/2010 Angelina National Forest by Pat
Beautiful Area - This is a nice family oriented park. The scenery is absolutely gorgeous!
Amazing - In a few hours I added over a dozen new birds to my life-list. A very special place.
4/9/2010 Fort Parker State Park by Sandra
Family Reunion Fun - Our family has a our reunion at this park every year called the ECHOLS-HENDERSON REUNION and Friends. There is lots to do for everyone of all interests. Swimming, hiking, biking, fishing, cookouts, bird watching, the Fort is not far away, amazing to see. Then we find time to mingle with the kinfolks and talk and gather photos & memorabilia of the past and present. Great place to hold a reunion for the day or a weekend.
Access to Good Bank Fishing - This provides access to some really good bank fishing for those that are not blessed with a boat to fish out of.
Family Friendly and Clean - Wonderful experience everything was so nice. Walked in and there were so many birds at the feeders at the nature center. A ranger was there to talk about the birds and even had a stuff for the kids to do. Clean park without litter and great facilities. The hawk tower is a must see for anyone who visits and is stroller friendly. Enjoyed the tram ride out of the park, especially after a day of walking around with the kids. Great deal, only $10 for the entire family for the whole day.
Middle of nowhere - San Bernard is a favorite for birding and butterfly watching because it is off the beaten path, has no amenities, and is a great reminder of how absolutely wonderful the coast is. Go in summer and donate your blood to the mosquitos and deer flies!
I really like Caddo Lake state Park. - I like the trees,lake and wildlife in and around the park. Not to mention most of the staff are very friendly and helpful.
3/6/2010 Lake Bob Sandlin State Park by Angie
Wildlife Delight - We love, love, love this park. It is beautiful. Great swimming and the wildlife is abundant. We saw a lot of deer. I also enjoyed the park for cycling. Definitely will be returning.
2/27/2010 Sam Houston National Forest by Greg S.
Excellent place for the family - I have been fortunate enough to grow up near the Sam Houston National Forest and have hunted, fished, hiked, and explored the land. The forest is beautiful and the opportunities for learning are endless.
2/27/2010 Stephen F Austin State Park by VandeVenters
Very Helpful and Friendly - We enjoyed our first stay at Stephen Austin S.P. - the pull-thru site was great, plus full service. What really made it a good experience was the people at the office who came to our rescue. The camper converter went out and, since we were without a working refrig., they offered us the use of a spare refrig in the group camping area. What a godsend that was! And the employees were so friendly. Thank you - that certainly helped our attitudes while dealing with a malfunctioning camper!
1/23/2010 Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge by Transplanted New Englander
A favrite birding location - A key stop on our annual birding pilgrimage to the Valley.
Gators Galore - I like the aligators!
1/5/2010 Nails Creek State Park by lusili
cool - this is the most coolest park, ever better than fredannan park
12/23/2009 Fort Parker State Park by olieann
my favorite park for over 45 years - I have been camping at Fort Parker since I was 2 or 3, My mother and her mother before her, I will be taking my Grandchildren this Spring. It has been a family tradition since it opened. So much to do and see. The old fort is a must. I hope I can still find the old creek springs on the way to the fort that my mother showed me as a child. We would always takes tons of cousins and neighborhood friends with us when we went. What a wonderful childhood memory. I wonder if the island is still there????
12/11/2009 San Bernard National Wildlife Refuge by WildlifeMama
Coastal Marsh Bliss - If you love coastal wetlands habitat you will love San Bernard National Wildlife Refuge! Anglers can fish and crab on the lakes and creek, and there are areas for waterfowl hunting. Kayaks, small motorboats and canoes can be launched from the boat ramp. Driving on the roadway can be exciting too! I stopped and saw alligators just a few feet away from my car! One gator moved closer to me, presumably for having me for lunch. The movement was not noticeable. So be careful if you go, watch out for the gators! At a different time of year, I saw a heard of wild hogs running. Always you will see different things if you have the opportunity to visit multiple times.
11/16/2009 Inks Lake State Park by AmyBob
The Best Park Ever! - I absolutely LOVE Inks Lake! My family caught a lot of fish in the 2 days we were there and we saw a lot of wildlife around our campsite, including a little armadillo that scared us real bad at first!We are definitely coming back here again!
Geese are coming in now - Drive along Wildlife Drive and see the large flocks of geese- more arriving daily - they browse in green fields awhile then go for a dip in Lake Texoma - stay in your car for best viewing!
11/12/2009 Atlanta State Park by Earl Timmons
Our second home - Very peaceful, pleasant. Gracious people to camp with. The sites are great and spaced nicely. The park personnel are always looking for ways to make your camping experience the best. Again, great people to camp with. If I need to leave my wife there for a few days by herself, I feel perfectly safe for her because the ranger sees to it that there are a number of patrols through the park all hours.
11/9/2009 Lake Whitney State Park by TexasRed
Lovely park - wonderful campsites, gorgeous views, plenty of wildlife. We saw many deer, some large bucks, and large flock of turkeys (17).
10/25/2009 Davis Mountains State Park by Kenneth Griffith
Great get away from the large city - sits about a mile high. Highest community in Texas. Great place to stay to escape the summer heat in Texas. Abundant Wild Life
10/16/2009 Birch Creek State Park by RDB
Very Clean - Need larger camp sites pads to handle 5th wheels along with 50amp service
10/12/2009 Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge by Maggie
Always find something to see there - The recent rains have left lots of standing water but two trails are surfaced and hike-able! Hikers saw roseate spoonbill and osprey Saturday. We like the nature programs on the Second Saturday of each month.
10/7/2009 Abilene State Park by Harry
Peaceful - Great place to come out and relax. Trails and a bird blind are enjoyable. Great swimming pool in season! Helpful staff.
10/6/2009 Buescher State Park by D Chittwood
Nice and clean - Nice quiet park with clean restrooms and sites. The only thing that could have been much better were the tent sites. They need more gravel to help with the mud and dirt. The site I really wanted to stay at did not have electricity. Got to have a fan in Texas! Good place to ride a bicycle and walk. Friendly staff. It would be GREAT. Thanks.
10/5/2009 Abilene State Park by Nell Copeland
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9/25/2009 Lake Bob Sandlin State Park by Happy Camper
always a pleasure - We have never been disappointed - very clean, great facilities, beautiful surroundings, close to Dallas - always recommend this area for camping, especially, going back soon!
9/23/2009 Garner State Park by La abuela
Our favorite family park. - We went to Garner for the first time in 1972 and since then at least once a yr. This is now a family, 3 generations, tradition. The staff is very profesional and ready to help the campers. The park is clean and the area is fantastic
9/13/2009 W G Jones State Forest by Bike Rider - JacobsReserve
Nice bike trails - One the last few forest areas for families to enjoy. Good trails on the north side of 1488 with newly constructed resting stops. Needs three pine trees cut off path and some bridge work. Otherwise, a nice bike ride.
9/7/2009 Fort Griffin State Park by Nick
PRETTY PLACE - OMG it was like so freakin awsome there like there were aalot of birds and wildlife like OMG you have got to go there it is awsome like wow
Family Heirloom - I remember spending many amazing Easters here, we never really wanted to hunt eggs, just to walk the trails and ride the tour bus. Now I take my children and have a great time!
8/28/2009 Goliad State Park by BSATroop471
Beautiful Park--Bring a canoe! - The park is beautiful with the San Antonio river running along it. Interesting and historical. Great place to camp as a youth group, Boy Scout troop or a family. As a scoutmaster it is one of my favorite places to camp.
8/27/2009 Inks Lake State Park by Skinner
The best park in Texas - We have been having our Father & Son camping trips since 1994 we only went to 3 different parks desides Inks Lake in 15 years and its because all sites where booked at that time.
8/20/2009 Tyler State Park by Mildred Tee
My first time to this Park.... - I am a Wildlife and Nature Photographer I have pictures on the State Parks Web Site and will be adding the ones I took at the Tyler State Park it is a lovely park and I plan to come back !! I enjoyed the nature trails...8/14/2009
8/14/2009 Galveston Island State Park by Jose Garcia -
Great park for photography. - You can really get some great shots of birds, other animals as well as landscapes.
8/14/2009 Guadalupe Mountains National Park by Jose Garcia
One of the best parks for photography. - Great opportunity for some great pictures. If you like photography, this is a great place.
8/3/2009 Eisenhower State Park by Robinson Family
Wonderful Time - Our family has stayed at Eisenhower several times, but this past weekend was the best! I recommend the cabins they are very nice.
Texas Hill Country At Its Best - A nice little Texas park. The place was clean and the park rangers were helpful. Call ahead to make sure there is water flowing. Texas does get hit by drougths from time to time, which affects all water parks.
7/5/2009 Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge by Amatuer bird watchers
Strange but beautiful & loaded w birds - Wife&I enjoyed many species off season (July, 100+ hot); oil derricks thruout detract somewhat; Interesting history; Changing water levels create barren shores, not prettiest but creates wide-open viewscapes. No hand-feeding!
6/19/2009 Seminole Canyon State Park by LINDA
MY FAVORITE PARK - THIS PARK HAS EVERYTHING: GREAT VIEWS, INFORMATIVE TOURS, WONDERFUL MUSEUM/HEADQUARTERS, AND GREAT CAMPING. THE PERSONNEL ARE FUN, COURTEOUS, AND HELPFUL THANKS TP&W.
6/18/2009 Balmorhea State Park by kenny williams
very good staff friendly and nice - i`m 49 years .i made my first visit at 10 years old and in 1986 i made my dive there and 2 years ago my wife made her first dive there and last year my son law to be made his first dive there so this year i took rescue class and did the dive there . and plan to go back so . the STAFF THERE VERY NICE AND FRIENDLY AND HELPFUL JUST GOOD PEOPLE THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS THEM . balmorea is a good place to go and take your family and friends swimming and diving too.........
6/8/2009 Amistad National Recreation Area by packalphadog
Best lake in Texas - Beautiful, huge, clear, deep lake. Super fishing (ESPN hosts televised pro-fishing tournaments here). You will need a Mexican fishing license to fish on the Mexican side of lake. This lake is also not a constant-level lake, so facilities serving boating are limited (3 permanent marinas), several boat docks. Marina services are pretty minimal. The Laughlin AFB Marina is the most developed, with RV sites available. Water tends to fluctuate quite a bit due to water releases for irrigation, so navigating the lake can be tricky at times. Camping along the lake is limited, however there are multiple day-use areas (with covered tables, grills) that are good for picnicing, swimming, etc. Plenty of boat storage.
6/6/2009 Lake Whitney State Park by Christy
Tranquil - Tranquil is the best description I can think of. It is very relaxing. We love to park our camper right next to the lake and listen to the water hit the rocks. You can walk a few steps down to the water to swim, and it is rarely crowded. We see deer every morning and evening on our bike rides around the park, and have seen ALOT of wild turkeys, rabbits, squirrels, few foxes and alot of different birds. Love to go into Hillsboro and hit the outlet shops. Very nice to go into Whitney to browse through the shops in town. This is usually our first pick of places to camp, and we have camped here so often, it feels like home now. This is very much a family park.
6/1/2009 Huntsville State Park by John Martinez
Love this park - Its the best
Breathtaking, surprises everywhere - Abundant wildlife for the wildlife enthusiast. My first time there and I will be back every year. The amount of wildlife is truly amazing! I saw deer, rattlesnakes, redfish tailing, bobcat, javelina, eagles, and the list goes on. A very unique place. It was like driving through a safari!
5/23/2009 Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge by Lyle Broemeling
- I really enjoy this park and the fishing on the bayou.
5/22/2009 Balmorhea State Park by LT
fun spot - Nice park , up to date facilities, - fun getaway
5/13/2009 Lake Brownwood State Park by Dan and Tabatha Weber
A Family Favorite - I grew up at lake brownwood and loved every minute of it. Now that I am older with children of my own, I make sure to bring my kids back every opportunity that I get so that they may experience the same love for the area and people that I do. There is always excitement at Lake Brownwood wheather it be fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, or just relaxing with friends and family.
a very good park - green and lush-lots of animals
5/8/2009 Galveston Island State Park by G.L. Garcia
Great Birdwatching! - Love to watch the different kinds of gulf coast birds. The sunsets are breath taking and the stars in the night sky are amazing!
5/5/2009 Tyler State Park by daxfas26
- the best memory of my childhood was when my dad threw my 12th bday party and stayed the nite in the cabins. all my friends that came say the same thing. it really did leave an impression on all of us.
great value for camping along the ocean - park service does a great job, guided & informative tours, gift shop, and miles of undeveloped beach, stars at night over the gulf are fantastic, only $8/night
4/21/2009 Dinosaur Valley State Park by Misty Expressions Photography
A Taste Of Texas - This park is so beautiful and wonderful for photographers. I highly recommend it!
4/21/2009 Cleburne State Park by Misty Expressions Photography
Beautiful Year Round - This park is clean and beautiful. Great for families and photographers. I highly recommend it!
4/18/2009 Eisenhower State Park by Mike and Lisa
FIRST TRIP TO TEXAS STATE PARK - Have to say that we were very suprised with how clean and spacious the campground were. We camped in a tent and was not very far from the bath/showers. Nice and shaded. 2 reasons why not a 5 star. one campgrounds not on lake. and two fishing piers not so great, but other than that and excellent experience, all the rangers were extremely friendly. Looking forward to more of the same as we camp more often.
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4/7/2009 Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge by VeronicaLucio
I love living here - Laguna Atascosa is my get-a-way and the most peaceful, BEAUTIFUL area God has blessed us with down here in South Texas. Just this morning I drove out a sunsrise with a friend. We saw deer, beautiful birds, three nilgai, and serene land. At sunset two days ago we encountered and entire herd of magical nilgai running across the open land. It was breathtaking. We also saw an ocelot, a bobcat and javelina, deer, coyote and breathtaking birds. I have been out there several times a year and each time has proven to be phenomenal. I love taking friends, family and visitors to the area.
4/3/2009 Inks Lake State Park by srds
great park-friendly staff-good swimming - cool deep granite line lake
4/2/2009 Mission Tejas State Park by Dinga
We just loved it in this park -
3/30/2009 Bonham State Park by Kevin
Close to home, yet not... - Beautiful park, fun trails, quiet save for when you go the same weekend as a girl scout troop. Spot 20 is the best, try to reserve that one if you are just tent camping.
3/29/2009 Lake Brownwood State Park by BARBARA J. CUTBIRTH
family fun - I HAVE BEEN CAMPING AT LAKE BROWNWOOD STATE PARK FOR NEARLY 30 YEARS. MY FAMILY AND I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN TREATED WITH RESPECT AND THE STAFF IS THE BEST YOU WILL EVER SEE. WE HAVE CAMPED DURING SUNNY DAYS AND SOMETIMES DURING RAIN STORMS. AS FOR MY FAMILY WE PREFER THIS PARK TO ANYOTHER WE HAVE EVER CAMPED AT AND YES WE WILL BE GOING BACK AGAIN THIS YEAR AND EXPECT IT WILL BE JUST AS WONDERFUL AS THE LAST YEARS. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK. BJC
3/28/2009 Garner State Park by deaftribe
3rd Generation - My Grandfather took my Father there when he was little, My Father took me since I was 4 year old and now I still taking my Daughter there as in 4th Generations. We usually stay 3 nights there at twice a year. Garner are the best overall for camping, swimming and sit by campfire I ever had. Especially Frio River are my MAIN reason cause it is so clear and beautiful. Also I noticed every campers at Garner had a 24 hours smile in friendly way with hand waving at us. It so so perfect for us to ease our mind from all the stress and pressure.
Our favorite place to look for wildlife - We are avid photographers and have seen most animals that live in the refuge. When it is wet, there are abundances of birds of every type and when it is dry, we seem to see more cats. There are always deer, nilgui, alligators, lots of roadrunners and bunnies, hawks, Mexican eagles, osprey, greenjays, ducks, pigs, javalinas and so many more. We are always searching for the elusive oscelot and I swear I saw a Jaguarundi a few years back. It is a very special place.
We love it. - Me and my boyfriend Tad just love it. We love to watch the birds and spend time together enjoying nature.
3/15/2009 Bastrop State Park by JASON Z.
Great cabins built in 1930s. -
I love the view - The view is awesome from the Sunset loop area. I always try to get this site whenever I can, even if I may have to stay at one site and later move to this site.
2/17/2009 Balmorhea State Park by Sharon
diving - went in at almost sunset in Feb- think those fish and the turtles were hungry-72 degrees the water was clear and ducks were diving-it was fun-but wish I knew what the fish were used to eating..fed them vienna sausages in Austin..
2/16/2009 Garner State Park by SHELLEY
THE BEST VACATION SPOT! - MY FAMILY HAS BEEN GOING THERE FORMANY MANY YEARS, IT IS THE BEST PLACE, QUIET, CLEAN WATER, REALXING! THE DANCE AT NIGHT IS THE BEST! ANYONE THINKING OF GOING? JUST DO IT YOU WILL LOVE IT
2/10/2009 Garner State Park by gracie
2nd home - i love it is a second home to me
1/30/2009 Lake Whitney State Park by Joyce
One of my favorite parks - It is a beautiful park. We have seen Deer, Foxes, Possums, Raccoons, and Squirrels. We love to go in the winter, fall and spring.
culio - this is pretty cool
1/27/2009 Garner State Park by Peanut from Von Ormy, Tx
A Second Home - I have been going to Garner for over 40 years. I started taking my family when my oldest daughter (22) was about 7. My youngest daughter who is 10 know was 4 months old when she first went. My family including my mom and dad have always loved going to Garner. The people are kind, everyone watchers out for each other. One year we had a hail storm and we meet alot of wonderful people after that storm. People just seem to be more friendly when you are out doors. Garner is a second home for my family. Everyone tells me I should try something different, but not me I enjoy the clear water and the peacefulness. We joined the FOG (friends of Garner) and go several times a year to help with different activities. FOG helps clean the trails and helps with the river clean up. If you ever get a chance join FOG, you will enjoy meeting the people there. Garner will always be a second home for me.
1/23/2009 Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge by Dennis Eccleston
Best Gator View from your Car in Texas. - This park, along with Brazos Bend, is one of the best parks to view Aligators and, unlike Brazos, you can see them from your car. Also seen are bitterns, herons (including both yellow and black night crowned), eagrets, ibis, wood stork visitors and purple ganinoules as well as many species of duck and a few roseate spoonbills. The lake largely dried up over the last few years around the board walk but recent storms have helped.
Been here every year since i was little! - If there is anyone reading this in order to find out more information on the park to help them decided if this is a trip for them, dont have any doubts. Garner is really a great relaxing fun and beautiful state park. We have been going as a family since i was 5 im now 20 and we cant wait to go every year and we dont even mind the 5 hour drive from Houston!! There are plent of things to do ...hiking, biking, put put, dancing, swimming,tubing,...RELAXING...and just having fun. Its also a great place to do nothing, just sit and be grateful for what surrounds you. I highly recommend it...there is no way that you wont enjoy your stay, and i just cant wait to be there this March!! :)
12/29/2008 Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge by Carolyn
Awesome place to view wintering birds - Great park. Well worth the visit. The auto route is ideal for birders with limited mobility. My eight year old and I enjoyed a wonderful hike -- spotting an armadillo but alas not seeing the ferral hogs. Wintering birds are there by the thousands -- breathtaking when they take flight. We also saw at least a dozen heron not to mention a host of other birds.
12/26/2008 Acton State Park by Genevia Decker
My 20yo son was laid to rest... - in 2008. I thank God for his MeeMaw, as she gave my son a plot in this historic park. I think it is a beautiful place.
11/15/2008 Palo Duro State Park by Zack
A Must See Place - The Canyon is a beautiful place to visit. The views are spectacular, and the plant diversity is amazing. If you are ever near it, you need to stop and see it.
11/9/2008 Huntsville State Park by LR
My favorite! - whene me and my family went camping with my little brothers cub scout pack we had a great time there! it was clean and beautiful!
10/5/2008 Huntsville State Park by Elizabeth
Great for nature lovers -
9/19/2008 W G Jones State Forest by Leosun
Best Place To Ride - I love this place. The trails are in excellent condition with good footing. Very pleasant ride. Highly recommended. Can accomadate large numbers of riders at a time.
9/13/2008 Longhorn Cavern State Park by LeaAnn Johnson
Great Park - I was really inpressed with this park.
9/9/2008 Huntsville State Park by The Moores
20 plus years of enjoyment. - For more than 20 years my family, relative and friends have enjoyed camping at Huntsville. They have swimming, hiking, biking, fishing and helpful park rangers. There is some thing to do for every member of the family. Children we introduced to camping are now bring their children to our annual outing.
Great campsites -
8/18/2008 Palo Duro State Park by Allen
very nice - We camped here in June 2008. Was very clean and well managed. The scenery is beautiful
8/17/2008 Guadalupe Mountains National Park by Miss Lovely
simply magnificent -
Great Experience - Nestled in the Piney Woods of East Texas, this campground was a beautiful retreat. The lake was beautiful and one of our campers snagged a very large bass. There is a marina with paddle boats and canoes. We had a tremendous family experience.
8/7/2008 Garner State Park by Brandi
WONDERFUL! - We absolutely LOVE Garner State Park and this will be our second year going. The park is beautiful and tubing and playing in the river is quite refreshing (but VERY cold until you get used to it). There are rope swings throughout the banks of the river and nice little rock beaches to relax on. You can get a trailer ride up river that lets you off for hours of relaxing tubing (two differnt spots for drop-off, depending how long you want to tube the river). We went in August last year and thought it was going to be very hot and humid but the only time we ever broke a sweat was setting up the tent the afternoon we got there. I highly recommend Garner State Park! It is very family friendly. Our daughter was 5 when we went last year and she LOVED it and is looking forward to going this year.
8/2/2008 Tyler State Park by tracy d.
i love this place - i use to coe here when i was a kid and it had left such an impression to me that i am now 33 and love the idea of coming on my onl vaction in 2 years. thank you.
7/19/2008 Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge by LRichardson
Well Worth a Visit - I recently visited Buffalo Lake after being away from Texas for over 40 years. I remember as a boy I used to fish there and was always impressed by the lake, as there is not much water in the Panhandle. When I arrived I was suprized that the water had mostly gone, but pleased with what had been done to preserve the area and turn it into a Wildlife Refuge. It was so pleasant and peaceful there, I will most certainly return again.
7/11/2008 Cleburne State Park by Darla
Great info - Thanks for the info on the state park. We just moved here near the park and I learned alot from your site. I love to sit in my back yard (4.3 acres) and watch the deer and turkey and all the other wild life come to drink from our tank pond.
7/10/2008 Eisenhower State Park by GARCIAS.........
still trying to catch a fish - this is a very beautiful lake. love the trails, fishing pier, and the swimming area. but its just our luck that we cant catch a fish. but we will be back to try again.
7/3/2008 Palo Duro State Park by misty
my favorite - it was so awsome it was so reall i want to go agian and the dresses are goregess
best for a boy scout - went to the springs a couple years ago going back in 3 weeks i really enjoyed it
6/20/2008 Bonham State Park by Angie Mizell
a well kept secret - This is a beautiful park not far off the beaten path. It is truly a well kept secret! Beautiful lake, quiet surroundings, shaded campsites..a real treat!
6/18/2008 Possum Kingdom State Park by Bob & Mae
After a drive thru,plans to return & rv - We rv and the spaces we saw were very well layed out and inviting,close to the water or woods and not a bad drive to location.
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6/12/2008 Huntsville State Park by Samantha29
The park - I love huntsville state park, my family and i love to fish, my kids always catch something. its clean and beautiful. Cant wait to camp this summer in their most awesome cabins:)
6/10/2008 Eisenhower State Park by Chris and family
Beautiful Park! - We loved it, beautiful woods, hiking trails and wildlife. Thank you for such a nice park.
best of the best -
sweet -
6/7/2008 Huntsville State Park by Susan Langley
Our favorite get away to relax and fish -
6/6/2008 Fort Griffin State Park by Russel
Stars are Bright - This is a very good location for star observing. Only two light domes no more than maybe 10 degrees high, dry, few bugs, mag 6 sky.
6/2/2008 Monument Hill State Park by giddinite
beautiful views of the area -
5/28/2008 Garner State Park by Thelma
- A beautiful get-away into the wild. There is open land to camp out. You can enjoy tents or cabins. You can also enjoy the cold river. Breath taking!!!!!!!!
5/17/2008 San Bernard National Wildlife Refuge by Fred Smith
limited fun - Better in Feb.,Mar., before migratory birds all leave. The rest of the year is just for exercise. No facilities. Bring anything you might need.
5/13/2008 Garner State Park by Norma Strait
This is one our Favorite Vacation Spots. - Kids love the clear water and love the dances in the evening. Although park rangers are to strict this is the best family park we have ever been to.
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Guadalupe Mountains - was Great for the whole family i recomend it DEFFINATLY
nice for camping - we have between to camping before but only in Oklahoma although we live in Dalla-Fortworth area. compared to the OK camping ground this is larger, cleaner and more scenic
Grew up on this lake - Really like the State Park shelters. My parents started bringing our family to this park as far back as I can remember. A brother of mine and I still frequent the park and catch a lot of catfish, a few gaspergoo and crappie. Always enjoy it.
4/22/2008 Meridian State Park by Regina
Weekend Get-a-way - Our family has been going to this park for 38 years. We always have a good time, it is easy to find and get to for every one. Great for a weekend away.
4/17/2008 Eisenhower State Park by Alyssa
I love being here. - Ever since i was little, i love going camping here. The cabins are a great place for family a camping trip.
4/16/2008 Fort Griffin State Park by Patsy
Quiet & Restful - Lovely park to take long walks, watch the birds, quietly watch animals. Really enjoyed the park. Enjoyed the fort history also. Interesting.
4/16/2008 Galveston Island State Park by Tj Springer
Great sites well spaced, close to Gulf. - Love it at Galveston Island State Park, beaches great for biking and hiking. Sites are well spaced and most have Gulf views.
4/15/2008 W G Jones State Forest by Denise, Magnolia, TX
Horse Lovers and Trail Hikers - This is a great place to take your horse and spend the day on the trails. It is a well kept secret. You can spend the day riding and enjoying yourself on well groomed and maintaine trails. Plenty of shaddy areas. It is also a fun place to hike and look for wildlife. Bring your kids, fishing poles and good hiking shoes you can spend the entire day and not cover the park.
4/13/2008 Eisenhower State Park by Rickc
Fix the fishing dock near the shelters - We had a great weekend at the park. We stayed in a shelter and enjoyed all the ammenities except the fishing pier/dock that has not been repaired yet after 2 years due to collapsing banks?. This took the fishing part of the trip away from us, really disappointing! We had our hearts set on fishing from this pier based on past years fun there.
You must see it!!! - We did not expect to visit such a beautiful place. We have seen birds, rattle snakes and alligators. The views of the laguna are unique. We strongly recommend to visit it and to take the 15 mile drive loop.
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