[20 Best] Texas State Parks For Camping Ultimate List

If you are a person who loves to go on camping, Texas is one of the best states available to consider. That’s because Texas is offering a large number of state parks to go and camp with your loved ones. Due to the same reason, you might feel it as an overwhelming task to locate the best state parks out of them for camping. That’s why we thought of recommending 20 of the best state parks in Texas where you can have quality time with camping.

1. Hueco Tanks Park & Historic Site

Rock climbing is a popular activity that you can find among people in Texas. While spending your time camping, you can think about rock climbing as well.

It will provide you a unique experience with camping, and the experience will be filled with fun and excitement.

Any person who wants to go ahead with rock climbing while camping should think about visiting the Hueco Tanks Park & Historic Site. At here, you will be provided an unforgettable experience with rock climbing.

That’s mainly due to the presence of hills that look pretty much similar to granite in here.

Hueco Tanks Park & Historic Site is a place that is dedicated to rock climbers. Hence, you should think about coming along with your rock climbing gear.

The time that you spend to get to the top of the rocks will not be disappointing, as you will be provided with numerous activities to engage with.

Some of the most prominent activities out of them include stargazing and bird watching. You can even think about having a picnic after climbing to the top of the rocks.

You will need to spend a full day rock climbing so that you can get the best experience as you stay in this state park.

However, you will also need to keep in mind that you should reserve some of the rock climbing paths ahead of time.

Rock imagery is a perfect example of such a path. In case if you are planning to visit during the peak season, you should confirm your reservation ahead of time to avoid future disappointments.

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2. Washington-On-The-Brazos Historic Site

People who don’t like to go on hikes with camping in Texas can think about visiting Washington-On-The-Brazos Historic Site.

In fact, you don’t have to bring any outdoor gear or hiking gear as you come here. Hence, it is a family-friendly state park in Texas, where you can spend time camping.

Washington-On-The-Brazos Historic Site is a massive state park, which covers an area of over 193 acres. This state park is filled with historical interest.

That’s because the Deceleration of Independence of Texas happened right in this state park back in the day.

As you explore the state park, you will also come across a large number of buildings that have historical importance.

One of the most prominent buildings out of them is the farmhouse, which was used by Anson Jones, the Final President of Texas. You can learn more about the history of Texas while you are spending your time here.

Another great thing about Washington-On-The-Brazos Historic Site is that it is located along the Brazos River.

Therefore, you will come across numerous sites to go on a picnic. The time that you spend here at the Washington-On-The-Brazos Historic Site will be filled with peacefulness.

After you explore the park, you should go to the visitor center as well.

This is where you will be able to learn some more details about the history of Texas. Along with that, you can buy some merchandise, which you can take home along with you as souvenirs.

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3. Mustang Island State Park

Mustang Island State Park is another prominent historical park that you can find in Texas.

Hence, we can highly recommend it to people who are keen to learn more about the history of Texas.

When you take a look at the history of Mustang Island State Park, you will figure out that it is related to the founding of the United States.

In fact, the history of Mustang Island State Park dates all the way back to 25 centuries. You can explore that interesting history as you are spending your time here.

This island got its name because of the unique species of horses, who were living here back in the day. However, you will not be able to see those horses being present on the island as of now.

The Mustang Island State Park is quite unique from other state parks.

That’s because this state park is entirely an island. The island has a length of around 18 miles. Hence, you will notice how a large number of activities are available for you to try during the time that you are spending here.

Some of the activities that you can engage with us you are spending your time at the Mustang Island State Park include biking, fishing, surfing, and sunbathing.

There are numerous accommodations available near this park as well.

hence, you don’t have to think twice before you come to Mustang Island State Park for enjoying camping with loved ones.

Read: Texas [5 Free] Beach Camping SpotsLearn about the North Beach Campground

4. Devils River Natural Area

Devils River Natural Area is a state park that will help you to spend your time along with nature. That’s mainly because of Devils River, which is running across this park.

In fact, this river has contributed to the name of the park as well.

Before you come to Devils River Natural Area for camping, you need to understand that it is divided into three main sections.

These three sections include the Edwards Plateau, Tamaulipan Mezquita Ecoregion, and Chuhuahuan Desert.

The best thing about these three sections is that each section has a unique ecosystem on its own.

Hence, you might even feel like you are exploring three different state parks. You will also be impressed with the scenic landscape that the Devils River Natural Area is offering.

As you explore the Devils River Natural Area, you will notice that it is filled with vegetation. Along with that, you can explore a large number of animals who are roaming around.

Some of the most prominent species that you should look around for are pecans, sycamore trees, and bats from Mexico.

One of the main reasons why people prefer to come to the Devils River Natural Area is because it is an area filled with isolation. Therefore, you will be able to take a break from your busy schedule and immerse yourself in isolation.

It will be a great stress reliever available for anyone in Texas.

Read: Texas Outdoor Family Camping Workshops [Top 5 Ultimate List]Learn about the Texas Outdoor Family Leadership Training at the Bastrop State Park

5. Garner State Park

When you go through the state parks in Texas, you will figure out that some of them are extremely popular for camping.

Garner State Park is a perfect example of such a state park.

If you are coming here during the summer season, you will get the opportunity to see how lots of people spend their time camping.

Numerous reasons have contributed to the popularity of Garner State Park among campers. The presence of a pristine river and the availability of multiple hiking trails have contributed a lot towards the popularity.

Along with that, you will also notice how Garner State Park is offering all the facilities that you need to enjoy time camping.

Due to the same reason, people of all ages come here and have a great time camping.

If you are planning to come to Garner State Park during the summer season, you should understand that it can usually get overcrowded.

Hence, you will have to go through a challenging task in order to locate a camping spot. Therefore, you should come early in the morning, and secure your camping spot. It is not currently possible for you to reserve the camping sites ahead of time.

Anyone who wants to get the best views should think about hiking alongside the Old Badly.

This is not a challenging hike, as you will have to walk only for around a mile. Then you will be able to camp with a scenic site located along the river.

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6. Dinosaur Valley

Dinosaur Valley is quite an interesting state park available for you to camp in Texas.

This state park is made out of limestones and sandstones. It is a place with historical interest. In fact, the history of the state park is dating all the way to 113 million years.

The main reason why people come to camp at Dinosaur Valley is that it got two dinosaur footprints.

These two footprint sets were discovered back in the year 1908. Along with that, the name of the park was set as Dinosaur Valley. Moreover, this park was recognized as a National Natural Landmark as a result of it.

Dinosaur Valley is quite a large state park. It has a total area of over 1,500 acres.

Due to the same reason, you will notice how the park is offering a variety of outdoor activities for the people to engage with.

Some of the most popular outdoor activities out of them include hiking and biking.

Moreover, you will notice that there are numerous spots in this park where you can spend your time camping. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about reserving a camping spot ahead of time.

You can come to Dinosaur Valley with all your family members and enjoy the fascinating experience offered here.

It will be an experience that you will never regret for the rest of your life.

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7. Inks Lake State Park

Inks Lake State Park is another perfect state park that you can think about visiting for rock climbing.

This state park has a total area of over 1,200 acres.

However, most of the area under the state park belongs to rocky terrain. You will also be able to find lush vegetation sitting on top of it. Hence, you might even call it heaven that exists on earth.

You will be able to visit Inks Lake State Park throughout the year to experience the amazing experiences offered here.

If you are planning to visit this state park, you shouldn’t forget to go for a swim in the Devil’s Waterhole.

This is a unique pool, which is surrounded by rocky grounds. You can rejuvenate yourself by going for a swim here.

Another great thing that you can do during the time that you spend at Inks Lake State Park is to go for a swim in Inks Lake.

It is a safe lake for swimming.

Hence, you can take a break from stress, and have a great time with your loved family members.

Pristine waters that you can find in this state park would deliver a fascinating experience, which you will fall in love with.

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8. Pedernales Falls State Park

Pedernales Falls is a state park that was formerly being used as a ranch.

It is located in close proximity to Johnson City. Hence, accessing Pedernales Falls state park will not be a challenge for you.

The most prominent tourist attraction that you can find within Pedernales Falls state park would be the Pedernales River. You will be able to have your camping experience by this river.

In fact, this river is covering the most area that belongs to the state park.

Hence, most adventures that you can secure while you spend your time in the state park will be associated with water.

The activities that you can do at the Pedernales Falls state park include swimming and fishing.

Along with spending your time with the water-based activities, you can also go ahead and picnic by the river.

There are multiple sites available for you to enjoy your time with loved family members. There are some basic campsites as well. You will need to walk for around 2 miles from the center of this state park for accessing the camping sites.

These camping sites have all the basic essentials you want, and you will be able to spend your time without going through any challenges.

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9. Caprock Canyons State Park

Caprock Canyons State Park is one of the most prominent state parks that you can find near Palo Duro State Park.

This state park is quite popular because of the prominent sandstone cliffs that you can find in it. These sandstone cliffs are called Caprock Escarpment. However, it is not the only attraction that you can find in the park.

You can call Caprock Canyons State Park the home to a large number of animals.

Most of these animals are inherent to North America.

The North American Camels are a perfect example of such animals. Likewise, you can find lots of Texas State Bison Herds here in the park as well. Hence, you will be able to have a great time with animal watching as you spend your time in this park.

The time you are spending at Caprock Canyons State Park will never be boring. That’s because you will find that there are multiple activities to engage with.

Horse riding, hiking, and biking are some of the most popular activities that you can find around here.

If you want to be active and adventurous, this is a perfect state park for visiting. That’s because you will notice that there is a large number of hiking trails in here.

In fact, the total distance of the hiking trails that you can find at Caprock Canyons State Park is over 90 miles.

Make sure that you bring your camera as you come here to the Caprock Canyons State Park. Then you will be able to capture breathtaking shots of the surroundings and take them home along with you as memories.

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10. Palo Duro Canyon State Parks

Palo Duro Canyon State Park is among the most popular state parks for camping here in Texas. You will be able to discover a stunning landscape here.

In fact, this state park has had a connection with the Grand Canyon. This is the largest canyon that you can find within the state of Texas. Moreover, you can call it one of the perfect canyons that you can find out there in the entire world as well.

Due to the breathtaking views, Palo Duro Canyon State Parks is among the most popular tourist attractions that you can find in Texas.

The canyons will help you to get active by providing a variety of activities.

Climbing and biking are the two most popular activities that you can do as you are spending your time here in this state park.

Apart from climbing and biking, you can try out many different activities as you are spending time with loved family members at Palo Duro Canyon State Parks. Camping, hiking, and horse riding hold a prominent place out of them.

You can spend few days at the Palo Duro Canyon State Park and explore the beauty of it.

To help you with that, there are multiple hotels and inns located around the park.

They will provide comfortable and convenient accommodation facilities for you.

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11. Longhorn Cavern State Park

Longhorn Cavern State Park is among the most popular state parks of Texas for camping as well.

The most prominent tourist attraction that you can find within this park is the Longhorn Cavern.

It was discovered back in 1930. It is a cave, which is located under the ground surface. The entire cave is made out of a natural rock formation.

If you are coming to Longhorn Cavern State Park for camping, you should make sure that you are exploring the Longhorn Cavern. However, it is better if you can explore that with the help of a tour guide.

Then you can learn more about the history of this cave. On top of that, you will also be able to get a unique adventure as you explore the cave system.

There are numerous natural hiking trails available here in the Longhorn Cavern State Park for you to explore.

It is possible for you to explore them as you are spending your time within the park.

Make sure that you come ready so that you will be able to get all the experiences that this park is offering, without missing out on anything.

Then you will be able to walk back home with a bunch of fascinating memories.

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12. Guadalupe River State Park

As the name suggests, Guadalupe River State Park is located in close proximity to a river.

Therefore, you should be ready to engage with water activities before you go camping here in this park. Then you can get the maximum out of attractions and other activities that the park is offering.

At Guadalupe River State Park, you can expose yourself to a long stretch of river, which runs for around 6lm.

This river is also the most prominent attraction that you can find within the park.

Some of the popular water-based activities that you can do as you spend time along with the river include fishing, swimming, tubing, and canoeing.

Even if you don’t love to engage with water sports, you can think about coming all the way to Guadalupe River State Park.

That’s because there are many other activities that you can try along with your loved ones.

For example, you will be able to find a trail that offers horse riding. It has a length of over 5 miles. Likewise, you can engage with hiking and mountain biking as well.

If you are trying to get the best out of your experience here at Guadalupe River State Park, you should be ready to spend a full day. Then you can immerse yourself in the natural area within the entire day.

However, you might sometimes notice that spending time in this park for a day is not enough.

In such a situation, you can stay here for a couple of days. There are inns located around the park, which will help you with finding the accommodation facilities you want.

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13. Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park

Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park is one of the most valuable state parks that you can find in Texas.

That’s mainly because this state park is contributing a lot towards the good health and wellbeing of the people who live within the state. If you are from Texas, you will appreciate the presence of this park within the state.

Another great thing about Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park is that it is providing protection to many rich alluvial sediments.

These are providing an ideal environment for the growth of some of the most precious trees, such as Sugar Hackberry and Acacia trees.

If you are spending time with your loved ones in this park, you can explore those trees as well.

One of the main reasons why people come to the Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park for camping is because it is filled with a large number of bird species. Most of the bird species you can find within the park are native to the state of Texas.

If you are keen to witness birds that you don’t find in any other part of the country, you should come here with your binoculars.

You can even take pictures of the birds and share them with your friends.

You will be able to spend a couple of days in this park and get the best experience offered out of it.

Read: [Top 5] Best Private Golf Courses In Texas To VisitLearn about the Butterfield Trail Golf Club in El Paso

14. Village Creek State Park

The Village Creek State Park is another large state park, which covers an area of over 7,000 acres.

This area is filled with narrow rivers as well as forests.

Hence, this state park is offering a perfect environment for you to have a relaxing time along with nature. You will appreciate all the great experiences that you can secure with nature during the time that you spend.

There’s a large number of hiking trails that you can find here in the Village Creek State Park.

In fact, trails are offering multiple purposes. Therefore, you can walk and explore the surroundings as you are spending your time here.

Likewise, you will also notice how the park is offering other basic facilities that campers would need to enjoy a fascinating stay. They include an outdoor theatre, indoor theatre, and two lakes.

You will not have to go through any challenges when you are trying to find accommodation here in the Village Creek State Park.

That’s because there are 10 cabins. If you are coming to the park for camping in the summer season, there’s a high possibility for them to be sold out. Hence, it is recommended to reserve a cabin ahead of time.

Anyone who wants to visit Village Creek State Park should think about coming in the month of November.

This is the time where the leaves of all forests in this state park are changing their color. This color change would create fascinating scenery within the state park.

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15. Lake Mineral Wells State Park

Lake Mineral Wells State Park is a state park that you can find near Fort Worth.

It is not just popular among people who are living in Fort Worth, but also among people from many other parts of the state.

That’s because the Lake Mineral Wells State Park is pretty much similar to a paradise that you can find on top of the planet.

The very first thing you will notice as you explore the park would be its fascinating scenery. You will never feel like leaving this state park after you come.

Along with that, you will also notice how the park is offering numerous outdoor amenities to make your life more comfortable as you explore it. For example, there are few fishing points within the park. You can have a relaxing time fishing at one of these fishing points.

There’s a large lake located within the Lake Mineral Wells State Park as well.

This lake is covering an area of over 640 acres. You will be able to find a large number of camping sites around the lake.

Hence, you will be able to have a great time here. You will also be able to find safe camping grounds in the Lake Mineral Wells State Park.

Therefore, you don’t have to worry too much about anything when you are coming here to camp along with your kids and family members.

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16. Caddo Lake State Park

Caddo Lake State Park is a park that you can find in the northeastern region of the state.

If you are looking for a state park that hosts a natural lake, this is the ideal place available to come for camping. In fact, Caddo Lake State Park is hosting the largest natural lake that you can find within the state of Texas.

The total area of the Caddo Lake State Park is around 27,000 acres.

There’s a large number of swamps and bayous around this park. Therefore, it is a perfect place available to take a break from the busy lifestyle you spend in the city. You will be able to spend time boating and fishing as you are staying here in Caddo Lake State Park.

The Caddo Lake State Park is quite popular among families with kids.

There is a large number of playgrounds available for the kids to have a great time within this park. Hence, parents don’t hesitate to come here with their kids.

You will be able to spend a night in this park within your tent.

It is something that the park allows. On the other hand, you can find a safe environment within the park for staying as well.

However, you should make sure that you bring all essentials you want before coming for camping here in Caddo Lake State Park.

That’s because it is quite an isolated park. You will have to travel to access the closest towns, such as Marshall, Uncertain, and Karnack.

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17. Lost Maples State Natural Area

If you are looking for a state park in Texas to visit during the fall, you should add Lost Maples State Natural Area to your list.

All the people who visit this state park during fall will be able to witness the fascinating sceneries of how leaves are changing color.

You will be able to access Lost Maples State Natural Area quite easily.

It is located closer to San Antonio. You just need to drive for a couple of hours in the North-Western direction of San Antonio, and you will end up visiting this park.

There’s a total of 8 areas that you can find within this park for camping.

Moreover, you will be able to find 11 miles of hiking trails as well. There is a total number of 30 camping sites. Hence, you will never notice that you don’t have space for camping as you are spending time at the Lost Maples State Natural Area.

As you continue to explore the Lost Maples State Natural Area, you will encounter that there are two small lakes located within the center.

You can find a large number of water activities around the lake.

On the other hand, the entire region is called a State Natural Area as well.

If you are coming to the Lost Maples State Natural Area, you should bring garbage bags along with you. You will not be allowed to leave behind any traces as you go back home.

Read: [5 Best] Fishing Getaways For Couples In TexasLearn about outdoor fishing adventures by the ocean, Galveston is the best option available out there to consider.

18. Big Bend Ranch State Park

Big Bend Ranch State Park is the largest ranch-based state park that you can find within the state of Texas.

This massive state park is covering a total area of over 300,000 acres as well. it is located in the western region of the state. In fact, the Big Bend Ranch State Park is on the border of Mexico and the USA.

At Big Bend Ranch State Park, you will be able to engage with a large number of outdoor activities.

The most popular outdoor activities out of them are wildlife watching, rafting, and hiking. You will also be able to engage in horseback riding.

Since this is a state park based on a ranch, you will see how cattle ranches are spread throughout the region. You can witness them during the time that you spend within the park.

The second tallest waterfall that you can find within the state is located within the Big Bend Ranch State Park.

The Madrid Falls is offering stunning views and you will be impressed with the looks it.

If you are a person who loves to try adventurous activities, you can think about exploring these waterfalls.

However, all people who are going to explore the waterfall should wear appropriate outdoor clothing.

Your journey to the waterfall will not be an easy one, and you will need to protect yourself from scratches and insect bites.

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19. Monahans Sandhills State Park

Monahans Sandhills State Park is a state park in Texas that we can highly recommend for people who love to engage in adventurous activities.

You will be able to have the time of your life around hills and trees, as you are spending your time within this state park.

One of the most prominent things that you will be able to see within the state park would be sand dunes.

These sand dunes are massive.

In fact, they would have a height of around 70 feet. The sand dunes are covering most of the area that belongs to the park.

Hence, you can get a unique experience from the Monahans Sandhills State Park, when compared to other state parks that you can find within the state. In fact, you will feel like you are spending your time in a desert.

At Monahans Sandhills State Park, you should take maximum opportunity to explore the sand dunes.

In order to go ahead with the adventure, you can borrow the equipment that you want from the headquarters of this park.

In other words, you can get snowboards and sand sleds, which will help you to get a fascinating experience within the park.

However, the Monahans Sandhills State Park is not all about sand dunes.

You will be able to find many campsites located within the park. If you want to go ahead with horse riding, facilities are available within this park as well.

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20. Enchanted Rock Natural Area

Enchanted Rock Natural Area is a unique state park that is quite popular among people who live in Texas.

If you are looking forward to securing a great experience, with some great adventures, you can think about coming all the way to the Enchanted Rock Natural Area.

The most prominent attraction that you will see within this park is the massive pink-colored granite mound. In fact, this park is well known among people because of this attraction.

The Enchanted Rock Natural Area is usually crowded during the weekend.

Therefore, it is better if you can reserve the tickets ahead of time before you come during a weekend.

A limited number of tickets are available for the guests each day at this park. If you don’t want to end up with any disappointments, you should get your tickets ahead of time.

The most popular outdoor adventures that are available for people to do at the Enchanted Rock Natural Area include camping, hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing.

You need to make sure that you are planning your tour to the Enchanted Rock Natural Area ahead of time so that you can get the best possible experience.

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Final words

Now you are aware of about 20 of the best natural state parks available in Texas for camping. After going through the list of parks, you will also figure out how blessed Texas is with parks. There are different kinds of natural parks that offer different experiences. All you have to do is to explore those parks and get the best experience that comes on your way.