It’s a new year, which means a whole new year of RV travel!
Many of you are probably in the process of planning your trips for the year. From California to New England, there are many great places to visit. But let’s not forget about our great state of Texas.
The Texas State Parks are having a budget shortfall. After a 2011 filled with extensive drought, high temperatures and in some areas of the state, forest fires that could not be contained for weeks. This year, our parks need our support.
So let’s take a look at the 5 top state parks in the state of Texas.
1. Lost Maples State Park, Bandera and Real Counties – this park covers more than 2100 acres. Campsites have water and electricity available, and a dump station is located at the park. Activities include hiking, swimming, camping and fishing. There is a lot of rock and steep cliffs in the landscape here. Busiest times of the year are November, December and March through May.
2. Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Canyon – This 120 mile long canyon is located 30 minutes south of Amarillo and is worth the visit. Activities include hiking and camping. Mountain biking and horseback riding are very popular here. There are sites with water and electricity and also sites with water only. This canyon is called the “Grand Canyon of Texas”.
3.Garner State Park, Concan – This is a popular destination in the summertime. The big attraction is the Frio River. This park is a great spot for swimming, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, tubing, snorkeling or just cooling off. Aside from the river, Garner State Park offers hiking, birding and nature watching. There are a few different options for RVers here. Hookups with 30 amp or 50 amp are available.
4. Mustang Island State Park, between Corpus Christi and Port Aransas– This park includes five miles of beachfront and offers visitors fishing, camping, beachcombing, swimming, surfing, birding, and other outdoor recreation options. Sand dollars are the big find on the beaches here. RV campsites are separated from the ocean by sand dunes.
5. Guadeloupe River State Park, Spring Branch – This Park is located in the middle of a 9-mile stretch of the Guadalupe River. Activities include canoeing, fishing, swimming, tubing, picnicking, hiking, and camping. The park recently opened a 5.3 miles equestrian trail that is also open to mountain biking. RV camping with hookups is also available.
Did you know that there are 99 state parks in Texas? Yes, 99! Start making your plans today to include at least one of our state parks in your RV travels. The parks will appreciate it, and so will your children.
