10 Amazing Texas State Parks

Texas is home to some of the best state parks in the country.  Even better is that many of them can be found right in Austin and the surrounding Hill Country. With that said, here are 10 of the best state parks Texas has to offer.

1. Guadalupe River State Park

Photo: tpwd.texas.gov

In need of some good ol’ fashioned time on the River? Guadalupe River State Park  offers swimming, fishing, tubing and canoeing. Want to enjoy the park but stay on dry land? Try camping, hiking, mountain biking or horseback riding, have a picnic, go geocaching, or even bird watching.

2. Garner State Park

Photo: tpwd.texas.gov

At Garner State Park you can swim in the Frio River or float its waters on an inner tube, paddle boat, or hike 11 miles of scenic trails. Of course there is also camping, fishing. canoeing, geocaching. golfing, and bike riding. They also host an old fashioned jukebox dance in the summers.

3. Monument Hill & Kreische Brewery State and Historic Site

Photo: tpwd.texas.gov

Spectacular views, breathtaking scenery, and a renowned brewery — this place has it all. Not to mention picnicking, nature study, and historical study. The park is available for weddings, family reunions, or other group functions in the picnic area and/or the historical facilities. Take a group tour of the park with advanced scheduling or take a regularly scheduled tour of the brewery.

4. Inks Lake State Park

Photo: tpwd.texas.gov

This state park offers family fun both on water and on land. Crystal blue waters, colorful rock outcrops, and striking sunsets make this a spectacular Hill County getaway.

5. Pedernales Falls State Park

Photo: tpwd.texas.gov

The Pedernales River flows just 30 miles west of Austin over and through huge slabs of limestone. It is a great place to relax and recharge. It is perfect for an afternoon swim or hike, or load up the gear for an overnight adventure.

6. Palmetto State Park

Photo: tpwd.texas.gov

The Palmetto State Park has something for everyone. From biking and hiking to fishing, camping, and everything in between — this park offers a ton of fun.

7. Lyndon B. Johnson State Park

Photo: tpwd.texas.gov

Visitors to the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park can enjoy historical sites, picnicking, fishing, swimming, nature and wildlife viewing. You can also visit the Sauer-Beckmann Farmstead, a living history farm, presented as it was in 1918. The park is also home to the abundant wildlife of the Hill Country.

8. Buescher State Park 

Photo: tpwd.texas.gov

Buescher State Park is a scenic wonderland perfect for a family camping trip. Enjoy the hiking trails, fishing in the stocked lake, boating, and more.

9. Blanco State Park

Photo: tpwd.texas.gov

Activities at Blanco State Park include camping, swimming, picnicking, hiking, nature study, and fishing. Tube and canoe rentals are available at the park. The park also plays host to the Blanco Classic Car Show on the third Saturday in May.

10. Colorado Bend State Park

Photo: tpwd.texas.gov

An outdoor enthusiasts dream. Colorado Bend State Park is a gorgeous lush park teeming with wildlife and birds. Primitive camping, hiking and waterfalls make it a great spot for a weekend getaway.

Without question these state parks offer up some of the best nature that Texas has to offer. The only question that remains, then, is which of these glorious state parks to visit first.