Things to Do

Sun, Fresh Air, & Outdoor Activities Abound in Brownwood

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Tony Maples Photography

 

As the final school bell rings, signaling the end of the year for students all over Texas, families will be itching to embark on an adventure. Parents yearn to disconnect from devices and reconnect with nature and good, old-fashioned outdoor activities. One of the best kept secrets for outdoor adventure in Texas is that Brownwood has all of the sun, fresh air, and outside, family fun that you could possibly need–all within a short trip from most anywhere in the state.

Brownwood, located right in the middle of Texas, on the leading edge of the Texas Hill Country, is probably best known for its picturesque and quaint downtown area. What few know though, is that Brownwood also has many nearby parks that offer hiking, water sports, and nature fun for everyone. When you’re looking for your first big summer family adventure, consider checking out these Brownwood activities that are sure to provide hours of entertainment and maybe even reignite a passion for the great outdoors in your family.

Brownwood Paddle Trail

Brownwood Paddle Trail

Photo: Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce

The Brownwood Paddle Trail is an almost four-mile loop trail that traverses Pecan Bayou. The bayou, located in an old pecan orchard, is lined with 100-year-old pecan trees and is home to tons of beautiful birds year-round. For the anglers in your life, the bayou houses both large and smallmouth bass, crappie and catfish. This beautiful bayou is slow-moving, so it’s perfect for even beginning canoers or kayakers. In fact, it is so slow-moving and peaceful that it can be paddled in either direction, giving paddlers a chance to take in the beauty of the area while serenely floating along its banks.

Wild Duck Marina

Wild Duck Marina

Photo: Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce

When you’re hungry from all of that paddling, head to the Wild Duck Marina for some good grub and a frosty beverage. Featuring live entertainment every weekend in the marina’s “Backyard,” all summer long, the Wild Duck Marina is the perfect spot to sit a spell and take in the atmosphere of the Texas Hill Country, while getting invigorated for your next Brownwood outing.

The Hideout Golf Club and Resort

The Hideout

Photo: Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce

The Hideout Golf Club and Resort is like an oasis in the middle of the Texas Hill Country. At less than ten years old, and featuring an 18-hole championship golf course, the Hideout has six well-appointed guest rooms and a resort-style pool to cool you off after a full day of golfing. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner or just cocktails at the Hideout Grill, where you can sink your teeth into a perfectly prepared steak and take in the romantic atmosphere of this Brownwood favorite.

Flat Rock Park

Flatrock Park

Photo: Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce

If camping out under a blanket of Texas stars is on your summer bucket list then Flat Rock Park is a must-visit. Located just 8 miles north of Brownwood on the south side of Lake Brownwood, Flat Rock Park is a paradise for families. Come for the campout, but stay for the swimming, fishing, and relaxing at Flat Rock Park. Don’t leave your boat at home… Flat Rock Park is one of the few places where campers can park their boats and leave them in the water while you camp–just feet away at your campsite.

Whether you’re looking for a couple’s getaway or a family adventure this summer, Brownwood offers plenty of choices that will certainly help you to create lasting memories with those you love. Brownwood is so centrally located, it also makes for an easy weekend getaway or a good place to meet friends and family from most any part of Texas. Visit the Brownwood Chamber of Commerce website to locate accommodations and restaurant listings in the greater Brownwood area and start making your summer plans!