Spring in Texas is a party for the senses โ world-famous wildflowers are blooming, fish are jumping, and birds are singing. Plus, the weather is perfect for an overnight stay in a tent or cabin. Avoid the crowds this spring by exploring some lesser-known Texas state parks. These hidden gems are all within 90 minutes of these four metro areas below.
Austin
(Photo: Wildlflowers as seen along the trails of Lake Somerville State Park & Trailway.)
- Lyndon B. Johnson โ The Pedernales River runs through this park, creating iconic Hill Country views. See Texas longhorns, bison and blankets of wildflowers in spring. Check out the exhibits about President Johnson. Visit Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm, where staff in period dress use methods from the turn of the 20th century to work the land and care for farm animals.
- Inks Lake โ This gem in the Hill Country includes 9 miles of hiking trails through shady forests and across pink granite. Enjoy the surrounding views by renting a boat from the park store and plan a day of fishing. Or stop by Longhorn Cavern for a paid guided tour of the huge, beautiful cave that was formed by underground rivers โ just 5 minutes away.
- Lake Somerville, Nails Creek Unit โ Get on the water by renting a canoe or kayak, and thereโs a shallow swimming area perfect for the kids. This park is renowned for its equestrian trails. Want to try some fishing? Borrow fishing gear from the park โ just bring bait and a smile! You can also hike, mountain bike, bird-watch and take photos.
Dallas
(Photo: Scenic lake view and historic structure at Fort Richardson State Park, Historic Site & Lost Creek Reservoir State Trailway.)
- Fairfield Lake โ Warm year-round, the lake has comfortable swimming and fantastic spring fishing โ check out the pier. Rent a kayak or paddleboard, or bring a boat and water ski. Indulge in some lakefront camping! Then explore the variety of trails by foot, bike or horseback.
- Purtis Creek โThe lake here is famous for trophy largemouth bass, so bring your rod and reel or borrow one from the park โ you can always fish without a fishing license in state parks! Get on the water by renting kayaks and paddleboards, or bring your boat. Walk, hike or bike the Beaver Slide Trail.
- Fort Richardson โ A restored fort from the 1800s shows how soldiers lived in the Old West โ take a walking tour to hear the history. The park surrounds the fort grounds, where you can enjoy abundant wildflowers, wildlife, nature trails and rent a campsite or cabin. The day-use area has a swimming beach and fishing pier. Hike, bike or ride your horse on the 9-mile Lost Creek State Trailway.
Houston
(Photo: Waterfront campsite set up for family fun at Lake Livingston State Park.)
- Lake Livingston โ A lakeside retreat where you can fish and swim in one of the largest lakes in Texas and camp under tall trees. Forgot fishing gear? Borrow some from the park and head for the lighted fishing pier! Bring your own boat or rent a kayak at the park. Hike through fragrant pine forest on the Pineywoods Nature Trail โ it has a bird blind which is great for photography!
- Stephen F. Austin โ Scenic moss-draped trees along the Brazos River host a variety of birds including woodpeckers and owls. There are 5 miles of riverside trails, so bring your camera! Visit the park museum and learn more about the areaโs place in Texas history.
- Fort Boggy โ Spend the day picnicking, fishing, biking or just taking in the natural beauty of this quaint, serene park. Take a hike around the picturesque lake or along the nature trails. Do some kayaking and birdwatching, then relax on the beautiful beach. Camp or stay overnight in one of the modern cabins and enjoy the stargazing.
San Antonio
(Photo: Wildflowers overlooking the reservoir of boaters and fisherman at Choke Canyon State Park.)
- Lost Maples โ Famous for its colorful maple leaves in fall, this park has just as beautiful a story to tell in spring when birds abound and the stars shine bright. Trails lead to storybook babbling creeks and dramatic overlooks of rugged limestone canyons (try the less-used West Trail). Grassy banks next to little ponds are perfect for pitching a tent. And in spring you avoid those leaf-peeping crowds!
- Lockhart โ A quaint and historic nine-hole golf course offers club and cart rentals to the golf novice and enthusiast alike. Campsites await along a picturesque creek with large trees. Walk the nature trails or drop a line in the creek โ you can always fish without a fishing license at a state park! The day use area has a picnic tables, a playground and a basketball court.
- Choke Canyon โ Find first-class fishing and birding at this park, located on the shores of a large lake. Waterski or take in some tennis, basketball or baseball at the Sports Complex. Go on a nature walk and you might see wild turkey, javelina, deer or other wildlife! After a day of activity, pitch a tent at one of the many campsites on bluffs overlooking the lake.