The state parks of Texas give you an opportunity to camp and hike while seeing some of the native wildlife of Texas such as birds, deer, and fish. When searching for a good spot to cast your fishing line or ride your horse, you can see some of the historical spots that led to the colonisation and eventual statehood of Texas. The article below details out the important aspects of Texas state parks.
Located on 1,500 acres along the Paluxy River, Dinosaur Valley State Park is home to some of the most well-preserved dinosaur tracks found in riverbed rock. Open to the public since 1972, Dinosaur Valley is also home to two large fibreglass recreations of a Tyrannosaurus and Apatsaurus. Aside from checking out these features, you can also camp, hike, fish, swim, mountain bike, and ride on horseback through the park.
Camping
In 2008, the Galveston Island State Park saw considerable damage from Hurricane Ike, but the Department of Parks and Wildlife have worked to restore this area to its former state. As of 2010, the Beachside and Bayside camping areas are again open to the public, as well as the Beachside Day Use Area. This 2,000 acre park on the west end of Galveston Island opened in 1975 and has since then offered camping, beach swimming, mountain biking, and bird watching opportunities.
Historical sites
Texans treasure their state history, which is proven by the fact that they built commemorative parks from historical sites around the state. Mission Tejas State Park is located on 360 acres of East Texas and was once home to the Mission San Francisco de los Tejas, the first Spanish mission in the long ago province of Texas. It also hosts two authentic buildings from the 1800s. Camping, hiking, and fishing are all activities you can participate in here, while school groups can take educational tours of the buildings.
Leisure
Located along the Brazos River just a few miles from the township of San Felipe and only a half an hour from Houston, the Stephen F. Austin State Park is another gem in the line of parks created from historical places.This was the area where Stephen F. Austin brought the first 297 families which colonised Texas. Historical tours are available by appointment, or you can spend the day fishing, hiking, or picnicking. A picnic pavilion and a dining hall are available for use by large groups.
