Ready to trade screens for scenery and create memories that last a lifetime? Get out and adventure in the great outdoors—whether that means a weekend road trip to a national park or a quick day trip to your favorite Texas state park.
With nature as your playground and adventure around every corner, national and state parks are perfect destinations for families to explore, connect, and unwind—without breaking the bank.
Discover National Parks With Your Crew
From towering canyons to quiet forest trails, national parks offer some of the most breathtaking backdrops for family fun. Whether you’re exploring as first-timers or seasoned road trippers, there’s something magical about a shared hike, a wildlife sighting, or a campfire chat under the stars.
Save with these tips:
- Many local libraries offer FREE park passes that can be checked out, just like a book! Call or visit your library’s website to see if they participate.
- The Every Kid Outdoors program gives all fourth-grade students and their families FREE access to national parks and federally managed lands and waters for an entire year! Don’t miss this opportunity for cost-free adventure, learning, and fun.
A few National Parks to explore:
- Guadalupe Mountains National Park – West Texas, near the New Mexico border. Home to the highest peak in Texas and full of trails, fossils, and scenic views. Ideal for families who enjoy hiking and learning about geology.
- Hot Springs National Park – Hot Springs, Arkansas. Just a few hours’ drive from Northeast Texas, this park blends natural beauty with history. Walk the trails or tour historic bathhouses—fun and educational!
- Carlsbad Caverns National Park – New Mexico, near the Texas border. Explore dramatic underground caves filled with massive stalactites and stalagmites. A perfect mix of adventure and awe for kids and adults alike.
Texas State Parks Are Calling
If you’re not up for a long drive, Texas has you covered. With more than 80 state parks, you can find forests, lakes, deserts, and hills just a short trip from home. State parks are perfect for day trips to hike or picnic, overnight camping under the stars, hands-on nature learning with park rangers, and plenty of family bonding without screens.
Save with these tips:
- Watch for FREE entrance days throughout the year, including August 2 in celebration of the Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act.
- Kids under 12 often get in FREE so take the whole family!
- Experience Free Fishing Day on June 7—a special day when no fishing license is required for recreational fishing anywhere in Texas. It’s the perfect excuse to grab some bait, find a quiet lake, and enjoy a relaxing day of fishing as a family.
A few National Parks to explore:
- Cedar Hill State Park – Central Texas. This urban oasis boasts a relaxing lake, a self-guided tour of a historic Texas farm, and rugged limestone hills. They offer frequent educational activities for families.
- Tyler State Park – East Texas. Nestled among tall pine trees, this park features a spring-fed lake perfect for swimming, kayaking, or fishing. Also has kid-friendly hiking and picnic areas.
- Pedernales Falls State Park – Near Johnson City, Central Texas. Known for its scenic limestone riverbed and cascading waterfalls. Great for hiking, wading, and nature photography.
- Cleburne State Park – Just southwest of Fort Worth. A peaceful, family-friendly park with trails, a small lake for paddle sports, and shady campsites—not too far from the DFW metroplex.
- Inks Lake State Park – Highland Lakes region, Central Texas. A favorite for water activities like swimming and paddle boating, with colorful rocks and fun trails to explore. Popular but worth the trip!
Because some of the best family memories don’t require fancy destinations or big budgets. They start with saying yes to mud, to fresh air, to long walks, and to togetherness. This summer, open the door to adventure, wonder, and a little dirt under your shoes.
Wilderness Adventure Checklist
✔ Water bottles & healthy snacks
✔ Bug spray & sunscreen
✔ Comfy shoes & hats
✔ Map, compass, and trail info
✔ Fishing poles
✔ Curiosity & a sense of wonder
