We finally did it! My husband and I have officially visited every Texas State Park 🎉 There are about a total of 89 parks. The Parks people will tell you 89 but I look at it as 86. I say 86 because three of those parks are currently closed (Wyler Tramway, Indian Lodge, and Palo Pinto Mountains). If you’re asking yourself why would one do this, let me explain that first. In 2023 the Texas State Parks system was celebrating their 100th year. I thought that was neat and wanted to get a parks pass to explore more of the state. Neither my husband nor I are originally from Texas. However, we have lived here about 20 years now. During those 20 years we both had yet to explore the majority of this huge state. I thought that that by getting a Texas State Parks Pass it would allow us to visit more of the state. That’s what it surely did for us! It took us 1 year and 5 months but we finished! We are based in San Antonio, where we started on January 1, 2023 and ended on May 18th, 2024.
On a personal note Texas State Parks are very special to my husband and I. He actually proposed to me at the top of Enchanted Rock in 2008. We got married a year later in 2009. Although we didn’t have our wedding inside a state park, we still visit Enchanted Rock every single year to remember that special moment. It’s the park we have been to the most, every year since 2008 we visit. We are based in San Antonio so the drive isn’t too bad to make. We usually make a weekend out of it. It’s one of my favorite traditions that we’ve made together. We even recently watched the eclipse there.
For this post I’m just going to focus on some tips and tricks I’ve learned along the way. Be sure to check out my interactive parks overview map of a quick breakdown of each park.
1. Always make a reservation! We learned this the hard way on the first day of having our pass, unfortunately. We traveled out to Colorado Bend only to be turned away because the park was at capacity. But we came full circle because we decided to save Colorado Bend for our last park (with a reservation) and it did not disappoint!
2. Always bring extra water with you. You never know how remote some of the parks maybe. Or if they are doing renovations. Sometimes water isn’t accessible. it’s said you should bring a quart (32 oz) of water per hour of activity. Don’t forget to bring extra water if you have pets too.
3. Plan ahead. Especially in the summer. Texas summers get HOT. It’s not ideal or even safe to be out hiking when it’s over 100° out there. Check temps and know your limits.
4. Utilize your parks pass. Try and carry your pass with you wherever you go. Or better yet take a photo of it in case you forget it.
•Most park shops will give you a 10% discount on anything you buy.
•Entry into all parks are included with your pass.
•Camping discounts are the best with paying half price for the second night, when you stay two or more consecutive nights in the same campsite.
•You get free admission of every person that is in the same vehicle (the parks pass holder must be present).
•A secondary pass can be purchased for $25. The secondary pass holder must live at the same address as you.
5. Skip the check in lines at the park and preprint your day pass/camping reservation pass prior to arrival. This helps speed thing up, especially during very busy times. Park rangers will appreciate this.
6. Gas or charge up your vehicle. If you’re traveling by vehicle you’ll drive ALOT of miles to get to the parks. Texas is BIG. Many of the parks are far out with no stores or town around. Be prepared to not be stuck. I have also found that many of the parks do not have cell coverage. Have an emergency kit in your car if ever needed.
7. Get a stamp book. I looked forward to getting a unique stamp at each of the parks. It makes for good conversation with the park rangers and volunteers as well.
8. Do research ahead on the amenities of the parks. Some parks offers kayak rentals, swimming, boating, and more. You’ll want to be sure to pack the proper atire for your trip.
9. No fishing license is required in the Texas state parks. As long as you are fishing from land or a dock. Many parks even offer loaner fishing rods and equipment to use.
10. Don’t have a tent or camper, but want to stay overnight? Many of the parks offer overnight screened shelters or cabins.
Many people have asked what was my favorite park. It’s so hard to answer this question. So I will answer by saying my favorite park of each region.
Big Bend Country: Big Bend Ranch
Gulf Coast: Sea Rim
Hill Country: Enchanted Rock
Panhandle: Palo Duro
Pineywoods: Martin Dies Jr.
Prairies and Lakes: Palmetto
South Texas Plains: Falcon
There are some new state park scheduled to open up in the next few years. We do plan to visit those and keep our list updated. Be sure to bookmark my map page here for any updates.
When we first started this I thought we would be the only people completing this task. I was definitely wrong! I met some cool people along the way, both in person and online. I’ll list their Instagram handles below for Texas State Park inspo.
Betty and I have met up in person quite a few times. We even had thanksgiving dinner at Davis Mountains together! She recently just finished visiting all the parks. I’m super thankful Betty and I become real life friends through this journey.
I’ve enjoyed watching all her park visits online. She completed every park in the centennial year 2023!
I’ve enjoyed watching Rick and Sarah’s park visits with their RV. They even keep track of many nights they spend in their RV!
John is currently visiting all the parks in the year of 2024. He tells a great story and really details each of the parks. Very informative!
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