The amount of breathtaking scenery we have here in Texas is undeniable. The sheer amount of beauty has led to the establishment of numerous state parks to protect our nature from intentional harm. Each and every state park is beautiful in its own way, but the one I decided to feature is set apart by its overall magnificence and grandeur. So, without further ado, behold the majestic Palo Duro Canyon State Park in Canyon, Texas.
Have you witnessed the overwhelming beauty of the Palo Duro Canyon State Park firsthand? What other state parks in Texas are just completely captivating and worth a mention? Share your opinions in the comments!
The Amazing Campground in Texas We Want To Visit All-Year Round
I never pass up the chance to pitch a tent, and one of my favorite places to go camping in Texas is Lake Meredith National Recreation Area. The campsites offer breathtaking views of the water, making it an ideal getaway for any time of year.
Camping wasn’t a big part of my childhood. That’s an understatement, actually. In fact, the closest thing resembling camping that I ever did was sleep in a tent in my friend’s backyard at a sleepover for her birthday. I fell in love with camping on a 3-week road trip my sister and I took about 10 years ago. We drove from Southeast Texas to Southern California and stayed in so many amazing campgrounds along the way. Ever since then, I’ve become somewhat of a camping fiend. I never pass up the chance to pitch a tent, and one of my favorite places to go camping in Texas is Lake Meredith National Recreation Area. The campsites offer breathtaking views of the water, making it an ideal getaway for any time of year.
Lake Meredith is an unexpected oasis hiding within the arid plains of the Texas Panhandle. Surrounded by dramatic, 200-foot red rock canyons, this pristine oasis is a nature lover's dream where hiking, boating, fishing, birdwatching, and hunting are all possible. There are many different trails of varying lengths and difficulties, and the lake provides a staggering seven habitats for wildlife, including migratory birds.
When it comes to camping, Lake Meredith is truly the jackpot. With 11 campgrounds to choose from, there's plenty of room for campers to spread out and enjoy a quiet, relaxing stay. Some of the campgrounds are elevated and offer scenic overlooks of the lake, while others are just steps from the water and provide beach access. Many of the campgrounds also have boat ramps. The best part is that it's free to camp anywhere at Lake Meredith NRA (besides the RV sites at the Sanford-Yake campground, which have electric and water hookups and can be reserved by calling 806-865-3131).
Almost all of the campgrounds are accessible by regular car, but a few of them require a vehicle with off-road capability. These campgrounds are generally more primitive and lack some of the amenities the developed ones offer, such as dump stations.
Love camping but don't love roughing it in a tent? I'm right there with you. If you don't have an RV of your own, renting one from RV Share is the best way to enjoy an upgraded camping experience on the cheap.
Visit the National Park Service website for more information about camping in Texas at Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, including current park hours and entrance fees. If you find yourself craving a nice meal while you're there, take a short drive to Amarillo to chow down on the biggest steak in Texas at Big Texan Steak Ranch. I also recommend stopping by the iconic Palo Duro Canyon State Park before you leave the area.
When you hear the word iconic, what comes to mind? Personally, I think of someone or something that is memorable that will leave a lasting impression. That’s exactly what you'll think when you visit the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area in Fredericksburg, Texas. The unique state park with its mystical pink granite rock is unlike anything in the state, making it worthy of your bucket list. Inside you’ll find several trails; the most popular is the Summit Trail that takes you to the top of the massive rock. But there’s another equally unforgettable trail that you should try at least once - the Moss Lake via Echo Canyon Trail. This iconic trail in Texas is so exhilarating that it belongs on your bucket list.
Of course, most hikers flock to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area for their chance to trek to the top of the steep mystical rock that overlooks the gorgeous Texas Hill Country. I don’t blame them one bit because the panoramic views from 1,800 feet high are truly spectacular. Naturally, that trail can be extra crowded, especially on the weekends, so if you want to skip the crowds, opt for the Moss Lake via Echo Canyon Trail instead.
The 3-mile loop trail meanders along the base of Enchanted Rock, through a rugged canyon, around massive boulders, and eventually leads to a hidden lake. The trail connects to several other trails inside the park, so for easy navigation, it’s best to have AllTrails+ downloaded on your phone.
If you plan on venturing on this hike, you’ll need trekking poles as well as sturdy hiking boots. Due to its rugged terrain, we do not recommend this hike for beginners, and the pups must sit this one out, too. Depending on when you visit, the heat can get pretty intense, so be sure that you bring lots of water, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen.
If you’re there during the warmer months expect to see the landscape covered in pretty wildflowers and cacti as well as lush greenery. Not to mention the mind-blowing views of Enchanted Rock that make this trail worth the trip. Aside from the pretty scenery, avid hikers will love trekking through Echo Canyon which is a rugged and challenging terrain. There might be water seeping through the area, so watch your step as you hike through the rocky landscape.
The good news is part of the trail is also flat which is a relief after making your way through the rocky canyon. It gives you a chance to take a leisure stroll and enjoy the scenic views inside the park. One of the best parts of the trail will lead you straight to Moss Lake. Seeing the reflection of Enchanted Rock on the lake is truly a sight to behold. I guarantee that you’ll want to stay for a while and enjoy the unforgettable views. Better yet, you can also pack your camping gear and spend the night at the primitive campsite near the lake. This will give you a chance to wake up and explore the park some more.
What do you think about this iconic trail in Texas? Would you add Moss Lake via Echo Canyon Trail to your bucket list? Or tell us about your favorite bucket list worthy trail in the Lone Star State. We’d love to hear from you!
