Truth be told, there's never a wrong time to camp here in Texas. Camping might not be accessible all year long for other states, but in Texas, it's a welcomed pastime for many. There's nothing like the crisp nighttime air, a pitched tent, and falling asleep under the stars. Sounds pretty dreamy, right? These are 11 favorites when it comes to Texas state parks for camping. They are equally gorgeous all year long and see much less tourist traffic, especially during the chillier months. So if you're into winter camping in Texas, you'll certainly want to make sure you reference this list. Now, get ready to get outdoors and enjoy some true Southern adventures in some of the best state parks in Texas.
1. Palo Duro Canyon State Park (Canyon)
Only second in size to the Grand Canyon itself, this incredible natural wonder has more than 30 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Plenty of campsites, both primitive and with water + electricity, are available for one per night fee. Check out the Palo Duro Canyon State Park website for more information.
2. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area (Fredericksburg)
Easily one of the Hill Country’s most famed attractions, Enchanted Rock has been drawing crowds for thousands of years. In fact, you’ll find extremely well-preserved pictographs suggesting Native Americans once lived in the area. More than 50 campsites sleep between four and eight people. Visit the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area website for more information.
3. Guadalupe Mountains National Park (Salt Flat)
Home to the highest peak in Texas, Guadalupe Mountains National Park provides unbeatable panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape. Test your agility and hike to the summit for an experience you'll never forget. Plenty of camping is available at two different sites. Visit the Guadalupe Mountains National Park website for more information.
4. Pedernales Falls State Park (Johnson City)
Pedernales Falls almost resembles a prehistoric landscape, what with its craggy limestone and towering, cave-filled limestone canyons. Whether you want to go climbing down by the river or hike one of several trails, there are plenty of adventures to choose from. Primitive, equipped, and equestrian campsites are available. Check out the Pedernales Falls State Park website for more information.
5. Bentsen Rio Grande Valley State Park (Mission)
An often overlooked state park, this unique place is absolutely blooming with life during wintertime. It’s a world-class birding destination, with more than 350 species making their homes amid the subtropical surroundings. Ten campsites each sleep four people. Learn more by visiting the Bentsen Rio Grande Valley State Park website.
6. Colorado Bend State Park (Bend)
Hiding within Colorado Bend State Park is Gorman Falls, a 60-foot tall waterfall surrounded by lush greenery reminiscent of a tropical jungle. There are also several trails and tours of an underground cave. Primitive, equipped, and group campsites sleep between four and 48 people. For more information, visit the Colorado Bend State Park website.
7. Franklin Mountains State Park (El Paso)
Way out in West Texas are the Franklin Mountains, the largest sustained range in the state. Two trails run through the park, and more than 20 campsites sleep between eight and 24 for one low nightly rate. Visit the Franklin Mountains State Park website for more information.
8. Caprock Canyons State Park (Quitaque)
Caprock Canyons is a smaller, less frequented version of Palo Duro. It features almost 90 miles of trails in addition to a large lake and seasonal horse rentals. More than 100 primitive, equipped, and overflow campsites are available. Visit the Caprock Canyons State Park website for more information.
9. Garner State Park (Concan)
Though it's most popular during summer and fall, there's plenty to do at Garner State Park all year long. Hike or bike 11 miles of trails, jump into the Frio River, fish, play mini-golf, or picnic. Full hookup, premium, and water-only campsites all sleep up to eight. Learn more by checking out the Garner State Park website.
10. Davis Mountains State Park (Fort Davis)
A historical site and natural wonder combined, the Davis Mountains are located right near a former military fort. In addition to hiking, this area is one of the darkest spots in Texas. A variety of different campsites sleep four to eight people. Visit the Davis Mountains State Park website for more information to plan your camping in Texas experience.
11. Big Bend National Park
A list of Texas state parks wouldn't be complete without the granddaddy of them all: Big Bend. There's simply no comparable view in Texas — and very few in the whole country. Given the park's size and popularity, all different types of campsites are virtually always available. For more information, visit the Big Bend National Park website.
Have you ever camped at any of these parks? Do you have another favorite for year-round camping in Texas? Let us know your thoughts!
For more of the. best state parks in Texas, check out 13 Lesser-Known State Parks In Texas That Will Absolutely Amaze You.
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