Mau Johnson/sxc.hu
Texas is big. So big, in fact, that those looking for a good place to camp will have little problem finding a suitable place to stretch out their legs on top of their sleeping bags under the stars. Whether heading to Lake Rita Blanca State Park in the panhandle, Sabine National Forest on the East Texas border or even Cooper Lake State Park outside Dallas, Texas has space to provide.
Big Bend National Park
Camp in one of the most remote parks in Texas. Though there are a great number of things to do and see in Big Bend National Park, its main draw is solitude. Located in southwest Texas, this rarely visited park offers impressive scenery along both the Chihuahuan Desert and the Chisos Mountains. Camping in the Chisos Basin Campground is an ideal way to begin exploration of this massive park. Sitting at 5,400 feet, the campground is set along a grade with rolling hills, some capped by skyscraper-sized rocks on top. Chisos Basin is best used as a base to explore the many area hiking trails. Some trails are short enough for day hikes, while others are better suited to backcountry camping. Mountain lion, bear, whitetail deer, javelinas, plenty of snakes and insects and a large bird population will keep campers busy.
Big Bend National Park
P.O. Box 129
Big Bend National Park, Texas 79834
(432) 477-1175
http://www.nps.gov/bibe/index.htm
Park on the Lake
Escape from Houston for a few days with a trip north to Conroy Lake. Whether coming from the city or not, Park on the Lake offers tent and vehicle camping, boat rental and launch, docks, places to barbecue, a camp store, swimming pool and dog run for those who are bringing a furry friend. Handicap accessible, Park on the Lake also offers groomed walking trails, water skiing and laundry facilities. Set on a quiet stretch of the lake, the 100 campsites offered are grassy and clean, and camp staff is professional. The nearby town of Conroy offers small-town amenities and entertainments for those seeking to couple camping with a night on the town.
Park on the Lake
12351 FM 830
Willis, Texas 77318
(936) 890-2375
http://www.parkonthelake.com
Enchanted Rock
Take a break from the music scene in Austin and drive northwest to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. A designated a National Natural Landmark, this park is dominated by the low rising, pale granite dome at its center. This 425-foot tall underground rock was slowly exposed over time due to erosion and is a popular destination for central Texas campers. The local Tonkawa Indians viewed this area as spiritual ground, and many Native American historical artifacts have been found. Hiking, rock climbing, backpacking, bird watching and star gazing are regular pastimes at the park. Note that this park is busy and visitors should definitely call ahead before departure. Though vehicle camping is allowed, there are no facilities provided.
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
16710 Ranch Road 965
Fredericksburg, Texas 78624
(830) 685-3636
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/enchanted_rock/
About The Author
Based in Vietnam, Mike Biscoe writes travel-related content. With an emphasis on independent travel, his articles have appeared in Trails.com, Travels.com and eHow.com. Periodically, Biscoe also produces articles covering adoption, health & fitness, performing arts, soccer and food related topics, among others.
