Hikers near Austin, Texas, have plenty of fantastic options to choose from, but overlooking the Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail would be a huge mistake. This out-and-back route is heavily trafficked and features a beautiful, shimmering waterfall. The trail covers eight miles and almost 900 feet of elevation.

The North Shore Trail courses through Murrell Park, near Grapevine, Texas, for almost 10 miles. This out-and-back trail has almost 1,100 feet of elevation gain, and features a lake. This multi-faceted trail has many options for adventurous hikers to choose from.

The St. Edwards Park Creek Trail is an easier route than the previous two, coming in at just over 2.9 miles along its loop. The elevation gain is just under 400 feet, and features a beautiful stream with cacti throughout. 

Big Bend National Park has over 150 miles of hiking opportunity along various terrain, including desert hikes, mountain hikes, and river hikes. For our purposes, let’s focus on the Chisos Basin Loop Trail. The trail is only 1.8 miles round-trip, but forces the hiker to manage through vegetation. It’s not uncommon to see bears and mountain lions, too, so make sure you are totally comfortable before heading out.

Marion Samsom Park’s trail system is broken down into sections, but ultimately boasts 11 miles of intermediate to expert-level trails. Enjoy sections such as the Lone Wolf Loop, the Dam Drop, the Grass Loop, and more. Check out the map on the park’s website to find out which route is best suited for you. 

Pedernales Falls State Park is perfect for your next family hike outing. Park trails range from beginner to expert. For beginners, try the .5-mile Twin Falls Nature Trail for exquisite views of the falls. The six-mile Wolf Mountain Trail, on the other hand, provides a much more turbulent hike. Families with young children will love the duck pond, and there is also a wheelchair-friendly wildlife viewing station.

Martin Dies, Jr. State Park near Jasper, Texas, consists of 730 acres across three state park units. Choose from eight miles of hiking trails through the forest. Take a look at the online interactive map or download the PDF for directions to six points of interest, including the Observation Pier, Cypress Forest, Swamp Deck, Sunset Vista, Wildscape, and more. 

Hike through downtown Austin along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. Near Lady Bird Lake, you’ll “meander along the water’s edge and pass by skyscrapers, neighborhoods, ball fields, and cultural attractions.” The trail is 10 miles-long and is one of Austin’s more popular recreational areas. You’ll trade natural vistas for the cityscape, but there’s hardly a better way to get acquainted with Austin, its people, and its culture, than by winding through it along this hike. 

Franklin Mountain State Park has almost 27,000 acres to explore and 100 miles of trails. The Sunset Trail is one of the most beatific, offering a 360-degree view of the sunset and El Paso lights. The trail is just over eight miles and can be a difficult hike, but the staggeringly beautiful views at the end of a long day make it worth it.

We’re going to cut right to the chase: The Government Canyon State Natural Area has 110-million-year-old dinosaur tracks. You read that correctly. Kids will go crazy for this hike. The Overlook Trail isn’t too far from the tracks, either. The entire trail is only around three miles with a clearing for the overlook sight. Consider the Joe Johnston Route to view the dinosaur tracks at ground level and avoid the possibility of falling over the overlook. 

Head to the Barton Creek Wilderness Park for a shot at the Sculpture Falls hike. Offering five solid miles of trail, in both heavily-trafficked and back trail varieties, you'll get a little taste of everything on this trek. The Sculpture Falls hike is considered a “moderate” hike, which is accessible year-round and open to hikers, walkers, mountain bikers, and even dogs. The high point of the trip is the beautiful Sculpture Falls. 

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This trail, located in the Davey Crockett National Forest, will do a fine job of evoking history thanks to its famous namesake. This trail carries on for 20 miles, so be sure to prepare accordingly. The 4C Hiking Trail—named for the Central Coke and Coal Company, which operated in the region—will show off old tramways that were part of a large-scale logging project, as well as the 100-foot-tall pines that actually survived the logging effort.

For most people, maple trees conjure images of fall color tours and the northern United States. Texas has its share of maples as well, as evidenced by the Lost Maples State Natural Area not far from Vanderpool. The big selling point of this trail is the maple trees, which put on an annual show in the fall showing off an impressive range of colors. Naturally, there's more around here than just fall color, as it also boasts canyons and the Sabinal River. The area features over 10 miles of trails, including a loop that takes hikers along a 2,200-foot cliff, so keep the little ones close by.  

only a little bit lost

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Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers a staggering array of features. Perhaps biggest of all is the fact that this is referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” and with good reason. A picture from Palo Duro Canyon might look almost indistinguishable from one taken at the Grand Canyon, perhaps except only to truly trained eyes. Beyond that, the park offers a wide variety of amenities ranging from horse rentals to picnic tables to RV parking facilities, allowing visitors to experience the full range of parking. Palo Duro boasts 30 miles of trails for hikers, bikers, and equestrians. 

One of the most popular areas to explore in Texas, the Barton Creek Greenbelt is almost eight miles long and covers just over 800 acres. Experience the lush forestry and immaculate limestone cliffs as your traverse the area with your family. Many consider the Barton Greenbelt to be one of the best hiking trails in the state. 

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Likewise, bass fishing is starting to pick up again as the weather begins to cool. Huge schools of threadfin shad are starting to filter away from open-water ledges into bays and tributaries where feeding conditions and water temperatures are more optimum.

Bass follow the food, first setting up on ledges at the mouths of inlets and creeks to waylay shad, then migrating back toward shallower water to keep up with their quarry.

Fall Script for Southern Bass

Bass rule in Dixie and cooler weather brings out an army of anglers who go after them. Whether largemouth, smallmouth or spotted bass, they’re available in most waters and sometimes all three varieties are present in a fishery, ready to aggravate or gratify those who seek them.

Hot Spots To Fish: When it comes to the South’s best lakes for fall fishing, the big TVA impoundments fit the bill. Because this is bass tournament country, dozens of YouTube videos and Facebook sites of pro anglers offer useful advice on where and how to catch autumn largemouths. Likewise, guide services are plentiful; just Google “fishing guides” for the lake you’re visiting or type in the town nearest the lake you wish to fish on the interactive map on this page.

Tackle You’ll Need: A 7-foot medium/heavy rod such as the St. Croix Premier Cranking, a baitcasting reel like the Abu Garcia Revo Winch and 10- to 14-pound-test monofilament makes a good combination to fish downsized lures.

Best Lures/Baits: Shad-colored, shallow- and medium-diving square-billed or coffin-billed crankbaits are autumn standouts. Popular lures include the Strike King 6XD, Bandit 100 or 200, Duo Realis M65, Livetarget Magnum Shad BaitBall Squarebill, Megabass S-Crank, Lucky Craft Squarebill 2.5, Storm Arashi and Rapala Shad Rap.

Fish them around shoreline cover and on the flats between creek drop-offs and the bank. Other fallback baits include spinnerbaits like the Booyah Super Shad, Stanley Vibrashaft and Nichols Pulsator. Good buzzbait options can be found from Lunker Lure, Damiki, Santone and Dirty Jigs.

Rendezvous With Redfish

Along the northern Gulf Coast from Carrabelle, FL, to Grand Isle, LA, the redfish season begins in late September and continues in stages through December. Some anglers fish in the surf with cut bait, while others station themselves on area piers or in boats on relatively shallow flats near channel cuts.

Hot Spots To Fish: For boating anglers, a couple of spots stick out. Pensacola Bay Pass is a must-fish for boaters. Anchor up on the broad flat between old Fort Pickens and the channel, set out lines as the tide changes to incoming, and hang on. Need more help? Redfish University Pensacola Fishing Charters (850-748-4368, redfishuniversity.com) specializes in the big drum.

At Grand Isle, LA, book a trip with Gotta Go Fishing Charters (225-921-3642, gottagofishingcharters.com). The marshes and inshore waters around Venice, LA, are primo redfish haunts as well. Captain Mike Frenette (504-782-0924, laredfish.com or (mike@venicefishing.net) is a top guide here.

Tackle You’ll Need: “Rat” reds of 3 pounds and up, or real bruisers weighing in excess of 20 pounds require a range of tackle options. Bass fishing tackle – whether spinning or baitcasting – is perfect for handling smaller fish and for casting jigs or swimbaits that weigh less than an ounce. A Shimano Stradic spinning reel and 7-foot medium-action Shimano Compre rod with 14-pound-test monofilament.

For bigger fish, consider a Penn Battle II BTLII5000 with 20-pound-test monofilament or 40-pound-test braid, and a 30-pound-test fluorocarbon leader. A 7-foot medium-heavy spinning rod (such as the Penn Battalion BATIN1220S70) should handle any bait rigs or lures and wear down a bull redfish in short order.

Best Lures/Baits: Redfish aren’t particular about their dietary requirements and will eat anything from blue crabs to halved mullet. Swimming spoons such as the Johnson Sprite (johnsonfishing.com), swimbaits and jigs or even topwater poppers, such as the Heddon Saltwater Spook, will elicit strikes.

The South Texas Botanical Garden and Nature Center in Corpus Christi, Texas, has several birding guides separated by season for its guests. Consider taking a paid tour, or branching out on your own on their many nature trails. Birds you might get to see here include pelicans, herons, and terns in the summer, and hummingbirds, robins, and warblers in the winter! 

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Sargent Beach in Sargent, Texas, is “one of Texas best kept secrets,” with a community of only 500 residents and excellent access to the Upper Texas Coast Birding Trail. We suggest hiking along the beach before finding the trail and exploring.

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Matagorda County has been number one since 1997 for the North American Audubon Christmas Bird Count, making it a can’t-miss for any birdwatchers in the area. The Marine Education Center Nature Trail has orioles, buntings, sparrows, and much more. 

The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge in Austwell, Texas, is known for its large number of whooping cranes, with “researches from multiple organization working together to track the population.” The Heron Flats trail in particular is one of the most beautiful and provides views of storks, waterfowl, shorebirds, and more. 

A post shared by Lee Jones - Livingston, Texas. (@vlj_photography) on Jan 13, 2018 at 5:18am PST

Cross an old river channel between the Athey Nature Sanctuary and Riverside Park to catch a view of many different woodland birds. Riverside Park is also worth a visit, with over 562 acres of woodlands and many different nature trails.

A post shared by Kate Alyssa💋 (@_katechapa) on Jul 23, 2017 at 5:57pm PDT

The Brackenridge Park and Campground in Edna, Texas, has a five-mile hike and bike trail that goes along the shore line, providing fantastic access to its many different kinds of birds. The park has an elevated gazebo for birdwatching. Take note: Birds intersect along two migration flyways here.

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Perhaps because I’ve always felt like an odd duck myself, I’ve always had a special affinity for these guys and gals. They never disappoint with their riot of colors, cacophonous conversation, joyous bathing and serious waddle game. Today they were joined by a committee of black vultures. Oh, and a duck butt. Because...duck butt. 😊🦆 #ducks #ducksofinstagram #vulture #texasvultures #blackvultures #birds #nature #optoutside #duckbutt #sanantonio #texas #brackenridgepark #publicspaces #waterbirds #raptors @brackenridge_park_conservancy

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The Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge near Anahuac, Texas, is characterized by meandering bayous “cut through ancient flood plains, creating vast expanses of coastal marsh and prairie.” This 34,000-acre refuge includes several wildlife watching and nature trails, but we recommend the Shoveler Pond Auto-Tour Loop. Bird enthusiasts will love seeing the purple gallinule, marsh wren, and others along the loop. 

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The Franklin Mountains State Park in El Paso, Texas, is known for its hiking, biking, and rock climbing. Situated on 27,000 acres, the park has over 100 trail miles. Climbing is limited to the McKelligon Canyon or Sneed’s Cory. Make sure to bring your own equipment and $5 to cover the daily entrance fee.

Eisenhower State Park in Denison, Texas, is known for its mix of sandstone and limestone—both soft stones that can easily break. Therefore, it is recommended that only experienced climbers interested in pushing him or herself make the trip. But for those that are willing to brave this mostly bouldering park, the feeling of accomplishment is exhilarating. 

Referred to as “Magical, mystical, enchanted,” the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is home to a pink granite dome that has been around for thousands of years. Today, the dome attracts hikers, backpackers, campers, rock climbers, and stargazers. Rock climbers, make sure to check in at park headquarters and bring $7 for the daily fee. 

Close to Fort Worth, Lake Mineral Wells State Park and Trailway is in Mineral Wells, Texas. It is a fantastic spot for camping, hiking, biking, geocaching, and horseback riding, in addition to climbing. Check in at headquarters before going to Penitentiary Hollow, one of a precious few natural rock climbing spots in North Texas. Only bouldering is allowed at the park.

Milton Reimers Ranch Park in Dripping Springs, Texas, is considered the “crown jewel of central Texas limestone climbing” by Texas Climbing Adventures. Other activities include mountain biking, swimming, fishing, hiking, and trail riding. For the locals, Reimers Ranch is the go-to spot. 

Lost Maples is known primarily for its fall color and abundant wildflowers. Stop by the canyon walls and take a gander at the Sabinal River. According to the official website, “Lost Maples protects a special stand of Uvalde bigtooth maples. Many folks come here to see colorful leave son these and other trees in autumn.” Make sure to check their online fall foliage report before stopping by to ensure you’re getting the best views possible.

Daingerfield State Park in the town of the same name boasts 507 acres in total, with paddle boating, ranger programs, camping, hiking, and nature viewing galore. The park is surrounded by lush forest trails that offer exquisite views of the changing seasonal colors. You’ll pay $4 daily to enter, but the memories you make will be priceless.

Garner State Park is on the Frio River, providing easy access to all kinds of water activities. Enjoy over 11 miles of trails through the forest to better acquaint yourself with the fall foliage. Take a look at the Interactive Trails Map to chart your course before heading out, available on their website.

The Guadalupe Mountains offer a diverse viewing experience unlike most others. Known as the world’s most extensive Permian fossil reef, the area also includes a “diverse collection of flora and fauna,” and a fair amount of foliage. Climb one of mountain peaks to get a better view of the forests spanning out below.

Enjoy the fall foliage without ever leaving the city in this Austin, Texas “urban oasis.” Managed by the city’s Parks and Recreation Department, the Greenbelt provides biking, running, rock climbing, swimming, and hiking paths with trails totaling just over seven miles. 

The Lost Maples State Natural Area is one of the most exquisite sites for fall foliage in the Lone Star State. While beautiful colors are one of Lost Maple’s year-round delights, the fall colors, particularly in their bigtooth maple trees, attract campers from far and wide. Thirty campsites with water and electricity exist in the area, along with six primitive campsites.

Treat yourself to incredible views of sweetgum, oak, and piney woods in the Daingerfield State Park. The park recently underwent a $5 million renovation and upgrade, and now offers campsites for tents and RVs, as well as group facilities and cabins. 

Cooper Lake is one of the summer’s busiest state parks, but fall might be the best time to visit. With school back in session, you’ll have less families to contend with for the limited campsites. They have sites with water and electricity, walk-in campsites, cabins, and equestrian campsites. Ride your house down the 10.5-mile Buggy Whip Equestrian Trail to take in the more than 600 acres of shaded forest. 

With over 90 miles of trails and free-roaming bison galore, the Caprock Canyons State Park and Trailway offers a unique camping experience. Fall campers will enjoy the hiking, horse and bike riding, geocaching, picnicking, and fishing options. Choose from water and electric campsites, water-only sites, primitive sites, or eight equestrian campsites. 

Palo Duro Canyon State Park is home to the second largest canyon in the country, also known as the Grand Canyon of Texas. Fall is one of the best times to visit, as you’ll more easily be able to explore the more than 30 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails. Campsites include those with water and electricity, primitive drive-up sites, backpack camping areas, equestrian sites, cabins, and a pavilion. 

When a place is deemed “the best ATV park in Texas,” you take notice! Featuring not only ATV trails, but also 4x4 and motorcycle trails, this park's got pretty much all the outdoor adventure you’ll need. Throw in camping facilities and accommodation not only for multiple vehicles but also multiple levels of skill, and the result is a great time.

Collect beautiful moments

A post shared by Breanna Battista (@brebattista) on Feb 17, 2018 at 4:30pm PST

Brushy Creek Motor Farm offers something for everyone with its years of experience. Featuring several different tracks for several different breeds of rider, Brushy Creek will offer up a wide variety of experiences and give just about everybody something new and unusual to try out. With more than eight miles of trails over 100 acres and a motocross track thrown in, you have a recipe for a really good time. Terrain options range from open fields to mud holes. 

With a long run of trails to follow and a good variety of conditions, Buffalo Springs boasts a top-notch off-roading area. The trails are mostly hard pack, but look for loose dirt, mud, and even a few small jumps. Since it's also in the general area of a lake, there are plenty of swimming opportunities and camping to engage in as well. This is an excellent destination for anyone looking to spend a couple days.

Said to be the largest ATV and off-road park in all of Texas, Easton’s Alligator Run will make a significant case for its primacy by its sheer range of options. With hill climbs and creeks running through the park, along with dry scenic trails, there will be challenge for just about every level of rider. Throw in mud pits, drag runs, and a complete camping area with hot showers—there's even an obstacle course—and the result is a good time for most everyone. There are even special events throughout the year for that extra bit of variety.

If it's got wheels, bring it outback. That's the philosophy that guides Stanton's Outback Adventure Track. They've got space for most every kind of ATV, including four and three-wheelers, even monster trucks! With a dry lake bed as its backdrop, there's a lot to like here, starting with the Baja Roja Trail, which runs a whopping 10 miles. 

It’s time to begin your adventure with a family-oriented, home-style breakfast. Beverly’s Country Café has everything you could want in a breakfast. Enjoy filling options such as the “Charro Breakfast,” made with two eggs, scrambled with sausage, tomato and jalapenos, served over hash browns, and smothered in chili with a biscuit or toast. 

Waffle wars. #jacksonvilletx #jacksonvilletexas

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Now, let the fun begin. Mud Creek is an ATV park only. The park spans 4,100 acres with rolling hills, wooded patches, and several small creeks. To get the full experience, Mud Creek’s website suggests traveling to the east side of the park where riders will discover miles and miles of wilderness trails. The route through Mud Creek bottom traverses several bridges which were designed to take you deep within the East Texas wilderness. There are also amenities on site such as places to camp in your RV (in case you decide to stay the night here), restrooms, hot showers, an event barn, and concession.   

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A little action from the #Polaris Mudda Cross competition at #MudNats2018!! @mudnationalevents @highlifter @polarisrzr @canam #MUDRacing #MudNationals2018

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You must be getting hungry again now. After a day in the mud, stop into Stacy’s for a savory and succulent barbecue dinner! The brisket here comes recommended highly as well as the heaping quantities of potato salad. Finish off the meal with the mind-blowing peach cobbler. 

Great example of the pecan smoked #texasbarbecue style from Stacy's Barbecue in Jacksonville, Texas. #foodpics #foodporn #gf #glutenfree #paleo #eatwithfamily

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We’re sure by this point you’re ready to settle in for the night. Head up to Canton, Texas, to the quaint Azalea House Bed & Breakfast. The suites here have their own private bathrooms and will make you feel like you’re at home. Azalea House has also received numerous accolades from TripAdvisor. 

I think we can work from here for a few days! #BedandBreakfast #PoolSide #GirlTime

A post shared by Chastity Marie (@messybunmillionaire) on May 28, 2015 at 3:04pm PDT

This memorial was created to honor those the Van Zandt County, Texas, community members who served this country. It was designed as “a place of beauty and reverence where families and comrades can find peace in the memory of lost loved ones.” Stop by this memorial to remember and commemorate Texas locals that fought for this country. 

Raising the next generation of patriots and teaching the sporks the real meaning of Memorial Day. #itsnotaboutaworkout #itsnotaboutabbq

A post shared by Chris Shivers (@big_spoon58) on May 29, 2017 at 7:55am PDT

OK, if ever there were a place that has “kid-friendly” stamped all over it in neon letters somewhere around three stories tall, it's a place called Dinosaur Valley State Park. Not far from Glen Rose, Dinosaur Valley State Park offers, as one might expect, a whole lot of dinosaur fun. In fact, visitors can actually see the tracks left behind by these ancient critters in the Paluxy River. Naturally, the standards are also in place, including hiking, mountain biking, fishing and swimming, so it's not just a dinosaur hunt.

Sunset glow. . . . #texas #sunset #dinosaurvallystatepark #hiking #travel #adventure #explore #wanderlust #sunny #sunshine #nature #moody #moodygrams #moodynature #landscape #naturegram #naturelover #naturephotography #landscapephotography #iphonephotography #hikingadventures #igtexas #trees #pastel #travelphotography #view #instapic #instagood #outside #outdoors

A post shared by Ashley Koesema 彩虹 (@asheralex) on Jun 26, 2017 at 3:03pm PDT

Dubbed one of the most family-friendly camping locations around by Texas Children in Nature, Pace Bend Park near Spicewood will deliver opportunities for enjoyment on several fronts. Not only will there be a slate of rocky features—including limestone cliffs that are spectacular at sunset—but also, Pace Bend Park's sheer proximity to Lake Travis ensures that the standard lineup of water activities will also be in play. Throw in rock climbing, mountain biking, and a plethora of sports fields, and everyone is going to enjoy this trip. 

The Splashway theme park in Sheridan offers a complete range of camping options. Whether it's straight-up tent camping or an RV park, it really doesn't matter—you'll be able to camp like it’s nobody's business! The fact that it's located immediately next to a water park with all the water slides you could ever ask for only makes this more exciting. Seriously, you should see some of these slides! 

Did someone say camping at the beach? One of the most notable beaches around is the Port Aransas city beach. Offering a wide array of activities—ranging from Frisbee to volleyball and beyond—as well as campfires up to three feet by three feet, this spot is quite the campsite. With easy access to various amenities in Port Aransas proper, it's easy to get set up just right. 

For one of the richer experiences in North Texas, check out Lake Mineral Wells State Park, near Mineral Wells. Like the name suggests, rocks play a big part of this area, so rock climbing is certainly on the menu. Throw in a huge 646-acre lake and it ensures that a good day of swimming will always be on hand. Throw in bike trails, woods, fishing opportunities, horse trails, and an amphitheater for cultural presentations, and the range is substantial. Oh, and there's a fair chance the place is haunted, filled with lost treasure, or both. 

Dellanera RV Park in Galveston, Texas, offers campers their very own private beach access. With 65 full RV hook-ups and day parking, combined with their premier beachfront access, Dellanera stands out. Choose from deluxe or full sites, each providing electricity, water, and sewer. Each site boasts a picnic table and barbecue pit with beach equipment rentals available. 

Treetops is an “all-ages RV resort” named for their 2,000 oak trees that provide shade over most sites. Their 169 sites include full hook-ups and concrete patios, with the premium option of on-site grills. Two bathhouses, two air-conditioned laundry facilities, pool, and weekly game nights are part of their offerings. Nightly rates start at $52, with weekly rates of $309 and monthly rates at $624. 

While some might call Mill Creek Ranch Resort “low-key,” its rustic charm and upscale offerings make it stand out. Visitors are asked to embrace a back-to-basics approach of simplicity and country hospitality. Rent a cabin, a tiny house, or one of their RV sites. Choose from premium pull-through RV sites, premium back-in RV sites, or standard pull through or back in RV sites. Amenities include concrete pads, full hook-ups, Wi-Fi, picnic table, fire ring, and much more. Stop by and see why Mill Creek Ranch Resort is an award-winner. 

Lake Livingston/Onalaska KOA in Onalaska, Texas, is surrounded by Lake Livingston, providing ample opportunity for boating, swimming, and fishing. Book a premium lakefront RV site to ensure perfect access. Campground amenities include Wi-Fi, power, cable TV, hot tub, sauna, fishing, dog park, pavilion, and pool access. Back-in and pull-through sites available. Book on their website and take a look at their rotating “Hot Deals.”

Rayford Crossing RV Resort in Spring, Texas, “offers an endless array of activities for the whole family from nearby hiking and biking trails, fishing, and swimming to multiple rally rooms, game room, a playground for the kids, tropical pools, and so much more,” according to their website. Each site comes with concrete pads, Wi-Fi, and cable. Choose from standard back-in or pull-through, deluxe pull-through (with patio furniture, gas grill, and large front yard), or premium pull-through (with patio furniture, gas grill, large front yard, and front of the park location). Make sure to visit the George Mitchell Nature Preserve while you’re in town!

Where to begin? The sheer volume of Texas' spectacular natural beauty makes it almost impossible to pick just one place to start. If it's a satisfying yet not-too-rigorous hike you seek, we have you covered. Check out some of the best hiking trails the Lone Star State has to offer. 

Read more. 

Proper footwear is one of the many keys to a successful hike. Before you hit the trails in Texas, it's imperative to find a supportive pair of boots that will suit your specific needs. Here are some of our favorite comfortable and sturdy hiking boots. 

Read more. 

For your next workout, challenge yourself. With its magnificent desert landscapes and rolling plains, Texas makes for a scenic jog (and a tough one). Check out these trail running spots next time you need to do some cardio (and don't forget to hydrate! 

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If a more serious hiking adventure is in order, packing a backpack is imperative. How do you strike the balance between packing all of the essentials and ensuring that your back isn't going to hurt after a few hours on the trail? Pack smart. Here's how to pack your backpack the proper way in just 5 easy steps. 

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Now let's get that heart rate up. If you've explored some of the easier trails Texas has to offer, kicking things up a notch is the next step. It's time for a challenge. If you want to get a real workout on the trails, check out these invigorating and energizing hikes in Texas. 

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The Hill Country State Natural Area in Bandera, Texas, is an “undeveloped and secluded retreat,” with over 40 miles of trails. Hikers, bikers, runners, and equestrians will equally find much to enjoy on these natural tracks. 

Throwback to the Bandera 25k. The guy seen sneaking up behind me in this picture was fast. I was faster 🤙🏼🏃🏼‍♂️ . . . #trailrunning #bandera #dirt #cactus #rockyeeeee #thornsinmaileg #throwbacktuesday

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The Bear Springs Blossom Nature Preserve has 12 different trails throughout its 125 acres, with vastly different terrain. Depending on how you set out, you might contend with rolling hills, a pond, or dry desert. 

McKinney Falls State Park in Austin has nine trails of differing terrain. Before heading out, make sure you take a good look at the trail maps, as some have hard pavement designed for strollers, and others are unpaved for runners and hikers. 

This is the Onion Creek trail in #McKinneyFalls State Park. It's paved, so it's an easy hike, or even better for bikes. #campingwithkids #rpodnation

A post shared by Aaron & Jerri (@siriuspodder) on Dec 22, 2017 at 5:25am PST

Blanco Shoals is unique in that most of its 81 acres remain completely undeveloped, with no plans for future development any time soon. That means that many trails throughout, full of high bank bluffs, tall cottonwoods, and shoals, will remain pristine for you to come back again and again. 

A post shared by Estéban Hinojosa (@stebanino) on Sep 30, 2015 at 11:44am PDT

Start off your San Marcos River Walk Trail experience at the City Park Pavilion before winding along the San Marcos River. You’ll run for around three miles through this nature-filled retreat. 

Texas paddlers, consider starting at the Upper Guadalupe River along Nichol’s Landing Paddling Trail for a three to six-hour ride through differing terrain. The rapids change throughout different sections of the trip, providing for an always interesting adventure. 

Lady Bird Lake offers a flat-water oasis in downtown Austin, Texas. The water level remains constant throughout its 11 miles, as no motored boats are allowed on the water. Rowing Dock, also in Austin, provides stand-up paddleboard rentals and regular events, such as College Day, Yappy Hour, Full Moon Paddles, and more. 

Grapevine Lake, near Dallas/Fort Worth but located in the northern part of Grapevine, Texas, has three access sites, along Meadowmere Park, Lakeview South Park, and Oak Grove Park. Depending on water level, wind speed, and your route, paddlers can expect to spend anywhere from one to six hours on the water. Paddlers often stop to fish for Florida largemouth bass. Rent your paddle equipment from the Grapevine Parks and Recreation department directly, or Recreational Equipment, Inc. 

Lake Travis, near Austin, Texas, has 18,930 acres of surface area flowing in from the Colorado River. Tons of events are always happening in restaurants and businesses along the lake, including Margarita Monday, Buy One Get One Free Burgers, and the like. Rent your equipment from Lakeway Marina for only $15 per hour.

Home to Joe Cerdas, one of Texas’s top paddleboarders, Galveston Island is a perfect location to get your paddling feet wet. You can paddle almost anywhere around the island, since the surf is never too high. Keep in mind, Galveston is often buffeted by wind, so make sure you have your balance. Rent your equipment from SUP Gulf Coast on 29th and Seawall Boulevard, or choose mobile delivery. Each rental comes with a thorough introductory lesson to get you up and going. According to the Galveston website, SUP Gulf Coast’s “paddle boards are designed to be used in flat water and in surf. It works well with Galveston’s ever changing beach conditions.”