Balmorhea State Park
Balmorhea State Park is one of the 140 State Parks that the Texas Parks Dept. oversees. In my opinion, Balmorhea is one of the most unique places to camp in Texas. Its setting is in the rough and rugged land of West Texas. When you think of it, think about an Oasis in a desert, because basically that is what Balmorhea State Park is. The Park lies on 46 acres and has a rare and unique feature. It has a pool fed by the San Solomon Springs. This Spring was used for hundreds of years by Native Americans and early Settlers.
The Balmorhea State Park lies in the foothills of the Davis Mountains. It’s about 4 miles West of Balmorhea Texas in Reeves County.
Although there are great amenities at the park such as a Motel/lodge, it’s the pool that most people come for. As I understand it, the pool stays in the mid 70′s and ranges up to 30 feet deep. Swimming is allowed, which I highly recommend. You can even scuba dive but be sure to follow the rules that the State Park has in place.
I really love this place, it’s one of my favorite places to camp in Texas. Although may people are lured by the Springs and the pool, once here you’ll fall in love with the tranquil surroundings. I just love the peace and quiet of the surroundings but it’s nice knowing that modern conveniences are close by. It’s not like you’ll be on Survivor or something!
There are primitive camping sites as well as sites for RV’s. There are restrooms with showers available to campers as well as most sites have shade and water. The RV sites have electrical hookups.
If those two types of camping don’t enthuse you, then perhaps a stay at the San Solomon Springs Court will. These were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps back in the 1930′s. They rent rooms by the night.
Surprisingly, I found quite a bit of things to do in the area. I didn’t expect to find much, I mean, c’mon, what do you think you’ll find to do in the middle of West Texas? Go Jackalope hunting?
I highly recommend a day trip to Fort Davis. Especially if you’re a history buff like I am. I just enjoyed this place immensely.
If you do decide to pay a visit, by all means schedule a few days there. Once there, you’ll not want to leave anytime soon if you require peace and quiet!
Resources:
- Map of Balmorhea State Park
- More information about Balmorhea State Park
- Wikipedia page on Balmorhea State Park
Contact Information For Balmorhea State Park
P O Box 15
Toyahvale TX 79786
432/375-2370
GPS Cordinates: 30°56′40″N, 103°47′8″W
Google Map
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