In Texas, one of the most visited camp sites is the 1016.7 acre tranquil woods in the western part of the State. Buescher State Park, located north of Smithville. The camp site is offering its scenery and picturesque wildlife for backpacking, camping, picnicking and canoeing in the nearby lake. It also contains a swimming pool, a golf course, a section dedicated to wildlife viewing and hiking.

Buescher State Park is also an excellent site for bikers. It offers a 12-mile scenic drive, a biking trail famed for being part of the MS-150, the race from Houston to Austin. The scenery is definitely great! The course goes through the beautiful Lost Pines of East Central Texas.

The park also offers fishing for enthusiast. Just bring your pole and rod and fish all you want, or simply relax while riding the canoe in the lake waters.

Buescher State Park also has excellent facilities which include campsites with water, showers, playground for kids, a picnic pavilion and excellent kitchen for moms who love preparing delicacies to the family. The park is also a haven for 250 species of birds which is excellent to those who want to observe these birds in their natural habitat. The area is perfectly wooded with an adjacent lake makes it a desirable home to many mammals.

One might see raccoons, bobcats, opossums, armadillos along with rabbits, squirrels and small rodents. The scenic view of the state park is being attributed to the abundance of pine trees in the area. It is also accessible.

It can be reached about 40 minutes southeast of Austin, the state capital. A scenic park road connects Buescher State Park with Bastrop State Park and travels through a part of the lovely lost pines. It is believed to be the remains of once an extensive pine-oak forest covering much of Central Texas.

But before going to camping, always make sure that all the important details were attended. Park fees vary and all the needed stuffs should be brought with you. It is also helpful to keep a park map with you always.

Reservations should be made and ensured. And when already there, keep in mind that you go there to be outdoors. Love and enjoy the sun. Enjoy all the amenities being offered with the family, from fishing, to hiking and wildlife observation.

And the most important thing is, take as many pictures as you can. A memorable camping escapade should be documented to save the memories and be shared it together with the family in the years to come.

One of the most exciting places to camp in Texas is the Cleburne State Park, an old favorite campground amongst the locale. It boasts scenic attractions and variety of outdoor recreational activities which will definitely be a part of anyone’s memoirs of fun and excitement.

Texas: Cleburne State Park is located in a 528-acre vast of land, which is comprised of a 116-acre spring-fed lake, just southwest of Forth Worth in the Johnson County.

White rocky hills in the areas are covered with juniper (cedar), oak, elm, mesquite, redbud, cottonwood, sycamore, ash and sumac trees, and other lush vegetation which will surely leave you breathless. A wildlife observatory is also included in the campsite’s amenities. If you are in this place you will feel that you are one with nature.

Complete facilities are being offered to campers — be it a group of friends or a family enjoying the summer break. . So, when you are in this place you are surely going to have fun all day long.

Picnic tables and grills are being offered along the camp fire ring, just perfect of evening get together. You will certainly feel like sitting around the fire with a marshmallow on a stick and ready to sip some hot chocolate. It is truly a worthwhile experience to be shared with your loved ones.

There is also a bike trail that offers beautiful scenery. The terrain is very diverse which offers different difficulty levels for the bikers.

And don’t forget the crystal blue lake, where campers may enjoy boating and fishing. Boating in the lake is a perfect bonding experience for the whole family. Dads would enjoy fishing, while kids would definitely love the experience of traversing the lake waters to boast with pals back home.

Texas: Cleburne State Park is definitely a complete summer destination for the family. It is a perfect blend of modern and comfortable amenities in a natural, scenic environment.

Your summer would definitely be memorable, fun and quality time spent with one’s eyes feasting on the scenic and panoramic views of nature. The Lone State should definitely be part of one’s travel itineraries. So pack up your bags together your wife and kids. Don’t forget to bring your camera to take some pictures of a perfect summer experience.

Near the boundary of Texas and Mexico is the Lake Casa Blanca International State Park, which offers the usual amenities of state parks, and at the same time takes visitor in a glimpse to Mexican culture. Nearby is the city of Laredo, a cultural gateway to the Mexican Republic. The city is one of Texas’ most impressive border cities.

Rio Grande Art Festival is being celebrated every April in the city too. So if you are planning to join the fun. Take some time off during this time of the year.

Aside from the typical camp site facilities, Lake Casa Blanca International State Park is home to El Ranchito, which houses outdoor restrooms, a volleyball court, a playground, a barbecue pit, and outdoor picnic tables. The park also includes Lago Vista, a picnic pavilion perfect for grills and outdoor family meals.

It also home to a bird aviary which can carry thirty-five people at the same time. There is also a golf course, which is being operated by the Webb County. The park is being operated jointly by the county and the city of Laredo.

Lake Casa Blanca International State Park also emphasizes sports-related activities. A baseball field is available, as well as tennis courts and an outdoor volleyball and basketball court. Entry fee is $4 per person over thirteen. A recreational hall and a amphitheater can be available upon request.

What sets the park from others in the state of Texas is the strong Spanish and Mexican influence in the area. The facilities were named in a way to remind that the country and tacos and burritos is just nearby, and that the area is once under the rule of the Spanish crown.

And I nearly had forgotten the presence of a 1,656-acre lake which is excellent for fishing and boating. Fishing is allowed but motorized boats are not allowed in the state’s lake waters.

A friend of mine spent some summer in the state park, and I must say she filled me stories of fun and excitement as classes resumed. Aside from the picturesque views and photo-worthy scenery, I must say that Lake Casa Blanca is a dream destination this summer.

And I might take this opportunity to hook with a hot Latino in the area and taste the hot and spicy taste of the Mexican tacos! Just kidding!

But seriously speaking, camping along the borders of the US and Mexico is a surreal thing to do, amidst all the tensions and border restrictions being headlined on the news.

The most important thing that we must take into consideration is to enjoy the trip and acquire as many fun and happy memories while taking our minds temporarily from the stress of work and the bustling city life. Lake Casa Blanca State Park can certainly help you do that!

In the coastal southern part of Texas, there is a reservoir named Lake Corpus Christi. Originally known as Lake Lovenskiold, the lake and the dam that creates it are managed by the City of Corpus Christi. It was first built when Wesley E. Seale Dam impounded the lake. The present dam was completed in 1958 and is now known as one of the largest man made artificial bodies of water in Texas at that time. It’s also known a one of the best places to camp in Texas.

The lake provides drinking water for the city of Corpus Christi. Naturally, to improve the utility of the lake, they stocked it with fish meant to be as game for the eager fishermen or those who refer to fishing as their favorite sport and past time. There are fish such as white bass, catfish, largemouth bass and sunfish present in the Lake.

The lake is meant for other activities aside from fishing. The water is clean enough to be bathed in which makes the lake an ideal spot to go camping and do other recreational sports. There are campsites available for those who love roughing it out and even for those who just want to sleep inside the tent without having to lose the benefits of electricity and a good shower. The campsite does provide water, electricity and a sewer so you can forget about going into the bushes to relieve yourself when nature calls.

The Lake also allows motorboats in the lake, so it would be really great for those tourists who brought their boats with them.. They actually offer two launching ramps for boats. One is open only if the lake is full while the other is open unless lake levels are extremely low. When the lake is full, families can take their boat ride. This also makes it possible for water skiing activities as well as fishing. Although it is an unsupervised beach, they allow swimming in the lake. However, parents have to take extra precaution when their kids are out in the water because there is not designated lifeguard to watch the swimmers.

If you are more of a land creature and would rather not get into any of the water sports or water activities, the park offers you the opportunity to go hiking with family and friends. There are a couple of great bird species you can watch if you’re into bird watching. Unfortunately, there are no hiking trails in the park. But, you can still enjoy a trek along the paved roads. Bring bikes with you and go on a romantic biking trip with your partner.

The Lake Corpus Christi Park is a great way to bring the whole clan along. They provide a pavilion for a group of up to 100 guests. You can even get a group rate discount when you are spending the day with the entire family. If ever you’re in Texas, enjoy!

Since the day when Adam and Eve were expelled from the Garden of Eden, man has become separated from nature. Well, whether you believe in the biblical account or not, the fact is many people today have become too busy to stop and appreciate the true beauty that only nature can afford to exhibit. With the world’s advancement in technology, developments in the areas of infrastructures, transportation, communications, and all forms of commercialization are continually expanding—bringing people farther away from where they came from. Perhaps this is why Camping in Texas is a growing outdoor activity?

Today, most of the things we see around us are man-made, like city parks, resorts, buildings, houses, cars, etc. The natural things that used to be the source of man’s contentment have been replaced by things that don’t last and don’t truly satisfy. Now we are reaping pollutions, calamities, and endless stresses as a price we pay for development. Children from the most developed countries may grow up unaware about what nature has generously given to us such as clean air, refreshing springs of water, food, health, life, and peace. Of course, development is good but it must not put Mother Nature at risk.

Fortunately, Mother Nature does not give up on us for there still remain places that we can call paradise for the natural beauty they possess. One of the best places in the world today can be found not in dreamland or in fantasy world of children, but in the northern part of Georgetown Lake in Texas. Named after a former governor, Jim Hogg Park is a sanctuary to different species of birds, insects, animals, plants, and trees. As a natural habitat for the smaller forms of life, the place also welcomes those who would like to retreat from the hazards of living a busy and polluted life in the city. The place can be a haven of rest for those who desire peace and calmness even for just a little while.

The natural park can boast of its excellent amenities that include several numbers of campsites that can accommodate even a large number of people from different organizations and corporate sectors who simply would like to enjoy bonding and team building activities. It is equipped with electricity, sufficient water supply, and hot and cold showers in order to make your stay more comfortable. It also has public telephone booths so you can keep in touch with family during your stay. There will be no boring time while at the site because you can do a lot of things like fishing, boating, picnicking, trail hiking, and a whole lot more exciting activities. You can also choose a particular spot where you can be alone and be one with nature. So, what are you waiting for? Don’t wait until you come to the point of exhaustion. You deserve a break and the best place to have it is at Jim Hogg Park. Pick up the phone and make your reservation now.

Well, once I get those images out of my head, Possum Kingdom State Park is really a wonderful place to camp at. I’d certainly rate it right up there with other top Texas camping areas.

Possum Kingdom State Park is located at the Southwest side of Possum Kingdom lake. The surrounding area is very rugged, consisting of oak and cedar brush covered canyons. The lake itself is crystal blueish clear. In my opinion, it’s one of the prettiest lakes in all of Texas, especially if you’re on one of the hills overlooking the lake.

The Park itself encompasses somewhere around 1500 acres. Technically, it’s in the Brazos River Valley that runs through the Palo Pinto Mountain range. There are both modern and primitive camp sites available. The primitive campsites are suited for tent camping. Also, you’ll find over 100 campsites. About 20 or so are the primitive type. You also have about 60 or so sites with water and electric and around 50 or so with water only.

There are plenty of things to do when visiting Possum Kingdom State Park. Obviously the fishing is great. But you can also go swimming in the clear cool blue water as well as picnic, hike, bike or go boating and skiing. The surrounding area lends itself well to studying nature and wildlife.

I love to go to Possum Kingdom several times a year, even though it’s quite a drive for me. Although I have used the campistes with water and electric, I find myself using the primitive campsites more and more! If you choose a time when there are few other visitors, you’ll be treated to a serene and wonderfully peaceful time. I love waking up in the mornings and having a cup of coffee that has been cooked over a fire while watching the wildlife around the lake come alive.

If RV camping or primitive tent camping isn’t your cup of tea, then the Park also has 6 cabins available. Most hold 4 people but they do have one that will hold 6 to 8 people.

There is also a very nice Store and Marina on Lake Possum Kingdom. They have nearly everything a camper needs when roughing it!

Other amenities that the Park has to offer are a trailer dump station, picnic tables, a fishing pier, restrooms with showers, a fish-cleaning facility, a concrete boat ramp with a courtesy dock, playgrounds, and 2 miles of hiking/nature trails.

Here are some other resources to help you plan your trip to Possum Kingdom State Park

Texas Parks and Wildlife Page on Possum Kingdom

Current Fees at Possum Kingdom

Wikipedia Page on Possum Kingdom

Possum Kingdom State Park Store & Marina

Here’s a Map of Possum Kingdom State Park and Lake

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There are other reasons, but these three are the primary reason I sneak off to Cagle Recreation Area at least twice each year. I love fishing so the campsite being on Lake Conroe is a huge plus. Lake Conroe has all types of great fishing. From Black Bass, Crappie and Catfish to Hybrid Bass, Lake Conroe has them and in good numbers!

Lake Conroe is also a great place to kayak. But be warned, the lower section of the lake is highly populated. Even some of the upper lake has a lot of homes on the lake shore. If you want peace and quiet, stay up in the National Forest.

When you camp at Cagle Recreation Area, you’re only a short drive from modern conveniences such as fast food and shopping. Huntsville, New Waverly, Willis and Conroe are all within about 20 to 30 minutes. And if you really need to rough it and shop at some high end stores, then The Woodlands is less than 45 minutes away!

There are also a number of beautiful hiking trails in the area, including the Lonestar Hiking Trail. There are several trail heads located throughout the Sam Houston National Forest so you can pick the length of the route you want to hike. If you’d like more information on the Lonestar hiking trail, contact the Lonestar Trail Hiking Club.

There are a ton of other events in the area. With Cagle Recreation Area being so close to Houston, there is always something going on. If you happen to be camping in the Fall, make sure you take time to visit the Texas Renaissance Festival. I always enjoy spending a day or two there. It never seems to be the same twice!

There are full RV hookups there with 50 amp service. And of course, they didn’t forget those of us who like to camp primitive, bring your tent if you’re so inclined!

From what I’ve been told by others and from what I’ve seen, if you rely on your satellite dish for TV or Internet, you may have a problem here at Cagle due to the surrounding trees. Hey, they’re in Texas so you know they’re big and tall!

Also, I can tell you from personal experience that if you plan on visiting Cagle, you’d better make reservations. There are very little “first come, first serve” camping areas. This is a popular spot to stay and camp, so if you want to partake in it, call at least two days ahead. It would be a shame for you to arrive and find out there are no camping spots available!

Directions To Cagle Recreation Area

Cagle Recreation Area is easy to find. Whether your heading North from Houston or South from Dallas, you want to get off at the New Waverly exit (FM 1375) and head West. It’s about 5 miles and you’ll see a Cagle Recreation Area sign and you’ll turn left.

Contact Info For Cagle Recreation Area

Sam Houston National Forest
394 1375 West
New Waverly, TX 77358
(936)-344-6205
Toll free (888) 361-6908
Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. – 11:30; 12:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

GPS Coordinates: 30.52470N, 95.58900W

Map of Cagle Recreation Area

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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