Fall Travel Destinations in Texas and Surroundings
Stunning places for fall travel in Texas and surrounding states. Discover the best day trips, weekend getaways, long weekend and vacation destinations to visit this autumn from Dallas.
Stunning places for fall travel in Texas and surrounding states. Discover the best day trips, weekend getaways, long weekend and vacation destinations to visit this autumn from Dallas.
Epic weekend road trip through Caddo Lake, Daingerfield State Park, Pine Woods Wine Trail and Jefferson.
Explore the best East Texas travel destinations and nature wonders, only 2h30 from Dallas.
Browsing side trips within a short distance from Dallas? These 8 top day trip destinations near the city will do the job!
Beaches, waterfalls, drive-thru safaris and more near Dallas. Discover 6 superb ways to spend a hot summer day in and around DFW!
Enjoy nature and beat the Texas heat in one single shot, at beautiful State Parks and Preserves in Texas and surroundings, with natural swimming areas.
From popular summer spots among locals, to hidden gems where you can enjoy solitude, discover in this post 10 awesome places within 2 hours driving from Dallas to cool off this summer.
The parks below all feature great nature trails and river beaches, lake beaches or cascades. They make outstanding summer day trip destinations from Dallas.
Choose your favorites, make reservations (links along the post), and hit the road to have the time of your life every weekend of this season!
Don’t mind driving a little (or a lot) further? Check our summer special for tons of summer travel ideas in Texas and surroundings states, including the most amazing swimming holes in Texas and the best beaches to visit from Dallas.
📝 Note:
It’s always a good idea to check on current conditions before heading to any State Park, as recent extreme weather or other unforeseen events can close trails and swimming areas without notice.
Click on the specific State Park links provided along the post to check for any current Park Alerts before hitting the road.
This is the place to go if you’re looking for a quick summer getaway – Cedar Hill is the closest State Park to Dallas and located less than 30 minutes from the city. It’s overall a great Texas State Park to hit this summer if you need a change of scenery but don’t want to drive a long distance.
Cedar Hill State Park features a beautiful and well-maintained beach area. Swimming at Joe Pool Lake is a sure way to beat the Texas heat!
Hiking, biking, and fishing are some of the other fun things to do at Cedar Hill State Park. Or simply relax by the lake and soak in the summer vibe surrounded by nature.
Ray Roberts Lake, in Pilot Point, Texas, is a popular State Park among Dalasites for its proximity to the city and great amenities.
It’s a place for fishing, swimming, paddling, camping, hiking, cycling and horseback riding – the opportunities to enjoy the outdoors are endless there.
Lake Ray Roberts Isle du Bois unit features a beautiful sandy beach area as well, perfect for a splash in the Texas summer.
Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch, a safari style zoo, is right next door to Ray Roberts Lake State Park and makes the perfect add on to your summer day trip from Dallas.
Lake Mineral Wells is an amazing State Park in North Texas. It features a swimming beach, kayak and SUP rentals, and over 12 miles of trails. And its home to famous Penitentiary Hollow, a unique geological formation resembling a small canyon.
For a perfect summer day at Lake Mineral Wells State Park, hike Red Waterfront Trail towards Penitentiary Hollow and then refresh and recover at the lake shores.
Other activities at Lake Mineral Wells include boating, camping, fishing, and rock climbing.
Lake Mineral Wells is about 1h15 from Dallas and 0h45 from Fort Worth, and a popular Texas State Park among locals.
Right on the shores of Lake Texoma, one of the largest reservoir in the United States, Eisenhower State Park is home to a beautiful swimming cove and over 6 miles of hiking and biking trails.
Set up on a bluff overlooking the lake, Eisenhower State Park offers amazing views. It’s a beautiful and well-maintained State Park in Texas, ideal for a splash in a hot summer day.
Other activities there include fishing, paddling (bring your own equipment), hiking and camping.
Dinosaur Valley is a must-visit State Park in Texas, and Dallasites are lucky to have it only a short driving distance from the city!
Not only Dinosaur Valley State Park scenery is absolutely gorgeous, but the park is also home to unique real dinosaur footprints along Paluxy River riverbed. Looking for them and hiking the several nature trails are among the top activities there.
On summer, Paluxy River takes the center stage and is one of the best places near Dallas to cool off surrounded by nature. Crystal-clear waters, sandy beach areas and small cascades make Paluxy River the most perfect place to chill out under the sun.
Dinosaur Valley State Park is right next door from Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, another must-visit attraction in the area. Check in this post a complete weekend itinerary including both places (destination # 1, Glen Rose) and plan you summer adventure.
The Piney Woods region of Texas is simply stunning. And Tyler State Park is one of the closest places to experience its beauty from Dallas.
Tyler State Park landscape is unexpected. A dramatic change of scenery from the plains we are used to see around Dallas. Head there and you’ll find yourself immersed in nature, surrounded by gorgeous 100-foot tall trees framing a beautiful 64-acre spring-feed pond, ideal for all sort of summerish leisure activities.
Tyler State Park has a great designated swimming area, with a jumping platform. Kayaks, canoes, and SUPs are available for rent on site, and paddling the pond is another great way to enjoy summer there.
On your way between Dallas and Tyler you’ll find Ham Orchards -open summer season only and a slight detour from your itinerary. For an amazing summer experience in the Dallas surroundings, stop there on your way back to the city and try their famous homemade peach ice cream.
Fairfield Lake State Park is a great summer day trip destination from Dallas. Not far from the city, it’s home to over 10 miles of beautiful easy to moderate hiking trails and to a large sandy swimming area.
Besides the designated swimming area, Fairfield Lake State Park also offers lake access from every camping area, so it’s easy to find solitude and claim your own spot on the peaceful lake shores. Other activities at Fairfield Lake State Park include camping, boating, and horseback riding (bring your own horse).
Ennis is in your way back to Dallas and home to classic Galaxy Drive Inn Theatre. For the ultimate summer adventure, stop by and top off your fun-filled day by the lake with an old-fashioned movie session under the stars.
Turner Falls, in neighboring Oklahoma, is absolutely gorgeous.
The 77-foot cascade is the largest waterfall in Oklahoma and a popular summer travel destination for Texans. Besides the breathtaking waterfall, the park offers trails, small caves, zip-lining, and lodging.
Take advantage of your trip to Turner Falls Park to visit neighboring Little Niagara Falls, part of Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Other amazing nearby attractions include Arbuckle Wilderness Park and Chickasaw Cultural Center.
Lake beaches, clear water, and solitude. Lake Whitney State Park is a true hidden gem only 1h15 driving from Dallas.
The State Park features a designated swimming area with 2 sandy beaches. And several swimmable spots along Whitney Lake shores, including hidden and beautiful rocky beaches, as the one shown in the picture.
The limestone bottom makes Lake Whitney clean and clear, with fresh waters perfect for a summer splash. It’s a great lake for swimming, fishing, paddling, and boating.
Whitney Lake State Park also features 2 short nature trails – Towash Forest Trail and Two Bridges Trail – as well as cabins and waterfront camping spots. It’s overall a superb summer travel destination in Texas, for a quick day trip or even to spend the weekend camping surrounded by nature.
Shady trails, a clean designated swimming area and a peaceful lake make this small and secluded Texas State Park a great quick summer getaway from Dallas.
A nature retreat off the beaten path, and the place to go if you’re looking for quiet and privacy.
Lake Meridian is a ‘no wake lake’, making it the perfect place for a summer splash – you won’t have to worry about boats and jet-skis.
Meridian State Park has over 5 miles of trails for all skill levels. Don’t miss Bosque Hiking Trail, which circles the lake perimeter and takes you through the Civilian Conservation Corps dam and a scenic overlook.
Other activities at Meridian Lake State Park include paddling (rentals available on site), floating and fishing.
In need of a change of air but not in the mood for a sleepover?
Try one of the 10 superb State Parks and Preserves mentioned in this post and enjoy the best lake beaches, river beaches and cascades in the Dallas surroundings.
Cedar Hill State Park, Lake Ray Roberts State Park, Lake Mineral Wells State Park, Eisenhower State Park, Dinosaur Valley State Park, Tyler State Park, Fairfield Lake State Park, Turner Falls Park, Lake Whitney State Park and Meridian State Park are all stunning nature spots with swimming areas and amazing places to explore this summer.
Places to breath in nature and cool off in style, all within 2 hours driving from Dallas and ideal for a summer day trip.
Which are your favorite swimming spots near Dallas? Leave a comment bellow!
Heads up: my posts may contain affiliate links.
If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more. But I’ll earn a small commission that will help the Dallas Wanderer to keep the lights on as a free travel and leisure resource for our community.
Thanks 🧡💙🧡
Discover the best beaches in DFW and its surroundings, and have a blast every summer weekend!
Cause a little bit of summer is what the whole year is all about —John Mayer
Beach is calling, and there is no need to embark on a long road trip to bury your feet in the sand!
Dallas, believe it or not, is home to mind-blowing Lake Beaches that will make you forget for a moment you are so far from the coast.
DFW and its surroundings are no short of lake beaches.
The Big D is located in the Prairies & Lakes region of Texas, and a glance at Google Maps can make anyone aware that immense bodies of water surround us.
The trick here is to sort the wheat from the chaff: not all lake beaches are made the same.
And while most lakes are amazing to spend a day engaging in water activities, not many offer truly fantastic sandy lake beaches.
In this post, you will discover the top 6 beaches to spend a hot summer day in Dallas and its surroundings.
A list I wish I had in my hands when I first arrived in Dallas six years ago!
Outstanding summer day trip and staycation destinations, ideal for a fun summer weekend day or to watch a sunset any day of the week.
Visit these places, and you will be rewarded with white sand, clear water, clean and well-maintained facilities.
Ready to explore?
Check the recommendations and prepare for the best summer ever!
Only a short drive from Dallas, Little Elm Park, by Lake Lewisville, offers a superb and well-maintained sandy beach.
Access is free and amenities include volley courts, paddle and bike rentals, and an onsite grill.
A family-friendly location, Little Elm Beach is cleaned daily, and life jackets are available for use.
It is right next door to Hula Hut, a casual Tex-Mex restaurant with an outstanding lakefront patio and cool beach vibe.
Twin Points Park, by Eagle Mountain Lake, is a local favorite on summer in Fort Worth.
The lakefront sandy beach is among the best to visit in DFW and its surroundings.
It features volley courts, a boat ramp, paddleboard rentals, a shaded natural area with trees, and large pavilions for rent.
Twin Points Beach is open Memorial Day through Labor Day. You must purchase a parking permit ($ 10 – $ 20) in advance to access the park.
Crystal-clear and spring-fed Burgers Lake is a must-visit during summer in DFW.
This unique water park offers two white sand beach areas. And tons of water fun, with slides, diving boards, and trapezes over the lake.
Burgers Lake also features picnic tables, grills, volleyball courts, and a lot of shade along 30 acres.
The park is open Memorial Day Through Labor Day (after August 16 weekends only), and admission costs $ 15 per person.
Ray Roberts Lake features an outstanding sand beach totally worth the short drive from Dallas.
You can visit it as a day trip destination or even camp there for an immersive experience.
Make reservations in advance through their website to avoid surprises (recommended).
The beach is clean and large and offers amenities such as nearby picnic tables and an on-site kids’ playground.
If you have kids in tow, consider stopping by Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch on your way there to feed the animals and interact with wildlife.
By Lake Texoma, Island View Park is home to one of the most beautiful lake beaches in the Dallas surroundings.
It features two beaches. One with amenities such as picnic tables and paddle rentals, usually more crowded. And other in its natural state, that will make you forget for a second that you are not on the coast.
The park is open year-round, and the entrance fee is $7 per person (kids 7 and under are free).
Also by Lake Texoma, Eisenhower State Park is home to the most scenic beaches near DFW.
It features white sand, clear water, shaded areas, and a small cave to explore.
The state park is close enough to Dallas for a day trip.
But if you want to spend the weekend, consider camping there in the Elm Point Camping area, with easy access to the beach.
Make online reservations before hitting the road to assure your entrance to the park, specially during the weekends.
Texas is surrounded by lakes, featuring beautiful sand beaches for a quick escape without the long drive to the coast.
In this post, we covered the 6 best ones.
The Beach at Little Elm Park, Twin Points Beach, Burgers Lake, Ray Roberts Lake State Park Beach, Island View Park, and Eisenhower State Park Beach are all alternatives worth checking this summer!
If you don’t mind driving further and have a few days to spare, know that Texas also offers superb ocean beaches that will blow your mind!
In this post, you will find the best Texas beaches to visit from Dallas, including gorgeous Malaquite Beach, Mustang Island, and South Padre Island.
If a long drive doesn’t scare you, Florida and Alabama offer outstanding beach travel destinations up to 11 hours driving from DFW, popular among Dallasites.
Check our Beach Special and discover American gems such as Florida 30A, Gulf Shores, and Orange Beach and prepare your next beach vacation.
Throughout the years, I keep being surprised by mind-blowing hidden gems in the Dallas surroundings.
Every summer, I discover something new that, for some reason, hadn’t been on my radar before.
Do you know of any outstanding beaches near Dallas not mentioned in this post?
Share in the comments below. I will love to follow your recommendations and explore new spots!
Heads up: my posts may contain affiliate links.
If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more. But I’ll earn a small commission that will help the Dallas Wanderer to keep the lights on as a free travel and leisure resource for our community.
Thanks 🧡💙🧡
These 12 jaw-dropping natural pools in Texas will keep you cool and inspired all summer long!
Yes, Texas is HOT. But mother nature got your back. And so do we!
Discover in the lines below 12 amazing summer travel destinations to inspire you and keep you fresh during the whole season.
Unbelievably beautiful Texas swimming holes you wouldn’t expect to find so close to Dallas, but that do exist and are out there just waiting for you.
In need of a beach fix? Check our summer special for the best places to bury your feet in the sand in Texas and surrounding states (spoiler alert: yep, Texas has OUTSTANDING beaches as close as 5h45 driving from Dallas!).
Ready to explore startling Texas swimming holes?
Check in the following lines the 12 best natural pools in Texas to visit this summer, pick your faves, and go!
Hamilton Pool is simply stunning and considered by many the most amazing swimming hole in Texas.
The scenery there is mesmerizing, with lush green vegetation, a small beach, and an enclosed swimming hole fed by a cascade and accessible through a short hike. It’s a great place to hang out, have a picnic and cool off in the pristine waters. There are no concessions there (or anywhere near Hamilton Pool), so make sure to bring a picnic.
There is a daily limit of visitors and Hamilton Pool tends to reach full capacity, especially on weekends and holidays. Make online reservations in advance to visit Hamilton Pool here to assure your spot under the sun!
The only downside? Swimming is not always allowed at Hamilton Pool. Bummer. It depends on the water bacteria levels. But visit even if you can’t swim in the day of your reservation – Hamilton Pool sight is surreal, totally worth the drive even without swimming, and you can always head to neighboring Reimer’s Ranch afterwards to cool off at beautiful Pedernales River.
Hamilton Pool is surrounded by other nature wonders and close to Austin. Check in this post the best things to do and see in the Hamilton Pool surroundings (destination # 10) and plan your summer weekend getaway.
Does jumping from a cliff into a unique set of underwater caves covered by emerald waters sounds good?Head to Jacobs Well then, another mind-blowing Texas swimming hole.
One of the most perfect summer travel destinations in Texas, even for the chicken-hearted like me 🙈 (it can be absolutely enjoyed without the kamikaze jump part).
Jacobs Well is a designated Natural Area, nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country and home to trails and to the famous swimming hole. Getting to the swimming area requires an easy and pleasant 15-minute nature walk from the parking lot. Reservations are highly recommended, make yours here.
This top-rated Texas swimming hole is surrounded by great places to visit, included charming Wimberley – check here the best things to do near Jacobs Well to plan your trip (destination # 9).
Pedernales Falls is probably my favorite Texas State Parks to date. This place is gorgeous. And home to crystal-clear Pedernales River, making it an amazing spot to cool off in Texas during summer season.
Swimming is not allowed in the falls for safety reasons. But is in the river, and the scenery there is also beautiful, with emerald waters and sandy beaches along the riverbed.
A destination by itself, Pedernales Falls State Park is a perfect place for camping. But it’s also close to the Hamilton Pool area and you can easily combine a visit to both in a single weekend summer trip from Dallas. Check this post for more info (destination # 10).
It’s always clever to make online reservations before visiting any Texas State Park – nobody wants to drive miles and miles and end up being turned away! Here is the link to make online reservations to Pedernales Falls. Plan your trip and have fun!
Krause Springs is a private swimming hole, open to the public, nestled in the Texas Hill Country, near Marble Falls.
It features a small spring feed swimming pool, but the main attraction there is the stunning natural swimming hole, with emerald waters and surrounded by lush green vegetation.
Other attractions in the area include a cave, a canyon, a wildlife refuge, and an off-road adventure park. Check in this post the best things to do near Krause Springs (destination #8) and plan your summer escape from Dallas.
The Blue Hole Regional Park in Wimberley is considered one of the best small-town parks in Texas, and for a good reason. It features a crystalline swimming hole, famous for a rope jumping area. It’s a very popular swimming area in Texas during the summer months.
Best part is that you are right at Wimberley, one of the most charming Texas small towns, and just next door from gorgeous Jacobs Well, featured above.
So take advantage of it and check mark two of the most amazing Texas swimming holes in a single weekend trip from Dallas!
Make reservations to visit the Blue Hole Regional Park here and check this post for a complete weekend itinerary including the Blue Hole Regional Park, Jacobs Well and other attractions (destination #9).
Austin makes a great summer travel destination in Texas, and Barton Springs is one of the reasons behind it.
A huge natural spring-fed pool in the heart of the city, at Zilker Park, Barton Springs is a popular swimming spot in Texas during the summer months.
Barton Springs is right next door to Barton Creek, another beautiful spot to cool off and the perfect place to engage in water activities, such as kayaking as stand-up paddling.
And not far from Congress Bridge, famous for the millions of bats that live under it and fly daily at sunset (March through October) in search of food. It’s a must-see natural spectacle, trust me!
Find here a full weekend itinerary in Austin, with the best things to do in the city, and plan your summer vacation driving from Dallas.
Beautiful falls, great hiking, and fun swimming. McKinney Falls State Park is another summer destination right in Austin not to be missed.
Only 15 minutes away from Downtown Austin, McKinney Falls features easy to moderate hiking trails, cypress trees and beautiful falls – make sure to visit the upper and lower falls along Onion Creek.
It’s a popular park in the Austin area, so make reservations to visit McKinney Falls in advance. Take advantage of your trip to explore the best of Austin, including Barton Springs and Hippie Hollow, other two amazing Texas swimming holes mentioned along this post.
Only clothing-optional public space in Texas, Hippie Hollow Park is a beautiful and secluded cove in the shores of Lake Travis, and a popular swimming hole in Texas.
It’s right next door to The Oasis at Lake Travis, a must-visit Austin restaurant famous for the cool outdoor area and gorgeous sunsets.
If you prefer to keep your clothes on (or to be sure that others will keep their clothes on, for that matter lol), try nearby Pace Bend Park, with nine miles of shoreline along Lake Travis featuring other gorgeous swimming coves.
Inks Lake is a top-rated State Park in Texas, home to famous Devils Waterhole swimming hole.
It’s the perfect summer travel destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers – Devil’s Waterhole features two large pink granite cliffs ideal for cliff jumping.
Other activities at Inks Lake State Park include hiking, fishing, and camping.
Inks Lake State Park is not far from Marble Falls, as well as to other Texas nature beauties such as Longhorn Cavern and the Colorado River Canyon. Check this post for all the best things to do in the Inks Lake State Park surroundings (destination #8)
Tubing gorgeous and crystalline Frio River is a Texan rite of passage and a must-try summer activity in the Lone Star State. The Frio River winds through stunning Garner State Park, one of the highest rated state parks in Texas and a locals’ fave.
Garner State Park is an amazing summer travel destination in Texas. Cooling off in the Frio River cold waters under the Texas excruciating heat feels simply amazing. And paddling down the river, surrounded by limestone walls and beautiful cypress trees is an unforgettable experience.
Other activities at Garner State Park include hiking, fishing, and camping. Reservations are recommended, especially during high season, and can be done online through the Texas State Parks reservation system.
Devils River is one of the most pristine and remote rivers in Texas. A jaw-dropping nature hidden-gem in deep southwest Texas, by Del Rio. It’s a wild and off the beaten path river and an outstanding place for swimming, fishing, and paddling (advanced paddlers only).
Accessing the Devils River State Natural Area requires a permit (more info here). Overnight stay is allowed in primitive campsites and requires a special permit as well. There is a strict limit on the number of people daily allowed to visit the area, for preservation purposes, and permits can be requested up to 5 months in advance.
Getting to Devils River requires a bumpy off-road driving and hiking a one-mile trail from the parking lot. Make sure to prepare in advance – check our summer essentials for ideas – and pack lightly.
The famous Caverns of Sonora are on your way from Dallas to Devils River State Natural Area. Take a slight detour to combine both locations in a single trip, for a fun and wow filled summer weekend adventure in Texas.
If you’re looking for a more exclusive experience, head to Riding River Ranch, in Leakey.
This beautiful 3,400-acre private property is home to a pristine spring fed Texas swimming hole, the Blue Hole, open to overnight ranch guests only (no day use allowed).
Rent a cabin there and dive head first on a weekend surrounded by nature and wildlife, with the perk of being able to experience one of the most beautiful and exclusive swimming holes in Texas.
Other activities at Riding River Ranch include fishing, hiking and jeep trails.
Texas is home to breathtaking swimming holes, and they all make extraordinary summer travel destinations from Dallas.
In this post we covered 12 of the most beautiful places to beat the Texas heat and have the summer of your life despite the triple-digit temperatures.
Hamilton Pool, Jacobs Well, Pedernales Falls, Krause Springs, Wimberley’s Blue Hole, Barton Springs, McKinney Falls, Hippie Hollow, Devils Waterhole, Frio River, Devils River and Leakey’s Blue Hole are all outstanding summer travel destinations in Texas, that I highly recommend you checking on and visiting at least once in a lifetime.
I’ve also put together a summer packing list with all travel essentials that can be useful and help you to make the most of these trips, check it out and prepare for your summer adventures!
Have you been to some of these places before? What is your favorite Texas swimming hole?
Leave a comment below to help us showcase the best of Texas and most amazing travel destinations in the Lone Star State.
Heads up: my posts may contain affiliate links.
If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more. But I’ll earn a small commission that will help the Dallas Wanderer to keep the lights on as a free travel and leisure resource for our community.
Thanks 🧡💙🧡
Texas is home to over 80 State Parks and Natural Areas. Here are the ones you should not miss
Forget not that the earth delights to feel your bare feet and the winds long to play with your hair. —Khalil Gibran
Texas has tons of terrific State Parks. Over 80, to be more precise.
But time is limited. And sometimes you wish you knew the ones you should focus your attention on, right?
This article is here to help you with this (delightful) task!
Read it through and discover the most outstanding State Parks in Texas to visit and the best things to do around each one of them.
12 amazing nature preserves, administered by the Texas Parks and Wildlife State Agency, ideal for camping, hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, and everything in between.
Whenever planning to visit Texas State Parks, it is always wise to make online reservations in advance.
Especially when you are talking about the best State Parks to visit in Texas: they are very sought-after nature preserves, limiting the number of daily visitors, and most fill-up weeks if not months in advance.
In this post, you will find the links to the page of each recommended State Park reservation system.
You can also access the Texas State Park reservation system directly to do so.
Pro Tip?
To score last-minute camping reservations for Texas State Parks, leave the “location” field empty in your search.
The system will return all state parks with availability for the date you chose!
If you are into nature travel and are planning to visit a handful of Texas State Parks in the months to come, it might be a good idea to purchase a Texas State Park Pass.
It is valid for 12 months and grants you and your guests (riding in the same car) access to all 80+ State Parks in Texas – reservations are still required, though.
It also gives you discounts on camping parcels and in the State Park stores.
Ready to explore? Discover below the 12 must-visit State Parks in Texas.
Pick your favorites, plan your escapes and go explore Texas nature at its best!
Garner State Park is a famous summer travel destination in Texas.
The beautiful nature preserve is crossed by the pristine Frio River, one of Texas’ top swimming holes.
It is an amazing Texas State Park for camping, but you can also stay in nearby cabins and glamping spots.
Best activities at Garner State Park include swimming, paddling, river tubing, and hiking.
Paddleboats, kayaks, and inner tubes are available for rental. Or you can bring your own equipment and enjoy water activities.
Colorado Bend State Park is home to Texas’s largest waterfall, Gorman Falls.
The 3-mile round trip hike to reach it is amazing and rewards you with gorgeous views of this 70-foot spring-fed waterfall.
One of Texas’ nature wonders, Gorman Falls is a must-visit natural attraction in the Lone Star State and is worth the trip by itself.
But Colorado Bend State Parks is also home to caves – the nature preserve offers wild cave tours (by reservation only).
And an outstanding place for hiking and camping in Texas.
Inks Lake State Park is located in a gorgeous part of the Texas Hill Country, characterized by a unique rocky landscape.
This beautiful Texas State Park is home to the famous Devil’s Waterhole, a terrific Texas swimming hole known for cliff-jumping.
Inks Lake offers campsites and also cabins.
Burnet, a charming Texas small town, is only 15 minutes away from the park entrance. And offers lodging alternatives if you cannot get reservations inside Inks Lake or prefer to spend the night in a hotel.
Inks Lake State Park is a short driving distance from Longhorn Cavern State Park, another Texas State Park featured in this post, and you can visit both on the same trip.
Caddo Lake is gorgeous and one of Texas’s most underrated nature gems.
The state’s only natural lake and the world’s largest cypress bald trees forest is only a short driving distance from Dallas and a must-visit Texas destination.
Staying at Caddo Lake State Park is one of the best ways of exploring Caddo Lake.
The park offers campsites, cabins, gorgeous trails – especially stunning in fall – and paddling through the swamp.
Nestled in East Texas, Caddo Lake is surrounded by amazing attractions. Find here the best things to do in this beautiful Texas State Park surroundings.
Dinosaur Valley is one of my favorite Texas State Parks to visit from Dallas. It is less than 1h30 from the city, and it has it all!
The main attraction at the nature preserve is the real dinosaur footprints you can find along the riverbed (water level permitting). And by itself, this would be already more than worth the visit.
But Dinosaur Valley State Park is also home to crystalline Paluxy River, river sandy beaches, swimming areas, and an impressive trail system with over 20 miles of trails.
And an outstanding place for horseback riding near Dallas. You can take a guided horseback riding tour at Dinosaur Valley State Park with Eagle Eye Ranch Carriage Company.
Fossil Rim and Big Rocks Park are other must-visit attractions in the area.
In this post you can find all the best things to do in Glen Rose, to make the most of your day.
Palo Duro Canyon is one of Texas’s most underrated attractions. It is simply awesome! If you love nature and hiking, this is a place you must visit at least once in a lifetime.
The Lighthouse Trail (picture) is my favorite hiking in Texas to date and rewards you with impressive views of unique rock formations and the second-largest canyon in the US.
Another place you must check while there is the Big Cave. It is in a remote area of the park, but right off the road – your walk to the top will take less than 10 minutes. And it is absolutely gorgeous and impressive.
The best way to explore Palo Duro Canyon is camping inside the park (RV sites and cabins are also available). But this requires planning months in advance.
If you are late to get reservations inside the park, you have alternatives, though! Check this post for more info.
Pedernales Falls has a unique landscape, with gorgeous cascades and craters, and it is a paradise for photography lovers.
This is an outstanding Texas State Park for camping, hiking, fishing, paddling, and swimming in the beautiful Pedernales River.
The nature preserve is nestled in a privileged area of the Texas Hill Country.
You can find other amazing natural attractions not far from there – such as Hamilton Pool and Westcave Preserve (35 minutes).
Enchanted Rock is Texas’s most unique geological formation. A giant pink granite dome emerging in the middle of the Texas Hill Country, with superb views from the top.
The Enchanted Rock Summit Trail is by far the most famous there – and the one you should take if you only have a few hours to spend there.
But the park also offers other 7+ miles of trails, winding through big rock formations, oak trees, and scenic views.
Enchanted Rock is a short-driving distance from Fredericksburg, a must-visit lively Texas small town. You find more information on the best things to do there in this post.
The Texas underworld is rich and full of surprises.
Longhorn Cavern State Park is one of my favorite caves open to public visitation in the Lone Star State. And offers the unique chance to experience complete darkness – there are only a handful of places in the world where you can experience that!
This superb Texas State Park is only a few minutes away from Inks Lake State Park, also featured in this post.
And only 5 minutes away from outstanding Perissos Vineyard and Winery – if topping a day in the wilderness with a wine tasting in beautiful vineyards to recharge the batteries sounds good to you, this is your place!
This is the Texas State Park to hit if you are looking for the best place for fall foliage in Texas.
In early November, the fall colors paint the landscape in tones of red, orange, and yellow, and it is a natural spectacle worth seeing for those who enjoy nature contemplation.
Activities at Lost Maples State Natural Area include hiking, fishing, birding, and camping.
Plan to stay inside the park, but make reservations way in advance – this is one of the most sought-after Texas State Parks during fall, and reservations are usually sold out months before the fall foliage peak.
The nature preserve is about 45 minutes away from Bandera, Texas Cowboy Capital, and staying in a dude ranch is another special way to explore the area.
For things to do in Bandera and recommended dude ranches, check this post.
Big Bend National Park is one of the most remote parks in the US and a famous Texas travel destination.
It is a hiker’s paradise and also one of the best places in Texas for stargazing.
Big Bend is home to over 150 miles of hiking, winding through diverse scenery, such as desert, mountain, canyon, and river. Don’t miss the Lost Mine Trail and Santa Helena Canyon.
It also offers scenic drives and can be explored by car.
The best way to explore this Texas natural gem is by camping there.
But you can also combine a visit to the Big Bend with quaint Marfa – about one hour away – for the ultimate west Texas experience. Discover here the best things to do there.
Devils River is one of the most pristine and remote rivers in Texas and a fantastic place for paddling, backpacking, and stargazing – it is an International Dark Sky Sanctuary.
Getting to Devils River Natural Area is not an easy task. You will have to drive about one hour on a dirt road and hike one mile from the parking lot to reach the river.
But it rewards you with awe-inspiring views of the crystalline river and with a unique wilderness experience in the Lone Star State.
Pinpointing the best State Parks, National Parks, and Natural Areas to visit in Texas is a hard task. Every nature preserve has its own wonders, and all are worth the trip somehow!
But some locations stand out for their uniqueness, and here we covered the 12 top ones.
Garner, Colorado Bend, Inks Lake, Caddo Lake, Dinosaur Valley, Palo Duro, Pedernales Falls, Enchanted Rock, Longhorn Cavern, Lost Maples, Big Bend, and Devils River are among the most fantastic nature destinations in the Lone Star State.
In need of some fresh air but not in the mood for the long drive? We got you covered!
Discover here 14 Texas State Parks up to 1h30 from the city to explore and hit the road!
The Texas Parks & Wildlife Association has a fantastic interactive tool to locate the state parks near you and make online reservations.
Check their interactive map here and discover the locations closest to you.
Have you been to any Texas State Park before? How was the adventure?
What are your favorite State Parks in Texas and why?
Share your experiences in the comments below. I’ll love to hear from you!
Heads up: my posts may contain affiliate links.
If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more. But I’ll earn a small commission that will help the Dallas Wanderer to keep the lights on as a free travel and leisure resource for our community.
Thanks 🧡💙🧡
Glamour under the stars:
Discover the best Glamping Resorts in Texas and enjoy mother nature in style.
If you are into sleeping under the stars but not necessarily into sleeping ON the floor, Glamping is for you!
Glamping allows you to enjoy all the perks of camping without skipping comfort.
Yep, you can soak in nature, enjoy solitude, roast s’mores under the stars… but still end the night in a comfy and cozy bed.
Glamping is a unique type of getaway and an increasingly popular way of immersing in nature.
Glamping options range from simple to extremely luxurious. But all will include a real bed, electricity, and other modern life amenities.
On the high-end side of glamping, you will find options offering air-conditioning, jaw-dropping décor, and even a hot tub under the stars!
You can Glamp in a yurt, teepee, treehouse, airstream, and even in cabins.
Basically, almost any type of structure can be turned into a Glamping spot, as long as it is unique and surrounded by gorgeous nature.
However, the most sought-after type of Glamping is tent glamping, including yurts, teepees (or tipis), safari tents, dome tents, bell tents, and other very creative designs.
And this is what we will be covering in this article: Texas’s most amazing Tent Glamping spots guaranteed to transform your next weekend escape into an unforgettable experience.
Tons! Texas is home to utterly amazing Glamping Spots. Seriously. You would not believe in what is out there waiting to be discovered by you!
From stunning luxurious yurts to charming teepees and even a bubble (!), in this article, you will find a selection of the 10 most unique places for Glamping in Texas, offering different levels of luxury and amenities.
Sounds fun?
Here the best spots for glamping in Texas and the best things to do near them:
For the ultimate upscale camping experience, head to The Glamp at Skybox Cabins in Glen Rose.
These fully furnished and air-conditioned bell tents with a private deck and firepit, nestled in 50 acres of private land, will provide you with all of the comfort and privacy you need to spend an unforgettable weekend glamping in the woods.
Only 1h30 driving from Dallas, The Glamp is one of Texas’s best Glamping spots for a quick weekend getaway from the city.
The property also offers cabins, treehouses, and camping spots.
The best things to do in Glen Rose include beautiful Dinosaur Valley State Park and Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, among other attractions you can find in this post.
Geronimo Creek Retreat is an amazing and laid-back glamping resort in Texas, filled with outdoor fun.
Near New Braunfels and Gruene, its location makes it an outstanding glamping destination in the Texas Hill Country.
Geronimo Creek features a spring-fed crystal clear creek with private access for fishing, swimming, rope swinging, and paddling (free kayak and paddleboards available for guests).
The resort also offers common areas, such as a game room, hot tub, volleyball & basketball courts, and a frisbee golf course.
Their beautiful teepees, perfect for Texas glamping, are fully furnished and air-conditioned. And have a great outdoor area facing a pond, equipped with a fire pit and grill.
Glamping cabins and treehouses are also available onsite.
New Braunfels is famous for its top-notch waterpark Schlitterbahn.
And for beautiful public parks along the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers – Texans flock there every summer for river-tubing.
Cypress Bend Park, River Acres Park, and Landa Park are the best places to enjoy a day by the river there.
The town of German roots is also not far from beautiful Natural Bridge Caverns.
Gruene Historic District, 20 minutes driving from the property and one of Texas’s most charming and vibrant small towns, is another must-visit in the area.
Find the best things to do in Gruene and surroundings in this post.
Rancho Pillow, a magic retreat-style ranch nestled in tiny and artsy Round Top, is one of Texas’s quirkiest glamping spots.
It offers unique, colorful, and gorgeous accommodations, including a beautiful teepee perfect for glamping in the Texas Hill Country.
Rancho Pillow features luxurious and unique amenities.
Such as a bathhouse with pedestal tubs to soak under the stars, a heated saltwater pool, a poetry library, and a treehouse for little guests.
Besides tons of outdoor space to engage in fun activities!
Twice a year (spring and fall), Round Top hosts the famous Round Top Antiques Fair that completely changes this otherwise tranquil tiny town’s landscape and vibe.
Try to visit on the week of the event, and make sure to read this post to find all the best things to do on a glamping trip to Round Top.
Lucky Arrow Retreat is an amazing place to stay and unwind in the Texas Hill Country. It offers 10 yurts (the most in Texas) for the ultimate glamping experience.
And also cabins, porch houses, and a ranch house for larger groups.
Onsite amenities include a BYOB beer garden, seasonal swimming pool, and a nature-themed kids’ area.
The retreat offers fun excursions in a Land Cruise Troop to local wineries, distilleries, breweries, restaurants, and stunning local nature destinations.
Outstanding attractions surround Lucky Arrow Retreat.
In less than 30 minutes driving from the property, you can reach a handful of Texas nature gems, such as Pedernales Falls State Park, Hamilton Pool, Westcave Preserve, Reimers Ranch – perfect for stargazing! – and Jacobs Well.
Shady Llama, a laid-back beer and wine garden where you can feed donkeys and llamas, is another must-visit in the area.
Discover in this post the best things to do in the Dripping Springs and Wimberley surroundings to plan your trip.
If you are looking for a treehouse adventure in Texas, this is the place to go!
Cypress Valley offers unique and absolutely charming treehouses right in the heart of the Texas Hill Country.
Including incredible Lofhaven, an aerial yurt connected through a suspension bridge to a bathhouse featuring a waterfall tub – can you imagine that?!
The property offers a canopy course, a lakeside pool, a spring-fed creek and pond, and hammocks for the ultimate chill-out experience under the stars.
Cypress Valley is nestled in a beautiful part of the Texas Hill Country.
The property is about 10 minutes away from gorgeous Krause Springs, one of Texas’s top swimming holes, and from Muleshoe Bend Park, where you can go horseback riding, hiking, and boating.
Spicewood Vineyards and Stonehouse Vineyard are 10 minutes away from the property as well and are great destinations for wine tastings and tours.
Cypress Valley is also a short 20-minute drive to beautiful Pace Bend Park by the Colorado River.
And if you’re willing to drive a little further, Hamilton Pool, Westcave Preserve, Inks Lake, Longhorn Caverns, Pedernales Falls are all within a 35 to 50 minutes driving range.
Located by the beautiful San Marcos River, Son’s Blue River Camp is an outstanding camping resort in the Texas Hill Country.
Their glamping tent cabins, fully furnished and air-conditioned, feature all the amenities needed to spend a night under the stars without compromising comfort.
The property is home to an amazing riverside gravel beach with rustic and charming cabanas and offers activities like tubing, kayaking, swimming, fishing, and beach volleyball.
For those looking for an authentic Texan tubing adventure, this is the ideal place.
Tubing rentals, kayak rentals, and shuttles are available onsite. And the river crossing the property is family-friendly, gorgeous, and not subject to seasonal droughts like some of its peers.
Tube, kayak, roast s’mores, relax under the stars. Repeat.
Son’s Blue River Camp is a destination in itself, and immersing in nature and enjoying the beautiful outdoors is what it is all about.
But while there, make sure to visit Lockhart, the “Barbecue Capital of Texas.”
It is only a short 20-minute drive from Son’s Blue River Camp and home to Texas’s most traditional and best barbecue joints. A rite of passage any Texan or outsider must try at least once in a lifetime.
If you are looking for a glamping retreat in Texas and a weekend escape like no other, look no further.
Collective Hill Country offers a transformative and immersive experience with superb views, delicious cuisine, and a top-notch wellness program.
Their luxury summit tents feature all amenities you would expect to find in a hi-end hotel room, plus a private deck overlooking the beautiful Texas Hill Country.
Your stay includes complimentary farm-to-table breakfast and artisanal s’mores.
And you can choose from a handful of amazing wellness activities to engage in, such as yoga/ pilates classes, meditation sessions, private gourmet experiences, horseback riding, hiking, and electric bike tours.
Collective Hill Country is right off Wimberley, an incredibly charming small town surrounded by beautiful nature.
Jacobs Well and the Blue Hole Regional Park are must-visits there.
Located right off the Guadalupe River and only 5 minutes away from pristine Canyon Lake, Mystic Quarry is a superb glamping destination in Texas.
Their Nomadic Tipis combine the rustic charm of native primal structures with modern living comfort, and the glamping resort offers tons of activities and amenities to entertain you during your stay.
A swimming pool, a hot tub, hiking and biking trails, a game room, a volleyball court, and dog parks are some of the amazing things you can expect to find there.
Mystic Quarry also offers cabins, tiny houses, and campsites. Its prime location, surrounded by beautiful nature makes it an excellent option for those looking for a glamping adventure in Texas.
Touring Canyon Lake Gorge, exploring Canyon Lake Overlook Park, and paddling or tubing the Guadalupe River are some must-try activities in the area.
Gruene, one of Texas’s most charming and lively small towns, home to the oldest dance hall in the state, is only a short 15-minute drive from the resort and offers amazing leisure activities as well.
Read this post for the best things to do in Gruene and plan your glamping trip to this beautiful portion of the Texas Hill Country.
El Cosmico is one of Texas’s most unique destinations.
A communal retreat featuring quirky accommodations, including fully furnished yurts, safari tents and teepees for an elevated camping experience.
It also has vintage trailers, campsites, and brand-new and unique micro-home Cosmic Kasita.
El Cosmico offers a more laid-back glamping experience, with basic modern amenities to provide comfort without compromising the bohemian vibe and simplicity it stands for.
Located in the desert right off Marfa, it is a place to unwind and disconnect from the outer world while engaging in hands-on workshops and events and enjoying life’s simple pleasures.
Stargazing, biking in the desert, and watching jaw-dropping sunsets and sunrises are amazing things to do at El Cosmico.
As well as exploring Marfa, Texas’s most eccentric travel destination. For the best things to do in Marfa, check this post.
Photo credit: Nicola Gell (The Bubble) and Basecamp Terlingua.
I don’t know about your travel bucket list, but sleeping in a bubble in the middle of the desert in a ghost town near Big Bend National Park is definitively on mine!
Basecamp Terlingua is a phenomenal destination for glamping in Texas. You cannot beat its prime location – only 10 minutes’ driving from fantastic Big Bend National Park – and the unique accommodations offered there.
Staying at their bubbles, tipis, lotus tents, retro trailers, casitas, or campsites is a magic glamping experience.
Pair it with the most incredible sunrises, sunsets, and star-filled skies, and you have a winning destination for glamping in West Texas.
Terlingua is a scenic ghost town only 10 minutes away from the Big Bend National Park, the most remote National Park in the US, and a Texas nature gem. In this post, you find some of the best things to do there.
Explore the Big Bend and then recharge at Basecamp Terlingua, stargazing, roasting s’mores in the firepits, and soaking into a hot tub under the stars (bubble guests only).
This post covered Texas’s top glamping resorts and the best things to do near each of them.
Skybox Cabins, Geronimo Creek Retreat, Rancho Pillow, Lucky Arrow Retreat, Cypress Valley, Son’s Blue River Camp, Collective Hill Country, Mystic Quarry Resort, El Cosmico, and Basecamp Terlingua are our recommended destinations for glamping in Texas.
Outstanding places 1h30 to 8h30 driving from Dallas, offering unparalleled experiences and surrounded by must-visit nature spots.
Ready to hit the road? Plan ahead!
Glamping is an increasingly popular way of traveling, and the most sought-after glamping spots have to be reserved months in advance.
Choose your favorite destination, roll up your sleeves and get busy planning your next glamping vacation in Texas!
Have you ever gone glamping before? How was the experience? What is your favorite glamping destination in Texas?
Leave a comment below and share this article with a friend you want to go glamping with!