Texas State Parks Welcome Last-Minute Spring Breakers with Day-Use and Overnight Availability

AUSTIN – Spring Breakers who waited until the last minute to plan an outdoor adventure, don’t fret; Texas State Parks still have day-use and overnight availability for anyone looking for an outdoor escape.

“Spring is a special time to get outside, with warmer temperatures and blooming wildflowers — parks are perfect places to experience both,” said Tara Humphreys, director of interpretation for Texas State Parks. “We are excited to welcome visitors and showcase our parks and encourage every Texan to ‘take a walk on the wild side’ and visit a Texas State Park.”

Tips for a Memorable Spring Break at Texas State Parks:

• Reserve Passes Online: Day passes and overnight camping reservations can be booked in advance through the TPWD website. Narrow your search by city, activity, and site. Look for parks with day passes available up to 30 days in advance for activities like biking, hiking, or fishing. For overnight camping, check the “Camping This Weekend” tab for open sites for the upcoming Friday and Saturday.
• Check the Weather: Texas weather can be unpredictable, so check the forecast before hitting the road. Spring storms can sweep in unexpectedly, so have a backup plan in case Mother Nature changes your outdoor plans.
• Wear Proper Clothing: Flip-flops may be comfortable, but they aren’t ideal for long walks on the trail. Rangers recommend wearing sneakers or boots for hikes. Don’t forget sunscreen, insect repellant, and plenty of water. Drink at least 16 ounces of water every hour to prevent dehydration, and bring enough for your four-legged family members too.
• Participate in a Park Program or Activity: Park staff will host guided activities during spring break, including bird walks, kayaking tours, archery classes, arts and crafts, yoga in the park, and cooking demos. Check the TPWD calendar page for a complete list of activities. Visitors can also enjoy activities like geocaching, the Junior Ranger Program, and trail strolls. Take advantage of free fishing at state parks during spring break, especially when the white-bass run is strong.
• Visit Somewhere New: With 88 Texas State Parks, there are plenty of things to see and do. Explore a new park or a part of the state you have yet to experience. Unique state parks like Big Bend Ranch, Davis Mountains, Goose Island, Martin Dies, Jr., Monahans Sandhills, Possum Kingdom, and South Llano River have campsites available for the next two weeks.
• Download the App: The official Texas State Parks Guide app is available on the Apple App Store and Google Play. Use the app to access park maps, stay up to date on events, read park announcements, and more.

For more information, visit the Texas State Parks website.