Texas State Parks is inviting citizens to kick off resolutions to explore the outdoors in 2024 with a First Day Hike at a state park. Various parks will host ranger-guided and self-guided walks, bike rides, paddling trips and polar plunges in honor of the national initiative aimed at getting people outdoors. Last year, nearly 8,000 participants shattered the previous attendance record New Year’s Day by ringing in Texas State Parks’…
Texas State Parks Day is Nov. 5 and, as part of continued centennial celebrations, visitors will get free day-use entrance at all Texas state parks. “Texas Parks and Wildlife Department wants to continue to connect everyone to our beautiful parklands and we hope that Texas State Parks Day will give someone new the opportunity to discover what makes our state parks special,” said Rodney Franklin, State Parks Division director. “This…
Thanks to a recent bill passed during the last legislative session, active-duty military, honorably discharged veterans and the immediate family members of a service member who died while serving now qualify for one of three new Parklands Passports. These passports are available at no cost and grant the cardholder free entry to all Texas State Parks. The new categories of Parklands Passports, which can be obtained at any state park,…
Texas State Parks is competing against three other state park systems to receive 2023 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management. Presenters for the award are the National Recreation and Park Association along with the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration. “I’m proud to have the hard work of our Texas State Park staff recognized for building one of the best state park systems in…
With the soaring summer temperatures Texas State Parks is sharing seven tips to help Texans enjoy time outdoors safely. Last year, 47 state parks reported 141 heat-related illnesses in humans and pets. Since Jan. 1, 77 heat-related incidents have already been reported, compared to 64 reported by this time last year. Here are the top seven heat hacks recommended for park visitors: Hydrate – It’s important to drink at least…
To celebrate 100 years of Texas State Parks, Toyota and Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation have teamed up to offer a giveaway to help Texans get away. One sweepstakes winner will take home a Toyota Tundra prize package that includes everything needed for a Texas outdoor adventure, including a Toyota Tundra TRD Pro, plus extras from YETI, Solo Stove, PAKMULE, Tecovas, SWAROVSKI OPTIK, Turtlebox, PECOS Outdoor and more. “Gulf States…
The Centennial Celebration of Texas State Parks is right around the corner, and park lovers are invited to get outside and join celebrations across the state. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, in partnership with Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation, will celebrate 100 years of Texas State Parks beginning in Jan. 2023. “We invite all Texans to experience these precious public lands that truly belong to them,” said Rodney Franklin, TPWD’s…
Welcome 2022 with a First Day Hike at one of 89 Texas State Parks. Parks statewide will host a variety of self-guided and guided events so visitors can walk, bike or paddle their way into the new year. First Day Hikes at Texas’ state parks and natural areas aim to help visitors commit to their New Year’s resolutions to get healthy. Last year, 2,668 visitors ushered in 2021 by hiking, biking…
In honor of both active and retired military, Texas State Parks will wave daily entrance fees for all day-use visitors Nov. 14. “The dedication, sacrifice and service displayed by the women and men that serve in our country’s military is unparalleled and is a source of pride throughout the country,” said Rodney Franklin, director of Texas State Parks. “Their commitment to service undoubtedly inspires us at the Texas Parks and…
Texas State Parks have begun a process of expanding capacity statewide, tracking Gov. Greg Abbott’s latest reopening order. The parks encourage masks for visitors, especially when indoors or in areas where it is difficult to socially distance. Also, restrictions affecting group sizes have been lifted. “We’re excited to welcome more visitors to our parks,” said Rodney Franklin, director of Texas State Parks. “We want Texans to know that the safety…