Adventure & Recreation
North America’s Deepest Underwater Cave Holds a Deadly Fascination for Cave Divers
A portal to untold depths hides scars of tragedy at Phantom Springs Cave in West Texas.
New Long-Distance Trails Take Shape Across Texas
Ambitious builders create paths of 50-plus miles for hikers, bikers and horseback riders.
- The Evolution of the Texas Canoe Story by Morgan O'Hanlon
- TPWD Adds River Access Sites on Brazos, Colorado Story by Texas Parks and Wildlife
- Paddleboarding Down the Brazos Story by Brandon Weaver
Finding Healing on Horseback on State Park Trails
A Texan rides at all state parks with equestrian trails, and finds solace along the way.
A Dad and Daughter Make the Most of Texas' Flourishing Surf Scene
They learn to ride the waves as they prepare for Mustang Island's fickle, fabled surf break.
Camper Vans Offer an Experience Between a Tent and RV
The vehicle fills a different need, and its appeal lies in its functionality.
Recent in Camping
Cleburne State Park is a Quiet Park With a Big Heart
The North Central Texas park offers respite from the city and features CCC spillway
Story by Brandon Weaver
Tiny Blanco State Park is a Huge Hit With Texans
Thanks to its mile of riverfront and family-friendly feel, Blanco is beloved by generations.
Story by Eva Frederick
Garner State Park Is a Magical Escape Along the Frio
Take a hike, float the river or just enjoy the scenery.
Story by Tenley Jackson
Bike Through the Pines of Tyler State Park
10 miles of trails that are perfect for mountain biking
Story by Russell Roe
Recent in Hiking
Long-Tailed Weasels Are Stealthy, Fearless Hunters
Weasels are rarely seen cousins of skunks and badgers.
Story by Sheryl Smith-Rodgers
Susana Cruz, Founder of Chicana in Nature, Welcomes Everyone to the Outdoors
Cruz' organization creates opportunities for people of color to learn about and enjoy the outdoors.
Story by Eva Frederick
New Long-Distance Trails Take Shape Across Texas
Ambitious builders create paths of 50-plus miles for hikers, bikers and horseback riders.
Story by Morgan O'Hanlon
Climbing the Cliffs of Lake Mineral Wells State Park
Climbers can explore the park's caves, crevices and narrow passageways.
Story by Russell Roe
Artist Georgia O’Keeffe Drew Inspiration From Palo Duro Canyon
Artist Georgia O’Keeffe spent her formative years drawing inspiration from Palo Duro Canyon.
Story by Dan OkoRecent in Swimming
Best State Parks for Summertime Swimming
Beat the heat in natural swimming holes at these six parks.
By Pam LeBlanc
A Drowning Survivor's Message: Be Safe on the Water
Swimming lessons are an essential element of water safety.
By Liz Colvin
Top 10 Texas Swimming Holes
A springs fanatic picks his 10 favorites (plus a few honorable mentions)
Story by Joe Nick PatoskiRecent in Paddling
Llano Has Lots to Offer for Bikers, Paddlers and Climbers
Head to this Hill Country town for parks, rivers, backroads and rocky landscapes.
Story by Morgan O'Hanlon
East Texas Wildlife Management Area Is a Watery Wonderland
Angelina-Neches/Dam B straddles an area between two rivers.
Story by Russell Roe
Dancing With the Devils on a Trip Down Texas' Most Pristine River
New public land along the Devils River offers a do-it-yourself paddling opportunity.
Story by Eva Frederick
Historic Drought Spurs a Trip Down the Rio Grande
A team of adventurers considers the future of the river on a paddle through the Texas borderlands.
Story by Dan Oko
Pecos River's Forgotten Reach Gets Some Attention
A nonprofit group and partners pursue conservation efforts in an area hit by overpumping, drought.
Story by Morgan O'HanlonRecent in Water Sports
A Dad and Daughter Make the Most of Texas' Flourishing Surf Scene
They learn to ride the waves as they prepare for Mustang Island's fickle, fabled surf break.
Story by Dan Oko
O.H. Ivie Lake Is on a Record Run for Big Bass
This Texas lake filled the ShareLunker books since 2021.
Story by Kirk McDonnell