Adventure & Recreation
Hiking 100 Miles Through Big Bend Ranch State Park
Three backpackers find “roses and thorns” in Texas’ biggest state park.
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 Story by Morgan O'Hanlon
- The Evolution of the Texas Canoe Story by Morgan O'Hanlon
- 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.
Hill Country State Natural Area Offers Serene and Secluded Surroundings
Retreat to this hilly hideaway for camping, hiking and riding just over an hour from San Antonio.
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.
Recent in Camping
Hiking 100 Miles Through Big Bend Ranch State Park
Three backpackers find “roses and thorns” in Texas’ biggest state park.
Story by Tyler Priest
Hill Country State Natural Area Offers Serene and Secluded Surroundings
Retreat to this hilly hideaway for camping, hiking and riding just over an hour from San Antonio.
Story by Eva Frederick
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 JacksonRecent in Hiking
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
Palmetto State Park Transports Visitors to Another World
Ephemeral swamps and spiky, prehistoric plants abound at this Central Texas park.
Story by Eva Frederick
Walk in the Footsteps of El Camino Real Travelers on This New Trail
The Rancheria Grande trail is one of the only places where Texans can follow the historic route.
Story by Robyn Ross
Go Long (10 Miles and Over) on These Hill Country Hikes
These five Hill Country state parks contain scenic routes for an extended day of hiking.
Story by Scott Dubois
Yes, Dehydrated Meals Can Taste Good — Really!
These quick meals for backpackers don't taste like cardboard.
Story by Pam LeBlancRecent 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
Protecting Magical Hill Country Spring Jacob's Well
The power and irresistible draw of Jacob's Well inspire protection of the cave and springs.
Story by Joe Nick Patoski
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
ShareLunker Season Begins in Wake of Record-Setting 2022
The 2023 season gets under way Jan. 1, 2023.
Story by Texas Parks and Wildlife
Sunny With a Chance of Fun
Sunfish provide more enjoyment per pound than any other Texas fish.
Story and photos by Larry D. Hodge