Last June, as parks closed and both people and businesses started to lock down, we invited readers to pick up a camera or a smartphone, step into the backyard — or walk around the neighborhood — and share with us the wild beauty of Texas found just outside your doors.

More than 7,400 entries later, we present to you our staff and reader favorites.

To everyone who participated: y'all are amazing.

Thank you for reminding us that, even in the midst of a global pandemic, life is still better outside.