Backpacking

A scenic view of the Hill Country.
April 2026 Issue

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
Two empty red canoes stand along the river shore at Devils River state natural area
November 2024 Issue

Paddle Camping Offers a Number of Advantages over Backpacking

Stop counting every ounce of gear and let your canoe do the heavy lifting.

Story and photos by Pam LeBlanc
Writer Pam Leblanc sits on a rock and eats from a freeze-dried meal pouch
October 2024 Issue

Yes, Dehydrated Meals Can Taste Good — Really!

These quick meals for backpackers don't taste like cardboard.

Story by Pam LeBlanc
A multi-stage photograph showing the ascent of a climber working his way up a large rock face
October 2024 Issue

Type 2 Adventure: You May Be Miserable Today, But You'll Love the Memories!

Sometimes the best part of a trip is looking back on it later.

By Ky Harkey
camping gear on a beach
March 2024 Issue

When Packing For a Hiking Trip, Less is More

The less I bring, the more I enjoy the trip.

Story by Pam LeBlanc
three people backpacking through the trails of pedernales falls
January/February 2023 Issue

Trials of the Trail: Backpacking Pedernales Falls

Wool socks, teenagers and other mysteries of life on a Pedernales Falls backpacking trip.

Story by Cory Chandler
Big Bend 100 route map with man hiking over rocks
April 2020 Issue

The Big Bend 100: A Hike Across Two West Texas Parks

Trailblazer creates the state’s longest backpacking route.

Story by Ky Harkey
Davis Mountains skyline
May 2017 Issue

One Man's Walk Across Texas Is a Grand Adventure

Dave Roberts, 72, visits state parks and explores our state as part of a cross-country journey.

Story by Alan Fisher
hiking trail through the woods with bridge
November 2013 Issue

Lone Star Walkabout: Northeast Texas Trail

A hiker sets off to be the first to walk the 130-mile Northeast Texas Trail.

Story by Cameron Dodd
Hiker on the rim of Palo Duro Canyon
September 2010 Issue

Hiking Texas' Palo Duro Canyon

Our own ‘Grand Canyon,' Palo Duro Canyon State Park paints a vivid surprise in the Panhandle.

Story by Cynthia Walker Pickens
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The October 2024 cover of Texas Parks & Wildlife magazine, featuring a surfer riding a wave along the Texas Gulf Coast

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