These state parks in Texas offer something for everyone.

These protected lands are also steeped in history.

Humans have inhabitedTexasfor about 13,000 years, and before that, prehistoric animals left their marks on the state.

Caprock Canyons State Park and Trailway

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Don’t miss thestargazinghere at night, as it’s a designatedInternational Dark Sky Park.

Camping, canoeing, fishing, mini golf, and geocaching are also available.

Cool water meets rock outcrops here, making for great swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking.

Morning at Big Bend Ranch State Park

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Nine miles of trails are available, too.

Check out the bird blind to see what species are visiting the park.

The bison roam the plains, so take caution when driving, and do not approach them.

Beautiful autumn colors in Texas Hill Country at Garner State Park

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A fishing pier and boat ramp are both accessible, too.

Rent or bring your own canoe or kayak and explore the 50-plus miles of paddling trails in the area.

Wildlife, including alligators, are abundant here.

Devils Waterhole reflecting in water, Inks Lake State Park, Texas, USA

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Aside from looking for pictographs, visitors here can geocache, mountain bike, hike, and more.

Around 113 million years ago, dinosaurs roamed this area at the edge of an advancing and retreating sea.

Cave tours are available.

Scenic View Over The Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas

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Balmorhea State Park

No, that’s not a mirage you see.

The water temperature stays between 72 and 76 degrees year-round, creating a warm oasis.

The rock art depicts animals, deity-like figures, and face masks with intricate designs.

Summer mood at the Caddo Lake, Texas. Wooden bridge leading to a magical forest

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More than 200 masks have been identified, making it the largest collection of these in North America.

The park even puts out an annual fall foliage report to help you plan the best time to visit.

Birding is also popular here, as the endangered golden-cheeked warbler is known to make appearances.

A view from the Fate Bell Shelter at Seminole Canyon State Park

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Tubing, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, birding, and horseback riding are also available.

And the butterfly garden and bird blind allow you to look for wildlife.

it’s possible for you to also mountain bike, fish, or paddle along the Colorado River.

Dinosaur Valley State Park. Glen Rose Texas

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The original Administration Building at Longhorn Cavern, Civilian Conservation Corps Parkitecture.

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Creek at Balmorhea State Park in West Texas

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Sand dune sunset at Monahans Sandhills State Park

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The rocky surroundings of Hueco Tanks State Park Historic Site in the low mountains above El Paso, T

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Trees on field against sky during autumn, Lost Maples State Natural Area in Texas

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Pedernales River that sometimes flows underground near LBJ Ranch in Texas under crazy sunset sky with fall foliage

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A view from the base of Enchanted Rock state park

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Falling water of Gorman Falls at Colorado Bend State Park, Texa

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