From desert landscapes to dense bayous and remote beaches, Texas is endlessly beautiful.
As a born and raised Texan, Ive grown up exploring the state and its varying geography.
Dont miss thesand dunesat sunset, when golden hour strikes over the bay.
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Pro tip: Pack a blanket and snacks to enjoy a sunset picnic.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love the 150-plus miles of trails, scenic drives, and birding opportunities found throughout.
In fact, it’s home to eight of the 10 highest peaks in Texas.
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The cave stays 66 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making it a fun summertime activity on a sweltering Texas day.
See the churchs facade and Rose Window, both beautiful examples of Spanish colonial decor.
Tours are offered daily.
Mariah Tyler
Hike through 30-plus miles of trails, or go horseback riding through 1,500 acres.
Several longhorns belonging to the officialstate longhorn herdlive here, and you could spot them near thisstate parkheadquarters.
There are also horned lizards, turkeys, deer, bobcats, coyotes, snakes, and more.
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Tuesdays through Sundays, the Texas Outdoor Musical tells the stories of early area settlers.
Hop on a boat and cruise through the water, surrounded by lush hills and gorgeous private homes.
Backcountry camping is permitted, and fishing for bass, crappie, and catfish is a popular pastime.
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The Laguna Madre here has shallow water suited for paddling, and camping in the park is open year-round.
it’s possible for you to get updates on fall foliage via the parksfall foliage report.
It’s named for the indigenous Caddo people, who settled in the area in the early 1800s.
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you might also fish or camp atCaddo Lake State Park.
Head to theMcDonald Observatoryin Fort Davis for a stellar view of the Milky Way and various constellations.
The observatory has multiple research telescopes that allow you to glimpse planets, stars, and more.
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Dont miss the Star Party in the amphitheater to see otherworldly views of our night skies.
From Fredericksburg, take State Highway 16 north to Ranch Road 1323.
Head to Willow City and turn left on Willow City Loop.
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Enchanted Rock
Hiking upEnchanted Rockis a must for outdoor adventurers.
This huge pink granite dome rises 425 feet, its highest point being 1,825 feet above sea level.
Strong winds have turned the sand dunes here into giant peaks, some up to 50 feet tall.
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Rent sand discs and surf the dunes, or ride down the hills, sledding style.
Horseback riding, picnicking, and camping are also options.
Outdoor installations, galleries, and art museums help create a beautiful yet funky scene here.
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Guided walking, rappelling, and photography tours are available.
This is one of the largest Mexican free-tailed bat populations in Texas.
Reservations are required, and you cannot enter the cavern due to its sensitive nature.
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Its dotted with limestone bluff views and lined with bald cypress trees that provide shade to floaters and paddlers.
TheMedina River Companyrents tubes and kayaks and offers shuttle rides to and from the river.
Hike through the Chihuahuan Desert and spot the Southwestern barrel cactus, ocotillo, yucca, and other plants.
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Mariah Tyler
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Mariah Tyler
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Travis McHenry
Courtesy of Visit Conroe
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