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1. Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park is a hiker’s paradise located along the Rio Grande River. It’s famed for its contrasting features, from its mountain ranges and desert landscape to its river floodplains. Visit the Chisos Basin, venture into the Santa Elena Canyon, or explore the endless trails that run through the park. More details can be found at nps.gov/bibe.
2. Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to the four highest peaks in Texas, including the renowned Guadalupe Peak. Enjoy a plethora of activities from hiking, horseback riding, bird watching, and stargazing. For more information, visit nps.gov/gumo.
3. Amistad National Recreation Area
A meeting point of nations and cultures, Amistad National Recreation Area offers a variety of water-based recreational activities. Enjoy fishing, boating, or exploring the ancient rock art. Visit their site at nps.gov/amis for more details.
4. Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument
The Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument is a significant archeological site, showcasing the unique rainbow-hued flint, crucial for survival for the people of the region thousands of years ago. Learn more at nps.gov/alfl.
5. Lake Meredith National Recreation Area
Lake Meredith National Recreation Area provides a vital water supply for surrounding communities and serves as a great spot for water recreation, camping, and hiking. More information is available at nps.gov/lamr.
6. Fort Davis National Historic Site
Step back in time at the Fort Davis National Historic Site, where you can explore one of the best preserved frontier military posts and learn about the life of soldiers in the 1800s. Visit nps.gov/foda for more information.
7. Padre Island National Seashore
Visit the world’s longest undeveloped barrier island at Padre Island National Seashore. Encounter a wide variety of wildlife, enjoy bird watching, fishing, and beach camping. Visit nps.gov/pais for more details.
8. Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River
Experience the beauty of the Rio Grande, the border between the US and Mexico. This site offers a variety of water activities, hiking, and camping opportunities. More details at nps.gov/rigr.
9. San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
Discover the Spanish colonial missions of the 18th century at San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a rich historical experience. Learn more at nps.gov/saan.
10. Chamizal National Memorial
Celebrating diplomacy, the Chamizal National Memorial commemorates the peaceful resolution of a century-long boundary dispute between the US and Mexico. Visit nps.gov/cham for more information.
11. Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park
Visit the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park to learn about the life and career of the 36th president of the US. Details can be found at nps.gov/lyjo.
12. Waco Mammoth National Monument
Visit Waco Mammoth National Monument to see the fossil remains of 24 Columbian mammoths discovered in 1978. More information is available at nps.gov/waco.
13. Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park
Explore the site of the first major battle of the US-Mexican War at Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park. Learn more at nps.gov/paal.
