Adventure & Recreation


Two bikers on dirt trail surrounded by trees

New Long-Distance Trails Take Shape Across Texas

Ambitious builders create paths of 50-plus miles for hikers, bikers and horseback riders.

Story by Morgan O'Hanlon
Shot of single paddler racing canoe from underwater on San Marcos River during Texas Water Safari

The Evolution of the Texas Canoe

Boat builders create custom crafts designed for the rigors of Texas rivers ad the Water Safari.

Story by Morgan O'Hanlon
Wearing a cowboy hat, sunglasses, t-shirt and shorts, Pam LeBlanc sits inside a hammock designed to look like the Texas state flag

Hammocks Provide a Tree-Swinging Alternative to Tents

Camping off the ground has some advantages.

Story by Pam LeBlanc
A woman walks a bark-covered path in an urban greenbelt, with tall buildings in the background

Microadventures Provide Discovery in Bite-Size Pieces

Nature outings can be short, simple and cheap.

Story by Dan Oko
A man walks down a leaf covered trail surrounded by tall trees

A Psychologist Explains How Nature Really Does Heal Us

Time outside offers wide-ranging benefits for mental health.

Ziv Shafir
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Recent in Camping

Published October 1, 2025

Bike Through the Pines of Tyler State Park

10 miles of trails that are perfect for mountain biking

Story by Russell Roe
October 2025 issue

Conservation License Plates Support Wildlife, Parks

Program marks 25 years of conservation on Texas roads.

Story by Tenley Jackson
August/September 2025 issue

Paddleboarding Down the Brazos

A stand-up paddleboard camping trip embraces river life along the John Graves Scenic Riverway.

Story by Brandon Weaver
August/September 2025 issue

What to Do in Big Bend During Chisos Basin Closures

Alternatives abound at both Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park.

Story by Morgan O'Hanlon
July 2025 issue

Balmorhea State Park's Spring-Fed Pool Is a West Texas Oasis

The refreshing spring water is a respite from the hot, dry Chihuahuan Desert.

Story by Morgan O'Hanlon
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Recent in Hiking

Published October 2, 2025

Susana Cruz, Founder of Chicana in Nature, Welcomes Everyone to the Outdoors

Cruz' organization creates opportunities for people of color to learn about and enjoy the outdoors.

Story by Eva Frederick
October 2025 issue

New Long-Distance Trails Take Shape Across Texas

Ambitious builders create paths of 50-plus miles for hikers, bikers and horseback riders.

Story by Morgan O'Hanlon
Published October 2, 2025

Artist Georgia O’Keeffe Drew Inspiration From Palo Duro Canyon

Artist Georgia O’Keeffe spent her formative years drawing inspiration from Palo Duro Canyon.

Story by Dan Oko
Published October 1, 2025

Climbing the Cliffs of Lake Mineral Wells State Park

Climbers can explore the park's caves, crevices and narrow passageways.

Story by Russell Roe
August/September 2025 issue

Palmetto State Park Transports Visitors to Another World

Ephemeral swamps and spiky, prehistoric plants abound at this Central Texas park.

Story by Eva Frederick
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Recent in Swimming

June 2024 issue

Best State Parks for Summertime Swimming

Beat the heat in natural swimming holes at these six parks.

By Pam LeBlanc
June 2024 issue

A Drowning Survivor's Message: Be Safe on the Water

Swimming lessons are an essential element of water safety.

By Liz Colvin
July 2005 issue

Top 10 Texas Swimming Holes

A springs fanatic picks his 10 favorites (plus a few honorable mentions)

Story by Joe Nick Patoski
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Recent in Paddling

July 2025 issue

Dancing With the Devils on a Trip Down Texas' Most Pristine River

New public land along the Devils River offers a do-it-yourself paddling opportunity.

Story by Eva Frederick
July 2025 issue

Historic Drought Spurs a Trip Down the Rio Grande

A team of adventurers considers the future of the river on a paddle through the Texas borderlands.

Story by Dan Oko
July 2025 issue

Pecos River's Forgotten Reach Gets Some Attention

A nonprofit group and partners pursue conservation efforts in an area hit by overpumping, drought.

Story by Morgan O'Hanlon
June 2025 issue

The Evolution of the Texas Canoe

Boat builders create custom crafts designed for the rigors of Texas rivers ad the Water Safari.

Story by Morgan O'Hanlon
December 2024 issue

New Paddling Trails Website Offers Guide to Texas Rivers, Bays and Marshes Galore

The Texas Paddling Trail Finder allows users to search for trails by water body or location.

Story by TPW Magazine Staff
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Recent in Water Sports

October 2024 issue

A Dad and Daughter Make the Most of Texas' Flourishing Surf Scene

They learn to ride the waves as they prepare for Mustang Island's fickle, fabled surf break.

Story by Dan Oko
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