Adventure & Recreation

New Long-Distance Trails Take Shape Across Texas
Ambitious builders create paths of 50-plus miles for hikers, bikers and horseback riders.

The Evolution of the Texas Canoe
Boat builders create custom crafts designed for the rigors of Texas rivers ad the Water Safari.
- Paddleboarding Down the Brazos Story by Brandon Weaver
- Finding Healing on Horseback on State Park Trails Story and photos by Shannon King
- Dancing With the Devils on a Trip Down Texas' Most Pristine River Story by Eva Frederick

Hammocks Provide a Tree-Swinging Alternative to Tents
Camping off the ground has some advantages.

Microadventures Provide Discovery in Bite-Size Pieces
Nature outings can be short, simple and cheap.

A Psychologist Explains How Nature Really Does Heal Us
Time outside offers wide-ranging benefits for mental health.
Recent in Camping
Bike Through the Pines of Tyler State Park
10 miles of trails that are perfect for mountain biking
Story by Russell RoeConservation License Plates Support Wildlife, Parks
Program marks 25 years of conservation on Texas roads.
Story by Tenley JacksonPaddleboarding Down the Brazos
A stand-up paddleboard camping trip embraces river life along the John Graves Scenic Riverway.
Story by Brandon WeaverWhat 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'HanlonBalmorhea 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'HanlonRecent in Hiking
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 FrederickNew 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'HanlonArtist 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 OkoClimbing the Cliffs of Lake Mineral Wells State Park
Climbers can explore the park's caves, crevices and narrow passageways.
Story by Russell RoePalmetto State Park Transports Visitors to Another World
Ephemeral swamps and spiky, prehistoric plants abound at this Central Texas park.
Story by Eva FrederickRecent in Swimming
Best State Parks for Summertime Swimming
Beat the heat in natural swimming holes at these six parks.
By Pam LeBlancA Drowning Survivor's Message: Be Safe on the Water
Swimming lessons are an essential element of water safety.
By Liz ColvinTop 10 Texas Swimming Holes
A springs fanatic picks his 10 favorites (plus a few honorable mentions)
Story by Joe Nick PatoskiRecent in Paddling
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 FrederickHistoric 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 OkoPecos 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'HanlonThe 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'HanlonNew 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 StaffRecent in Water Sports
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