Texas State Parks near El Paso & Big Bend

Discover hundreds of years of the history of the Big Bend, explore lush canyons and craggy trails, and get a close-up look at prehistoric pictographs. These, and many more, adventures await at the Texas State Parks near El Paso and Big Bend. Covering a portion of the beautiful Chihuahuan Desert, this region offers a wealth of outdoor adventure paired with some of the most spectacular scenery in the Lone Star State.

Whether you're swimming in the largest spring-fed pool in the world at Balmorhea State Park, taking in the gorgeous vistas at Davis Mountains State Park, or soaking up all the history of Fort Leaton State Historic Site, there's no shortage of amazing things to do here. Read on to discover three of the region's top state parks.

Fort Leaton State Historic Site

Perched on the east side of Presidio just miles from the Texas-Mexico border, the Fort Leaton State Historic Site is the western entry point to the spectacular Big Bend Ranch State Park. Step inside one of the largest and finest adobe structures in Texas to see exhibits highlighting the area's history from as far back as the 15th century. Get a firsthand look at what life was like at the old trading post in the mid-19th century as you stroll through the patio and visit the bakery and blacksmith shop.

While it's an attraction all its own, Fort Leaton State Historic Site is also where you want to go to purchase river-use permits and licenses for use in Big Bend Ranch State Park.

Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site

Explore rugged trails, admire the stark beauty of the West Texas desert, and keep a keen eye out for black-tailed jackrabbits, Texas horned lizards, and any of the more than 200 species of birds. For thousands of years, the rocky hills of Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site has been an oasis for man and animal due to the park's igneous formations that trap rainwater. When you're not hiking through verdant canyons or up to the summit of rocky hills, check out the ancient Native American pictographs and petroglyphs, part of a human history at the site spanning more than 10,000 years.

Along with all of this, Hueco Tanks is a world-class destination for rock climbing, and the park offers guided pictograph, hiking, and climbing tours Wednesday through Sunday, though reservations are required and should be booked at least a week in advance by calling the park directly. Once the sun sets, settle in at one of 20 campsites and take in a remarkable view of all the stars of the Milky Way.

Davis Mountains State Park

High in the mountains of West Texas, Davis Mountains State Park looks out upon volcanic mountains, and contains vital waters, stunning stargazing, and rich history. Ascend roughly 800 feet on the Skyline Drive Trail to the overlook near Keesey Canyon, passing alongside historic buildings and taking in views of Fort Davis and local landmarks, including Fort Davis National Historic Site.

Immerse yourself in history as you wander by Civilian Conservation Corps architecture found throughout the park, built in the 1930s when Texas State Parks was just beginning. Find at the base of the Montezuma Quail Trail an oasis for birds and birders alike with an enclosed viewing station, and watering and feeding stations, perfect to see the desert and migratory birds of West Texas.

Indulge in the starlit sky in one of the park's 95 campsites (day-use admission is $6 per person). To experience the night sky even more in depth, head over to the nearby McDonald Observatory for one of their phenomenal Star Parties.

Other Texas State Parks near El Paso & Big Bend

• Balmorhea State Park
• Big Bend Ranch State Park
• Franklin Mountains State Park
• Indian Lodge