Tag: Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park

10 National Parks You Can Always Visit for Free

Discover the wild, historic, and breathtaking beauty of America without spending a dime. These 10 National Parks welcome you year-round offering adventure, serenity, and unforgettable experiences—all for free.

America is home to 63 National Parks and hundreds of additional National Park Service (NPS) sites offering everything from towering mountains and ancient forests to historic battlefields and desert vistas. These parks are the crown jewels of the U.S. drawing millions of visitors each year to marvel at their natural beauty and cultural significance.

But here’s the thing—exploring these treasures doesn’t always come with a cost. Many of the country’s most famous parks like Zion, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon charge hefty entrance fees—sometimes upwards of $35 per person. And during peak summer months, popular parks often require timed-entry reservations adding another layer of planning to your adventure.

The good news? Not every national park comes with a fee. In fact, several of the country’s most beautiful, historic, and awe-inspiring parks are always free to enter, no matter the season. From serene wetlands and misty mountain ranges to iconic monuments and hidden historical gems these parks offer an incredible experience without costing you a dime.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a cross-country road trip, or a solo adventure, these ten national parks provide the perfect opportunity to connect with nature, history, and adventure—all for free.

Understanding free access to National Parks

Unlocking America’s natural treasures without spending a cent

While many of America’s National Parks charge entrance fees some remarkable parks never do. These “always free” parks welcome visitors year-round with no charge for entry making them a perfect option for travelers looking to experience the beauty of the NPS without worrying about tickets or reservations.

It’s important to note that not all free opportunities are permanent. Many popular parks also offer occasional fee-free days throughout the year—typically six per year—allowing visitors to explore parks that normally charge admission at no cost. Check Why 2026 Fee-Free National Park Days Matter to RV Travelers for dates if you want to plan around these special events.

Even when entry is free, a trip to a national park still comes with other costs. You’ll need to budget for transportation, lodging or camping, food, gear, and any guided activities you might want to enjoy. But when it comes to exploring the park itself, these ten national parks let you come and go as you please without paying a dime offering a perfect mix of adventure, history, and natural wonder.

Discover these 10 always-free National Parks

Adventure awaits—no ticket required

From ancient forests to dramatic canyons and historic landscapes, these ten national parks prove that unforgettable adventures don’t have to come with an entrance fee. Each one offers its own unique slice of America’s natural and cultural heritage—completely free to explore.

Congaree National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Congaree National Park, South Carolina

Where towering trees meet tranquil waters

Whether you explore by water or on foot, Congaree National Park offers a unique, immersive experience in a rare and beautiful ecosystem—all without an entrance fee.

  • Why it’s special: Congaree National Park protects one of the largest remaining old-growth hardwood forests in the American Southeast. Towering loblolly pines and cypress trees rise straight from the water forming the tallest forest canopy east of the Mississippi River. This lush wetland ecosystem is a rare window into the region’s natural past.
  • Best time to visit: Winter, spring, and fall are ideal with mild weather, colorful foliage, and full rivers. Summers can be hot and buggy.
  • Special events: Every year from mid-May to mid-June, Congaree hosts a synchronized firefly display where thousands of fireflies flash in unison across the forest—a truly magical natural spectacle. A lottery is held each April for tickets to this event.
  • Annual visitors (2024): 242,049

Top activities

  • Paddle through the Cedar Creek Canoe Trail, a 15-mile route winding through majestic cypress trees.
  • Hike the Boardwalk Loop Trail or Weston Lake Loop to experience the forest on foot.
  • Explore the Oakridge Trail for a mix of hardwoods, wetlands, and wildlife.

Visitor info

  • Hours: Open 24 hours
  • Nearest city: Columbia, SC
Great Smoky Mountains National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee & North Carolina

Where misty mountains meet timeless beauty

Explore mist-covered peaks, lush forests, and historic homesteads in America’s most visited national park where every turn reveals a new natural wonder.

  • Why it’s special: The most visited national park in the United States, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a place of misty ridgelines, ancient forests, and extraordinary biodiversity. Straddling the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, the park protects more than 500,000 acres of rolling mountains, deep valleys, and historic Appalachian landscapes. Its signature “smoky” haze—caused by natural gases released from the vegetation—gives the park an otherworldly feel.
  • Best time to visit: There’s truly no bad time to visit the Smokies. Spring brings wildflowers, summer offers lush greenery and waterfalls, fall delivers some of the most spectacular foliage in the country, and winter provides quiet trails and occasional snow-dusted peaks. Fall is the most popular season, so plan accordingly.
  • Why it’s free: Despite being the most visited national park in the country, Great Smoky Mountains National Park has never charged an entrance fee—a unique legacy tied to land donations and early agreements made when the park was established.
  • Annual visitors (2024): 12,191,834

Top activities

  • Drive the scenic Newfound Gap Road which cuts through the heart of the park
  • Explore Cades Cove, a historic valley filled with wildlife and preserved homesteads
  • Hike to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park
  • Tackle longer trails like Alum Cave Trail or Charlies Bunion for sweeping mountain views

Visitor info

  • Hours: Open 24 hours
  • Nearest cities: Gatlinburg, TN & Cherokee, NC
New River Gorge National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, West Virginia

Where rugged cliffs meet rushing waters

Experience thrilling adventures and breathtaking vistas along one of the oldest rivers in North America from rock climbing and whitewater rafting to scenic overlooks that stretch for miles.

  • Why it’s special: Carved by one of the oldest rivers on Earth, New River Gorge National Park blends rugged Appalachian beauty with world-class outdoor adventure. The park protects 53 miles of the New River as it cuts through steep sandstone cliffs creating a dramatic landscape of deep canyons, forested ridges, and rushing whitewater. It’s one of the most adventure-packed national parks in the country—and one of the newest earning national park status in 2020.
  • Best time to visit: Spring through fall offers the best conditions depending on your interests. Summer is ideal for rafting while fall brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage. Spring and early fall are also prime seasons for rock climbing and hiking.
  • Special event: Each October, the park hosts Bridge Day, a one-day festival celebrating the New River Gorge Bridge. It’s one of the only days each year when base jumpers are allowed to leap from the 876-foot-tall span drawing spectators from around the world.
  • Annual visitors (2024): 1,811,937

Top activities

  • Whitewater rafting on the New River, famous for its Class III–IV rapids
  • Hiking and biking along the Endless Wall Trail and Long Point Trail
  • Rock climbing on world-class sandstone cliffs
  • Scenic overlooks of the iconic New River Gorge Bridge

Visitor info

  • Hours: Open 24 hours
  • Nearest city: Fayetteville, WV
Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, Texas

Walking through history in the heart of Texas

Step into the life and legacy of the 36th president exploring his boyhood home, ranchlands, and the rich history of the Texas Hill Country.

  • Why it’s special: Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park offers an intimate look into the life and legacy of America’s 36th president set against the rolling hills of the Texas Hill Country. Rather than focusing on monuments or grand buildings, this park tells a deeply personal story—one rooted in family, hard work, and the rural landscape that shaped LBJ’s character and political vision.
  • Best time to visit: Spring and fall are ideal with mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers or autumn color across the Hill Country. Summers can be hot but the wide-open ranchland and shaded historic buildings still make for an enjoyable visit.
  • Why it’s free: As a National Historical Park, all major sites within the LBJ complex are open to the public at no cost making it one of the most accessible presidential parks in the country.
  • Annual visitors (2024): 119,278

Top activities

  • Tour the LBJ Ranch including the Texas White House and Johnson family cemetery
  • Explore the Johnson Settlement where Lyndon Johnson spent his early years
  • Drive the scenic ranch roads that wind through pastures, oak trees, and the Pedernales River
  • Visit the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site which connects seamlessly with the national historical park

Visitor info

  • Hours: Vary by site
  • Nearest city: Johnson City, TX
Mount Rushmore National Memorial © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota

Where history is carved in stone

Marvel at the iconic granite faces of four U.S. presidents carved into the Black Hills, a symbol of history, artistry, and national pride.

  • Why it’s special: Few landmarks in the United States are as instantly recognizable as Mount Rushmore. Carved into the granite face of the Black Hills, the 60-foot-tall sculptures of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln symbolize the birth, growth, development, and preservation of the nation. The monument is both an artistic and engineering marvel drawing visitors from around the world.
  • Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall offers the best weather though summer can be busy. Visiting early in the morning or later in the evening helps avoid crowds. Evening lighting ceremonies during the warmer months add an especially memorable experience.
  • Why it’s free: There is no entrance fee to Mount Rushmore National Memorial though a parking fee is charged. Once inside the memorial grounds, visitors are free to explore at their own pace.
  • Annual visitors (2024): 1,850,329

Top activities

  • Walk the Presidential Trail, a scenic loop offering close-up views of the sculpture
  • Visit the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center to learn about the monument’s creation
  • Attend the evening lighting ceremony (seasonal)
  • Explore the surrounding Black Hills including nearby hiking trails and scenic drives

Visitor info

  • Hours: Open daily; grounds generally accessible 24 hours
  • Nearest city: Keystone, SD
Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, Georgia

Unearthing centuries of history

Discover ancient earthworks and artifacts that tell the story of the Mississippian culture and the region’s rich Native American heritage.

  • Why it’s special: Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park preserves more than 12,000 years of continuous human history making it one of the most culturally significant sites in the southeastern United States. The park protects ancient earthworks built by the Mississippian culture including ceremonial mounds, earth lodges, and village sites that reveal the deep roots of Indigenous civilization in the region.
  • Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures and lush scenery. Summers can be hot and humid while winter provides quieter conditions and unobstructed views of the historic mounds.
  • Why it’s free: As a protected National Historical Park, Ocmulgee offers free access to its grounds and exhibits ensuring public access to one of the most important archaeological landscapes in North America.
  • Annual visitors (2024): 141,905

Top activities

  • Walk the Earth Lodge, a reconstructed ceremonial building dating back over a thousand years
  • Explore the Great Temple Mound and surrounding village site
  • Visit the Ocmulgee National Monument Museum to view artifacts spanning 12,000 years of human history
  • Stroll the park’s riverfront trails along the Ocmulgee River

Visitor info

  • Hours: Open daily (hours vary by season)
  • Nearest city: Macon, GA
San Antonio Missions National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, Texas

Where culture and history come alive

Explore the beautifully preserved Spanish colonial missions that showcase the rich cultural and religious history of the San Antonio region.

  • Why it’s special: San Antonio Missions National Historical Park preserves four 18th-century Spanish colonial missions that once formed the northern frontier of Spain’s vast empire in the Americas. These beautifully preserved sites—Mission Concepción, San José, San Juan, and Espada—tell the story of early colonial life, cultural exchange, and the blending of Spanish and Indigenous traditions. Together, they form the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas.
  • Best time to visit: Spring and fall are ideal offering warm days and mild evenings perfect for walking or biking the mission trail. Summers can be hot but shaded courtyards and historic interiors provide welcome relief.
  • Why it’s free: As a unit of the National Park Service all mission grounds and visitor centers are open to the public at no cost allowing visitors to explore centuries of history without an entrance fee.
  • Annual visitors (2024): 1,278,777

Top activities

  • Tour the beautifully restored Mission San José often called the “Queen of the Missions”
  • Walk or bike the Mission Reach Trail which connects all four missions along the San Antonio River
  • Attend a service at Mission Concepción, one of the oldest unrestored stone churches in the U.S.
  • Learn about colonial life through ranger-led programs and exhibits

Visitor info

  • Hours: Vary by mission and season
  • Nearest city: San Antonio, TX
Saratoga National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

8. Saratoga National Historical Park, New York

Relive the moment that changed a nation

Step onto the grounds of the Revolutionary War’s turning point where history comes alive through battlefields, monuments, and scenic landscapes.

  • Why it’s special: Saratoga National Historical Park preserves the site of one of the most pivotal moments in American history—the 1777 Battles of Saratoga. Often called the turning point of the American Revolution, this decisive victory convinced France to ally with the American colonies dramatically altering the course of the war. Today, the park blends rolling farmland, wooded hills, and historic battlefield landscapes into a powerful place of reflection.
  • Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall offers the best weather for exploring the park’s trails and historic sites. Autumn is especially beautiful with fall foliage adding color to the battlefield landscapes.
  • Why it’s free: As a National Historical Park, Saratoga offers free access to its grounds and most exhibits allowing visitors to explore one of the most significant military sites in American history without an admission fee.
  • Annual visitors (2024): 116,537

Top activities

  • Drive or bike the Battlefield Tour Road, a 9-mile loop through key historic sites
  • Climb the Saratoga Monument for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside
  • Explore the Visitor Center, featuring exhibits and artifacts from the Revolutionary War
  • Walk the peaceful trails through fields and forests where history unfolded

Visitor info

  • Hours: Open daily (hours vary seasonally)
  • Nearest city: Saratoga Springs, NY
Casa Grande Ruins National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

9. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, Arizona

Where the desert holds ancient secrets

Explore the ancient “Big House,” a massive adobe structure built by the Hohokam people over 700 years ago and uncover the mysteries of prehistoric desert life.

  • Why it’s special: Casa Grande Ruins National Monument preserves one of the most remarkable prehistoric structures in North America—a massive, four-story earthen building constructed by the ancestral Sonoran Desert people more than 700 years ago. Built using caliche (a natural desert cement), the “Great House” stands as a testament to advanced engineering, astronomy, and community life long before European contact.
  • Best time to visit: Fall through spring offers the most comfortable temperatures as summers in the Sonoran Desert can be extremely hot. Early mornings and winter months provide the best conditions for exploring the site and learning from ranger-led programs.
  • Why it’s free: Casa Grande Ruins has been protected since 1892 and remains free to the public as part of the National Park Service’s mission to preserve significant cultural sites for everyone.
  • Annual visitors (2024): 104,429

Top activities

  • Tour the Great House, protected beneath a massive modern canopy
  • Walk the Casa Grande Ruins Trail which loops around ancient compounds and ball courts
  • Visit the museum and visitor center to learn about Hohokam culture and desert archaeology
  • Attend ranger talks explaining the site’s astronomical alignments and history

Visitor info

  • Hours: Open daily (seasonal hours may vary)
  • Nearest city: Coolidge, AZ
Cowpens National Battlefield © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

10. Cowpens National Battlefield, South Carolina

Step into a turning point in history

Walk the grounds of a pivotal Revolutionary War victory where history comes alive through preserved battlefields, monuments, and interpretive trails.

  • Why it’s special: Cowpens National Battlefield commemorates one of the most decisive American victories of the Revolutionary War. In 1781, American forces under Brigadier General Daniel Morgan defeated the British in a carefully planned battle that showcased strategy, courage, and the resilience of militia and Continental troops alike. The site preserves the battlefield, monuments, and rolling fields where history unfolded.
  • Best time to visit: Spring and fall provide the most comfortable weather for walking the battlefield and exploring the grounds. Summers can be hot and humid while winter offers quiet solitude and a reflective atmosphere.
  • Why it’s free: As a National Battlefield, Cowpens is open to the public at no charge giving visitors the chance to step back into history without an entrance fee.
  • Annual visitors (2024): 156,287

Top activities

  • Walk the battlefield trails with interpretive signs explaining troop movements and strategy
  • Visit the visitor center and museum for exhibits on the Revolutionary War and Cowpens’ significance
  • Explore monuments honoring the soldiers who fought and died in the battle
  • Attend ranger-led programs or living history events when available

Visitor info

  • Hours: Open daily
  • Nearest city: Gaffney, SC

Final thoughts: Explore America’s National Parks for free

Adventure, history, and beauty—no ticket required

From the towering trees of Congaree to the misty peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains, from revolutionary battlefields like Cowpens and Saratoga to the ancient earthen structures at Casa Grande Ruins, these ten national parks and historical sites prove that incredible experiences don’t always come with a price tag.

Visiting free parks allows you to immerse yourself in America’s natural beauty, cultural history, and adventurous landscapes without worrying about entrance fees. While travel, accommodations, and gear are still considerations, the freedom to explore these treasures at your own pace is priceless.

Whether you’re seeking a weekend getaway, a family adventure, or a cross-country road trip, these parks offer unforgettable opportunities to connect with the past, enjoy the present, and create lasting memories—all without spending a dime. So pack your hiking boots, camera, or canoe, and start planning your next adventure to one of America’s always-free national parks.

Reflections on freedom, nature, and the open road

Where the road leads, curiosity follows

There’s something uniquely liberating about exploring these parks knowing that the beauty before you comes with no cost—only the invitation to slow down, breathe, and immerse yourself in the natural world. From the quiet waters of Congaree to the rugged cliffs and whitewater of New River Gorge, every park reminds us of the abundance of landscapes, history, and adventure that America offers.

For those traveling in an RV, these free national parks become gateways to freedom. You can wander off the beaten path, chase waterfalls, hike forests, or simply park under a canopy of stars—experiences that reconnect us to both nature and ourselves.

As Hilaire Belloc once wrote: “I have wandered all my life, and I have also traveled; the difference between the two being this, that we wander for distraction, but we travel for fulfillment.”

Visiting these parks isn’t just about seeing sights—it’s about embracing the richness of the journey, finding joy in the journey itself, and discovering that the best adventures are often freely given by the natural world.

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Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in January 2026. Information reflects what was accurate at the time of writing. For topics that may change quickly, please verify current details before planning. To ensure honesty and avoid bias, this website features no ads, no sponsored content, and no affiliate links—just straightforward information for fellow travelers.

The Complete Guide to the Texas Hill Country

With bluebonnet fields, scenic tubing rivers, and lush vineyards, Texas Hill Country is not short on views

Nestled between Austin and San Antonio in Central Texas, the Texas Hill Country is a captivating blend of rolling hills, lush vineyards, vibrant cultural centers, and scenic drives that promise an unforgettable adventure. This picturesque region offers something for every kind of traveler—whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, wine connoisseur, or history buff. Here’s a guide to some of the must-visit destinations in the Texas Hill Country.

Things to see and do in the Texas Hill Country

There is no shortage of adrenaline-filled adventures and laid-back fun activities to indulge in the Texas Hill Country. With so much to see and do, first-timers will easily be overwhelmed by the eclectic mix of attractions. To get started, sample some of the top-rated things to do in Texas Hill County:

Guadalupe River State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Float down the Guadalupe River

Absolutely gorgeous crystal clear water

There is no better way to spend a Texas summer vacation than hitting the water and the Guadalupe River is a prime attraction. Located inside the Guadalupe River State Park, this extraordinary oasis offers a chance to escape the urban chaos and bask in nature’s lush bounty.

Visitors enjoy a relaxed cruise downstream on a kayak or tube with picturesque scenes to soak in along the way. However, other fun opportunities exist away from the water including b+irdwatching, horseback riding, fishing, and sightseeing.

Tip: The Guadalupe River gets slightly crowded during peak season and the San Marcos River and Comal River are perfect alternatives for those who prefer isolated locations.

2. Swim in a natural pool

Hamilton Pool Preserve, a historic swimming hole

Hill Country houses numerous natural wonders but its natural swimming holes are some of the coolest places travelers will come across in Texas. One of the more popular options is Hamilton Pool, a huge crater formed when an underground river dome caved in. It stands out for its serene surroundings and isolated wildlife trails which draw visitors from all over the state.

Alternatively, visitors can jump into Jacob’s Well, a gorgeous artesian spring found inside the second-biggest submerged cave in the state. Sinking to a 140-foot depth it is a breathtaking sight to behold and dipping in its icy waters offers one of the most awesome things to do in the Lone Star State.

Tip: To skip the crowds, check out Krause Springs in Spicewood. This isolated swimming spot presents a tranquil setting enclosed in the lush environment of a privately owned 115-acre park.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. Hike to the summit of Enchanted Rock

Magical, mystical, enchanted

Found on the outskirts of the beautiful Fredericksburg town, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is the go-to spot for rock climbers, hikers, backpackers, and tent campers. Its main attraction, Enchanted Rock, is the second-largest granite dome in the country after Stone Mountain in Georgia. The hike to the top is about half a mile long offering a decent challenge to novice adventurers.

A generous reward waits at the top of the rock with sweeping views of the surrounding area making the effort worthwhile.

  • Admission: $8 per person daily
  • Hours: 6:30 am–10 pm

Native American Tribes like the Tonkawa believed that the Enchanted Rock could talk; visitors will notice a distinct sound at the top of the landmark.

Tip: For a remarkable experience wait about an hour before dusk to trek up the Enchanted Rock; the views of the setting sun are simply irresistible.

4. Dive into the underworld at Natural Bridge Caverns

Naturally amazing

Texas Hill Country is laden with spectacular limestone caves and caverns stemming from the action of waters over hundreds of years. These otherworldly formations are like a scene out of an Indiana Jones movie and offer explorers an opportunity to discover a true hidden gem.

Natural Bridge Caverns is among the more accessible caverns that travelers can check out. It is a magnificent attraction with endless fun opportunities for the whole family including adventurous tours that thrust vacationers into the depths of the mysterious caves.

  • Admission: Adults $40.89. Kids $29.64
  • Hours: 10 am–4 pm (Saturday 5 pm)

Tip: Stop by the Discover Village Trading Post after the tour to shop for a souvenir or gift to take home.

5. Explore the open spaces at Pedernales Falls State Park

Take Me to the River

Set on the banks of the scenic Pedernales River, this sprawling state park is the ultimate adventurer’s playground thanks to its numerous outdoor opportunities. From stunning waterfalls and quiet camping areas to some of the best hikes and trails in Texas, explorers will have plenty of fun things to do in Texas Hill Country’s state parks.

Perdenales Fall State Park is an excellent choice for a day outdoors. Most of the attractions are within a stroll of each other and conveniently close to the parking lot. Whether visitors prefer adventurous thrills or easy-going activities, expect no let-downs at this beautiful destination.

  • Admission: $6 per person daily
  • Hours: 8 am-10 pm

Note: Although visitors can swim in Pedernales River, the Pedernales Falls Area is out of bounds as the water levels can rise spontaneously transforming the once-placid stream into a raging torrent, posing the risk of flash floods.

Fredericksburg © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. Discover Texas’ German heritage at Fredericksburg

Lone Star State’s most charming town

Fredericksburg is a charming community where visitors can experience a captivating fusion of German heritage through an eclectic mix of cuisine, cultural, and historical attractions. Strolling down Main Street, the neighborhood oozes old-world German vibes with quaint shops selling handmade jewelry and artisanal cheeses.

Food enthusiasts will love the dining scene in Fredericksburg which offers delectable dishes like traditional German sausages. It also hosts authentic Texas BBQ joints worth trying out. On Sundays, the town is abuzz with activity as the local flea market sees at least 400 vendors displaying all manner of wares for buyers.

Tip: Fredericksburg hosts the largest concentration of wineries in Texas Hill Country making it a must-visit for travelers seeking a local wine-tasting experience.

Gruene Hall © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. Learn to spin and two-step at a dancing hall

Texas’ oldest dance hall

Texas Hill Country houses several historic dance halls known for showcasing an adorable German-Texas heritage. These venues stage weekly live shows where guests can enjoy live music and join the locals in an entertaining traditional dance.

A good example is the iconic Gruene Hall in the Historic Gruene District. Constructed in 1878, it is the state’s oldest dance hall still in operation.

The venue features an expansive courtyard with plenty of indoor space to enjoy the music, let loose, and spread out for a two-step session. Other Hill Country dance halls worth visiting include Mercer Dancehall in Driftwood and Twin Sisters Dancehall in Blanco.

Gruene, Texas, is an interesting town in Hill Country given that it is located within New Braunfels. Pronounced “green,” the town has now been considered a historic district. Because of this, all the addresses in Gruene have a New Braunfels address despite being a town of its own.

Established in 1878 and still hosting events, Gruene Hall remains the perfect spot for those seeking to enjoy good, local music.

Gruene is located along the banks of the Guadalupe River. It is the perfect spot to enjoy a dip or take a hike on one of the many trails that run around the river. From meadows to fields of wildflowers and rolling hills, there is something to offer everyone along the river.

Every year, Gruene puts on the Wine and Music Festival. From October 9-12, 2025, Gruene’s festival will help raise money for the United Way. The hope is to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars to help those associated with the United Way.

  • Population: 20 people
  • When to visit: February through May; September through November
  • Attractions: Tickets for live music start at $25.00

Tip: Besides two-stepping at Gruene Hall, the Gruene Historic District is full of historical gems from the 1800s that vacationers can explore including ancient structures that currently house restaurants and boutiques.

Guadalupe River at Kerrville © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

8. Drive along Scenic Highway 16

Highway 16 winds through the heart of Texas like the seam of a colorful quilt

Day trippers looking to explore Texas Hill Country region will love what the Scenic Highway 16 offers. One of the most picturesque roads in Texas, this fantastic route straddles 30 miles between the towns of Kerrville and Medina meandering through the rugged scenery of the Hill Country.

Its many twists and turns mean drivers have to slow their pace which is perfect for taking in the dazzling views. White-flowering yucca plants, ancient live oaks, and dramatic limestone outcrops decorate the sides of the road culminating in a magical experience in Texas Hill backcountry.

Another must-have road trip in Texas Hill Country is Willow City Loop, a 13-mile stretch with a beautiful exhibition of colorful wildflowers.

Blanco River at Blanco State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

9. Savor the sweet scents of lavender in Blanco

Just a Hill Country drive away

The beautiful town of Blanco, about one hour from Austin is famous for being the “Lavender Capital of Texas.” Almost a dozen sprawling lavender farms cover the town and when the flowers start to bloom in May, a sweet aroma saturates the air calling for road trippers to roll down their windows and take a deep breath.

Blanco is strategically placed in the middle of Texas Hill Country making it an excellent launching pad for day trips to top destinations like Austin or San Antonia.

Tip: Be sure to attend the Blanco Lavender Festival (26th annual, June 6-8, 2025) which celebrates the lavender harvest with weekend-long festivities highlighted by live music and many fun activities.

10. Go leaf peeping at Lost Maples State Natural Area

Changing beauty

Lying along the banks of the stunning Sabinal River, Lost Maples is among the top state parks in Texas found in the quaint town of Vanderpool. It is an excellent place to visit year-round offering visitors fun adventures including hiking, camping, fishing, and more.

While there are numerous activities to indulge in at Lost Maples, the area is more famous for its fascinating flurry of fall foliage. Every year between October and November the park transforms into a storybook setting with vibrant shades of yellow, red, and orange.

Admission: $6 per person daily

Hours: 8:30 am–4:30 pm

Tip: Interested leaf peppers can consult the park’s foliage report before heading to Lost Maples to know the best time to visit.

Lockhart © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

11. Eat your way through the BBQ Capital of Texas

Follow the scent of brisket

A road trip to Lockhart, Texas is an irrefutable barbecue rite of passage. About 35 miles southeast of Austin and boasting a population of about 13,000, the town is officially known as the “Barbecue Capital of Texas” according to the Texas Legislature. Its home to three famous barbecue joints and one underrated one.

Located near San Marcos, roughly half-way between Austin and San Antonio, Lockhart is a small town with a lot of flavor—in more ways than one! Its four well-known barbecue joints draw visitors from far and wide looking to sample the best barbecue in the great state of Texas. So put on your comfy pants, maybe consider a bib, and let’s head to Lockhart for some of the best barbecue you’ll ever taste.

For a close look at all four of these necessary stops—Kreuz Market, Smitty’s Market, Black’s Barbecue, and Chisholm Trail BBQ—read How to Eat Your Way through Lockhart, the Barbecue Capital of Texas. Arrive armed with your appetite, good friends, and plenty of napkins.

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

12. Relive history at Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park

The Texas White House

Lyndon B. Johnson’s home in the Texas Hill Country provides an opportunity to tour the Texas White House and see a working cattle ranch.

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park tells the story of the 36th President in a unique and encompassing way. The story begins with Lyndon Johnson’s ancestors, tracing the influences his family and his beloved Texas Hill Country had on the boy and the man.

In Johnson City, the visitor can see how LBJ influenced his hometown by bringing the resources of the US Government to improve the lives of his friends and neighbors. On the LBJ Ranch it is possible to experience the serenity and beauty from which the former president drew his strength and comfort. It is here that his final resting place is located. This entire “circle of life” gives the visitor a unique perspective into one of America’s most noteworthy citizens by providing the most complete picture of an American president.

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

13. Wander the exhibits at Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

Wild plants that make the world more beautiful—one seed at a time

Native wildflowers put on an absolutely gorgeous display at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, southwest of downtown Austin, each spring. The 284-acre state botanic garden and arboretum was founded by Lady Bird Johnson and actor Helen Hayes in 1982 and is home to over 10,000 species from all across Texas—the most diverse collection of such in North America.

Throughout the year, the not-for-profit puts on events like movie nights in the gardens, sunset happy hours with live music, and workshops on how to grow your own native varieties.

14. Get lost in Marble Falls

The hub for outdoor adventures with lakes, granite mountains, hiking, golfing, and winding roads

Marble Falls offers something for everyone whether it’s a walk in the park, a long hike in nature, or a shopping spree. Luscious greens for golfing, a dream retirement spot, wineries galore, coffee shops, winding roads, and many lakes that all flow into the Colorado River are all words to describe this town.

A great day spent in Marble Falls would be to hang out and swim at Lake Marble Falls, let the kids play in the playground there, and then head up on Main Street (on foot) to shop till you drop, then grab a bite to eat. Marble Falls is a sip-and-shop town meaning you can grab a glass of wine and walk around (yes, this town is a great example of why Texas is the most walkable state!).

Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge located west of town on FM 1431 is great for hiking. Then, see the 866-foot-tall Granite Mountain before heading to Sweet Berry Farm to pick flowers and eat ice cream. Check their opening times in the summer because they do shut down in the hot months. In the fall, you can make a scarecrow and pick zinnas.

Tip: Sorry, despite the town’s name there are no falls in Marble Falls. What once was is now covered up!

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15. Best time to visit Texas Hill Country

Texas Hill Country enjoys mild weather around the year which makes it an enjoyable destination no matter the season. Depending on the preferred attractions and points of interest, here is what visitors can expect from the Hill Country in each season.

Spring

Hill Country should be on the list of the best places to spend spring in Texas. The blooming Bluebonnets and other wildflower varieties transform the region into a visual spectacle, beckoning adventurers to step out into the open spaces.

With warm temperatures and minimal precipitation, the conditions are perfect for wine tasting along the Wine & Wildflower Trail.

The Wine & Wildflower Journey is a popular event in the Texas Hill Country that takes place from March 24 to April 18, 2025. During this period, participants can enjoy complimentary tastings at over 50 wineries and receive exclusive discounts on multiple bottle purchases. The event ticket which works like a coupon book offers savings at award-winning Texas Hill Country wineries and includes a digital barcode ticket to be scanned at each winery with a maximum of 4 tastings per day.

Summer

With temperatures soaring to 90+ degrees Fahrenheit during summer (June to August), visitors can cool off with a dip in the cool waters of the numerous swimming holes in the Hill Country. Fortunately, the options are endless and spread throughout.

Water-based activities along the rivers, water parks, and natural swimming pools take center stage but this is also an excellent time for scenic hikes and other outdoor expeditions.

Fall

The flurry of fall colors (September to November) make the Hill Country one of the best places to leaf-peep in Texas. Besides the adorable weather tailored to all the fun outdoor adventures in the area, several festivals take the experience to the next level. These include the Wine Festival and the Fredericksburg Oktoberfest (October 3-5, 2025).

Note: Day trippers can also take advantage of the changing foliage to embark on exciting tours along the state’s scenic highways.

Winter

Winter (December to February) in Hill Country is milder than in other destinations. The Texas Hill Country is one of the preferred destinations for Winter Texans due to its mild winter climate and scenic beauty. Winter in the Hill Country typically features daytime temperatures around 65°F with early morning lows near freezing but the warmth of the sun quickly dissipates the frost.

16. How to get around the Texas Hill Country

Driving around the Texas Hill Country offers a variety of scenic routes and attractions. One popular route is a 277-mile drive that passes through Austin, Dripping Springs, Johnson City, Fredericksburg, Kerrville, and Bandera.

Another itinerary suggests starting from Spicewood and ending in Wimberley or starting in New Braunfels and ending in Castroville depending on your starting point. This route includes stops at Krause Springs, a beautiful campsite and natural swimming spot, and Hamilton Pool, a natural swimming spot with stunning springs.

The Texas Hill Country also features the Willow City Loop, a 13-mile stretch offering breathtaking views of creeks, meadows, and yucca-filled cliffs. This route is particularly scenic and can be accessed from Fredericksburg by heading north on State Route 16 for approximately 13 miles to Willow City, then east on Ranch Road 1323 for about 3 miles, and turning left onto Willow City Loop.

17. Where to camp in Texas Hill Country

Texas Hill Country is a sprawling region encompassing around 25 counties near the state’s geographical center. This means it straddles big cities like Austin and San Antonio and some of the most charming small towns in Texas like Fredericksburg, Kerrville, and Blanco.

Texas Hill Country offers numerous camping options including state parks and private RV parks and resorts.

Horseshoe Ridge RV Resort

Location: 17901 Ranch Rd 12, Wimberley, TX 78676

Nestled in the heart of Texas Hill Country, Horseshoe Ridge RV Resort is a premier destination offering relaxation, adventure, and modern comfort. The resort offers 124 spacious, big-rig-friendly RV sites and 3 beautifully appointed cabins. Rates start at $79 per night.

Buckhorn Lake Resort © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Buckhorn Lake Resort 

  • Location: 2885 Goat Creek Road, Kerrville, TX 78028

Perfectly located in the Heart of the Texas Hill Country, you will find everything you would expect from a premier RV Resort.  Every site features complete landscaping, full hookups, and concrete pads. Rates start at $50 per night.

SKYE Texas Hill Country Resort

  • Location: 16880 US Highway 87, Fredericksburg, TX 78624

The spacious full hookup RV sites are carefully set around a beautiful water feature with many waterfront sites. Choose from pull through, back in, or pull in RV sites. All sites are full hookup with a concrete pad. Each RV site has custom 130 amp pedestals with 50/30/20 amp options and a dedicated 30 amp outlet for EV charging, fast charging available as an option, and a fiber optic cable to provide Gigabit Internet. Rates start at $60 per night.

Fredericksburg RV Park

  • Location: 305 E Highway Street, Fredericksburg, TX 78624

Choose from 100 shaded or sunny pull-through sites, each one beautifully landscaped with a patio and picnic table. Plus free WiFi and cable TV. The RV Park is situated within city limits, just1 mile from downtown Fredericksburg. Rates start at $77.49 per night.

Guadalupe River State Park

  • Location: 3350 Park Road 31, Spring Branch, TX 78070
  • 48 campsites with water and 50-amp electric; $24 per night + daily entrance fee
  • 37 campsites with water and 30-amp electric; $20 per night + daily entrance fee

Pedernales Falls State Park

  • Location: 2585 Park Road 6026, Johnson City, TX 78636
  • 69 campsites with water and 30-amp electric; $20 per night + daily entrance fee

Lost Maples State Natural Area

  • Location: 37221 F.M. 187, Vanderpool, TX 78885
  • 28 campsites with water and 30-amp electric; $20 per night + daily entrance fee

Blanco State Park

  • Location: 101 Park Road 23, Blanco, TX 78606
  • 8 campsites with full hookups (30/50-amp); $25 per night + daily entrance fee
  • 9 campsites with full hookups (30-amp) $23 per night + daily entrance fee
  • 12 campsites with water and 30-amp electric; $20 per night + daily entrance fee
Lockhart State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Lockhart State Park

  • Location: 2012 State Park Road, Lockhart, TX 78644-9716
  • 8 campsites with full hookups (30/50-amp); $25 per night + daily entrance fee
  • 8 campsites with water and 30-amp electric; $20 per night + daily entrance fee

18. How to spend a perfect day in Texas Hill Country

Begin the day’s itinerary by exploring the Gruene Historic District to discover the remains of ancient German heritage in Texas. Stroll through the town’s quiet streets admiring the 19th-century structures lining the roadsides and pop into the historic Gruene Hall to watch a classic dance show.

Later, head to the beautiful town of Fredericksburg to sample more German vibes and visit the many wineries and vineyards around the area for a swirl and sip. Grab a quick lunch in one of the town’s restaurants before heading to Hamilton Pool to cool off in the stifling afternoon heat.

Afterward, hit the trails of Pedernales Fall State Park to explore the lush Hill Country backcountry before finding a quiet spot to replenish with a quick snack. Discover more hidden gems at the Natural Bridge Cavern, then cap off the day’s adventures with a laid-back cruise down the Guadalupe River.

Lastly, head back to Fredericksburg for dinner at Der Lindenbaum Restaurant with a glass of local wine followed by an apple Bavarian torte or apple strudel with a dozen Pfeffernuesse cookies to go.

Texas Spoken Friendly

Worth Pondering…

The forces of nature and their impact on the Texas landscape and sky combine to offer an element of drama that would whet the imagination of artists from any medium.

—Wyman Meinzer

Top 10 Reasons to Visit Fredericksburg

Don’t miss out on one of Texas Hill Country’s most getaway-worthy towns

John O. Meusebach couldn’t have imagined what would become of the settlement he established in 1846 on the Texas frontier. He found a tract of land 60 miles northwest of New Braunfels and bought 10,000 acres near the confluence of two streams about 4 miles above the Pedernales River. The first German immigrants arrived on May 8, 1846 to the new town which was named Fredericksburg after Prince Frederick of Prussia.

Fredericksburg © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Nestled in the heart of the Hill Country, Fredericksburg continues to thrive today. The town holds tight to its German heritage in various ways with its beloved Main Street, restaurants, and cultural traditions. A proliferation of vineyards, wineries, galleries, and shopping have also infused the town with new energy and made it one of Texas’ most popular tourist destinations.

This Texas Hill Country treasure seamlessly blends its German roots with Texas traditions. Grab a drink at a biergarten (including Altdorf Biergarten and The Auslander) or one of the local wineries and peruse the town’s bustling Main Street and museums.

Fredericksburg © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

If you’re up for a challenge, hike to the top of Enchanted Rock, a pink granite mountain less than 20 miles north of town.

Fredericksburg is one of the most getaway-worthy small towns in the whole Lone Star State—and that’s saying something. Located between the popular destinations of San Antonio and Austin it’s not only easy to reach but it still feels a million miles away from city life. This tiny town is dripping with old-fashioned traditions and authentic German roots.

Fredericksburg © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Present-day Fredericksburg’s charm attributes to many things: The picturesque Hill Country scenery, the town’s uncanny ability to maintain its dual German-Texan heritage, and its many impressive attractions. From over 100 wineries and tasting rooms to a Main Street bustling with shops, galleries, restaurants, and biergartens, discover this hidden gem and make the most of your trip to Fredericksburg.

ENJOY LOCAL CUISINE

German food © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Indulge in authentic German food and biergartens

Of course, it wouldn’t be a trip to Fredericksburg without Tex-Mex cuisine, schnitzels, sauerbraten (German pot roast), and German beer gardens. Wondering where to eat in Fredericksburg? You can find delicious food and handcrafted spirits at more than 70 restaurants including upscale eatery Cabernet Grill and German specialty restaurant Der Lindenbaum. Head to Old German Bakery & Restaurant for a hearty breakfast but make sure to get there early to snag a table.

German food © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Just off Main Street, you’ll stumble upon a novel culinary experience at Otto’s German Bistro. This restaurant makes the most locally grown and produced ingredients to dish up farm-to-table German cuisine in the heart of the American South. The menu is specially curated for each season to ensure that the meals are always as fresh as possible. With delicacies like duck schnitzel, truffle linguine, and their famous wurst platte on offer, you can’t go wrong.

Texas Wine Trail © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Sip your way along the wine trails

They don’t call this part of Texas wine country for nothing. Over 100 vineyards and tasting rooms are located in and around town providing the ultimate vino experience while learning about Texas grapes. Fredericksburg is one of the most-visited wine destinations in the country. Favorite recommendations include Grape Creek Vineyards, Messina Hof Hill Country Winery, and Barons Creek Vineyards. Book the 290 Wine Shuttle for safe all-day transportation between the wineries.

GET OUTSIDE

Looking for outdoor activities?

Wildseed Farms © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Stop and smell the state’s flowers at Wildseed Farms

This gorgeous 200-acre space is the largest wildflower farm in the United States and home to not only magical sunflower fields but also to the iconic Texas bluebonnet as well as other state specialties like red corn poppies and phlox. The best time to visit is in spring when all of the showstoppers are on display but the farm is still filled with a large selection of summer blooms as well as a stockpile of pumpkins ready to be carved in fall. Visitors can even shop for their own seeds to plant at home. A half-mile of leisurely walking trails will get you up close and personal with the flowers and sitting areas throughout the farm are a great place to relax and enjoy the sights.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Climb Enchanted Rock

Not only does Fredericksburg boast the country’s biggest wildflower farm, it’s also only a 20-minute drive to America’s largest pink granite mountain. Perched on the Llano Uplift, the incredible Enchanted Rock is a pink granite dome that can be seen from many miles around. The rock is a massive granite dome that is part of the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.

Enchanted Rock is a stunning natural area with 8.4 miles of hiking trails and some of the best night sky views in the state. The Tonkawa Indians believed that this site was inhabited by spirits that protected the land from unwelcome intruders and much of that magic is still felt today.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

An incentive for reaching the peak of this pink granite dome is the breathtaking view of the Texas Hill Country that awaits you at the top.

Many visitors claim they’ve heard strange sounds and seen unnatural lights at night. If that’s not enough of an adrenaline rush for you, Enchanted Rock is home to some of the best rock climbing in the state with routes available for all skill levels. (The rolling hills and pasture views are incredible!)

TRAVEL BACK IN TIME

National Museum of the Pacific War © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Remember the Pacific

Probably the last place you’d expect to hear detailed accounts and witness bona fide relics of World War II in the Pacific is in this little central Texas town. But alas, history is waiting to be explored in Fredericksburg’s National Museum of the Pacific War. At the museum’s combat zone, you can immerse yourself in a staged reenactment of the events of the war that played out in the Pacific. In its vast gallery space, visitors can participate in interactive exhibits and view tanks and aircrafts used in the war.

National Museum of the Pacific War © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Pioneer Museum Complex

For a calmer journey into the past, the Pioneer Museum Complex offers a unique look at the history of the area tracing the story of the first German settlers who arrived in Fredericksburg in the 1840s. All of that spread across a 3.5-acre museum complex which includes the Vereins Kirche Museum. The Vereins Kirche Museum is, among others, a reconstruction of the original building that served as a Town Hall and a piece of living history. The experience includes a self-guided stroll around the grounds where historic homesteads, a one-room schoolhouse, and a smokehouse spread out below towering Texas pecans.

Texas White House © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Explore the Texas White House

The 36th president of the United States called Fredericksburg his home and visitors today can still visit the legendary LBJ Ranch, an incredible national historic site. Pick up a free driving permit that allows you to view the grounds from the comfort of your own car, stopping and sightseeing at their own pace. Among the unmissable lookout spots are the President’s birthplace, the family cemetery, and Johnson’s sprawling ranch house lovingly known as the Texas White House. You can also take a tour through LBJ’s childhood home or visit his grandfather’s cattle driving headquarters built in the 1860s and still standing today.

Wildseed Farms © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

VISIT LIKE A LOCAL

Spend time on Main Street

Shops and tourist attractions may come and go but one aspect of Fredericksburg has stood the test of time: the historic storefronts up and down Main Street. In addition to stores, art galleries, and artisan gifts and treats, the epicenter of Main Street is the Marktplatz. You can even see Wilkommen (translation: welcome) signs on full display throughout town. For drinks and live music start the evening at 78624 Bar before heading to dinner at acclaimed Vaudeville, a French-style bistro on Main Street. Other recommended dinner spots include Hill & Vine and Otto’s German Bistro.

Wildseed Farms © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Rest your feet at Marktplatz

This square at the heart of Fredericksburg holds the old site of the town’s first church and school and the two main shopping districts stretch out on either side. The grounds are full of sprawling gardens, a gorgeous setting for many of Fredericksburg’s festivals, special events, and a popular destination for wedding ceremonies. It has excellent photo opportunities too.

Even if you go when there’s nothing on the schedule, wandering around Marktplatz is an event in and of itself. You’ll find historical sculptures, picnic areas, and plenty of green space to spread out on after a morning of shopping.

Wildseed Farms © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Attend a Festival

Depending on the time of year you visit there is almost always a seasonal festival on the lineup. In spring, expect events surrounding the Texas bluebonnets in bloom. In the fall, the town is gearing up for Oktoberfest (which celebrates the town’s German heritage) and the Food & Wine Festival. Fredericksburg also gets decked out for the holiday season and is not to be missed.

Now, off to plan your next trip to Fredericksburg.

Texas Spoken Friendly

Worth Pondering…

Texas is a state of the mind.

Texas is an obsession.

Above all,

Texas is a nation in every sense of the word.

―John Steinbeck, Travels with Charley: In Search of America

The Least Visited U.S. National Parks

These least-visited national parks in the U.S. have all of the beauty and none of the crowds

Currently, there are 63 national parks in the U.S., alongside countless more national monuments, national recreation areas, national seashores, and national historic sites overseen by the National Park Service (NPS). These protected spaces represent some of the most important natural and cultural landscapes in the country.

The NPS recently released its latest annual visitation data which will help us (and you) decide where to plan your next hike, whether you’re looking for a communal vibe, or a more secluded and isolated experience.

With almost 13 million visits last year, the Great Smoky Mountains remain undefeated when it comes to the most visitors of any national park. But other, no less spectacular parks see a fraction of those numbers. If you want to head off the beaten path, here are 21 of the least visited NPS service sites in the U.S.

Tumacácori National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Tumacácori National Historic Park

State: Arizona

2022 visits: 38,786

The oldest Jesuit mission in Arizona has been preserved in Tumacácori National Historic Park, a picturesque reminder that Southern Arizona was, at one time, the far northern frontier of New Spain. The San Cayetano del Tumacácori Mission was established in 1691 by Spanish Jesuit priest Eusebio Francisco Kino, 29 miles north of Nogales beside the Santa Cruz River. Jesuit, and later Franciscan, priests ministered to the O’odham Indians and Spanish settlers until 1848.

>> Get more tips for visiting Tumacácori National Historic Park

Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site

State: Arizona

2022 visits: 50,017

Hubbell Trading Post is the oldest operating trading post in the Navajo Nation. The Arizona historical site sells basic traveling staples as well as Native American art just as it did during the late 1800s.

Aztec Ruins National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Aztec Ruins National Monument

State: New Mexico

2022 visits: 50,396

Aztec Ruins National Monument is the largest Ancestral Pueblo community in the Animas River Valley. In use for over 200 years, the site contains several multi-story buildings called great houses, each with a great kiva—a circular ceremonial chamber—as well as many smaller structures. 

>> Get more tips for visiting Aztec Ruins National Monument

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site

State: Pennsylvania

2022 visits: 57,238

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site is the best-preserved iron plantation in North America. Hopewell Furnace consists of a mansion (the big house), spring and smokehouses, a blacksmith shop, an office store, a charcoal house, and a schoolhouse.

>> Get more tips for visiting Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site

El Morro National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

El Morro National Monument

State: New Mexico

2022 visits: 60,501

Rising 200 feet above the valley floor, this massive sandstone bluff was a welcome landmark for weary travelers. A reliable year-round source of drinking water at its base made El Morro a popular campsite in this otherwise rather arid and desolate country.At the base of the bluff—often called Inscription Rock—on sheltered smooth slabs of stone, are seven centuries of inscriptions covering human interaction with this spot.

>> Get more tips for visiting El Morro National Monument

Chiricahua National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Chiricahua National Monument

State: Arizona

2022 visits: 61,377

The most noticeable natural features in Chiricahua National Monument are the rhyolite rock pinnacles for which the monument was created to protect. Rising sometimes hundreds of feet into the air, many of these pinnacles are balancing on a small base, seemingly ready to topple over at any time.

Cumberland Island National Seashore © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Cumberland Island National Seashore

State: Georgia

2022 visits: 64,387

There is only one place on Earth where you can find wild horses, secluded white beaches, live oaks draped in Spanish moss, and the skeletal remains of a once-famous mansion. Cumberland is one of the largest undeveloped barrier islands along the Georgia coast. The National Park Service protects almost 36,000 acres of the island including miles of unspoiled beaches.

>> Get more tips for visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore

Saratoga National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Saratoga National Historic Park

State: New York

2022 visits: 70,742

Site of the first significant American military victory during the Revolution, the Battle of Saratoga is considered among the most decisive battles in world history. Here in 1777 American forces met, defeated, and forced a major British army to surrender, an event which led France to recognize the independence of the United States and enter the war as a decisive military ally of the struggling Americans.

Natural Bridges National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Natural Bridges National Monument

State: Utah

2022 visits: 71,249

Formed by the power of water in a place where water is all but absent, three stone bridges in the Utah desert have been protected as a national monument since 1908. Since natural bridges are formed by running water, they are much rarer than arches which result from a variety of other erosion forces. A nine mile one-way loop drive connects pull-outs and overlooks with views of the three huge multi-colored natural bridges.

>> Get more tips for visiting Natural Bridges National Monument

Casa Grande Ruins National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Casa Grande Ruins National Monument

State: Arizona

2022 visits: 78,557

Casa Grande Ruins National Monument contains an imposing four-story building dating from the late Hohokam period probably 14th century and contemporary with other well preserved ruins in Arizona such as the Tonto and Montezuma Castle national monuments. The structure was once part of a collection of settlements scattered along the Gila River and linked by a network of irrigation canals. 

>> Get more tips for visiting Casa Grande Ruins National Monument

Appomattox Court House National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Appomattox Court House National Historic Park

State: Virginia

2022 visits: 83,483

Appomattox Court House National Historical Park encompasses approximately 1,800 acres of rolling hills in rural central Virginia. The site includes the McLean home where Lee made his formal surrender and the village of Appomattox Court House, the former county seat for Appomattox County. The walking tour allows you to see all buildings which are original to the site, and have been restored to their original condition. 

>> Get more tips for visiting Appomattox Court House National Historical Park

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park

State: Texas

2022 visits: 87,386

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park tells the story of America’s 36th President beginning with his ancestors until his final resting place on his beloved LBJ Ranch. This entire circle of life gives the visitor a unique perspective into one of America’s most noteworthy citizens by providing the most complete picture of any American president.

>> Get more tips for visiting Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park

Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site

State: New York

2022 visits: 100,665

See the place where Franklin D. Roosevelt was born and buried in Hyde Park at the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site. The home is also the location of the first presidential library.

Minuteman Missile National Historic Site © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Minuteman Missile National Historic Site

State: South Dakota

2022 visits: 105,776

Commemorating the Cold War, Minuteman Missile National Historic Site offers visitors a history of the U.S. nuclear missile program and their hidden location in the Great Plains. The site details U.S. foreign policy and its push for nuclear disarmament.

Tuzigoot National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Tuzigoot National Monument

State: Arizona

2022 visits: 116,639

Built atop a small 120 foot ridge is a large pueblo. Tuzigoot is Apache for crooked water; however, it was built by the Sinagua. With 77 ground floor rooms this pueblo held about 50 people. After about 100 years the population doubled and then doubled again later. By the time they finished building the pueblo, it had 110 rooms including second and third story structures and housed 250 people. 

>> Get more tips for visiting Tuzigoot National Monument

Coronado National Memorial © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Coronado National Memorial

State: Arizona

2022 visits: 131,359

The site of the Coronado National Monument features panoramic views of the United States-Mexico border and the San Pedro River Valley which was the route believed to have been taken by the Francisco Vásquez de Coronado expedition. If you’re interested in life in this region before the Coronado Expedition, take a tour of the Coronado Cave. For those looking to stay above ground, the scenic overlook at Montezuma Pass (elevation 6,575 feet) provides breathtaking views of the San Raphael Valley, the San Pedro Valley, and Mexico.

>> Get more tips for visiting Coronado National Monument

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

State: Arizona

2022 visits: 133,317

This stretch of desert marks the northern range of the organ pipe cactus, a rare species in the U.S. The organ pipe cactus can live to over 150 years in age, have up to 100 arms, reach 25 feet in height, and will only produce their first flower near the age of 35.

>> Get more tips for visiting Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park

State: Georgia

2022 visits: 155,242

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park in Macon is a significant Native American landmark dating back over 10,000 years. Visitors can learn about the Mississippian culture, climb atop the seven mounds, and even go inside one of the mounds’ Earth Lodge. Eight miles of walking trails wind through the park including by the namesake river. The park is making efforts to become a national park and hosts annual events like the fall Ocmulgee Indian Celebration (31st annual; September 16-17, 2023).

El Malpais National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

El Malpais National Monument

State: New Mexico

2022 visits: 162,755

The richly diverse volcanic landscape of El Malpais National Monument offers solitude, recreation, and discovery. There’s something for everyone here. Explore cinder cones, lava tube caves, sandstone bluffs, and hiking trails. Known as the badlands in Spanish, El Malpais was used by early Spanish map makers to describe areas of volcanic terrain. El Malpais preserves an ancient volcanic landscape and a history of human habitation.

>> Get more tips for visiting El Malpais National Monument

Congaree National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Congaree National Park

State: South Carolina

2022 visits: 204,522

Some of the tallest trees on the east coast are located inside Congaree which was named after the Native American tribe that used to reside in the area. Unlike many hardwood forests, Congaree was largely spared by the lumber industry in the late 1800s and was eventually designated as a national monument and then a national park. The terrain includes the forest, the Congaree River, and the floodplain.

>> Get more tips for visiting Congaree National Park

Cowpens National Battlefield © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Cowpens National Battlefield

State: South Carolina

2022 visits: 212,534

Cowpens National Battlefield commemorates a decisive battle that helped turn the tide of war in the Southern Campaign of the American Revolution. On this field on January 17, 1781, Daniel Morgan led his army of tough Continentals, militia, and cavalry to a brilliant victory over Banastre Tarleton’s force of British regulars. The battle at the Cow Pens is one of only a few successful double envelopments in history.

>> Get more tips for visiting Cowpens National Battlefield

These 21 lesser-known and visited parks have minimal visitors, plenty to do, and much-needed peace and quiet. Consider adding these least-visited national parks to your 2023 list of road trip destinations.

Worth Pondering…

When your spirit cries for peace, come to a world of canyons deep in an old land; feel the exultation of high plateaus, the strength of moving wasters, the simplicity of sand and grass, and the silence of growth.

—August Fruge

Deep in the Heart: State Parks Celebrate 100 Years of Outdoors in Texas

Texas State Parks is turning 100. My favorite Lone Star escapes.

From mountains and canyons to forests and swamps, the vast scale of Texas provides so many natural wonders. Across the Lone Star State, there are 87 state parks, natural areas, and historic sites currently operated by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD).

The first parks were opened to the public in the 1930s and the newest, Old Tunnel State Park, an old railroad tunnel that provides a seasonal home for 3 million bats, opened in 2012.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

TPWD also has plans to develop five sites into future state parks. The latest acquisition is the 17,351-acre Powderhorn Ranch. This property is one of the largest remaining tracts of unspoiled coastal prairie in the state. A coalition of conservation groups made this purchase possible in 2014. Most of this tract is part of the Powderhorn Wildlife Management Area but 2,253 acres will be developed as a state park. 

Other sites TPWD plan to develop into state parks includes:

  • Albert & Bessie Kronkosky State Natural Area (Hill Country southeast of Kerrville)
  • Chinati Mountains State Natural Area (northwest of Big Bend Ranch State Park)
  • Davis Hill State Natural Area (east of Houston)
  • Palo Pinto Mountains State Park (west of Fort Worth)
Monahans Sandhills State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Fairfield Lake State Park, meanwhile, closed permanently closes at the end of February. Located 70 miles east of Waco, Vistra Energy owned the land and leased it to the state at no cost. The company sold the land to Todd Interests who plans to transform the park into an exclusive community with multi-million dollar homes and a private golf course.

TPWD splits the state into seven natural regions, each of which is home to several state parks. The Prairies & Lakes region is home to 22 parks, more than any other region. The South Texas Plains region is home to the fewest, with seven parks.

Balmorhea State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Across the system, state parks welcomed more than nine million visitors in 2022. The Prairies & Lakes region recorded the most visitors with more than 3.1 million across its 22 parks.

The Hill Country region welcomed more than 2.3 million visitors across 16 parks while the Pineywoods and Panhandle Plains regions each saw more than one million visitors.

Guadalupe River State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

State parks in the Big Bend Country region saw the fewest number of visitors with around 464,000. Those numbers do not include visitors to Big Bend National Park which alone saw more than half a million visitors in 2021, a record high for the park.

In 1923, the state park board of directors met for the first time. Before then, Gov. Pat Neff developed what became Mother Neff State Park perched on the Leon River southwest of Waco. His mother, Isabella Neff, had donated the original six acres for the park in 1921.

Below I showcase my favorite Tezas State Parks. Note that these are not the best state parks. I haven’t sampled them all. I’ve never, for instance, been to enormous Big Bend Ranch State Park as much as I love the nearby Big Bend National Park.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Established: 1978

Where: Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, 16710 RR 965, Fredericksburg

The Nature Conservancy of Texas was involved in acquiring this striking 425-foot granite dome or batholith in the Llano Uplift region. The hike up the main face is moderately challenging for the fit. Each year that passes, though, climbs like this daunts me a bit more. The the rock climbing spots are alluring for those so inclined.

Numerous legends are associated with this spot that held spiritual significance for Indigenous peoples. This is our version of Australia’s Uluru (Ayers Rock). Be prepared: It can get windy up there.

>> Get more tips for visiting Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Goose Island State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Goose Island State Park

Established: 1935

Where: Goose Island State Park 202 S. Palmetto St., Rockport

Bounded by the waters of the St. Charles, Copano, and Aransas bays, 314-acre Goose Island State Park is a coastal delight. Popular with Winter Texans during winter months, birders during spring and fall migration, and campers year-round, Goose Island State Park is located 10 miles north of Rockport-Fulton, off State Highway 35.

The Big Tree © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Goose Island State Park is best known for two celebrated residents, one of which is the Big Tree—an enormous 1,000-year-old coastal live oak that has survived prairie fires, Civil War battles, and hurricanes. With a height of 44 feet, a circumference of 35 feet, and a crown spanning roughly 90 feet, the massive coastal live oak has survived Mother Nature’s fiercest storms including Hurricane Harvey (August 25, 2017) for more than 1,000 years.

The other resident is the rare endangered whooping crane that returns to the area every winter.

>> Get more tips for visiting Goose Island State Park

Monahans Sandhills State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Monahans Sandhills State Park

Established: 1957

Where: Park Rd. 41, Monahans

You can surf on the Gulf Coast in Texas but you can also surf at Monahans Sandhills State Park in West Texas. A virtual island in a Permian Basin sea, the narrow strip of dunes runs for 200 miles from just south of Monahans north into New Mexico and creates a unique habitat that’s home to a variety of wildlife and supports one of the world’s largest oak forests—albeit the oaks themselves are of the diminutive variety. The Harvard oaks that cover more than 40,000 acres here seldom rise above three feet in height even though their root structure may extend as deep as 70 to 90 feet in the dunes.

The park offers an interpretive center and museum, as well as picnicking and RV camping and a favorite activity of many visitors, sand surfing. Rent sand disks to surf the dunes or bring your horse and check out the 800-acre equestrian area. Just make sure you mark off “surfed in a desert” from your travel bucket list.

>> Get more tips for visiting Monohans Sandhills State Park

Balmorhea State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Balmorhea State Park

Established: 1940

Where: Balmorhea State Park, 9207 Texas 17, Toyahvale

Before the Civilian Conservation Corps built the concrete swimming pool and cabins in the 1930s, the San Solomon Springs provided water for local wildlife and hunter gatherers who are believed to have first made their appearance in the area around 11,000 years ago. During the 1800s, cattle ranchers and railroad workers often used the springs.

Now, the pool is most commonly frequented by Texans looking to escape the oppressive summer heat in an appealing desert landscape. Visitors can swim, snorkel, and scuba dive at the pool which hosts two endangered species of fish: the Pecos gambusia and the Comanche Springs pupfish. Though Balmorhea State Park is a bit out of the way from any major city (the nearest one—Odessa, Texas—is 116 miles away), getting to take a dip in the turquoise gem of the west Texas desert is an experience not to be missed. 

Davis Mountains State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Davis Mountains State Park

Established: 1933

Where: Davis Mountains State Park, Texas 118, Fort Davis

If you ask any Texan what they think of when they hear the words West Texas, the first thing that probably comes to mind is Big Bend National Park (or, alternatively, the cool little art town in the middle of nowhere, Marfa). But about 140 miles north of Big Bend country are the Davis Mountains which are geologically classified as a sky island—an isolated mountain range connecting two very different regions.

Thanks to the state park’s proximity to the McDonald Observatory, the area enjoys mandatory dark skies making it an ideal spot for stargazing.
Davis Mountains State Park isn’t known only for its outdoor activities. One of the most distinctive hotel options in the area is the Indian Lodge built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1933. The pueblo-style lodge functions as a full-service hotel and has 39 rooms and a dreamy swimming pool.

Guadalupe River State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Guadalupe River State Park

Established: 1974

Where: 3350 Park Road 31, Spring Branch

When the temperatures start to creep into the triple digits, there’s no better place to cool off than tubing along four miles of the Guadalupe River. Swimming, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing are also allowed. Another highlight is the Guadalupe River State Park Paddling Trail which begins in the park. During the cooler months, hike or bike the 13 miles of trails; geocaching and bird watching are also popular activities. There are over 90 campsites available. Guided tours are also offered for the Honey Creek Natural Area, a 1.5-mile spring-fed creek and natural area adjacent to the park.

>> Get more tips for visiting Guadalupe River State Park

McKinney Falls State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

McKinney Falls State Park

Established: 1976

Where: 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway, Austin

This Austin-area state park is an adventure playground with ample opportunities to hike, bike, geocache, camp, or go bouldering. Many of the park’s historic attractions are along Onion Creek including the remains of an 1852 gristmill and horse trainer’s cabin. Don’t forget to take a photo with Old Baldy, one of the oldest bald cypress trees on public land in the state. At roughly 500 years old, Old Baldy clocks in at 103 feet tall.

The creek cascades over limestone ledges and volcanic ash at the upper and lower falls. The rushing water makes it easy to forget you’re only 13 miles from downtown Austin. In addition, there are nine miles of trails to explore inside the park. The hard-surfaced 2.8-mile Onion Creek Hike and Bike Trail is a must because it’s suitable for road bikes and strollers. There’s also an all-terrain wheelchair (that must be reserved in advance) available for visitors.

>> Get more tips for visiting McKinney Falls State Park

Blanco State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Blanco State Park

Established: 1933

Where: 101 Park Road 23. Blanco

Continuing with water spots, the Falls Dam area at Blanco State Park is the perfect location to beat the heat. This park is off Highway 281 in the city of Blanco and beyond camping and swimming you can also rent tubes here to enjoy the river in a different fashion.

This small park hugs a one-mile stretch of the river. On the water you can swim, fish, paddle, or boat. On land, you can picnic, hike, camp, watch for wildlife, and geocache.

The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built the picnic pavilion with its stone walks and stairs to the river. CCC boys also built picnic tables and benches, stone dams and bridges, all during an 11-month period in 1933 and 1934. Reserve the CCC-built picnic area or pavilion for your next group gathering. 

Goliad State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Goliad State Park & Historic Site

Established: 1949

Where: 108 Park Road 6, Goliad

Follow the footsteps of Native Americans and Spanish explorers at the unique Goliad State Park & Historic Site. The centerpiece is the whitewashed Mission Espíritu, a 1749 Spanish mission restored in 1930 by the CCC. Explore the nearby ruins of Mission Nuestra Señora del Rosario, El Camino Real de los Tejas Visitors Center, and the birthplace of Gen­er­al Ig­nacio Zara­goza, a Mexican general famous for defeating the French in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, the origin of Cinco de Mayo.

Covering 276 acres along the San Antonio River, there is no shortage of recreation opportunities from paddling to fishing. The 6.6-mile Goliad Paddling Trail passes through the park which serves as a take-out point. Borrow some fishing gear from the park headquarters to try your luck catching catfish, bass, and sunfish. A series of short walking trails line the river providing an up-close view of the park’s sites. Camping is also available. Before leaving the town of Goliad, stop by the nearby ruins of Presidio La Bahía, a former Spanish fort.

Palmetto State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Palmetto State Park

Established: 1936

Where: 78 Park Road 11 South, Gonzales

If you’re looking for the perfect spot for a weekend getaway there’s no better place than the tropical oasis of Palmetto State Park. The ecosystems of both eastern and western species merge at this Central Texas Park resulting in a plethora of diverse animals and plants. The 270.3-acre park is named for the dwarf palmetto, a species of palm native to the eastern and southeastern regions of the state. Birders often flock to this park which is part of the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail. Over 240 species of birds have been observed in the park.

The San Marcos River winds through the park with ample opportunities for paddling, swimming, and fishing. Other water features include an oxbow lake and swamps. Fishing gear is available for loan at the park while kayaks and paddleboards can be rented from Paddle EZ for use on the lake only.

>> Get more tips for visiting Palmetto State Park

LBJ Texas White House © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site

Established: 1970

Where: 199 Park Road 52, Stonewall

Spend the day exploring this unique historical site. Visit the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm. Walk 1.2 miles of trails, passing bison, longhorns, wildflowers, creeks, and historic cabins. 

Tour the adjacent LBJ Ranch for an in-depth history lesson. Start with a self-guided driving tour of the ranch where he was born, lived, died, and was buried. In addition, visitors can stop at the family cemetery, ranch house, known as the Texas White House, and his former airplane hangar which now houses one of the park’s two visitor centers.

The expansive 1,570-acre property also includes the Johnson Settlement where his grandfather and great-uncle established a 1860s cattle operation. Several buildings are intact including their log cabin, barns, cooler house and a windmill. Before visiting, download the free National Park Service app for an audio tour of the drive.

>> Get more tips for visiting Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site

Lockhart State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Lockhart State Park

Established: 1936

Where: 2012 State Park Road, Lockhart

Come for the barbecue, camp at the state park. Yes, there’s a place to walk off all the brisket and sausage you devoured downtown in Lockhart. The state park has something for everyone—a pool and great hiking for the family and a 9-hole golf course built by the Works Progress Administration and the CCC over 80 years ago for the adults and, of course, great camping.

Bastrop State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Bastrop State Park

Established: 1933

Where: 100 Park Road 1A, Bastrop

There’s a common misconception that because of 2011’s massive wildfire, Bastrop State Park is a dead park. It’s actually the total opposite. The park interpreter there, Kristen Williams, likes to describe it as a living laboratory. Where else can you see nature’s rebirth up close and personal? The glorious lost pines are growing back in bunches along the Red Trail and there’s plenty of other stuff for families at Bastrop—fishing, camping, a pool, and a new playground, to name a few.

Bike or drive scenic Park Road 1C between Bastrop and Buescher state parks. The hilly 12-mile road takes you through recovering and forested areas of the Lost Pines. Turn down the radio and enjoy this quiet drive. Share the road! The speed limit is 30 miles per hour.

Buescher State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Texas State Parks Pass

Consider purchasing a Texas State Parks Pass. For those planning to visit multiple state parks near San Antonio, consider purchasing an annual Texas State Parks Pass for $70. The pass waives the entry fee for you and others in your vehicle at over 80 Texas state parks. Otherwise, an entry fee is charged per person. Additionally, the pass provides discount rates on camping and equipment rentals.

Texas Spoken Friendly

Worth Pondering…

No matter how far we may wander, Texas lingers with us, coloring our perceptions of the world.

—Elmer Kelto

10 Amazing Places to RV in February 2023

If you’re dreaming of where to travel to experience it all, here are my picks for the best places to RV in February

The mind is like a car battery—it recharges by running.

—Bill Watterson

Every day, for 10 years, cartoonist Bill Watterson delighted readers with a new story in his beloved syndicated comic strip Calvin and Hobbes. But that kind of round-the-clock ingenuity is no easy feat. His secret? Recharging the mind by letting it play. “I’ve had to cultivate a kind of mental playfulness,” Watterson said in the same 1990 commencement speech at Kenyon College where he gave the quote above. “A playful mind is inquisitive and learning is fun.”

In other words, creative ideas come when the mind is encouraged to wander into new areas, exploring wherever your natural curiosity may lead. Instead of shutting off your brain at the end of a long day, reinvigorate it by indulging your innate sense of wonder. If you follow what makes learning fun, it’s bound to lead you to new ideas.

With a chill in the air we head into February literally and figuratively cold with no idea what those rodents we trust as meteorologists will predict. Will it be six more weeks of a holed-up winter? Or will it be an early, forgiving spring? Like pretty much every single day of the last three years, the answer is: Who knows! Certainly not our friend Punxsutawney Phil whose accuracy rate is a whopping 39 percent! You’d be better off flipping a coin.

We do know, however, that we’re gonna embrace the here and now. This month we do have ostrich races at the Indio Date Festival and another reason to visit Charleston. We also have desert warmth and wildflowers along the Pinal Parkway and places to celebrate President’s Day.

Planning an RV trip for a different time of year? Check out my monthly travel recommendations for the best places to travel in January. Also, check out my recommendations from February 2022 and March 2022.

Mexican poppies along Pinal Parkway © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. The Pinal Pioneer Parkway

The Pinal Pioneer Parkway connected Tucson and Phoenix in the years before Interstate 10 was built. Now a little-traveled back road, it’s a much more picturesque route than the main highway especially in wildflower season. The parkway itself is a 42 mile-long stretch of Arizona State Highway 79, beginning in the desert uplands on the north slope of the Santa Catalina Mountains at about 3,500 feet and wending northward to just above 1,500 feet outside the little town of Florence.

Mexican poppies along Pinal Parkway © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

In spring, the parkway is lined with desert verbena, lupine, Mexican poppies, globemallow, chuparosa, penstemon, and daisies. Even in dry years when other parts of the desert aren’t flowering, the Pinal Pioneer Parkway always seems to manage a good show.

The parkway is marked with signs pointing out some of the characteristic desert vegetation such as saguaro and mesquite. Pack a picnic lunch and stop at one of the many roadside tables. Stop at the Tom Mix Memorial, 23.5 miles north of Oracle Junction at milepost 116, to pay your respects to the late movie cowboy.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

2. Visit the Presidents (and other things) in South Dakota

As always, Presidents’ Day lands in February. So maybe it’s time to get extra presidential by firing up the RV for a jaunt to South Dakota. After your patriotic tour of Mount Rushmore, you’ll have free reign of one of the least-visited states at its emptiest time. Hike a frozen waterfall, hang out on a frozen lake, or get to know the land’s first people.

Badlands National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Or dig deep into the western part of the state: Not far from Rushmore, you can pretend you’re on an alien planet in the Badlands, kick up your spurs with some ghosts in Deadwood, hop on a jackalope while stuffed with homemade donuts at Wall Drug, and gaze upon the wonders of the Corn Palace. Visit the stunning lakes and spires of Custer State Park and see where the thrilling buffalo roundup happens in September. Just give your new fuzzy friends lots of room.

>> Get more tips for visiting South Dakota

Bay St. Lewis © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. A place apart

Considered a place apart, this quaint seaside town has been named one of the Coolest Small Towns in America by Budget Travel and was also recognized as a top 10 small beach town by Coastal Living Magazine. From friendly folks to historic buildings, this unique city embraces the heritage of the Coastal Mississippi region.

The town’s prime spot on the Mississippi Sound, an embayment of the Gulf of Mexico, provides a glorious stretch of white-sanded beach with virtually no crowds.

Bay St. Lewis © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Just off of Beach Boulevard, you’ll find Old Town Bay St. Louis, a walkable area full of local shops and eateries. Spend an afternoon strolling through Old Town, browsing the beach boutiques and art galleries. Don’t miss the French Potager, an antique store and flower shop.

>> Get more tips for visiting Bay St. Louis

Crowley © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Where Life is Rice & Easy

At the crossroads of LA 13 and U.S. Highway 90 lies the city of Crowley.

Rice is the bedrock of the region’s celebrated Cajun cuisine and no other Louisiana community is as intimately tied to the crop as Crowley. The swallow ponds and level prairies surrounding the city produce lots of crawfish too, but it was the turn-of-the-century rice mills that gave Crowley its identity and made possible today’s impressive collection of historic structures.

Crowley © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Many historic buildings still play prominent roles in the city’s life. One such example is Miller Stadium, a 1940s-era ballpark and the Grand Opera House of the South that first opened in 1901 and was recently revived as an elegant space for world-class performers. Visitors can relive regional music history at the J.D. Miller Recording Studio Museum downtown or get a taste of prairie life at the Crystal Rice Heritage Farm.

>> Get more tips for visiting Crowley

Sculptures of Borrego © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. Beyond the Sculptures of Borrego

Nestled between the historic gold mining town of Julian and The Salton Sea, Borrego Springs and the surrounding Anza-Borrego Desert State Park offer several exceptional experiences. Located two hours from San Diego, there are activities and natural attractions suited for many types of RVers. With 500 miles of dirt roads, a dozen wilderness areas, and miles of hiking trails you would expect some great adventures, and you won’t be disappointed.

Christmas Circles in Borrego Springs © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Walking downtown Borrego Springs is a fun experience. Start at Christmas Circle—the main attraction—and poke your head into some exciting shops or visit The Borrego Art Institute. This is where you can observe potters and en plein air artists complete their current artworks.

Hiking is popular in the Anza-Borrego Desert and enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. The desert trails are not for the faint of heart but rather ideal for those with a sense of adventure. Remember, hydration is vital in this arid region and be sure to bring along plenty of water. The routes are not always well marked and cell service is almost non-existent.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Borrego Springs isn’t known for its nightlife or at least not the club kind.  However, it is an area that should be explored well after the sun sets. Borrego is an International Dark Sky Community that was designated by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA). Stargazing is encouraged.

There is no need for a telescope and the brilliantly lit skies will awe anyone who hasn’t been out of the dome of a city glow. Billions of stars make themselves known and form many prominent constellations.

>> Get more tips for visiting Borrego Springs

Cumberland Island National Seashore © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. Beauty and History Combine

There’s no experience quite like the untamed beauty of Cumberland Island National Seashore, a barrier island only accessible by boat from the small town of St. Marys. Home to a handful of residents and a whole lot of wildlife, it’s an incredible place to go off-grid. Visitors can hike the miles of trails sharing the space with wild horses, alligators, and birds.

Ruins of Dungeness, Cumberland Island National Seashore © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Tours are available of historic Carnegie mansions like Plum Orchard and the ruins of Dungeness. On the northern side of the island, you can see the First African Baptist Church, a historic African-American church where John F. Kennedy Jr. was famously married. To spend the night, choose from the multiple tenting campsites or the luxurious Greyfield Inn set in another Carnegie home with chef-prepared meals and naturalist tours.

>> Get more tips for visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore

Lyndon Baines Johnson National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. The Texas Whitehouse

Those who have ascended to the presidency of the United States are products of the environments in which they were born, raised, and educated. Their early experiences usually have a significant effect on how they manage their presidency and the subsequent policy and programs developed under their watch. 

Lyndon Baines Johnson National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Lyndon Baines Johnson is a fitting example of that.  His presidency was guided in full measure by his upbringing, his personal experiences with poverty and shame, and his observation of racism and hate. 

Lyndon Baines Johnson had a staggering impact on the United States during his time as president. Much of his approach to government was instilled during his early life in Texas. The LBJ Ranch was where he was born, lived, died, and was buried.

>> Get more tips for visiting Lyndon B Johnson National Historical Park

Charleston © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

8. Wild now. Wild forever.

Since 1983, the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) has celebrated the finest in wildlife art and the sporting lifestyle. SEWE is a celebration of the great outdoors through fine art, live entertainment, and special events. It’s where artists, craftsmen, collectors, and sporting enthusiasts come together to enjoy the outdoor lifestyle.

Whether you’re browsing for your next piece of fine art, searching for distinctive hand-made creations, looking for family-friendly entertainment, or you just need an excuse for visiting Charleston and the Lowcountry, there’s something for everyone at SEWE, February 17-19, 2023. 

>> Get more tips for visiting Charleston

Riverside County Fairgrounds © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

9. It’s a Date!

Originating as a festival to celebrate the end of the annual date harvest, the annual Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival welcomes over 250,000 guests each February. The 75th Annual Date Festival will be held February 17-26, 2023 featuring 10 days of family fun and world-class entertainment. 

Dates © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Indio Date Festival and Riverside County Fair celebrate the desert’s favorite crop, dates. You’ll also see llamas, dairy goats, poultry, camel and ostrich races, WGAS Motorsports Monster Trucks, concerts, contests, games, food, and a carnival with midway action. It’s one of the best fairs in California because of its location and date.

The Riverside County Fairgrounds hosts a variety of community-focused events all year long, ranging from multi-day festivals to private events. The Fairgrounds are located on Highway 111 in Indio.

Buffalo Trace © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

10. Bourbon bonanza

Buffalo Trace is ringing in the New Year in record-breaking good spirits. The whiskey distillery officially filled its eight millionth barrel of bourbon since Prohibition. The major milestone occurred only four years after the seven millionth barrel was filled due to the distillery’s recent $1.2 billion expansion. 

To celebrate the major achievement, Buffalo Trace announced its Bourbon Experience of a Lifetime contest offering a $10,000 trip for two. After running (or walking) one mile, entrants have the chance to win a fully paid, two-night trip to the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky.

Buffalo Trace © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

This includes first-class, roundtrip airfare, car service, and a one-night stay at Buffalo Trace’s exclusive Stagg Lodge. The invite-only lodge has never been open to the public before. Built adjacent to the distillery in 2020, the 4,000-square-foot log cabin overlooks the Kentucky River and the city of Frankfort. The house has five bedrooms, four bathrooms, gorgeous great room with floor-to-ceiling windows, a double-sided fireplace, and a wrap-around deck. The experience includes a dinner for two prepared by a private chef at the lodge as well as private tours of the grounds and distillery.

Buffalo Trace © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The second-night stay will be in Louisville, Kentucky.

Winners will also be awarded an $800 Buffalo Trace Distillery gift card, plus Buffalo Trace will donate bourbon to a mutually agreed upon charity of the winner’s choice.

Interested participants in the Bourbon Experience of a Lifetime contest can enter at willrunforbuffalotracebourbon.com.

>> Get more tips for visiting Frankfort

Worth Pondering…

All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.

―Charles M. Schulz

6 Road Trips for the Holiday Season

Get ready for a RV excursion full of under-the-radar gems

Look alive folks! This diem isn’t gonna carpe itself! The only way out is through. If we’re gonna weather the uncertain waters of a kinda-maybe-sorta-post-pandemic winter, we’re gonna have to put in some hustle, we’re gonna have to do some gratitude journaling, and we’re gonna have to look out for each other, okay? Also, a sip of Kentucky bourbon helps.

Father Christmas © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

I don’t know, I don’t have any answers! I’m getting word that “going on a road trip” is another good way to cope, and I’m thinkin’ that’s an awesome idea as we head into the holiday season…

Between the stress and unpredictability of air travel, the holidays are an apt time for a good, old-fashioned road trip. Even better: A RV road trip venturing off the beaten path and discovering new sights, flavors, and activities. Sure, a classic, Americana-style trek along Route 66 is all well and good, but digging a little deeper—and making pit stops at under-the-radar destinations along the way—reaps rewards that you won’t forget. From an Arizona sunset and a tour of the Mighty Five to a Cajun Country Christmas, these are the best RV road trips to take this holiday season.

Related: Christmas Gift Ideas 2019

Arizona sunset © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Casinos, canyons, and cacti in the Southwest

You might end up on the naughty list for spending the holidays indulging in Sin City, but it’ll be worth it. Do some gaming at the new Resorts World Las Vegas (with more than 40 restaurants on-site, you won’t be lacking food options). For something more wholesome, stroll through the whimsical Holiday Cactus Garden at Ethel M Chocolates in suburban Henderson, hot cocoa in hand.

Hoover Dam © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

From here, buckle up for fun in the Arizona sun—and some epic selfie moments—with scenic stops at the Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon. Don’t forget to stop by the least visited national park in the state, Petrified Forest National Park, where the easy Blue Mesa Trail wows with boulder-sized crystalized logs and badlands lit up in tints of purple and green.

Tucson Mountain Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Loopback to Phoenix and round out your Arizona adventure in Tucson where you can spend your day communing with cacti in Saguaro National Park (the west district of the park is far less visited and hikes like Wasson Peak are practically devoid of humans).

My Old Kentucky Home State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Christmas ’Round Bardstown

Where better to experience a fantastic Christmas season than the “Most Beautiful Small Town in America?” Bardstown, Kentucky is ready to welcome you for a month and a half of Christmas events! All your Christmas wishes can come true in Bardstown.

My Old Kentucky Home State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Guides in Victorian hoop skirts and gentlemen in tailcoats sing the song “My Old Kentucky Home,” on your tour of Kentucky’s most famous landmark decorated for Christmas, My Old Kentucky Home! The mansion is adorned and decorated with six beautiful 12-foot tall Christmas trees each with a unique Kentucky theme.

My Old Kentucky Home State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Learn the origins of the Christmas tree, how mistletoe became famous for exchanging kisses, the tradition of the yule log, the history of the Christmas pickle, the legends of Father Christmas and Santa Claus. As you move forward to each room, experience a different era of Christmas, starting from colonial times, the early and late Victorian periods, all the way to the roaring 20’s when the mansion was last owned by the Rowan family. Tours are on the hour and the last tour begins at 4:00 p.m.

Arches National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

National Park-hopping in Utah

For one of the best road trips to take this holiday season, consider a national park. Home to five national parks, Utah is a quintessential state for nature enthusiasts looking to find serenity. After all, few sights are as amazing as seeing Delicate Arch aglow at sunrise or peering through Landscape Arch as the sun descends in Arches National Park or marveling at the snow-swept hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park.

Bryce Canyon National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

First off, drive to Moab for cozy vibes and comfort foods at restaurants like Sunset Grill where the prime rib is as picture-perfect as the sunset views. You’ll be properly fueled to hike in Arches National Park just down the street as well as nearby Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park before heading west to visit the wildly underrated Capitol Reef National Park, then cross-country skiing at Bryce Canyon.

Related: Photographic Proof That Utah Is Just One Big Epic National Park

Zion National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Round out your Utah trip with the iconic Zion National Park. Though one of the most visited national parks, December through March is the slow season for Zion, which means you might get the popular Narrows trail to yourselves.

LBJ Ranch © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Christmas past at LBJ state and national parks

Visit President Lyndon B. Johnson’s boyhood home in Johnson City and a historic living farm in Stonewall to experience holiday traditions of the early 20th century.

LBJ Ranch © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

At the LBJ National Historical Park, the staff decks the halls of the home where Johnson grew up with cedar boughs and berries, a cedar tree, and homemade ornaments. In conjunction with Johnson City’s community celebration of “Lights Spectacular,” the LBJ Boyhood Home will be open for lamplight tours each Saturday from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on November 27 and December 4, 11, and 18. The home is located at 200 E. Elm St. in Johnson City.

LBJ Ranch © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The LBJ State Park and Historic Site’s Sauer-Beckmann Farm, 501 Park Road 52 in Stonewall, is just a few miles away and depicts Christmas during the time of World War I. At the farm’s annual Deck the Halls event from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, November 27, volunteers help decorate by stringing popcorn, icing Christmas cookies, and dipping candles during the event.

LBJ Ranch © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Staff continues decorations in the following days until they are complete, around the time of the annual LBJ Tree Lighting, which is at 5:30 p.m. Sunday, December 19, at the park’s headquarters, 199 Park Road 52 in Stonewall.

The farm is open for tours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, and the last Tuesday of every month. The park itself is open until dark.

Related: Monumental Road Trips to Take This Winter

Johnson’s family moved from a farm in Stonewall much like the Sauer-Beckmann Farm into the Johnson City home when he was 5 years old. He lived there until his graduation from high school in 1924.

LBJ Ranch © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The Johnson family farm is part of the LBJ National Historical Park which includes what became known as the Texas White House during Johnson’s presidency. The house itself is closed due to structural concerns but the LBJ driving tour is still available. The Hangar Visitor Center is open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. Park grounds in both Johnson City and Stonewall are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

Cajun Country © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Cajun Country Christmas

Cajun Country in Louisiana celebrates the holidays just like the rest of the nation however they like to throw in some Cajun holiday traditions that make for a merry ol’ time!

Cajun Country © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Lafayette rings of zydeco beats throughout the holiday season at their annual Cajun & Creole Christmas Celebrations. The celebrations include everything from Christmas markets, concerts, local eats, holiday window displays, caroling, and a Movies in the Parc season finale.

You’ll want to check out Noel Acadien au Village in Lafayette to view more than 500,000 lights illuminating the night, lighted displays, carnival rides, local cuisine, and photos with Santa.

Cajun Country © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The historic living history village of Vermilionville hosts Old Time Winter at Vermilionville, an event where families can see what winter traditions in the Cajun Country of yesteryear looked like. Meet Papa Noël, decorate cookies, and make bousillage ornaments. Watch Vermilionville’s artisans as they demonstrate winter traditions of the Acadian, Creole, and Native American cultures such as open-hearth cooking and making candles, soap, and natural decorations.

Cajun Country © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Additionally, every Christmas season, on the Mississippi River levees above Highways 44 and 18, dozens of log structures are built for an enormous display of bonfires. Though traditionally these log piles are built to resemble narrow pyramids, local residents who build them get creative—elaborate log cabins, trains, or swamp creatures. Fires are set on Christmas Eve in an absolutely breathtaking display.

Jekyll Island Club © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Holly Jolly Jekyll

From twinkling holiday lights to visits with Santa, escape to the coastal community of Jekyll Island on Georgia’s Golden Isles for a holiday season you’ll never forget. You’ll find plenty of fun things to do, exciting celebrations, and hands-on experiences for everyone in the family.

Jekyll Island Club © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The island is home to more than half a million lights during the Holly Jolly Jekyll season. The Great Tree alone has more than 35,000 which is more per square foot than the New York City Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. Purchase tickets online for the guided tram tours that take place on select nights. Trolley riders will enjoy festive holiday beverages, music, and a one-of-a-kind tour souvenir.

Jekyll Island Club © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Plan to attend the light parade on December 4, holiday fireworks on December 11 and 18, and a special drive-in movie presentation of Frosty the Snowman on December 12 and 19, 2021.

Related: End 2020 on a High Note with these Travel Ideas

See holiday lights from November 26, 2021, through to January 2, 2022.

Jekyll Island Club © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

There’s nothing like dazzling holiday lights to get you in the spirit of the season and Jekyll has nearly a million lights that set the island aglow.  Hop aboard Jekyll’s jolliest trolley with Holly Jolly Light Tours. The whole family can sit back, relax, and view festive displays from Beach Village to the Historic District. Along the way, sip on seasonal beverages and sing along to iconic carols and tunes.

Jekyll Island © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Or climb into an old-fashioned, horse-drawn carriage for a Christmas Carriage Light Tour through the Historic District, listening to relaxing music all along the way.

Worth Pondering…

Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before! What if Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store. What if Christmas…perhaps…means a little bit more!

―Dr. Seuss, How the Grinch Stole Christmas

10 of the Best National and State Parks in Texas

In the Lone Star State, find natural springs, granite batholiths, and even gypsum sand dunes

Texas is known for big skies, wide-open spaces, and starry nights. Parts of it bristle with cacti. Others glisten with swampy, tea-colored water. Along the coast, endangered sea turtles nest along sandy beaches, towering cypress trees lean over cool green rivers, and fossilized dinosaur bones poke out of dry creek beds.

Every corner of the Lone Star State serves up its own version of Texas terrain, from mountains to beaches and well beyond. And less than five percent of its land is publicly owned. In all, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department oversees nearly 100 parks, historic sites, and natural areas across the state. The National Parks Service operates 16 more public spaces including national parks, monuments, recreation areas, preserves, trails, and memorials. Below, I’ve picked 10 of my favorite state and national parks in Texas to plan a trip around.

Balmorhea State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Balmorhea State Park, Toyahvale

It’s hard to imagine finding a giant blue-green swimming hole swirling with fish in the middle of a desert but that’s what beckons at Balmorhea State Park where more than 15 million gallons of water flow daily from San Solomon Springs into a 25-foot deep pool with a natural bottom. Native Americans, early explorers, and passing U.S. soldiers have all watered up here and in the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps turned the desert wetland into the largest spring-fed swimming pool in the world.

Balmorhea State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Now, it’s popular with land-locked scuba divers, swimmers, and anyone looking to take a flying leap off a 7-foot 3-inch-high diving board. It’s also home to two small endangered species of fish: the Comanche Springs pupfish and Pecos gambusia.

Related: Everything’s Bigger in Texas: Best Road Trips from Houston, San Antonio, and Austin

Big Bend National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Big Bend National Park, far West Texas

At first blush, Big Bend National Park in far West Texas looks desolate and uninviting. But get out and hike its prickly folds, armed with plants that poke, scrape, and stab, and you’ll discover spectacular geologic formations and a diverse range of inhabitants from javelina to tarantulas, black bear, snakes, and mountain lions.

Big Bend National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Backpack the South Rim high in the Chisos Mountains at the center of the park, raft the café-au-lait-colored water of the Rio Grande or explore the desert floor and the old farming and ranching ruins it holds. The largest of the national parks in Texas, Big Bend sprawls over 801,100 acres, so one thing you won’t find is big crowds. Peak season is November through April—no surprise, as temperatures can soar to over 100 degrees in summer.

Big Thicket National Preserve © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Big Thicket National Preserve, near Beaumont

Four types of carnivorous plants live in the Big Thicket and chances are you’ll be able to watch one of them turn an unsuspecting insect into a slow-cooked meal if you visit. But first, stop by the preserve’s visitor center to get the lay of the land at this diverse park which is made up of non-contiguous units that cover 113,114 acres of land and water in seven counties.

Related: 10 Things You Need To See and Do At Least Once In Texas

Big Thicket National Preserve © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

You’ll find sections of longleaf pine forest, swampy bayous, and wetland savannas, crisscrossed by about 40 miles of hiking trails including a few wooden boardwalks that take you past carnivorous pitcher plants. Paddlers can explore the waterways by kayak or canoe, too. Just remember to bring the bug spray.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, near Fredericksburg

Enchanted Rock looms like a giant pink onion, half-buried in the Hill Country scrub. It formed a billion years ago when a pool of magma pushed up through the earth’s surface and hardened into a granite batholith. Most visitors make the 30- or 45-minute beeline to the top of the 425-foot dome passing fragile vernal pools where water collects in shallow pits providing a home for freshwater shrimp.

Enchanted Rock State Enchanted Area© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

But don’t miss the loop trail that encircles the main attraction. Pitch a tent in the primitive sites alongside Moss Lake and watch the sun cast a rosy glow on the rock—and maybe catch the eerie creaking and groaning that some report hearing at night.

Goose Island State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Goose Island State Park, near Rockport

Lapping water and Gulf breezes: We must be on the coast! Goose Island offers camping, fishing, and birding along St. Charles and Aransas bays. Camp, fish, hike, geocache, go boating and observe and take photos of wildlife, especially birds. Fish from shore, boat, or the 1,620-foot long fishing pier.

Related: Spotlight on Texas: Most Beautiful Places to Visit

Goose Island State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Choose from 44 campsites by the bay or 57 sites nestled under oak trees, all with water and electricity. Every camping loop has restrooms with showers. Be sure to visit the Big Tree which has been standing sentinel on the coast for centuries and has withstood several major hurricanes.

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, Johnson City, and Stonewall

If you’re looking for a history lesson during your next park outing, consider Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park a two-in-one immersion into rural Texas life in the 1950s. First, tour the grounds of President Johnson’s boyhood home in Johnson City then drive 14 miles to the LBJ Ranch and Texas White House where you can drive past his birthplace, a show barn, a small schoolhouse, and the Texas White House (which is temporarily closed to indoor tours due to structural issues).

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

As you make the rounds, imagine the former president known for pulling pranks on his guests—like the time he loaded dignitaries into a vehicle, rolled it down a hill, and into a pond, hollering that the brakes had given out. He didn’t tell them it was an amphibious vehicle designed to drive on roads and float in the water. Time your visit for early spring to coincide with the annual bluebonnet display.

Bentsen-Rio Grande State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Bentsen-Rio Grande State Park, near Mission

In the Rio Grande Valley, you’ll find wonderful bird-watching opportunities. Approximately 360 species of birds have been spotted at Bentsen-Rio Grande. Butterflies, javelinas, bobcats, and more have also been seen at the park.

Green jay at Bentsen-Rio Grande State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

You will definitely want to bring your binoculars for birding with you. Like many other state parks, nature is the most intriguing part of the journey. Cars are not allowed to park on-site to help preserve nature. You can leave your car at headquarters and explore on bike, foot, or even tram.

Padre Island National Seashore © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Padre Island National Seashore, Corpus Christi

Grab your swimsuit and aim for Padre Island National Seashore which hugs 70 miles of the Texas Gulf Coast on the longest stretch of an undeveloped barrier island in the world.

Related: Absolutely Best State Parks from San Antonio

Padre Island National Seashore © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Splash in the ocean, admire birds (including the Pepto Bismol-colored Roseate spoonbill), sail, fish, and, during the summer, watch Kemp’s Ridley sea turtle hatchlings dash across the sand as scientists release them into the wild. Many a Spanish ship met its fate off the coastline here and visitors can park an RV or pitch a tent on the beach.

McKinney Falls State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

McKinney Falls State Park, Austin

Listen to Onion Creek flowing over limestone ledges and splashing into pools. Follow trails winding through the Hill Country woods. Explore the remains of an early Texas homestead and a very old rock shelter. All of this lies within Austin’s city limits at McKinney Falls State Park.

McKinney Falls State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Think of the park as Austin’s backyard; we’re just 13 miles from the state capitol. Here you can camp, hike, mountain or road bike, geocache, go bouldering, and picnic. You can also fish and swim in Onion Creek. Hike or bike nearly nine miles of trails. The 2.8-mile Onion Creek Hike and Bike Trail have a hard surface, good for strollers and road bikes.

Monahans Sandhills State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Monahans Sandhills State Park, near Pecos

A mystical place where the wind sculpts sand dunes into peaks and valleys, Mon­a­hans Sandhills offers a Texas-sized sand­box for kids of all ages as well as a close-up view of a unique desert environment. These natural sand dunes are ever-changing and worth stomping around after a few hours behind the wheel.

Monahans Sandhills State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Stop here for a picnic or sled down the swirling dunes on rentable plastic lids if you’re so inclined. Entry is $4. And spend the night at one of the 26 camping sites with water and electric hookups, a picnic table, and shelter. Camping is $15 nightly plus the entry fee.

Texas Spoken Friendly

Worth Pondering…

Texas is a state of mind. Texas is an obsession. Above all, Texas is a nation in every sense of the word.

—John Steinbeck, Travels with Charley: In Search of America

National Parks Have a Problem. They Are Too Popular.

If you’re planning to visit a national park on your summer RV trip, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans are flocking to the national parks this summer.

Imagine traveling across the country to visit one of the most stunning national parks only to find it was at capacity and the park was closed to additional visitors.

Arches is one of a number of headliner national parks seeing overcrowding as summer gets into full swing in a year when leisure travel volume is expected to rebound to pre-pandemic levels or even exceed them. The influx of visitors is forcing the park to temporarily shut its gates almost daily. And disappointed visitors aren’t the only consequence of overcrowding. The natural environment is impacted and the local community is affected, too.

Arches National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Since October 2020, visitor numbers at Arches National Park have consistently climbed as much as 70 percent in some months compared with previous years according to the National Park Service (NPS). On multiple days last week, the park started turning visitors away before 8 a.m. In previous years, Arches would sometimes turn people away on weekends. Now it’s happening almost daily. Arches had over 25,000 more visitors in May of this year compared to May 2019. Visitors who can’t get into Arches often go to nearby Canyonlands National Park or opt for recreation opportunities on public land outside of the national parks which is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).

Canyonlands National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2021 will be our busiest year on record according to a park spokesperson. The big spikes in visitation are mostly at the most popular 12 to 15 destination national parks. This year, Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks reported their highest first-quarter visitation numbers since they started collecting such data roughly 30 years ago, a state report says. Yellowstone recorded almost 108,000 visits and Grand Teton saw over 194,000. Those represent increases of 20.7 percent and 22.8 percent from 2020, respectively. 

Yellowstone National Park saw more than 483,100 people in May, the most visitors ever recorded at the park during that month. Yellowstone also saw a 50 percent increase in Memorial Day weekend visitation compared with 2019 and Yellowstone and Grand Teton had their busiest Aprils ever. Great Smoky Mountains National Park has seen record visitation each month throughout the year. Zion had over 80,000 more visitors in May than in 2020. For the first four months of 2021, Mount Rainier National Park recorded over 130,000 visitors, one of the busiest beginnings to the year that they’ve had in the last 25 years.

Zion National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

As of now, six national parks require advance reservations of some kind: California’s Yosemite National Park, Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park, Hawaii’s Haleakalā National Park, Maine’s Acadia National Park, Montana’s Glacier National Park, and Utah’s Zion National Park. Will advance reservations spread to other popular parks? That begs the question, “Do we really want recreation.gov handling this crowding too?”

The NPS encourages visitors to explore lesser-known parks throughout the park system which includes 423 NSP sites: national seashores, national monuments, national recreation areas, national historic sites, and a host of other designations. Other options include state parks, regional and county parks, and city parks.

Instead of sticking to the top attractions this summer get off the beaten path and look for the hidden gems. Explore these NPS sites that include seven national monuments, four national historic sites and parks, three national parks, and one national seashore located in nine states from coast to coast.

Which national park will you visit this summer?

Hovenweep National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Hovenweep National Monument, Utah and Colorado

Recreational visits in 2020: 19,856

Walk in ancient footsteps at Hovenweep. Soak in the silence. Marvel at a night sky overflowing with stars. Hear a lone coyote’s howl.

Tumacácori National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Tumacácori National Historic Park, Arizona

Recreational visits in 2020: 23,726

The oldest Jesuit mission in Arizona has been preserved in Tumacácori National Historic Park, a picturesque reminder that Southern Arizona was, at one time, the far northern frontier of New Spain. The San Cayetano del Tumacácori Mission was established in 1691 by Spanish Jesuit priest Eusebio Francisco Kino, 29 miles north of Nogales beside the Santa Cruz River.

Aztec Ruins National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Aztec Ruins National Monument, New Mexico

Recreational visits in 2020: 30,223

Follow the ancient passageways to a distant time. Explore a 900-year old ancestral Pueblo Great House of over 400 masonry rooms. Once you’ve visited the ruins, meander to the Animas River via a segment of the Old Spanish National Historic Trail or peruse museum exhibits and 900-year old artifacts.

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, Pennsylvania

Recreational visits in 2020: 34,288

Known as an “iron plantation,” Hopewell Furnace illustrates how mining and producing iron ore spurred the United States to economic prosperity. Visitors to this Pennsylvania site can see demonstrations and hike the surrounding area which was originally farmland.

El Moro National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

El Moro National Monument, New Mexico

Recreational visits in 2020: 36,328

Rising 200 feet above the valley floor, this massive sandstone bluff was a welcome landmark for weary travelers. A reliable year-round source of drinking water at its base made El Morro a popular campsite in this otherwise rather arid and desolate country. At the base of the bluff called Inscription Rock are seven centuries of inscriptions covering human interaction with this spot.

Cumberland Island National Seashore © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Cumberland Island National Seashore, Georgia

Recreational visits in 2020: 37,295

Cumberland Island National Seashore includes one of the largest undeveloped barrier islands in the world. The park is home to a herd of feral, free-ranging horses. Most visitors come to Cumberland for the natural glories, serenity, and fascinating history. Built by the Carnegies, the ruins of the opulent 59-room, Queen Anne-style Dungeness are a must-see for visitors.

Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site, New York

Recreational visits in 2020: 49,091

See the place where Franklin D. Roosevelt was born and buried in Hyde Park. The home is also the location of the first presidential library.

Chiricahua National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Chiricahua National Park, Arizona

Recreational visits in 2020: 44,794

A “Wonderland of Rocks” is waiting for you to explore at Chiricahua National Monument. The 8-mile paved scenic drive and 17-miles of day-use hiking trails provide opportunities to discover the beauty, natural sounds, and inhabitants of this 12,025-acre site.

Natural Bridges National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah

Recreational visits in 2020: 52,542

Three majestic natural bridges invite you to ponder the power of water in a landscape usually defined by its absence. View them from an overlook, or hit the trails and experience their grandeur from below. The bridges are named Kachina, Owachomo, and Sipapu in honor of the ancestral Puebloans who once made this place their home.

LBJ National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park, Texas

Recreational visits in 2020: 75.322

On the banks of the Pedernales River in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, the LBJ Ranch tells the story of America’s 36th President beginning with his ancestors until his final resting place on his beloved LBJ Ranch.

Canyon de Chelly National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Arizona

Recreational visits in 2020: 76,752

A comparatively little-known canyon, Canyon de Chelly has sandstone walls rising up to 1,000 feet, scenic overlooks, well-preserved Anasazi ruins, and an insight into the present day life of the Navajo who still inhabit and cultivate the valley floor.

Tuzigoot National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Tuzigoot National Monument, Arizona

Recreational visits in 2020: 78,358

Built atop a small 120-foot ridge is a large pueblo. With 77 ground-floor rooms, this pueblo held about 50 people. After about 100 years the population doubled and then doubled again later. By the time they finished building the pueblo, it had 110 rooms including second and third-story structures, and housed 250 people. 

Congaree National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Congaree National Park, South Carolina

Recreational visits in 2020: 119,306

If you really want to experience nature, Congaree National Park in South Carolina is a perfect place to go. It’s home to one of the tallest deciduous forest canopies on earth which offer great bird watching and wilderness tours. For those feeling more adventurous, there is also kayaking, hiking, canoeing, fishing, and even camping.

El Malpais National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

El Malpais National Monument, New Mexico

Recreational visits in 2020: 139,336

The richly diverse volcanic landscape of El Malpais National Monument offers solitude, recreation, and discovery. Explore cinder cones, lava tube caves, sandstone bluffs, and hiking trails.

Pinnacles National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Pinnacles National Park, California

Recreational visits in 2020: 165,740

Formed by volcanoes 23 million years ago, Pinnacles National Park is located in central California near the Salinas Valley.

Worth Pondering…

Not to have known—as most men have not—either mountain or the desert, is not to have known one’s self.

—Joseph Wood Krutch

A State of Mind: Texas Hill Country

The Texas Hill Country is noted for its hilly landscape and also the great number of oases, rivers, and diversity of wildlife

The Hill Country rises out of south-central Texas like an island out of a vast ocean. A large area of rolling hills and valleys with limestone canyons, clear-water rivers, and a few scattered small towns, the Hill Country is quite densely wooded. Prepare to be amazed.

Buckhorn Lake RV Resort © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Ideally situated off I-10 near Kerrville, Buckhorn Lake RV Resort is a perfect base from which to explore this wonderland of scenic vistas, oak-covered hills, rocky outcroppings, and streams.

Fredericksburg © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Located in the heart of Texas Hill Country, Buckhorn Lake Resort is just an hour drive from San Antonio. Each pad site is designed with large coaches in mind—they include widely paved pull-through sites and roads.

Wildseed Farms © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

After arriving at Buckhorn Lake RV Resort we unhooked our dinghy and after setting up camp we ventured out. We explored Fredericksburg and the nearby Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park, Wildseed Farms, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, and further afield including a detour or two.

Lady Bird Johnson Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The most famous detour of all is Luckenbach, population 25, reached by driving six miles east of town on U.S. 290, then turning south (right) on Ranch Road 1376; continue on this little road about four miles till you see signs. If you cross the creek, you’ve gone too far—maybe it’s time to stop and ask directions, as signs to Luckenbach just don’t last long, thanks to souvenir hunters.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

These days Luckenbach, Texas is, to paraphrase John Steinbeck, a “State of Mind”—A Texas state of mind, where you can kick back, relax, and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life—like a step back in time.

LBJ National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

In 1849, a general store opened in Luckenbach, a town made famous by Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson’s 1973 classic country hit, “Luckenbach Texas-Back to the Basics”. The store is still there with a bar, a dance hall for special events, and “prit near always” a jam session playing. Sometimes country stars make impromptu appearances, or there may be an armadillo race or horseshoe tournament going on.

LBJ National Historic Area © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Also nearby, east of Fredericksburg on Highway 290, is the not-to-be-missed Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park. The LBJ Ranch is in the heart of the Hill Country on the banks of the Pedernales River.

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park tells the story of America’s 36th President beginning with his ancestors until his final resting place on his beloved LBJ Ranch. This entire “circle of life” gives the visitor a unique perspective into one of America’s most noteworthy citizens by providing the most complete picture of any American president.

LBJ National Historic Area © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Visitors are now able to tour the Ranch at their own pace in their private vehicle with the ability to stop at sites along the way such as the President’s birthplace, Johnson family cemetery, and the Johnson’s ranch house known as the Texas White House.

Guadalupe River State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

We’d become so absorbed in history during our visit to Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park that we truly welcomed the natural serenity of Guadalupe River State Park. The park has four miles of river frontage and is located in the middle of a nine-mile stretch of the Guadalupe River. Flanked by two steep pastel limestone bluffs and towering bald cypress trees, the setting couldn’t be more inviting for swimming, wading, or just relaxing.

Guadalupe River State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Countless springs and tributaries feed the free-flowing Upper Guadalupe, and by the time the river carves a winding path through the state park, it carries ample water for canoeing, kayaking, rafting, tubing, swimming, and angling. The four sets of gentle rapids are especially popular with tubers.

Guadalupe River State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The park is unique in the state park system in that it shares a boundary with a state natural area. Together, the 1,938-acre state park and adjoining 2,294-acre Honey Creek State Natural Area comprise more than 4,200 contiguous acres of Hill Country habitat. Access to the state natural area is by guided naturalist tour only.

Guadalupe River State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

There’s so much more to Guadalupe River State Park than just a good swimming hole. The state park abounds with hiking trails that traverse the park’s upland forests, grassland savannahs, and riparian zones. Hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrian riders have access to more than five miles of multiuse trails that crisscross the uplands in a looping, figure-8 pattern.

For RVers wishing to stay overnight or longer, the park provides great camping facilities.

Texas Spoken Friendly

Worth Pondering…

Texas is a state mind. Texas is an obsession. Above all, Texas is a nation in every sense of the word.

—John Steinbeck, Travels with Charley: In Search of America