(credit: Texas Parks & Wildlife)

Bringing your family gathering outside this holiday season is easier than ever. That’s because 70 state parks throughout Texas offer group facilities, from dining and recreation halls to group bunkhouses and open-air pavillions. Or, if you were thinking of a smaller get-together, try a cabin or screened shelter. The DFW area has 19 state parks, so why not try something different this year by gathering family and friends for some outdoor holiday fun? To reserve cabins or group facilities, call 512-389-8900.

Check out the video below to see how some visitors enjoy the holidays at Texas State Parks. Then, visit our Calendar of Events to find a holiday event at a state park near you! Click here for a printable PDF of holiday events in state parks.

Welcome 2013 with a First Day Hike. You may have heard about this growing nationwide tradition. On New Year’s Day, Texas State Parks are featuring trails and ranger-led hikes that offer beautiful scenary, wildlife watching, tranquility and a sense of adventure. Find a First Day Hike near you and get your family off to a healthy, fun start in the new year.

• Food & Cookware
• Appropriate Clothing
• Camera

• Texas Geocache Challenge
• Outdoor Kids Journal
• Neighborhood Fishin’ Program
• Animal Trackers
• Ranger Talks

What Experts Say About The Benefits Of Nature Play

Remember, Pack Out What You Bring In: Leave No Trace!