Palo Duro Canyon State Park, located in the Texas Panhandle near Amarillo, boasts the second-largest canyon in the United States. This impressive natural wonder spans around 120 miles in length, 20 miles in width, and reaches depths of up to 800 feet. Descend to an altitude of 500 feet and see the dynamic color variations of the canyon, which were shaped by the presence of four distinct geological strata that have existed for millions of years. Embark on a trek spanning over 30 miles of trails, or choose for horseback riding throughout a vast expanse of 1,500 acres. This location is home to many longhorns from the official state longhorn herd, and you may easily see them in the vicinity of the park headquarters. Additionally, there are horned lizards, turkeys, deer, bobcats, coyotes, snakes, and several other animals there. The Texas Outdoor Musical narrates the tales of early settlers in the region from Tuesdays to Sundays.

Lake Austin, a reservoir geometry dash located on the Colorado River, serves as a haven for enthusiasts of water activities. Embark on a vessel and navigate over the lake, surrounded by verdant hills and exquisite residential properties. Visit Hula Hut for Tex-Mex and Caribbean cuisine served by the waterfront, or enjoy public camping and picnic sites at Emma Long Metropolitan Park located on the shoreline. To enhance solitude, consider staying at Lake Austin Spa Resort. Here, you may engage in daily fitness activities, indulge in a scenic sunset water taxi excursion, experience the renowned spa, go hiking, paddleboarding, and even participate in mixology lessons. "The resort is situated on the opposite side of the water from Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, which acts as a natural barrier preventing any development," explains Darlene Fiske, a resident of Austin for many years and a regular guest at the resort. Furthermore, there is the body of water known as Lake Austin, which is a reservoir that maintains a consistent water level. This lake offers many recreational activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, water skiing, and swimming.

Located in the Piney Woods area of southeast Texas, Big Thicket National Preserve spans over 113,000 acres of public property and provides opportunities for camping, hiking, canoeing, cycling, fishing, and several other outdoor activities. The park has an extensive network of hiking pathways spanning a distance of forty miles, which traverse a diverse range of nine distinct habitats, such as bayous and pine woods. Additionally, there are paddling trails available that guide visitors through cypress sloughs and oxbow lakes. Backcountry camping is allowed, and fishing for bass, crappie, and catfish is a much enjoyed activity.

Located about four hours north of South Padre Island, Padre Island National Seashore offers an ideal retreat for anyone seeking respite from the fast-paced routines of everyday life. Here, one may fully engage with the natural environment, find solace in isolation, and be serenaded by the majestic sound of the ocean's waves. The national seashore encompasses the most extensive expanse of unspoiled barrier island globally, spanning 70 miles of protected shoreline. Engage in birdwatching to see as many as possible of the 380-plus species present in this area, or attend a Kemp's ridley sea turtle hatchling release during the summer. The Laguna Madre in this area has shallow water that is ideal for paddling. Additionally, camping in the park is available throughout the whole year.

Lost Maples State Natural Area in Texas is renowned for its stunning autumnal display around October and November, characterized by vibrant shades of orange, red, and yellow as the leaves undergo a transformation. Lost Maples harbors a distinctive, secluded grove of Uvalde bigtooth maple trees, which are atypical for this region. Typically, the leaves of these trees change color from mid-October to the first two weeks of November. You may get information about the changing colors of autumn leaves by accessing the park's fall foliage report. Recommendation: If feasible, plan your leaf-peeping excursion on weekdays to avoid the park's autumn rush, since there is a limited capacity for just 250 vehicles.

East Texas is distinct from the rest of the state due to its abundant pine woods, bayous, and marshes. An excellent method of exploring this topography is by navigating in a canoe on Caddo Lake, which is one of the few naturally occurring lakes in Texas. The region was called after the native Caddo people, who established their presence in the area during the early 1800s. Navigate through the low-lying areas and amid bald cypress trees adorned with Spanish moss in Big Cypress Bayou, or maneuver along one of the designated water routes across the lake. In addition, Caddo Lake State Park offers opportunities for fishing and camping.