A peaceful state park on the shores of Lake Tawakoni about an hour east of Dallas with a sandy swim beach and shaded campsites that fill up fast on summer weekends. The 5.5-mile trail system is easy and well-marked through post oak forest. Kids love fishing from the lighted pier and the swimming area has a gentle sandy slope that is perfect for younger children.
Five miles of Gulf beach frontage where families can camp right on the sand and fall asleep to the sound of waves. The Mustang Island Paddling Trail winds through the bay side marshes and is outstanding for spotting dolphins and redfish from a kayak. Beach driving is permitted which means you can set up camp in a more secluded spot away from the crowds. The Junior Ranger program keeps kids learning while they play.
The longest undeveloped barrier island in the world stretches 70 miles along the Texas Gulf Coast and feels like the edge of civilization. Kids can hunt for seashells on miles of empty beach and during summer the Kemp’s ridley sea turtle releases at the Hatchling Release Program are a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The Malaquite Beach has a visitor center with showers and the campground sits right on the sand.
A unique coastal park where Gulf beach meets freshwater marsh creating one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the Texas coast. The Gambusia Nature Trail is a boardwalk through the marsh where kids can spot alligators and dozens of bird species. The beach side offers open Gulf swimming and the marsh unit has a 4.5-mile paddling trail through channels teeming with wildlife. It is one of the least visited state parks which means you often have the beach to yourself.
A family-oriented beach on the east end of Galveston Island with lifeguards on duty during summer months and a strict no-alcohol policy that keeps the atmosphere family-friendly. Umbrella and chair rentals are available right on the sand and the adjacent pavilion has food vendors and restrooms. The calm waters and gradual slope make it one of the safest Gulf swimming beaches for young children.
A beautifully maintained CCC-era state park with a spring-fed lake surrounded by towering pines and hardwoods. The swim area has a sandy beach and the park rents paddleboats and kayaks. Over 13 miles of trails loop through East Texas piney woods and the mountain bike trails are well-regarded. The historic stone and timber structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps give the park a timeless character.
One of only two roped-off swim zones on Lake Grapevine, with a gently sloping sandy beach that makes it easy for little ones to wade in at their own pace. A big colorful playground sits right next to the beach so kids can bounce between sand and slides all day long. Lakefront camping is available for families who want to extend the fun overnight, and the picnic areas have grills and covered shelters for cooking out.
Ray Roberts Lake State Park is a sprawling North Texas destination spread across several units on a 29,000-acre lake about an hour north of Dallas. The Isle du Bois unit is the most popular for families, with a sandy swim beach, a dedicated kids fishing pond, camping, and miles of trails. Swimming: The swim beach at Isle du Bois is one of the best lake beaches in North Texas. The sandy shore slopes gently into the water, making it safe for toddlers and young kids. Lifeguards are on duty during summer weekends. There are shaded picnic areas and restrooms right by the beach. ...
One of the few spots in North Texas where kids can splash in a real sandy-shore lake beach without worrying about boat traffic, since the swim area is fully roped off. Free loaner life jackets are available right on-site, which takes a huge weight off parents’ shoulders. Between the swim area, sand volleyball courts, playgrounds, and kayak rentals, there’s enough to keep the whole crew entertained for a full day.