The Hill Country is the trip Texas families take before they’ve figured out what a family trip is. It’s close - roughly an hour and a half from either Austin or San Antonio - and the payoff is out of proportion to the drive: a 425-foot granite dome you can walk up, a river that runs over tilted limestone slabs, spring-fed water that stays cold in August, and a cave that holds 68 degrees when it’s 104 outside. ...
You don’t need to spend money to give your kids an awesome outdoor adventure in Texas. From 100-mile urban trail networks to lakeside nature preserves and wildlife refuges, some of the best family experiences in the state are completely free. Here are our top picks. Urban Trails and Parks Trinity Trails - Fort Worth Trinity Trails is a 100+ mile paved trail network running along the Trinity River through Fort Worth. It’s flat, wide, and perfect for kids on bikes, scooters, or on foot. The trail connects to the Fort Worth Zoo, the Botanic Garden, and several playgrounds and splash pads along the way. Start at Trinity Park for the most family-friendly section. ...
Texas heat is no joke, but the state’s spring-fed swimming holes are the perfect antidote. Crystal-clear water, shady cypress trees, and natural limestone pools - these spots have been keeping Texas families cool for generations. Here are the best swimming holes for families, from iconic destinations to hidden gems. Jacob’s Well Natural Area - Wimberley Jacob’s Well Natural Area is one of the most visually striking swimming holes in Texas. Water flows up from an artesian spring through a 12-foot-wide opening in a limestone bed, creating a perpetual pool of impossibly clear water. The spring maintains a constant 68°F year-round. ...
Your family’s first camping trip doesn’t need to be an epic backcountry expedition. In fact, the best first trips are short, close to home, and simple. Here’s everything you need to know to make your first family camping trip a success - from choosing the right campground to what to actually bring. Choose the Right Campground The campground you pick makes or breaks a first camping trip. Here’s what to look for: ...