It’s been said before, especially by residents—Texas is the finest and best state in the land. Whether you’ve just moved here or you and yours have been landowners in the Lone Star State for generations, it’s a great place to live and raise a family. But when the weekend is arrives and the question arises, where can you go to experience all Texas has to offer? Pack up the kids and hit the road to take part in one of these lesser-know adventures.
Family Fun
Taking the family out to see all that Texas has to offer can be a great way to spice up a day, pass a weekend, or spend an extended amount of time.
Dude ranches like Silver Spur, in Bandera, allows for guests to explore the outdoors like they did in the Old West, on horseback! With miles of scenic trails and picturesque views of the countryside, a horseback ride can provide an opportunity for fun for the whole family. Silver Spur also features hay wagon rides, fossil digging, hiking and outdoor cowboy breakfasts.
Live like royalty, and take a trip to medieval times. The annual Texas Renaissance Festival beginning in October is a ton of fun for the whole family, with jousting shows for the kiddos and wine tastings for adults. Located about an hour northwest of Houston in Todd Mission, the festival hosts camping sites for tents and RV’s and is well worth the drive wherever you are traveling from. Check out The Fields of New Market camping rules and restrictions Web page to prepare for your trip.
Huntin’ ‘N Things
Whether you are looking for Whitetail Deer, Gemsbok Oryx or even trophy alligator, Texas is one of the top regions in the country for hunting game. From safaris at Texas Safari Ranch, about two hours southwest of DFW, to day trips with Huan Ranch & Guides in Meyersville, and everything in between can be arranged and are available regardless of your experience level. Some places even provide trips that are kid friendly and help beginner and amateur hunters locate, identify, and bag their animals.
But remember, safety is always vital and in fact necessary in Texas. Be sure to brush up on state laws and regulations with an online hunting lesson. All residents must complete a Texas hunter safety course before taking off on a hunt, and hunters under the age of 16 must complete a Field Day, featuring live-fire exercises, simulated hunting, ethics sessions and a written final exam.
If your preference is chasing and capturing water-borne creatures, the second largest state in the country boasts some of the best fishing around. Bass, crappie, catfish, and even a wide variety of gar are native to the various lakes and rivers throughout the state. If bigger, ocean-dwelling fish is what you desire, there are numerous deep sea fishing opportunities less than an hour outside of Houston, in Galveston.
Thrill Seekers Apply Here
Looking for a little adrenaline fix or something to challenge you in your free time? Don’t worry, Texas has you covered. With a variety of ropes and challenge courses like Cooper Farm in Ledbetter, you can either test your abilities or bring a group of people and see how you stack up against your friends. And if you are looking for a different perspective of the great state, Camp Lantern Creek in Montgomery offers zip line and canopy courses to satisfy your inner thrill-seeker.
For the true adventure seekers, Texas has some of the best rock climbing anywhere, no matter your skill level. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area in Fredericksburg, offers numerous climbing locations not to mention tours and training options available nearby to help you reach that next level. Before bouldering or climbing, be sure to check out the important notes for climbers, provided by the Central Texas Climbing Committee.
No matter what your desired activity or who you are planning on spending your free time with, Texas has something to suit your every adventure need. Explore and enjoy, and remember, everything is bigger in Texas!
